Nainital Winter Trip

Built around a shimmering pear-shaped lake, surrounded by seven emerald hills, Nainital is where clouds come down to say hello, where boats look like they are floating in the sky, and where every evening on Mall Road feels like a festival.

Everything in Nainital revolves around Naini Lake. Legend says it is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas where the eye (Naina) of Goddess Sati fell. On its northern bank stands the sacred Naina Devi Temple, where devotees come for blessings before they begin their day.

The lake itself is 2 miles in circumference, divided into Mallital and Tallital. In the morning it is calm and sacred, reflecting the hills. In the evening it turns golden with lights from Mall Road reflecting on the water. A boat ride here — a paddle boat with your kids or a romantic Shikara ride with your partner — is a must. It is not just boating, it is a memory for a lifetime.

Nainital is called the Lake District of India for a reason. Within 25 km you have four different lakes, each with a different character: Bhimtal — bigger than Naini, with a small island in the centre holding an aquarium; Sattal — a group of 7 freshwater lakes joined together, untouched and peaceful, best for bird watching and silence; Naukuchiatal — the deepest lake in Nainital with 9 corners, famous for paragliding and wish fulfilment; and Khurpatal — the cleanest water source for Nainital, hidden and green.

A 5-minute ropeway ride from Mall Road takes you to Snow View Point at 2,270 m, and on a clear day you will see the mighty Nanda Devi (7,816 m), Trishul and Nanda Kot standing tall in white. Tiffin Top, also called Dorothy's Seat, gives a 360-degree view of Nainital town and valley — best reached by horse ride.

As the sun sets, all of Nainital comes to Mall Road. The 1.5 km road buzzes with woolen shops, the famous Nainital candles (made since 1911), pinewood crafts, Bal Mithai shops, cafes serving hot chocolate and bun maska, momos, and the sound of lake waves. No one goes back without buying a candle and a sweater.

Just 20 km from Nainital lies Kainchi Dham, the ashram of Neem Karoli Baba. The silence here, the chants and the Kosi river flowing by give a calmness you will not find elsewhere.

Nainital is a 365-day destination. Summer (Mar-Jun) is 15-25°C, full of life and best for a family holiday. Monsoon (Jul-Sep) is misty, green, with fewer crowds and the best rates. Autumn (Oct-Nov) brings the clearest Himalayan view. Winter (Dec-Jan) carries a chance of snowfall at the upper points.