One of India’s most scenic hill stations, Nainital is a picture perfect destination located in Uttaranchal.  One known for its numerous crystal clear lakes, picturesque views of the snow capped Himalayas and interesting mythology, Nainital is a place shrouded in myths and legends, discovered by Lord Barron in 1841.
Often referred to as India’s ‘lake district’, here’s what this magnificent hill station has to offer! The Naini Lake (also sometimes referred to as the Tririshi Lake) after which this enchanting hill station is named, is definitely the biggest attraction here. Said to look like an emerald eye; accordingly to mythology, this was the place the eye or ‘nain’ of Sati fell, after her charred body was being carried to Kailesh Parvat by Lord Shiva.
Stretching nearly 2 miles, this spectacular lake surrounded by seven mountains is one of India’s most picturesque lakes. Beautiful villas, luxury hotels, food joints also surround the lake. A perfect place to catch up on adventure sport such as yachting, boating and paddling, this lake is a favorite amongst tourists visiting Nainital.
Other lakes in this ‘Lake district’ include Bhimtal, one of the largest lakes in the district, named after Bhim of the Pandava Brothers. Legends had it that this was the place; Bhim in order to quench the thirst of the Pandava brothers  hit the ground so hard with a club, that water started to gush out from the earth.
The Naukuchiatal Lake is one that looks like a scene out of a postcard surrounded by densely forested hills on each of its ‘nine corners’. This lake is probably one of the most beautiful lakes of not just Nainital but also Uttaranchal. For angler’s Khurpatal is the lake you want to head to. An angler’s paradise, fishing permits are available from the Deputy Commissioner, Nainital.
Naina Peak also known as Cheema Peak at a height of 2612 meters is the highest view point here. A beautiful picnic spot; it offers a 360o view of the breathtaking Himalayas, and of the splendid Nainital valley. An exciting trekking trail leads you to this beautiful site, but the more adventurous ones here can even try the ropeway that starts at the Mall in Nainital.
The NainaDevi Temple is another attraction for both tourists and pilgrims located on the shores of the Naini Lake. Though the original temple constructed in the 15th century was destroyed in a landslide in 1880,the same was rebuilt and is of great importance to the people of Nainital. Here the presiding deity Mata Naina Devi is represented by two almond shaped eyes, with Kali Mata and Lord Ganesha on either side.
Other breathtaking viewpoints here include the ‘Snow View’ where one can view the majestic Himalayan Ranges of Trishul, Nanda Devi and Nanda Kot. At a height of 2,270 meters on the Sher-ka-danda Ridge, an exciting cable car ride or a picturesque drive through the lush mountains will get you there.
Land’s End is also a magnificent spot… one visit here and you’ll immediately know why it’s named so! Dorothy’s Seat or Tiffin Top is a stone picnic perch built in memory of the late English painter Dorothy Kellet by her husband.  4 km from Naintital it also allows tourists some breathtaking view of the valley and the mountains.
To enjoy the peace and quiet of Nainital, try Kilbury where one can witness some magnificent sunsets. Hanuman Garhi, home to a temple dedicated to Lord Hamuman is another spot that offers some of the best sunsets in Nainital.
Interesting both adults and kids alike are the ‘Cave Gardens’ here, comprising of six small caves in the shapes of various animals such as the panther, tiger, etc. The zoo is also a wonderful place to visit for its wonderful collection of animals… from snow tigers, leopards, Himalayan brown bears, White peacock, Silver Pheasant…one can  find them all here.
Star gazers don’ have to think twice, Aryabhatta Research Institute of Observational Science located on Manora Peak, is where they should be heading…  this tourist attraction sure gets its share of visitors on any clear night.
After the landslide in 1880 that resulted in a loss of over 151 lives, certain areas in Nainital just couldn’t be reconstructed. One such area honoring the victims of this tragedy is called the Flatts, this area was later flattened and converted into a recreational area where cultural programs, fairs and festival are celebrated, even sporting events held.
Also honoring the victims of the landslide is the church of St. John in the northern end of town, where a brass plaque with the names of the victims can be seen near the altar of the chapel.
A masterpiece in every way, the Governor’s House also known as Raj Bhavan.  It’s a must for those who love architecture, for its exquisite Victorian Gothic style architecture. Consisting of 113 rooms, this palatial two storied mansion built in 1899 by F. W. Stevens was built to resemble a castle of Scotland.
No mention of Nainital is complete without a mention of The Mall, whether it’s shopping for souvenirs for your loved ones back home or dining out, here’s one place you’ll find yourself visiting time and again. Also referred to as Govind Ballabh Pant Marg, this is where most of the shops, restaurants, banks, travel agents etc are found.
A great place to catch up on trekking, angling, yachting, nature walks, or some stunning sights of the city while on the ropeway or the cable car, this beautiful lake city surrounded by lush evergreen mountains and clear blue skies, is a perfect setting to unwind and remember the poet William Davies for this would be the ideal destination to just ” stand and stare!”