NAINITAL

Nainital is 34 Km from Kathgodam, the gateway of Kumaon and the terminus of North Eastern Railway. It is 304 km from Delhi, capital of India, and 388 km from Lucknow. According to the District Gazetteer Nainital is situated at 29 degree 24' north latitude and 79 degree 28' east longitude, in a valley of the Gagar range running east and west, which is bounded on the north by the peak of China, which rises to a height of 8.568 feet, continued by the Alma peak (presently known as Snow-View) and the Sher-Ka-Danda to the eastern extremity, where the ridge descends almost to the level of the lake. On the west the rugged hill of Deopatha rises to a height of 7,987 feet, and on the south Ayarpatha attains an elevation of 7,461 feet diminishing gradually towards the east.

While the intervening portion between these two hills is a mass of rocks piled up loosely together which goes by the name of Handi Bandi, and is formed of the transition limestone of Mussoorie. exhibiting every where vast rents, fissures and boulders of all sizes and shapes. The eastern boundary is the pass through which the surplus water of the lake find an exit, forming the principal source of the Ballia river, which falls into the Gola near Ranibagh. The western end of the valley consists of a series of gentle undulations formed by the debris of the surrounding hills. Thus Nainital is situated at a height of 1939 metres from sea level & is surrounded by some outstanding peaks and hills.

The town has the famous lake to which it owes its name. The surface of this lake has an elevation of 1.935 m above sea level. Maximum length & breadth being 1,434 m & 463 m.respectively.

The depth of this lake is said to range between a maximum 28 metres and a minimum of 6 metres. Most Important Characteristics of the town Nainital has some unique features and physical characteristics. By far the greatest attraction is provided by the lake Naini. Flowing on the base of rising peaks. Cheena, Laria-Kanta, Deo- patha, Snow view and others, the lake presents a view which lingers in memory. All around the lake is wide road, the Mall, now known as G. B. Pant Marg, which is crowded by pedestrian and rickshaw traffic. All this is mirrored up and brightly reflected in the glittering blue waters of the lake.

Sightseeing at Nainital
Sat Tal: 25 km away, is a complex of seven natural lakes with good angling prospects.

Bhimtal: 23 km away, larger than Naini Lake which sports a beautiful island.

Naukuchiatal: 27 km away, is a vast nine-cornered lake, pristine and pleasant where migratory birds gather.

Naini Peak: Approx 6 km away, is the highest point within Nainital and commands a superb view of the Himalayas.

Naini Lake: This attractive lake is said to be one of the emerald green eyes of Shiva's wife, Sati. When Sati's father failed to invite Shiva to a family sacrifice, she burnt herself to death in protest. Shiva gathered the charred remains in his arms and proceeded to engage in a cosmic dance, which threatened to destroy the world. Vishnu chopped up the body into pieces, and the remains were scattered across India. The modern Naina Devi Temple at the northern end of the lake is built over the precise spot where the eye is believed to have fallen.

Best Season to Visit: Through out the Year.

Reaching Nainital -
Air : Nearest airport is Pantnagar, 71 kms away, which was serviced by India's feeder airlines called Vayudoot, which has since been discontinued.
Rail : Since the airport is not in use, the most convenient way to travel is by train. The nearest railhead is Kathgodam, located 36 kms from Nainital. This station is connected on meter gauge directly by rail to Agra, Lucknow and Bareilly.
Road : The most preferred mode of travel to this hill destination is by road. It is connected to Delhi with fairly well maintained motorable roads, as well as with other towns in Uttar Pradesh.

Distances -
Almora - 64 kms
Delhi - 318 kms
Ranikhet - 54 kms
Bareilly - 137 kms
Haridwar - 306 kms
Dehradun - 373 kms
Badrinath - 303 kms
Lucknow - 390 kms

ISD/STD Codes Of Nainital
If calling from within India -------------++05942 (local number)
If calling from outside India --------------++91- 5942 (local number)

Shopping in Nainital -
Nationalised banks which have foreign exchange conversion facilities are - State Bank of India, Punjab National Bank and Allahbad bank.
Nainital is famous for its candles, woolens, woodcrafts and handicrafts. Main Markets are Mallital Bazar, Nallital Bazar, Tibetan Market and a the markets near Naina Devi Temple.