Introduction

Nestled picturesquely amidst seven majestic hills, Naini Lake with its shimmering waters has held thousands spell-bound by its very beauty. Being the most famous and prominent of the lakes dotting the landscape of Nainital, Naini Lake attracts the most visitors, who come here not just to relax in the picturesque surroundings but also for the pleasure of boating, yachting and other water sports. With efforts on to preserve the cleanliness and aquatic life of the lake, the lake continues to be a hotspot with honeymooners and other vacationers in Nainital.

The Naini Lake and the temple on its shores have an interesting legend associated with their creation. It is said that Sati, Lord Shiva’s consort, immolated herself after her father insulted Lord Shiva by not inviting Him for a function. Lord Shiva, enraged began a cosmic dance that could have destroyed the earth if it had not been for the timely intervention of Lord Vishnu, who scattered Sati’s charred body across the earth. According to the legend, one of Sati’s eyes fell at Nainital, resulting in a Naini or ‘eye’ shaped lake that later came to be known as Naini Lake. The temple on its shores marks the exact spot where the eye fell and is one of the 64 Shakti Peethas thronged by devotees for its religious significance.

The lake in itself does seem to be eye-shaped and glimmers in the reflection of the sun during the day. At night, the reflections of the twinkling lights from the dwellings on the surrounding mountains make the lake come alive resulting in a rather picturesque picture. One of the best ways to enjoy the full beauty of the Naini Lake would be setting sail in a paddle or row boat, which can be hired from the boat clubs on the shores of the lake. Naini Lake also has a Yacht club, which apart from providing yachts on rent organizes an annual Yachting Festival.

An added attraction at Naini Lake is the lake bridge at Tallital. On the bridge is a statue of Mahatma Gandhi, a bus stand, taxi stand, railway reservation office and a post office, which incidentally, is the world’s only post office to be located on a lake bridge. On both ends of the bridge, well-established shopping centers lure tourists and locals alike to loosen their purse strings with a gamut of well-displayed goods.

Special Attributes

One of the most prominent lake in Nainital District. One of the Shakti Peeths.

Nuisance

Touts

Dressing restrictions

Dress is whatever you find comfortable.

Connectivity

Taxis, Cycle Rickshaws

Enjoyed by

Couples; Families

Exposure

As Nainital is primarily a hill station, there will be only light exposure to sun. Cool breeze.

Avoidable Season

June, July, August, September

Facilities

Boating, Yachting

Things Not Allowed

No such restriction.

Tip

If visiting in summer, make the most of the early morning fresh air and avoid the crowds as well by starting early.

Type of site

Lake