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Nainital: A Perfect Weekend Getaway

Nainital, a popular weekend destination in Uttarakhand, is possibly one of the most visited tourist spots in the state. Thriving at an altitude of around 2,084 meters, it attracts tourists from all over India, particularly Delhi and nearby areas.

Activities and sightseeing

While Nainital offers a serene escape, there are a limited number of activities. You can enjoy boating on Naini Lake, a mesmerizing experience that costs around ₹300-₹400. A leisurely stroll along the lakeside Thandi Sadak (Cold Road) is a great way to rejuvenate. Interestingly, this road was segregated during British rule, with Indians using the lower path and the British using the upper Mall Road.
Another attraction is the Governor's House, a well-maintained summer residence built in 1897 that showcases British architecture. However, be mindful of the hourly visitation schedule (11 a.m., 12 p.m., 1 p.m., and 2 p.m.). We learned this the hard way during our visit. Arriving at 1:10 pm, we were initially denied entry but later allowed to join the guided tour. Interestingly, heavy rain forced us to wait for an hour. Many frustrated tourists requested permission for their vehicles to enter the restricted area near the ticket counter (a 5- to 10-minute walk). The guide eventually allowed a few vehicles, and we asked one of the tourists to take us to the market, and he happily agreed.
Exploring Further
Later, we opted for a 15-minute boat ride on the lake for ₹320. You can choose a longer 30-minute ride for ₹420. We had a pleasant conversation with the boat operator. Feeling famished, we enjoyed a delicious lunch or dinner at the Delhi Darbar restaurant, which comes highly recommended.
In the evening, we strolled along the bustling Mall Road, observing the diverse crowd of tourists, many dressed in colorful, casual attire. The Bhotia Market, near Naina Devi Temple, is a great place to find souvenirs and clothes. This vibrant market is interestingly surrounded by temples, a mosque, and a gurdwara.
The Naina Devi Temple, one of the 64 Shakti Peethas in Hinduism, is dedicated to Sati. In the old time, when the wife of Lord Shiva, Sati, was unable to accept the insult that her father did not invite them to a Yagya, she burned herself to death. Then Lord Shiva returned to his abode, holding her body in his arms. It is assumed that her body parts were found in different parts of India, and the eyes were assumed to have fallen in Nainital. The current temple structure, built in 1883 after a landslide, is believed to have been built in the 15th century.
A Day at the Zoo and a Relaxing End
The second day began with a delightful visit to the zoo, a paradise for animal lovers. We saw a variety of animals, including the majestic Bengal tiger and the beautiful white peacock. The rest of the day was spent simply relaxing and enjoying the pleasant weather. The fog blanketing the lake created a magical atmosphere, especially considering the contrasting temperature of 35°C in Haldwani compared to a refreshing 21°C in Nainital. Nainital truly served as a perfect escape, offering a sense of home and rejuvenation. We eventually left feeling nostalgic for this beautiful hill station.

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