Nainital: Enchantment of Lakes

  • How to Get There
  • Naini Lake
  • Eco Cave Gardens
  • Naina Peak
  • Nainital Zoo
  • Pangot and Kilbury Bird Sanctuary
  • Sonanadi Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Tiffin Top

Nainital

Nainital: Enchantment of Lakes

The majestic volcanic lake nestled in the lap of the Kumaon Hills is going to stun you as soon as you lay your eyes on it. It is rightfully called the Lake District of India. If you love nature, you are going to have the time of your life here. If you do not love nature, you are going to become a nature lover after soaking in the numbing beauty of Nainital. The main lake here called Naini has given its name to the city and the district. However, there are many incredibly scenic lakes dotting the region close by. Dense emerald forests reflect their verdant beauty on the glittering blue waters of the lake while the majestic mountains look on proudly. Mother Nature has blossomed powerfully in the mystical land called Nainital. The magical atmosphere of Nanital provides the perfect escapade from the hectic life of cities. In Nainital, you can relax in the bountiful arms of nature meditating or simply ruminating about the beauty that surrounds you. The place is seemingly divine in its grandeur and will delight you completely.

How to Get There

By Air :

The nearest Domestic Airport from Nainital is Pantnagar Airport situated at 72 km from Nainital.The nearest International Airport is Indira Gandhi International Airport, New Delhi 300 km away from Nainital.

By Rail :

Kathgodam is the nearest Railway Station only 35 Km away. Kathgodam Railway Station is well connected to the major cities of Uttarakhand.It is linked with the cities like New Delhi, Dehradun, Lucknow, Kanpur, Jammu and Kolkata.

By Road :

Nainital is well connected to other destinations through roadways.There are basically 2 Routes that you can take while going to Nainital from Delhi. Delhi – Ghaziabad – Hapur – Garmukteshwar – Gajraula – Moradabad – Rampur – Haldwani –Kathgodam – Nainital. Delhi – Ghaziabad – Hapur – Garmukteshwar – Gajraula – Moradabad – Tanda – Bazpur – Kaladungi – Nainital. Distance from other places;Delhi: 315 km,Haridwar: 235 km, Mussoorie: 310 km,Ranikhet: 65 km.Kausani:130 km, Almora: 68 km, Binsar: 98 km, Pithoragarh: 180 km,Munsiyari: 278 km, Mukteswar: 52 km, Jim Corbett National Park: 70 km

Naini Lake

The spectacular lake is in the shape of an eye which is why the lake has been called Naini. The Sanskrit term, Naini, can be translated as eye. Irrespective of its nomenclature, the lake is a stunning masterpiece by nature. You can enjoy a relaxing boat ride on its tranquil green waters or you can take a walk on its picturesque surroundings. The clear waters of the lake capture the scenic beauty of the surrounding landscape perfectly.

Eco Cave Gardens

The natural beauty of the region is perfectly captured within this park. Here rocky caves lie interconnected creating a romantic atmosphere. Hanging gardens add to the charm of the nature displayed mesmerizingly. Once inhabited by ancient humans, the caves now offer a fascinating glimpse into their world. In the park, you can understand how beautiful nature can be when wilderness has taken over.

Naina Peak

The majestic Naina Peak is the highest point in Nainital and perfectly encapsulates the beauty of the region. Glorious mountains surround you as you look ahead to the spectacular Naini Lake that spreads its warm waters before you. A visit to Naintal will be left incomplete if you do not visit the ultimate festival of nature at this peak.

Nainital Zoo

The Himalayas are a haven for wildlife. In the Nainital Zoo, you get a glimpse of some of the fascinating wild animals that roam in those hills. You can enjoy the majestic Siberian tigers basking in the warmth of the sun or snow leopards eyeing you mischievously. Himalayan black bears, wolves and hill foxes are some of the more dangerous animals kept here. Other species include the Sambhar, the Ghoral and a plethora of pheasant species.

Pangot and Kilbury Bird Sanctuary

A paradise for bird watchers, the sanctuary contains a veritable treasure trove of riches. Nearly 580 species of birds can be found at the Kilbury sanctuary. The thick forests of pine and oak provide the perfect level of foliage for these feathery friends to chirp their way in your hearts. In fact, if you visit in the morning, you will be regaled with a musical performance of which there is no human equal. Brown Wood Owls, Collated Grosbeaks, White throated Laughing Thrushes and Forktails are just some of the incredible birds that have made their homes here.

Sonanadi Wildlife Sanctuary

Located close to the immense Jim Corbett National Park, the Sonanadi Wildlife Sanctuary offers a spectacular and tranquil place to enjoy the magnificence of Himalayan wildlife. A wide collection of flora and fauna is perfectly preserved here in their native habitat. The incredible beauty of the sanctuary is heightened by the presence of some natural spectacles such as waterfalls. The rich biodiversity of the sanctuary extends to the plant life as well. Many medical plants lie interspersed with the Sal, Semal, Sheesham, Bakli, figs and other trees. As for birds, you will be hard pressed in trying to get a glimpse of them all as the sanctuary is home to more than 600 species of birds, both resident and migratory. Lucky for you, you can at least get to see 150 avian species even if you stay a while. The wildlife sanctuary is home to a stupefying number of mammals and animals. Leopards, sambhar, cheetal, wild boars, porcupines can be found alongside gharials and turtles. The range is fascinatingly extensive.

Tiffin Top

The Tiffin Top is located on of a scenic hill which provides a perfectly incredible place to have a picnic. In fact, that is what gave the place its name. During the colonial era, the British would pack tiffin and have a picnic in the beautiful area. The green landscape that surrounds the hill creates a serene and contemplative atmosphere around the place.