Nestled in the lap of the Himalayas, lies a picturesque town that has captivated the hearts of travelers and poets for centuries. Known for its pristine lakes, majestic mountains, and serene atmosphere, Nainital is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike.
It is one of the most popular hill station in India that attract billion of visitors every year. All thanks to the massive grandeur of this place! But did you know that there's more to this enchanting town than meets the eye?
In this blog, we'll take a deep dive into some of the most interesting and lesser-known facts about Nainital that will leave you in awe of this hidden gem of India. So sit back, relax, and get ready to explore the fascinating world of Nainital.
Nainital: Nainital is a charming hill station located in the northern Indian state of Uttarakhand. It is situated at an elevation of 2,084 meters above sea level and is known for its serene lakes, lush greenery, and stunning views of the Himalayas. Nainital also has a rich history and culture, and there are many interesting facts about this beautiful town that you might not know.
Nainital is named after its lake
The town of Nainital is named after its beautiful lake, which is also known as Naini Lake. This lake is the heart of the town, and it is surrounded by lush green hills on all sides. The lake is believed to be one of the 61 Shakti Peeths, or holy places dedicated to the Hindu goddess Shakti. The lake is also home to several species of fish, including mahseer, carp, and catfish.
There are 60 lakes in Nainital
Most of you might be unaware of this fact or have thought that there must be only 9 lakes (due to the name) in Nainital. But the fact is there are total of 60 lakes in Nainital scattered all across the district.
The town was a popular summer retreat for the British
Nainital was a popular summer retreat for the British during the colonial era. The pleasant and cool climate, stunning natural beauty, and serene lakes attracted British officials and their families who wanted to escape the scorching heat of the plains. Britishers also built several bungalows and cottages in the town, many of which are still standing today.
Nainital has a rich history
Nainital has a rich history, which dates back to the 19th century. The town was founded by the British businessman from Rosa, Mr. P. Barron in 1841, and it was established as a popular hill station in 1847. The town played an important role in the Indian independence movement, and it was the site of several important protests and demonstrations.
The town is located in the foothills of the Himalayas
Nainital is located in the foothills of the Himalayas, and the town offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The town is situated at an altitude of 2,084 meters above sea level, and is surrounded by lush green forests and hills. The town's location makes it an ideal destination for trekking and hiking enthusiasts.
Nainital is home to several beautiful lakes
Nainital is home to several beautiful lakes, including Naini Lake, Bhimtal Lake, Sattal Lake, and Khurpatal Lake. These lakes are encircled by rolling hills of verdant vegetation, and they provide breathtaking vistas of the mountains in the region. The lakes are also home to several species of birds and fish, making it a popular destination for birdwatchers and anglers.
The town has a vibrant street food scene
Nainital has a vibrant street food scene, and the town is known for its delicious local delicacies. Some of the popular street foods in Nainital include momos, aloo tikki, chaat, and maggi noodles. The town's street food is a must-try for anyone who is visiting the town.
Nainital is a popular destination for honeymooners.
Nainital is a popular destination for honeymooners in India, and the town offers several romantic activities for couples. Some of the popular activities for honeymooners in Nainital include boating on the Naini Lake, taking a romantic walk through the town's lush green forests, and watching the sunset over the Himalayas.
The town is home to several beautiful temples
Nainital is home to several beautiful temples, including the Naina Devi Temple, which is dedicated to the Hindu goddess Naina Devi. The temple is located on the northern shore of the Naini Lake, and it is one of the most popular tourist places in nainital. The town is also home to several other temples, including the Hanuman Garhi Temple and the Kainchi Dham Temple.
Nainital is known for its beautiful gardens
Nainital is known for its beautiful gardens, and the town is home to several well-maintained gardens and parks. Some of the popular gardens in Nainital include the Eco Cave Gardens, the Governor's House Gardens, and the Himalayan Botanical Garden.
The town is surrounded by several popular trekking trails
There are several well-known trekking routes close to Nainital, including the Nainital Betalghat Trek, the Nainital Binayak Trek, and the Nainital Kainchi Trek. These trekking trails offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests, and they are popular among trekking enthusiasts for sightseeing.
The town hosts several festivals and fairs throughout the year.
Nainital hosts several festivals and fairs throughout the year, including the Nanda Devi Mela, which is held in September, and the Winter Carnival, which is held in December. These festivals and fairs offer a glimpse into the town's rich cultural heritage, and they are popular among tourists and locals alike.
Nainital is home to several endangered species.
Nainital is home to several endangered species, including the Himalayan black bear, the bharal, or blue sheep, and the musk deer. All these endangered species can be seen in the Nainital zoo. The town's lush green forests and hills provide a natural habitat for these endangered species, and several conservation efforts are underway to protect them.
The town has a rich literary history.
Nainital has a rich literary history, and the town has been home to several famous writers and poets. Some of the famous personalities who have been associated with Nainital include Jim Corbett, Rudyard Kipling, and Kamla Das. The town's stunning natural beauty and serene atmosphere have inspired several literary works over the years.
Nainital is known for its handmade candles.
Nainital is known for its handmade candles, which are made using beeswax, paraffin wax, and other natural materials. These candles are available in several shapes, sizes, and colors, and they are popular among tourists and locals alike. The town's handmade candles are a must-buy for anyone who is visiting the town.
The town offers several adventure activities.
Nainital offers several adventure activities, including paragliding, rock climbing, rappelling, and zip-lining. These adventure activities in Nainital are popular among adventure enthusiasts, and they offer a thrilling experience amidst the town's stunning natural beauty.
Final thoughts
Nainital is a town that offers a rich cultural and natural heritage. From its stunning lakes and mountains to its vibrant street food scene and adventure activities, the town has something for everyone. If you truly want to indulge in the rich history, literary legacy, and cultural festivals here, then you must be aware of all the facts associated with Nainital. I hope this blog will help you to know Nainital a little more closely than before.