The first recorded discovery of this now popular hill station of Nainital, was in 1841 when a British, Mr. Barron, chanced upon the lake. Moved by the scenic beauty of the lake and thickly forested hills, he constructed a house named Pilgrims Cottage. It was the first of many residences, which were to transform Nainital into a popular resort. By 1858, Nainital became a well-known hill station, and within a few years the summer seat of the provincial government.
According to local belief the origin of Nainital harks back to mythological times. Sati, Lord Shivas consort committed suicide at the yajna of Daksha Prajapati. When Lord Shiva roamed across the universe carrying her dead body, Satis eye fell near the lake, where the Naina Devi temple now stands. The waters of the lake are therefore considered sacred and the Naina Devi temple is the venue of an autumnal fair. In ancient times, the lake was know as the Tri-rishi Sarovar, the lake of three rishis-Atri, Pulastya and Pulaha.

Prior to 1839, the valley was covered by thick forests and inhabited by hill tribesmen. A major landslide in 1880 led to the formation of the flats, the level ground by the lake, where a variety of entertainment awaits the traveler. Nainitals attractions range from quiet walks in meadows the forests of pine and deciduous, the adventure sports as well as popular entertainment. This hill resort can be enjoyed at any time of the year.

 

SIGHTSEEING

Snow View
Situated at 2270 meters this popular vantage point is accessible by rope way. It offers an excellent view of the northern Himalayan ranges.

 

Naina Peak
At 2611 meters this is the highest peak bordering the lake. A popular picnic spot which offers a panoramic view of the resort.

 

Dorothys Seat
Named in memory of an English woman who was killed in an air crash. This pleasant spot offers a partial view of Nainital.

 

Lands End
Situated at 2881 meters on the southern border of the lake, this hill affords a view of another lake, Khurpa Tal.

 

 

Hanuman Garhi
A place of religious interest, also good for viewing the setting sun.

 

 

State Observatory
Located on the top of a ridge, the observatory is open to the public in the evening.

 

The Mall
Nainitals popular promenade offers a variety of entertainment.

Nainital is also known as `Lake Paradise. In its beautiful `lakes, option of boating through yachts, paddle boats and traditional rowing boats are available. The Nainital Boat House Club exclusively holds the management of Yachting in Nainital. In Nainital district, Sat Tal, Bhim Tal and Naukuchiyatal also have water sport and boating facilities.

Fishing
Permits for Nainital Lake from Executive Officer, Nagar Palika

Khurpa Tal
10 km/6 mile. A small lake along the Nainital-Kaladhungi-Ramnagar Road, popular with picnickers and anglers.

Bhowali
11 km/6 mile. Situated at an altitude of 1706 meter on the main Haldwani-Almora Road, it is a popular health resort.

 

Jeolikote
18 km/10 mile. A noted bee-keeping Centre.

 

Sat Tal
21 km/13.5 mile. One of the most picturesque resorts of Kumaon, it has seven interconnected lakes. KMVN provides accommodation facilities.

 

Bhim Tal
22 km/13.5 mile. Fast developing into an independent tourist centre, this lake resort offers a quite vacation and facilities for water sports. KMVN has a Tourist Bungalow here.

 

Naukuchiya Tal
26 km/16.5 mile. A nine-cornered lake situated in an enchanting valley, this is a popular haunt of anglers and naturalists.

 

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