Tag - Nainital

Travel to Bhimtal

Bhimtal, named after the mythological Bhima of the Mahabharat, is near Nainital in Uttarakhand. The city has come up around one amongst a group of the many natural lakes in Nainital, the Lake District in the state.

The small green city at an altitude of 1370 meters in the Kumaon Hills in the lessert he Himalaya, is at a lower elevation than Nainital, winters could be a pleasant all the year around destination. In summer it can get hot and the winters are not as cold at the hill stations. As it is closer to Delhi than Nainital, it is fast becoming a popular weekend getaway from the city.

BhimtaalDotted with small temples atop the green Kumaon hills, and natural H2O lakes in shut proximity, Bhimtal could be a serene city, good for relaxation and pleasing destination. Most visitors stop here en route to Nainital, but one can stay at the numerous hotels in Bhimtal and make excursions to the nearby lakes and temples. Boating in the lake is a favorite pastime, as this lake is bigger than the Nainital Lake and not as crowde

As Bhimtal is a quiet town, you can enjoy the solitude, the beautiful natural setting, take walks around the lake and trek to the other lakes, which are a few kilometers away. Dense oak, pine trees and shrubs surround all the freshwater lakes.

Nature lovers can watch the migratory birds and butterflies around the lakes. There are many species indigenous to the area. The lakes also have fish in them, but fishing is prohibited. The local people have also set up private camp sites near the lakes.

Best Time to visit

Bhimtal is a year round destination, though the best time to visit is from March to June in summer and September to November in winter. In the months of December and January, it is cold in Bhimtal but not as cold as in the surrounding hill stations of Uttarakhand. In Monsoons in July and August, the hill roads are not very good to travel and are landslide prone.Bhimtal

Shopping

This steel city, being a major industrial region, is not much known for shopping. However, the place houses some good market areas, which provides different options for shopping to both its residents as well as tourists. Civic Center, one of the oldest shopping places, is among the favorable shopping destinations of the locals. This place gives opportunity to get indulged in long time shopping that attracts shop lovers the most. The other two famous shopping complexes of this city are Akash Ganga and Gangotri. Apart from selling various types of modernized products, these market places of Bhilai even offers varied local handcrafted items.


Image by his restless eyes,aniruddha.kibey Under Creative Common License.

 

Places to See in Nainital

Naina Lake

The meaning of ‘tal’ is lake and also the city of Nainital is called after this lake. The lake is pear formed and is encircled by green mountains. It is the key attraction of this hill station. The lake attracts lots of tourists who come back and luxuriate in boating, yachting, or paddling n the lake. As night descends the lake reflects the lights from houses and hotels surrounding the lake making it appear magical.Naina Lake

Naina Devi Temple

The Naina Devi temple is a necessary place of worship in Nainital. Placed atop the Naina hill, it attracts lots of devotees annually. It’s believed that Goddess Sati’s eyes fell at the exact same spot where this temple is constructed. The temple is reached by mounting to the highest of the Naina hill. Apart from the main idol of Maa Naina Devi, inside the temple there are two idols, one of Mata Kali Devi and the other of Lord Ganesh.

Naina peak or China peak

Placed at an altitude of 2611 m, it is the highest peak of Nainital. About 6 km from the town, a horse ride or trek can take you to the Peak. The Naina Peak gives magnificent panoramic view of the snow capped Himalayas and an excellent view of the Nainital city.

The Mall Road

The Mall road stretches from the north end to south end of the lake and is the famous and busiest road of the town. The road has many street shops, shopping centers, banks, hotels, restaurants etc. During peak season vehicles are not allowed to enter mall road so that commercial activities keep going on smoothly.

Dorothy’s Seat

Placed on Ayarpatta hill at 2292 m, Dorothy’s seat is dedicated in the memory of Dorothy Kellet. After her death in a plane crash, her husband built a memorial for her at this place. As her favorite spot, the hill spot was chosen and stonework was built here, hence the name ‘Dorothy’s Seat’. The local name for this spot is Tiffin Top as it used to be popular for picnics during the British Raj. From here the visitors can view the beautiful green neighboring countryside.

Snow View Point

Located at an altitude of 2270 m, one will reach here by foot or taking an option of the ropeway. From the top one will see the breathless views of snow capped mountains and may conjointly visit the small temple dedicated to Dev Mundi. Further ahead is the Gadhan Kunkyop Ling Monastery.

The Governor’s House

Governor's HouseBuilt for the Governor of North West Province, presently it is the residence of the Governor of Uttarakhand and additionally is a house to state guests. A prior permission is mandatory for the stay. It is a well maintained lovely property with swimming pool, golf links and a grand garden.

Enjoy the fantastic places to see in Nainital!


Image by Anirudh – Singh,sanjoyg Under Creative Common License.