Cities in India

Nainital

A small town in the hills of Kumaon, Nainital is a lovely hill station surrounded by mountains on three sides.

Nainital was discovered in 1841 by a Britisher called Lord Barron. The weather, the surrounding and the mesmerising beauty of this area attracted the British administrator who turned this place into the summer capital of the United Province. Being a major tourist place Nainital is always bustling with visitors and it is always better if accommodation and other facilites are prearranged.

DISTANCES
Almora - 64 kms
Delh - 318 kms
Ranikhet - 54 kms
Bareilly - 137 kms
Haridwar - 306 kms
Dehradun - 373 kms
Badrinath - 303 kms
Lucknow - 390 kms

Place Of Interest
Sat Tal
25 km away, is a complex of seven natural lakes with good abgling prospects.

Bhimtal
23 km away, larger than Naini Lake, has sports, a beautiful island.

Naukuchiatal
27 km away, is a vast nine-cornered lake, pristinely clean and pleasant where migratory birds gather.

Naini Peak
Approx 6 km, is the highest point within Nainital and commands a superb view of the Himalayas.

Naini Lake
This attractive lake is said to be one of the emerald green eyes of Shiva's wife, Sati. When Sati's father failed to invite Shiva to a family sacrifice, she burnt herself to death in protest. Shiva gathered the charred remains in his arms and proceeded to engagae in a cosmic dance, which threatened to destroy the world. Vishnu chopped up the body into pieces, and the remains were scattered across India. The modern Naina Devi Temple at the northern end of the lake is built over the precise spot where the eye is believed to have fallen.

HOW TO REACH
By Air
Nearest airport is Pantnagar, 71 kms away, which was serviced by India's feeder airlines called Vayudoot, which has since been discontinued.

By Rail
Since the airport is not in use, the most convenient way to travel is by train. The nearest railhead is Kathgodam, located 36 kms from Nainital. This station is connected on meter gauge directly by rail to Agra, Lucknow and Bareilly.

By Road
The most preferred mode of travel to this hill destination is by road. It is connected to Delhi with fairly well maintained motorable roads, as well as with other towns in Uttar Pradesh.