Nainital Lake – The Heart of Nainital
Nainital Lake, also known as Naini Lake, is one of the most famous and picturesque lakes in Uttarakhand, located in the town of Nainital. Surrounded by the towering Himalayan mountains and nestled at an altitude of about 2,084 meters (6,837 feet), the lake is the heart of Nainital and a major tourist attraction. Its unique kidney-shaped structure and the stunning backdrop of hills make it a must-visit destination in the Kumaon region. Naini Lake is renowned for its scenic surroundings. The lake is framed by hills, dense forests, and small cottages that add to the picturesque setting. The view of the lake with the mountains around it is especially breathtaking during sunrise and sunset.

💠 Altitude: 2,084 meters (6,837 feet)
💠 Significance: One of the 51 Shakti Peethas, home to Naina Devi Temple.
💠 Shape & Size: Kidney-shaped, 1.4 km long & 0.5 km wide
Top Attractions:
✔️ 🚣 Boating: Row, paddle & yacht boating available.
✔️ 🛍️ Mall Road: A lively street with cafes, shops & restaurants.
✔️ 🏔️ Tiffin Top & Naina Peak: Best viewpoints in Nainital.
✔️ 🦜 Birdwatching: Spot migratory birds along the promenade.
📅 Best Time to Visit: March–June & October–February
🚗 Accessibility:
📍 Centrally located in Nainital | 36 km from Kathgodam

what to do

• Boating: One of the primary activities at Nainital Lake is boating. Visitors can enjoy pedal boating or row boating. Boats are available for hire, and visitors can enjoy a peaceful ride while taking in the views of the town and hills.
• Naina Devi Temple: At the northern end of Nainital Lake lies the famous Naina Devi Temple, dedicated to Goddess Naina Devi, one of the 51 Shakti Peethas. This sacred site draws many pilgrims and tourists who visit for both spiritual and scenic reasons.
• Surrounding Promenades: The lake is surrounded by a popular mall road, offering a range of shops, restaurants, and cafes where visitors can enjoy local food, shop for souvenirs, and relax by the lake.

Best Time to Visit:

• Summer (March–June): The weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities like boating and sightseeing. The lake area is bustling with tourists during this time.
• Monsoon (July–September): While the lake and surroundings are lush and green, the heavy rains may cause landslides, and boating can be restricted.
• Winter (October–February): The cool weather adds a magical atmosphere to Nainital Lake, with the possibility of light snowfall around the area, offering a different scenic view.

Pari Taal – The Hidden Fairy Lake

Pari Taal, translating to “Lake of Fairies,” is a secluded and relatively unexplored lake situated near Chanfi village in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand, India. This hidden gem is approximately 2 kilometers from Chanfi and can be reached via a trek that typically takes around 30 minutes. Pari Taal is often referred to as a “hidden paradise” due to its untouched natural beauty. Visitors are advised to carry essential supplies, as there are limited facilities near the lake. It’s also recommended to be accompanied by local guides familiar with the terrain.

📌 Location: Near Chanfi Village, Nainital
💠 Meaning: “Lake of Fairies” – a hidden paradise.
💠 Trek Distance: 2 km from Chanfi Village (30-min trek).
💠 Seclusion: Untouched by mass tourism, perfect for solitude.
Why Visit?
✔️ 🥾 Adventure Trekking: Short yet scenic forest trails.
✔️ 🌳 Lush Greenery: Surrounded by dense forests.
✔️ 📸 Photography Spot: Capture pristine reflections in calm waters.
📅 Best Time to Visit: March–June & September–November
🚗 How to Reach: Drive to Chanfi → 2 km trek to the lake.