Mussoorie Hill Station Tour | Masuri Hill Station Tourism | Tourist Attration in Mussorrie | Summer Cool Hill Station Mussoorie - Queen of Hill Stations

Mussoorie Township

Mussoorie, sometime pronounced masuri, the famous queen of hill stations, is located around 34 kms from Dehradun and 290 kms north of Delhi. The hill station is positioned at an average height of 1, 880 meters above the sea level in the Garhwal hills, and peeps down the verdant and luxuriant Doon valley in general and the city of Dehradun. Mussorie with its green hills and varied flora and fauna, is a fascinating hill resort. Mussoorie is one of the beautiful hill stations in India and is frequently visited by tourists. Commanding snow ranges to the north-east and glittering views of the Doon Valley and Shiwalik ranges in the South, the town was once said to present a ‘fairyland’ atmosphere to tourists. Due to its proximity to the  national capital Delhi for a weekend trips and holidays, it provides excellent respite to people who want relief from the hot sultry conditions of the plains. Also, major Hindu pilgrimage sites like Kedarnath, Badrinath, Gangotri, Yamunotri, Haridwar, Rishikesh are in proximity of this township.

Tourist Attrations in Mussoorie

Tourism is the most significant segment of Mussoorie's economy and there are many places where tourist can visit. It has a nature walk known as "Camel's Back Road". The Camel’s Back Road a 3kms road stretching from Kulri Bazar near Rink Hall and ending at Library Bazaar, gives a great sunset view, and also provides great scope for horse riding lovers. The name of the road descends from the fact that it seems to be similar in shape as Camel’s Back, if seen from Mussoorie Public School. The other places of tourist attractions are followings:

Gun Hill

Gun Hill which is treated as the second highest peak of Mussoorie, is a 20-minute walk from the Mall Road or ropeway ride could be taken to reach this place. The sheer thrill of ropeway ride is memorable. The name is given to the tourist spot because during the pre-Independence times, a gun was mounted on the hill which was fired during mid-day to make the people adjust their watches. The peak presents a spectacular view of the Himalayan ranges vis-à-vis, Bunderpunch, Shrikanta, Pithwara and Gangotri group respectively. Gun Hill also presents bird eye view of the fabulous Mussoorie town, and the rich Doon valley.

Municipal Garden

The Municipal Garden, previously known as Mughal Garden gives the tourists natural and idyllic experience altogether. The garden has an artificial mini lake and one can even go for boating. The garden is quite close from Mussoorie, at a distance of 4 kms. from the main road, and almost 2 kms. via foot from the Convent road.

Nahata Estate

Previously known as "Childer's Lodge” is a huge property of more than 300 acres, owned by Nahata Family.  It is the Highest Peak of Mussoorie near Lal Tibba. It is about 5 kms from the Tourist Office and one can go on horseback or on foot. Snow view from this spot is exhilarating.

Jharipani Fall

Jharipani Fall is about 8.5 kms from Mussoorie on Mussoorie- Jharipani Road. Visitors can go by bus or by car upto 7 kms to Jharipani from where the fall is 1.5 kms, on foot.

Bhatta Fall

Bhatta Fall is about 7 kms from Mussoorie on Mussoorie-Dehradun road. Access by car or bus upto Balta village and from there the fall is 3kms by car or foot. It is an ideal spot for bathing and picnics.

Kempty Fall

Kempty Falls a natural water falls is situated at an altitude of 4500 feet, is 15 kms from the town on the Yamnotri Road. The beauty of Kempty Falls can be attributed to the high mountainous ambience. It has the distinction of being the biggest and prettiest waterfall located in a beautiful valley and is surrounded by high mountains. Bath at the foot of the falls is refreshing and pleasurable for children and adults alike.

Nag Devta Temple

An ancient temple situated dedicated to Snake God Lord Shiva on Cart Mackenjie Road and is about 6 kms from Mussoorie. Vehicles can go right upto the spot. It provides a charming view of Doon Valley as well as of Mussoorie and Doon Valley.

Mussoorie Lake

A newly developed picnic spot, situated on Mussoorie- Dehradun road and is about 6 kms from Mussoorie. It is a delightful spot. Pedalled boats are available at this place. It commands an enchanting view of Doon Valley and nearby villages.

Van Chetna Kendra

At a distance of about 2 kms on Tehri by pass road, this place is developed as a picnic spot and has a park surrounded with pine forest and flowering shrubs, and is approachable by foot or taxi/car. The main attraction is the wildilife of the park like Ghurar, Kanankar, Himalayan Peacock, Monal etc.

Sir George Everest House

Park Estate is where one can find the remains of the building and laboratory of Sir GeorgeEverest, the Surveyor – General of India from 1830 to 1843. It is after George Everest that the world's highest peak Mount Everest is named. It is around 6 kms from the township. The Park Estate of Sir George Everest, First Surveyor General of India, Who had his office and residence here, is approachable by road.

Jwalaji Temple (Benog Hill)

The Jwalaji Temple is about 9 kms to the west of Mussoorie and at an altitude of 2104 mtrs. It is situated on the top of the Benog Hill and has an idol of Mata Durga in it. The temple is surrounded by thick forests and offers a panoramic view of the Himalayan peaks, Doon valley and Yamuna valley.

Clous End

The bungalow built in 1838 by a British Major was one of the First Four buildings of Mussoorie. The bungalow has since then been converted into a hotel called Clouds End, and is situated at the extreme west of Mussoorie Hill, 8 kms from Library. The resort is surrounded by thick forest, offers a wide variety of flora and fauna besides a panoramic view of snow clad Himalayas, and Yamuna river. The most ideally suited resort for fireigners and honeymoon couples.

Excursion near to Mussoorie

Naga Tibba

About 55 km, an ideal spot for trekking. Naga Tibba is the highest peak around Mussoorie at 10,000 feet and is covered by thick forests.

Dhanolti

On Mussoorie-Tehri Road 25km away, it has deodhar forests and mountainscapes. . Dhanaulti is the place where a tourist can spend lots of time as this place is fully covered with White Mountain. Dhanaulti is also identified as Dhanolti so a tourist must not get confused if they hear about any of the names. Chamba is another nearest tourist place of Dhanolti so reaching this place allows a tourist to enjoy some more spots. Tourist spots in Dhanolti are Chamba, New Tehri, Barehipani and Joranda Falls, Dashavatar Shrine, Chanderi, Deogarh, Jain Temples, Surkanda Devi and Kanatal.

Surkhanda Devi

Surkhanda Devi Temple at 10,000 feet, 35 km down the Mussoorie - Tehri road, perched on a peak, the temple demands a stiff two-km climb form devotees. The temple, goes the legend, was built on the site where the head of Shiva's consort (Shiva is the destroyer in the Hindu trinity) fell after it was chopped off to stop Shiva's terrifying dance of death that was shaking the universe to its very core.

Lakha Mandal

About 80 km away on the Mussoorie-Yamunotri Road. Linked with the Mahabharata with idols of archaeological importance.

Season to visit Mussoorie

Mussoorie is a hill station which has pleasant climate around the year. It is a very cool place with greenery at its full bloom during September to November. The best seasons to visit Mussoorie is between April to June and again during September to November. When the plains of North India experience heat waves, Mussoorie provides a welcome break. September - November is spring time here. During this season Himalayas are clearly visible. It is better to avoid monsoons as the roads to Mussoorie are in bad shape. Same thing applies for the winter when roads are blocked due to snowfall.

Reaching Mussoorrie:

By Air: The closest airbase to reach Massoorie is the JGA (Jolly Grant Airport) positioned 24 km distance from Dehradun. Frequent flights are available from various cities of India, especially from Delhi.

By Rail: The nearest railway station near Masuri is Dehradun, which is just 34 kms away. Frequent rails from Delhi, Amritsar, Bombay, Varanasi and many other cities are available to reach Dehradun.

By Road: There are direct buses from Delhi to Mussoorie, along with private taxis. Buses ply every half hour from Dehradun to Mussoorie. Private taxis and shared taxis are favored by a majority of visitors.

Gangotri - Gomukh Char Dham Pilgrimages | Gangotri Temple - Gomukh - Gangotri Glacier Tourist Places | Gangotri Glacier Trecking

Gangotri is a town and a Nagar Panchayat (municipality) in Uttarkashi District in the state of Uttarakhand, India. It is a Hindu pilgrim town on the banks of the river Bhagirathi (Ganga). It is on the Greater Himalayan Range, at a height of 3,100m.

 

This small town of Gangotri is centered around the temple of the goddess Ganga. It is visited by lakhs of pilgrims every year. A number of ashrams are located on the other side, some of which provide accommodation facilities to the visitors. Ritual duties are supervised by the Semwal family of priests. The Aarti ceremony at the Gangotri is especially impressive, as is the temple, a stately affair that sits on the banks of the rushing Ganges. Adventurous pilgrims can make an overnight 18 km trek to Gaumukh, the actual current source of the river Ganges. For a large number of tourists, Gangotri town serves as the starting point of the Gangotri-Gaumukh - Tapvan and Gangotri- Kedartal trekking routes.

 

Places of Attractions

 

Gangotari Temple:

 

Gangotri, the origin of the River Ganges and seat of the goddess Ganga, is second of the four Char Dham Temples in the Chardham Yatra in Himalayas or Chardham Pilgrimage in Uttarakhand. Gangotari is located at at distance of 99 kms from Uttarkashi District of Uttarakhand, approximately 300 kms from Dehradun and 250 kms from Rishikesh. Couched in the magnificent Garhwal hills, Gangotri is at an altitude of 3048 meters above sea level. It is on the northernmost part of the state of Uttrakhand and is very near the Indo-Tibetan border. The summers are relatively cool and winters are freezing cold, with rains in the months of May and June. For the devotees and tourists, the gates of the temple are open only in the months of May to November.

 

The temple is dedicated to Goddess Ganga and was constructed on the banks of Bhagirathi in the 18th century. The temple of Gangotri is located at a 20-feet high structure of white granite, and is around 300 years old. The river is called Bhagirathi at the source and acquires the name Ganga (the Ganges) from Devprayag onwards where it meets the Alaknanda. The origin of the holy river is at Gaumukh, set in the Gangotri Glacier, and is a 19 km trek from Gangotri. 

 

The legend is, Goddess Ganga took the form of a river to absolve the sins of King Bhagiratha's predecessors, following his severe penance of several centuries. But earth could not sustain the immense flow of Ganga and soon it was water everywhere. Lord Shiva then took the flowing Ganga in his hair locks to reduce the impact, henceforth, it flowed down in 12 streams of water. The stream at the source came to be known as Bhagirathi (named after Bhagirath), flowing like this since centuries, absolving the sins of mankind. The Bhagirathi, 'Shila' is located near the temple of Ganga where the holy Ganga first descended on earth from heaven. Hence the place is known as Gangotri. The temple of Bhagirathi was erected by the Gorkha General, Amar Singh Thapa in 18th Century at the source of Ganga.

 

Gangotri can be reached in one day's travel from Rishikesh, Haridwar or Dehradun, or in two days from Yanunotri, the first site in the Char Dham circuit. More popular and important than its sister site to the east, Gangotri is also accessible directly by car and bus, meaning that it sees many more pilgrims than Yamunotri.

 

Submerged Shivling:

 

Submerged in the river, this natural rock shivling is the place where, according to mythology, Lord Shiva sat when he received the Ganga in his matted locks. It is visible in winter months when water level decreases. The other places of pilgrimage are Surya Kund, Vishnu Kund and Brahma Kund located in the vicinity of Gangotri.

 

Gomukh:

 

Gomukh is also referred to as "Gaumukh" or "Gomukhi". The word "Gomukh" literally means "Mouth of a Cow". According to some sayings, earlier the snout exactly looked like "Mouth of a Cow". It is 18 km from Gangotri in the foot hills of Bhagirathi at a height of 4255m. Gomukh is the terminus or snout of the Gangotri Glacier, from where Bhagirathi River originates. The Bhagirathi River here is pretty speedy. Around the snout, nature presents a wild topography. There are bolders scattered here and there with some pieces of broken snow, along with the hard clayey snow of the glacier. The place is situated at a height of 13,200 ft. It is one of the largest in the Himalayas with an estimated volume of over 27 cubic kilometers.

 

Bhavishya Badri Temple:

 

Bhavishya Badri, also spelt as Bhabisya Badri, is located in a village called Subhain at a distance of 17 kilometres from Joshimath, beyond Tapovan and approach is through dense forest, only by trekking. It is situated on an ancient pilgrim route to Mount Kailash and Mansarovar, along the Dhauli Ganges River. The idol of Narsingha (the god with the head of lion) is enshrined here. Traditionally, it is believed that a day will come when the present route to the Badrinath will be inaccessible and the Lord Badrinath will be worshipped here and this is why the place is called Bhavishya Badri.

 

Nandanvan:

 

Nandanvan is a 6-km tough trekking route along the glacier and gives a view of the Shivling. Across the snout of the Gangotri glacier is the sylvan Tapovan, which is known for its exquisite verdure encircling the base of the Shivling peak. From here, one can go to Vasuki Tal, Kalindikhal, at a height of 5590 meters and reach Badrinath.

 

Gangotri Glacier:

 

Gangotri glacier is straightforwardly accessible. It is well linked by motor able road up to Gangotri temple. From Gantotri Temple there are steps upto the main trail going to the ice cave of Gaumukh and one has to take these steps to reach Gomukh. The about 19 km long restrain path follows along the right bank of the Bhagirathi river to Gaumukh, the nose of the glacier. There are no temples at Gaumukh. The terrain is rough and the path is narrow and the fall is steep. The first step involves a walk up to Chirbasa (7 km) which is slow as the ascent is very steep. From here to Bhojbasa which is another 5 km is a relatively smooth walk. The mountain view changes dramatically but remains breathtaking nonetheless.

 

Gangotari, the origin of the sacred river Ganges, is a famous glacier in Garhwal division of the Uttarakhand, located in Uttarkashi district. Gangotri glacier originates at the northern angle of Chaukhamba range of peak. This Glacier is one of the largest in the Himalayas with an estimated volume of over 27 cubic kilometers. The Glacier is about 30 kilometers long and 2 to 4 kms wide. Gangotri Glacier is not a solitary valley glacier, but it is a grouping of various other glaciers that are feed to it and form a huge accumulation of ice. Around the glacier are the peaks of the Gangotri Group, including several peaks notable for extremely challenging climbing routes, such as Shivling, Thalay Sagar, Meru, and Bhagirathi III. It flows roughly northwest, originating in a cirquie below Chaukhamba, the highest peak of the group.

 

It is one of the most significant glaciers in Garhwal district as it is dependable for feeding the head tributary of the holy river Ganga.

 

The terminus of the Gangotri Glacier is said to resemble a cow’s mouth, and the place is called Gomukh or Gaumukh. Gomukh, which is about 18 km (11.2 mi) from the town of Gangotri, is the precise source of the Bhagirathi River, an important tributary of the Ganges. Gomukh is situated near the base of Shivling; in between lies the Tapovan meadow.

 

The Gangotri glacier is a traditional Hindu Pilgrimage site. Devout Hindus consider bathing in the icy waters near Gangotri town to be a holy ritual, and many make the trek to Gomukh and Tapovan.

 

Gangotri glacier flows at a moderate gradient apart from for a few ice stockade and crevices developed in the higher regions of the glacier where, as in the lower part of the glacier is roofed by fragments, which imparts a grubby emergence to its surface.

 

Reaching to Gangotri Gaumukh Glacier

 

The distance between Uttarkashi to Gangotri is 105 km which can be covered by bus or taxi. Buses are available daily during season from Haridwar to Uttarkashi via Bhaldiana. The distance is 173 km and takes about 6 hrs by taxi.

Almora Tourist Attractions | Almora Tourist Places | Almora Hill Station Tourist Places

Uttarakhand, formerly Uttaranchal State is located in Northern part of India. It is often referred to as Land of Gods ‘Dev Bhumi’ due to the many holy Hindu’s temples and cities found throughout the state, some of which are among Hinduism’s most spiritual and auspicious places of pilgrimage and worship. Uttarakhand, with its snow covered hills, clean air, presents a rich and panoramic view of Himalayas to the visitors. Adding to this, the simple pastoral lifestyle, blooming happiness on the faces of local Inhabitants and alpine vegetation belt lends a fabulous view that makes Uttarakhand stand unique from rest of places in the world.

 

The state of Uttarakhand is not only abode to nature’s best forms, but also, offers good pilgrimage destination to the tourists. Uttarakhand hold’s some of the best shrine in its hilly folds, which are praised and lauded for some or the other kind of legendary associations.

 

The State also offers water sports, trekking, mountaineering, Skiing, rafting and many other sports. The state is gradually also becoming centre for Yoga.

 

Almora District

 

Almora Township

 

The township of Almora, a picturesque district in the northern region of Himalayan Hills, east of Uttarakhand in India, is situated over a horse saddle shaped ridge of a mountain between the river Kosi and Suyal. The city was settled by Chand Rajas and was nurtured by the British. Almora hill Station is located at height of 1,650 m above the sea level and is reputed for its healthy climate. Famous for its rich cultural heritage, sumptuous cuisine and magnificent wildlife, coupled with an easy accessibility, Almora promises its tourists a visit full of fun and unforgettable moments. The hills around Almora are forested with fir and pine, with a panoramic view of the snowy peaks of Himalayas on any clear day, makes it perfect place for choice of tourists.

 

The main attraction of the township is its market, which is 1.25 miles (2.01 km) long and is covered with stone slabs and is an experience to go through it when most of the inhabitants of city come for strolling in the evening. The market is around 200 years old. The river Koshi flows silently behind Almora city. The city is also called the Cultural Capital of Uttranchal and is famous for its unique handicrafts.

 

The Township of Almora is the district headquarters and has all the facilities for a tourist of twenty first century. This ancient hill station is reputed for its health giving climate and is perched on a five Kms long horse saddle shape ridge in between the river Kosi and Suyal and has been a cultural and political region of Kumaun for almost four hundred years, settled by Chand Rajas and nurtured by the British.

 

"In these hills, Nature’s hospitality eclipses all that man can ever do. The enchanting beauty of the Himalayas, their bracing climate and the soothing green that envelops you, leave nothing more to be desired. I wonder whether the scenery of these hills and the climate are to be surpassed, if equalled, by any of the beauty spots of the world. After having been for nearly three weeks in the Almora hills, I am more than ever amazed why our people need to go to Europe in search of health. Mahatma M.K.Gandhi.

 

"These mountains are associated with the best memories of our race: Here, therefore, must be one of centers, not merely of activity, but more of calmness of meditation, and of peace and I hope some one to realize it." – Swani Vivekanda (replying to the address given to him by the people of Almora).

 

In the Almora city there are many places of interest in the township. Bright End Corner is 2 km from the city main centre and present unforgettable sunset and sunrise from end to end of the Himalaya peaks. The Chitai temple is 8 kms away from city centre and passage to the temple is through a beautiful pine forest. The view of the Himalaya from the Chitai is tremendously stunning. The main attraction of the temple is the collection of tiny brass bells of all sizes, gifted to the temple by devotees since centuries, upon fulfillment of devotees wish. The other place, Kasar Devi is located at a distance of 6 kms from the main town, here the temple was made in the second centuries and houses many Europeans who fell in love with the place so much that they settle down here. Nanda Devi Temple the cultural and religious center of Almora is of hundreds of years and is in Lala Bazar, a unique market of more than two hundred years old with paved streets of stone. There are many other place which could be visited during tour to Almora.

 

Places of Interest around Almora

 

Ranikhet

 

Ranikhet, a quiet mesmerizing city, maintained by the cantonment, is located at the height of 1829 mts, about fifty (50) Kms from Almora, is famous for its salubrious climate, balmy breeze captivating and panoramic Himalayan View and soothing and pollution free greenery of pines and oaks. It is also famous as the regimental center of the Kumaun Regiment of Indian Army- one of the most prestigious and the most decorated of Indian Armies. The Kumaun Regimental museum and amicably maintained grassy and green golf course are memorable experiences even for the most experienced tourists.

 

The pleasing hill station was out of world’s touch for quite some time, until it was rediscovered by the Britishers in the year 1869, and who later transformed the tiny hill station into headquarters of the Kumaon Regiment. The hill station was used as an ideal retreat against the hot weather of the plains. At present, Ranikhet is a cantonment town and place for Kumaon Regimental Centre (KRC) and Naga Regiment.

 

From Ranikhet four Kms sojourn takes you to the Chaubatiya gardens famous for its sprawling orchards of delicious apples, plums, peaches and apricots. It is result of the pioneering efforts of a British settler 150 years ago. In and around Ranikhet there are some famous temples of the Hindus for religious minded like Jhoola Devi Mandir, Ram Mandir, Herakhan Mandir, Kalika Temple and Binsar Mahadeva.

 

Kausani

 

Kausani a tiny and serene hill station positioned at 6, 075 ft above sea level and located around 52 KMs from Almora is famous for its well preserved natural beauty. The Kausani is also famous for its breathtaking unforgettable 250 kms wide view of the Himalayan snow peaks. The wide expanse of the bottomless famous Katyur Valley lies in front of it full of dark pine forest. At Kausani the mountains rise so spectacularly as if to get in touch with the heavens. Not just Kausani the complete Kumaon Hills have been well-known for their heavenly beauty with the enormous mountains silhouetted against the sky.

 

Kausani's beauty arrested the feet of even Mahatama Gandhi, who stayed for some time at this place. The memory that brief stay of that great man lingers behind in the Anasakti Ashrama. Another great man of India the famous Hindi poet Sumitra Nandan Pant was born here. There is small museum to earmark that sacred spot. The famous folk singer Gopidas was also inspired by the beauty of Kausani. Pinnath (10KMs), Bura Pinnath (5KMs) and Bhakot are the highest points near Kausani.

 

Binsar

 

Situated only 30 KMs away from the township of Almora lies Binsar nestled amongst thick forests of Oak and Rhodendron and yet offers surprisingly close views of the Himalayan peaks. The entire region is now a wildlife sanctuary and has a host of wildlife like Panther and Barking Deer. The temple of Binsar lies nearby. One of the many legends concerning Binsar states that 'Should anyone take away anything belonging to the God or his worshippers and avenging spirit and compels him conscience stricken to restore it twenty fold. Even the faithless and the dishonest are said to be reformed by a visit to Binsar.'

 

Bageshwer

 

Situated around 90 KMs from Almora, Bageswer is now a new district headquarter and the centre of administration for the entire region called Danpur. The place is significant from both religious and tourist point of view. Situated at the confluence of the rivers Saryu and Gomti, Bageswer is the seat of the famous Uttaraini fair which is held every year in January. The famous and ancient temple of Bagnath from which the township gets its name has been attracting thousands of devout Hindus year after year since the birth of history. It is believed that Markandey sage has lived at the place and that Lord Shiva, one of the most important gods of Hindus had wandered about as a tiger. Even for the adventurous tourist Bageshwer is a necessary destination from the point of view to reach the glaciers of Sunderdunga, Kafni and Pindari one has to mandatorily cross Bageshwer.

 

Jageshwer

 

Situated around 35 KMs from Almora, Jageshwer one of the most important religious places of Hindus in Kumaun and is believed to be the abode of the one of the twelve 'Jyotirlingas'. It is even mentioned in the great epic of 'Mahabharata'. The great temple complex is situated in a narrow and beautiful valley covered with Cedar trees. Two streams Nandini and Surabhi flow down the hills and meet near the sacred spot. Dense grove of Cedar trees, perpetual verdure, and sweet murmur of the riverlets give a peculiar charm and sanctity to this place. There are 124 temples and hundreds of magnificent statues of exquisite craftsmanship. The oldest shrine is of the 'Mrityunjaya' and the biggest shrine is of the 'Dindeshwara'. During the monsoons a huge fair is held here every year at Jageshwer.

 

Besides the above nearby places there are many other places of interest as Patal Bhubneshwer Katarmal Manila Dwarahat, Baijnath etc.


Reaching to Almora:


By Train: The closest railway station is Kathgodam located at distance of 90 kms. From station tourist can hire the pre-paid taxi to reach Almora or can take regular buses also. Frequent trains from Delhi to Kathgodam are available which is best way to reach Almora.

 

By Air: There is no close Airport to Nainital. The closest Ariport is Delhi.

 

By Road: The journey through road for Almora could be an exciting as the journey covers the hills, especially the river koshi which follows the road alongside for a very long time.

 

Nainital Lakes Tour | Nainital Tourist Places of Visit | Bhimtal Lake Tour | Naukuchia Lake Tour

Nainital

 

Nanital is 34 kms from Kathgodam, the nearest railway station located in the foothill, the gateway of the Kumaon Hills, and is around 336 Kms from National Capital Delhi. Nainital is also known as Lake District of India. Nainital is set in a valley containing a pear-shaped lake, approximately two miles in circumference, and surrounded by mountains. Nainital is a glorious hill station for tourism in Uttranchal, which was discovered by Lord Barron, a Britisher in 1841 and is located at a height of 6, 350 feet. In winter Nainital has freezing cold temperature which falls sometimes even below zero. It is surrounded by mountains on three sides. The first one is Naina (2615 meters) the second is Deopatha (2438 meters) and the third is Ayarpatha (2278 meters). Naina is the highest mountain among the three. Every year during December to February Nainital hill station gets its annual snowfall. Summer season is also very cool in Nainital. The highest temperate is not more than 26 degrees centigrade. Thus most tourists prefer to come at summer to explore Nainital tourism.

 

Nainital is named for its beautiful lake “Naini”and it is the base for tourism at here. This lake is called Naini because it look like eye shape. This Lake is famed among the visitors, tourists and nature lovers for yachting and boating. The southern end area of the lake is called Tallital and the northern end area is called Mallital. Both the areas have pretty cottages, luxuries hotels, villas, restaurants, food jones, shopping centers, game parlors and luxury shops. Other place, Naina Peak (6 kms) an other popular picnic spot is at a height of 2,610 metres. Fron the NainaPeak one can have breathtaking view of the Himalayas and entire lake region down the hill. Among the various temples, NainaDevi Templeis most famous and is situated on the northern shore of Naini Lake. The presiding goddess of this temple is “Maa Naina Devi”. Tourists visiting Nainital could also enjoy the Ropeway which is established by Kumaon Mandal Vikas Nigam. It is one of the advanced ropeways of India. The Ropeway is controlled electronically and mechanically both. It is used to carry 12 persons in a single time. Hanumangarhi located at distance of 3.2 kms from the city is famous for the Hanuman temple and the spectacular sun-set view from here.

 

Places of Interest around Nainital – Bhimtal

 

Bhimtal is a town and a nagar panchayat in Nainital District in the state of Uttarakhand, India, situated at an altitude of 1370 meters above sea level and is about 22 kilometers from Nainital. The major attraction in Bhimtal is the Bhimtal Lake, which has an island at its centre. Besides tourism, Bhimtal has also now become a mini district headquarters since most of the district administration offices have been shifted to the newly constructed Vikas Bhawan, the building complex for district administrative offices.

 

Bhimtal is an ancient place named after Bhima of Mahabharata. Bhimeshwara Mahadev Temple, an old Shiva temple in the bank of Bhimtal lake, is believed to have been built when Bhima visited the place during the banishment (vanvas) period of Pandayas. The present temple was built in 17th century, by Baz Bahadur (1638–78 AD), a King of the Chand dynasty, and the Raja of Kumaon.

 

Bhimtal Lake: Bhimtal is 25 kms far from Nainital and 11 Kms. from Bhowali at an altitude of 1370 mts. The famous five Pandavas of ‘Mahabharata’ came there and one of them named “Bhim” killed a devil on this place. So it is called Bhimtal. The main attraction of this place is a beautiful lake with its grandeur size of more than Nainital lake an island in the center of the lake. This lake offers Boating, swimming and fishing. All luxuries facility for the tourist is available here. The local bus stand and taxi stand is located nearby to the lake. The tourist from here could go by road to Naukuchiatal or to Kathgodam, the nearest railway station, located at 21 Km from here. There is a 17th century Bhimeshwar temple complex along the 40 feet high dam.

 

Naukuchia Lake: Naukuchiatal or ‘lake of nine corners’ is a small hill station in the Indian state of Uttrakhand. The lake is 175 feet deep surrounded by hills covered in trees and shrubs. It is the deepest of all the lakes in the Nainital region. The lake is fed by an underground perennial spring. It is 4 kms far form Bhimtal and 26 kms from Nainital at 1220 mts from sea level. A clean and beautiful lake within the surrounding picturesque valley offers very relaxing feelings to the visiting tourists. This lake is called so because of its nine corners. Migratory birds flock to the lake. This is an ideal place for relaxation and to spend your holidays. Additionally, there is ample scope for rowing, paddling or yachting.

 

It is believed by the locals that whosoever sees all the nine corners of the lake at one shot, attains Nirvana. It is also believed that this lake was created after hard wordship (Hindi "tap") of Brahmaji and a small temple dedicated to Brahmaji exist near the Kumaon Mandal Vikas Nigam (KMVN) guesthouse. According to locals anyone performing a parikarma of the lake will be blessed by Brahmaji.

 

Excursions near Bhimtal

 

Garg Parvat: Near the Bhimeshwar temple is a small hill known as Garg Parvat, which is the source of river Gargi, also known as Gola Nadi in the region.

 

Nal Damyanti Tal: About 2 km from Bhimtal is Nal Damyanti Tal, a small natural lake. It is believed that the palace of famous king Nala drowned into this lake. It is a very sacred place for the dwellers of the region.

 

Sattal Lake: About 5 km from Bhimtal is the famous group of lakes known as Sattal, which is a place of attraction for nature lovers. Clear water of lakes surrounded by thick forest and voice of birds is a wonderful experience. Hill near the lake is known as Hidimba Parvat. It gets its name from demon Hidimba of Mahabharata. Vankhandi Maharaj, a monk and environmentalist lives on the hill now, and has created a sanctuary for the wild animals around the hill. The area is known as Vankhandi Ashram.

 

Karkotaka Cobra: The hill of Karkotaka is supposed to be named after Karkotaka, a mythical cobra. The hill is famous for its Nag temple in the region and on every Rishi Panchami thousands of people visit the temple and worship the Nag Karkotaka Maharaj. This is one of the famous nag temples situated in Uttarakhand region.

 

Reaching  to Nainital/ Bhimtal:

 

By Train: Closest railway station is Kathgodam located at distance of 35 kms. From station tourist can hire the pre-paid taxi to reach Naukuchia Tal. Frequent trains from Delhi to Kathgodam are available which is best way to reach Naukuchia spot.

 

By Air: There is no close Airport to Nainital. The closest Ariport is Delhi which is located at 320 kms from Nainital.

 

By Road: because of hill area, traveling through road for Nainital/ Bhimtal could be an exciting as the journey covers the hills and ground levels at different locations. However, the road is not well maintained and it is advisable to take train till Kathgodam, the nearest Railway station, and then to hire some private conveyance.