A very fitting contributing piece from Erica as I visit India myself. If only I’d known to factor in Nainital! Enjoy.
Nainital Lake, also known as Naini Lake, is a popular fresh-water lake located in the centre of Nainital, India. Set deep in a valley amidst tall mountains, the mythology surrounding the lake claims its breath-taking green waters reflect the emerald eye of Sati. Many of the local people believe that Sati’s eyes were dropped into the lake when Lord Shiva carried her body to Kailesh Parvat. It is for this reason, that the lake and the town were named Nainital. These days, the area’s beauty and mystique have multiplied, creating a unique place where interesting sites and happenings abound.
From its majestic views and local zoo to its religious sites and bridge-bound post office, there is plenty to do, tour and gape at. The next time you find yourself in need of a holiday, head to Naintial Lake. While there is much more that could be listed, each of these seven reasons alone is worth a visit.
Naina Devi Temple
A landslide destroyed the original temple at this site, but the temple that stands now was completed in 1880. Situated in the exact spot where it is believed Sati’s eyes fell, Naina Devi temple is one of 51 places where pieces of Sati’s body fell after she burned herself alive in order to avenge an insult to Lord Shiva. A somewhat unassuming-seeming holy place, the structure of the temple is built of marble, and it features some impressive stone statues and carvings as well. For devout Hindus, a visit to this temple is essential.
St. John of the Wilderness Church
One of the oldest and most beautiful churches in Nainital, St. John in the Wilderness was established in 1844 and is located about a kilometre northwest of Naina Devi temple. It was begun and named by Bishop of Calcutta, Daniel Wilson, who, when he first came to Nainital, found it still very much a wild place. The church has a memorial plaque to those who lost their lives in the landslide of 1880, and there is also an old British cemetery located on the church grounds where many of those who died — both British and Indian — were laid to rest.
Governor’s House
Known as Raj Bhavan, Governor’s House was modelled after Buckingham Palace and was designed and built in 1899 by F.W. Stevens. Built as a summer residence for high-ranking officials, it is now the governor’s guesthouse, and it is also used for visiting state guests. A wonderful building to tour, the two-story mansion has over 100 rooms, an impressive garden, golf links and a swimming pool. Getting advanced permission to tour is advised.
Snow View
Situated atop Sher-ka-danda Ridge at 2,270 metres, Snow View provides a breath-taking view of the area, and it is accessible via a fun and reasonably priced cable car ride. On almost any clear day, simply hop on a cable car any time between 10:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. The cable cars run on the hour, and once you’ve arrived at the top, you’ll be able to see the Himalayas.
Naini Peak
Naini Peak is the highest point in Nainital at an altitude of 2,615 metres. Not only can you spy spectacular panoramic view of Nainital Lake and town, but you can also easily see the snow-topped peaks of the Himalayas. Naini Peak offers a refreshing and challenging hike, or you can hire ponies from Snow View or Mallital.
Nainital Zoo
Naintial Zoo is the only zoo in Uttarakhand. Established in 1984, it covers almost five hectares, and sits at an elevation of over 2,000 metres. It exists to preserve, conserve and protect the fauna of Uttarakhand — especially those that are endemic to the region or endangered. To that end, you can see the following animals there:
- Siberian tiger
- Himalayan black bear
- Barking deer
- Sambar
- White pea fowl
- Golden pheasant
- Japanese macaque
- And much more!
Lake Bridge and Post Office
Literally bridging the northern side of Nainital Lake (called Mallital) to its southern side (called Tallital) is Lake Bridge, which features a handful of shops along its stretch. Most interesting, however, is its post office — the only operational one in the world located on a bridge.
Whether you hope to spend your holiday steeped in sites of rich religious heritage or steeped in mountainous views that cannot be had anywhere else, Nainital Lake is an ideal spot full of charm, history and variety.
Naini Peak image by sporadic from Flickr’s Creative Commons