Nainital: A refreshing getaway

Nainital is one of the best hill stations in India and probably in the entire Indian sub-continent, a refreshing getaway to Nainital might be the best decision you’ll make tis year.

RAHUL AWASTHI

 Surrounded by panoramic hills from all four sides, Nainital lake is a favourite spot among romantic travellers around the world. It is one of the most visited lakes in the entire Indian subcontinent.

Historical references

The town of Nainital was founded by a British sugar trader in 1841, as he couldn’t get a better getaway spot from the hustle and bustle of the cities. The most popular tourist attraction, The Naini Lake is the heart of the entire town. The Naini Lake, along with the other lakes in the area, has earned this town the title of ‘City of Lakes’. The most popular activity for tourists visiting Nainital is boating the in Naini Lake, while few others visit for trekking in the surrounding mountain regions. The British elites had to use the location as a retreat during the harsh summers of the Indian mainland once upon a time, and the tradition remains alive for native Indians, as well as the foreign guests to this day.

Mythological references

This lake resort is situated at a height of 1,938 meters. There are many legends associated with the place. According to one, Nainital has derived its name from the Goddess Naina while the other legend says that when the Goddess Sati lost her eyes, she was being carried by Lord Shiva and a lake was formed. (‘Naina’ means eyes and ‘Tal’ means lake.) The second mythological reference to Nainital is as one of 64 ‘Shakti Peeths’. Legend says that Sati, the consort of Shiva consigned herself to the sacrificial fire when her father Daksha insulted her lord. In grief, Shiva danced the tandava with the lifeless body of Sati, until Vishnu cut it into bits scattering it all over the land. It is said that the left eye (Nain) of Sati fell here. Consequently it turned into the patron deity of town Nainital.

Other activities

Besides boating in the Naini lake, there’s a lot of things you can do in this place for a thrilling experience, such as, Nainital Ropeway – For the bird’s Eye view, Rock Climbing – For an adventurous time, Cave Garden – To explore the hidden gems, Nainital Zoo – To witness a wide range of animals and much more.

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