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Naini Lake Nainital

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About

Naini Lake is one of the major attractions in Nainital, located just a km away from its bus stand. Tourists from far and wide visit the lake to enjoy boating and admire its natural beauty. Surrounded by seven hills, Naini Lake is known for its blissful and picturesque views, which captivate visitors and nature lovers alike. Known as the "City of Lakes," Nainital is known for its several scenic lakes. Among those, Naini Lake is always the first choice for tourists visiting the town, especially couples. The kidney-shaped lake has fresh green coloured water and looks stunning when the sun's rays reflect on it.

Naini Lake, Nainital

Situated just 1 km from Tallital Bus Stand, Naini Lake can be accessed either on foot or by local transport. Visitors can enjoy boating in the lake while appreciating the scenic views. The revered Shakti Peeth, Naina Devi Temple, also captivates visitors with its beauty and spiritual charm. The lake is encircled by a Mall Road, where visitors can enjoy a peaceful walk with their partner. Mall Road features a variety of shops where you can buy souvenirs and other local items.

History of Naini Lake

Naini Lake was found accidentally by a British businessman, P. Barron, during a hunting expedition. He was so amazed by the beauty of this emerald lake that he decided to leave his sugar business and establish a European colony nearby.

The lake is surrounded by seven popular hilltops of the region, giving it a majestic appearance. When viewed from Naina Peak, one can find that the lake is in the shape of an eye; hence, it is named Naini Lake. According to Hindu mythology, when Lord Shiva was carrying the charred body of Goddess Sati, her eyes fell at this place, where the Naina Devi Temple now stands.

Nainital Lake Entry Fee and Timings

There is no entry fee for visiting the Naini Lake. However, visitors need to pay for boating rides. Naini Lake opens for tourists daily from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Visitors can enjoy boating during these hours.

Naini Lake Boat Ride Charges

Visitors can enjoy boating at Nainital Lake, with the following options:

Complete Round (35 to 40 minutes)	Rs 420/ per person
Half Round (20 to 25 minutes)	Rs 320/ per person
Pedal Boat (4 Seater)	Rs 420/- per hour
Pedal Boat (2 seater)	Rs 320/- per hour

In a pedal boat ride, visitors will operate the boat themselves. For complete or half-round rides, a boatman rows the boat while you enjoy the scenic views.

Instructions while taking a ride:

Ensure you are wearing a life jacket
Not more than 4 people (including the driver) are allowed in a boat.
Carrying food items on the boat is not allowed.
Before boarding, check the driver's identity card, and make sure he is not intoxicated.
A complete round is finished when the boat reaches the two yellow drums placed on the lake.
A half round is completed when the boat reaches one pink and one yellow drum in the lake.

Things to do in and around Nainital Lake

Enjoy a boat ride, especially in the evening.
Enjoy local delicacies in the cool and calm atmosphere.
Walkaround with your loved one on Mall Road.
Buy souvenirs from the shops, especially the scented candles.
Take the blessings of Maa Naina Devi, located adjacent to the lake.
Enjoy the ropeway ride for a panoramic view of the lake and the town.
If accompanying kids, explore Nainital Zoo.
For a 360 degree bird's eye view of Nainital and popular peaks, visit Naina Peak, also known as China Peak.

Accommodation near Naini Lake

Several accommodation options are available near Naini Lake, where visitors can enjoy beautiful lake views from their balconies. Nainital offers a wide range of stays, including hotels, homestays, and resorts.

Food Guide

A range of eateries are available near Naini Lake, serving local and international cuisines. Some cafes and restaurants also offer lakeside sitting, where you can enjoy the scenic view while dining.

Important Tips for Visitors

Avoid visiting during the monsoon season.
Parking rates are on the higher side; avoid visiting by personal vehicle.
Before booking any rides, confirm the distance and timing.
Morning and Evening are the best times for boating.
Always wear a life jacket when enjoying water rides.
Avoid leaning from the boat, as it can capsize the boat.

Major Nearby Attractions

Naini Lake is one of the major attractions in Nainital. However, there are several other attractions, which Nainital is known for and must be explored during your visit:

How to Reach

By Road: Nainital Lake is just 1 km from Nainital Bus Stand. To access the lake, tourists need to reach Nainital, which is easily accessible via bus and taxi. From Delhi, it is approximately 311 km, and 286 km from Dehradun. Regular bus services to Nainital are available from Delhi, Dehradun, and Haridwar. Alternatively, private buses and taxis from major places.

By Rail: The nearest railway station is in Kathgodam, approximately 37 km from Nainital. Regular trains run daily from Delhi and Haridwar Railway Station to Kathgodam. From there, visitors can hire a local shared taxi, bus or cab to reach Nainital.

By Air: The closest airport to Naini Lake is Pantnagar Airport, around 70 km away. The airport provides limited connectivity mainly from Delhi and Dehradun Jolly Grant Airport. Alternatively, visitors may also take the Dehradun to Haldwani Heli Services, as Nainital is just 40 km away from Haldwani.

Best Time to Visit

Nainital is one of the most popular hill stations inUttarakhand and offers pleasant weather throughout the year. Although it can be visited anytime, the ideal time is from September to May.