Nainital (Heaven amidst the World)

(This Article on Nainital is written by Vibhor Tewari)

 Have you ever heard of something like heaven amidst the earth? Well, one such place is Nainital, a place full of natural beauty, peace, fresh air, and fun. Known to be one of the most famous hill stations in Uttarakhand, Nainital is a place full of adventure, beautiful scenery and a web of strolling streets. Its charm includes boating, sailing, old temple, and sites of cultural heritage. 

Historical information.

Nainital finds its mention in the Manas Khand of Skanda Purana. The most beautiful and enchanting lake which is also known as the Naini- lake is believed to be one of the 64 Shakti Peeths ( part of the burnt body of Sati which fell down on earth while being carried by Lord Shiva). The spot where Sati’s eye fell came to be known as “Nain-Tal” or the lake of the eye, and this is the reason why Maa Sati is worshipped in the Naina Devi temple.

 The Kumaon hills came under the British rule during 1814 – 1815, the historical records confirm that the hill station of Nainital was founded by Mr. P Barron who was the first to visit Nainital in the year 1839. He was so enchanted by the beauty that he said it was one of the best places he has visited in the Himalayas. Soon this place was known to the Britishers and they started creating their own establishments like the Girl’s Diocesan School ( All Saint’s College), Boy’s Diocesan School ( Sherwood college), St. Joseph’s college and the St. Mary’s Convent ( Ramnee). Since then Nainital has been famous for its elementary and Secondary education.

India’s first Methodist church was also established in Nainital along with the St. Francis Catholic Church and the St. John Wilderness church.On 18th September 1882, a landslide occurred at the north end of the town burying 151 people and taking away a large number of buildings with it which included the Naina Devi Temple. Later the temple was shifted and the remains were converted to now what is known as “ the flats.”

How to reach Nainital.

Nainital is situated at an altitude of 2084 meters above the sea level and is surrounded by mountains on all sides. The nearest airport to Nainital is the Pantnagar airport which is situated at a distance of 65 km from the town the other nearest airport is at New Delhi which is about 290 km away from the town. There is no facility of any commercial flight to Nainital but one could always avail the facility of private charted flights. If you want to come via train the nearest railway station is at Kathgodam which is 34 km away from Nainital. One could always come by road using the government or private vehicles but bringing one’s own vehicle is not a good idea because the city is almost everytime packed with tourists and its difficult to find a place for parking. The city is just 290 km away from New Delhi. The easiest way to reach here according to me is by the train. 

Things to do and Places to visit in Nainital

Nainital is not a very big town but the things it has to present are of utmost greatness, every scenery is picturesque and every moment spent here is like a moment spent in heaven. One could never be sure of the weather as its never predictable, one moment you have a pleasant sunny day and the next it changes to cold and rainy. ( here’s free advice, do carry an umbrella and warm clothes with you, no one knows but you might need them.)

Nainital does not have a lot of places to offer but whatever it has is full of enjoyment and fun. You could start your journey by going to the China peak or the Cheena peak, as they call it ( it is believed that the great wall of China was once seen from the peak) This is the topmost point of Nainital. The journey is very tiring as you have to climb the steep slope but once you reach the top you will be mesmerized by the air and the scenery. Do carry water and snacks with you as there are not many shops in that region. Other such points include the Tiffin top and the Camel’s back ( named so because the mountain is shaped like the hump of a camel).

The Nainital zoo is also one of the most interesting places to go it includes a large number of animals like the Royal Bengal Tiger, The Red Panda, Japanese Monkey, Himalayan bear, The Tibetan Wolf, White Peacock and animals of other variety. There is a Cave Garden, having different caves and believe me it’s a fun time going there. The mall road is always the center of attraction and boating in the Naini lake will give you a memorable time.

The Governor’s house of Nainital is one of the most beautiful sites to see. Believe me, it looks like a castle. Once you are in Nainital you should visit other nearby places like the Bhimtal, Naucuhiyatal, Saattal, Kausani and the Jim Corbett National Park. You must visit this beautiful town with your friends or your family.

Famous food and items

Nainital is not only famous for its beauty but is also famous for its choice of food. “Bhatt ke dupke” and “Chudkani” is one of the most common dishes made by the locals and badi – bhaat is also one of the most liked foods of all times. If you are interested in eating street food you should try the thupka and momos in the bhotiya market. Nainital is famous for its candles, don’t forget to take one when you visit there the next time.

Believe me, you should visit this beautiful place at least once in your lifetime.