Land's end: gaze the infinite

A spot from where you could see the land fading and the eternal skyline minifying the line between the real world and vault of heaven. The composition that you’ll hear of the gentle wind, the ceaseless blooming nature around you and the birds talking will leave you pondering about life and its real meaning. This place is around 4 kms from the nainital town. It gives you grand and glorious view of the plains and the beautiful Khurpa Tal surrounded by beautiful village and pine forests. You can ride a pony or trek to reach to the spot. The climbing is not very extensive and wearing but it is definitely thrilling and hair-raising. If you are a Nature fanatic then trekking is the best option because it offers some gorgeous slopes, fine green verdure, few rocky cliffs and oodles of picturesque views. There is no doubt about it that wandering in the wilderness and exploring the Mother Nature like never before is one of the most soothing excursions of all. Cautiously stepping on the curvy mountains you will discover the uniqueness of earth. Everybody relishes the feeling of being on the top of the world. Land's end might not be exactly winging in-the-sky kind of spot but still 2118 meters above the sea level will definitely give you the sense that you can touch the sky and when sometimes the clouds descend down and entwine around you it’s like you have entered in a dreamy sequence of a movie. As the name insinuates the spot evinces that there is no going beyond that point. All you are left to do is gawk at the vast expanse of Mother Nature's unsymmetrical yet systematic wonders. From the spot all you can see are fluctuating mountains, colossal green kingdom, pockets of beaming sunlight, narrow paths, miniature houses, bitsy water bodies and when you see them collectively it feels like one sumptuous mural. The place is euphoria for those who are in a search of epiphany and contentment because the intense quietness of the place consumes all your chaotic thoughts and open up your mind, body and soul to contemplate on fresh ideas. Read your favorite book, listen breathtaking music, dance in happiness, click and capture the serene beauty or just sit and do nothing for hours and admire the landscape it’s your choice. But creation of unforgettable enduring memories is guaranteed. Leave your bags at the best, safe and not so far Ashoka’s Naini Chalet Resort and drop yourself into the dazzling land of inspiration. This easy to reach joint offers the majestic sight so missing seeing it once in your lifetime could be a mistake that you might not want to commit.

Naini Lake: The emerald eye beauty

A place that has the power to leave you awestruck with its aura of freshness and liveliness. It is in the arms of pure Mother Nature where your mind, body and soul will connect to each other in an entire new way. It snaps you out of your chaotic life and opens the door to an unbelievably beautiful serenity. Nainital has earned the nickname of ' The Lake District' of India. People not from only India, but from around the world come here to admire this naturally gorgeous destination. From one of the four lakes we have one Naini Lake, a natural freshwater body, located in the thick of the township of Nainital in Uttarakhand State of India, tectonic in origin. It holds oodles of fascinating history and legend stories for you to explore. The striking mishmash of mountains, clouds, lakes, flora, fauna and aquatic life all at one place gives a sense of divine stillness in your life that you never want it to go away. It is a destination that inspires the artists; spreads love in the air for couples: bring families closer, provides adventure for youngsters and captivate the explorers. Wherever you lay your eyes, there you’ll see the colorful nature thriving. The charming originally blue-green lake will definitely hypnotize you especially at the time of sunrise and sunset when you’ll see the reflected shades of blushing crimson and vivid Fuchsia from the horizon of sky and lake. And at night when the lights that are hanged on both the edges of the lake sparkles, it feels as if you have crossed over in a fairytale. It is a must visit destination for those who like to fall in love with the nature over and over again. The weather of the place is mesmerizing almost throughout the year. The handsomeness of the place doubles when in the blissful wind you see the clouds tumble down on earth as if they are snuggling the mountains as well as the lake water. You can say without a doubt that that is a view to kill. The northern end of the lake is called Mallital, while the southern one is called Tallital. The Lake Bridge that bonds the two banks has quite a few shops as well as a post office, the only one in the world to be situated on a bridge. There is Bus Station, Taxi stand and Railway reservation counter on the same lake bridge. This natural lake stretches over 3.5 km and unquestionably offers charismatic scenic views along with other wonders of nature. There is the Nainital Boat Club that put forward yachting facilities at the lake. Stroll, boat or just admire. This is a place for everyone. Here you can turn your time into special memories that you will hold dear your whole life. It has a heavenly beauty that can not be completely described in words but can only be lived.

Naina Devi Temple: wishes come true here

Nainital is not just a place of mountains or lakes but it also offers some fascinating history and legend stories. The culture of the place is very rich and grasping. Near the naini lake, amidst the scenic foothills of the Himalayas lays the beautiful Naina Devi Temple that can make you spellbound by its composure. The temple is situated on the northern shore of Naini lake. Devotees from all over the world come here to pray and wish. The temple is called as symbol of faith. It is said that your wishes come true here and you get a sense of calmness in your mind, body and soul after visiting it. The presiding divinity of the temple is Maa Naina Devi represented by two Netras or eyes. Along with Naina Devi are the idols of Mata Kali and Lord Ganesha. It is said that nainital is one of the 64 Shaktipeeths, where the eyes (naina) of Goddess Sati fell, when Lord Shiva carried her body hence the nainital. As it is one of the main attractions for the visitors therefore obviously a lot of care is required to maintain the exquisiteness of the place. So the government of idea makes sure to implement proper plans for its restoration from time to time. And try to provide each and every convenience facilities for the tourists as well as commoners in order to keep the place neat and clean. It was rebuilt after being destroyed in the 1880 landslide. From the temple, you can also see an incredible view of the hill station. Nainital is located in the Kumaon division of Uttarakhand and as said before that the culture of the place is very famous therefore the Kumaon festival which brings out the local cultures and traditions is organized every year during the winter months of October and November, by the Tourism Department. The place becomes a unique sight of real Unity in Diversity because no matter which religion, cart, creed or color they belong to, people visit it to celebrate the occasion.

Raj Bhavan: history telling its story

Raj bhavan also known as the Governor's House is one of the main attractions in nainital that fascinates people. The building buries many untold secrets and stories in it. But the marvelous décor and design of the structure speaks the story of its own. It consists of an awe-inspiring garden, golf links, swimming Pool and is enclosed with blossoming green area of Deodar and Oak trees. This 2200 acres stretched structure was modeled after Buckingham Palace by the architect F.W. Stevens and its foundation stone was laid on April 27, 1897, and the building was completed in March 1900. It has been described as "the early domestic Gothic style" by the professional architectures. You’ll get a sense of English country house while walking through the entire structure. The complex has double storied mansion with the 113 rooms. From each stone to the carving on those stones and even to the fitting of the pipes, everything was supervised immensely and it was made sure that no compromise is done in the quality of the construction material. At first it was built as the summer residence of the governor of the North West Province, it later became the summer residence for the Lieutenant Governor of the United Provinces. And now, it is the official guest house for the governor of Uttarakhand and for visiting state guests. It stands upon a plateau at an altitude of 1932.37 meters above sea-level with rising ground behind it. The golf course inside the Governor’s house presently is its best most beautiful feature. Laying on the 50 acres of the area has 18 hole golf course with 18 different tees. In the midst of the vibrant hilly area this masterpiece landscape can still be witnessed with a flavor of British fondness for woodsy backdrop. In 1994, the Golf course was opened for the public. And since then it been developed and is hosting many Golf Championships. With each changing season you can see different shades of exquisiteness of the house but its beauty still stays intact. When the sunlight gleam in through the trees in summers the whole area sparkles and fills with the warmness or when in winters the clouds descends upon the lush green valley and the chilly wind brushes your skin you’ll feel the rush of exhilaration kicking in you. It is a very well maintained structure in the country and it is pride of Uttaranchal. It is a must visit for those who like to walk in the arms of the history. And as for others the scenic beauty of the entire area is captivating so let’s just say that while visiting nainital do schedule your hours for magnificent Raj Bhavan.

Snow view: fall into reverie

When cooking up a plan for vacation a person always desires to find a place where he/she could find tranquility and exhilaration. A place no less than an enchanted arcadia where you could make yourself new again. And nainital is one such Promised Land. It has millions of reasons to lure you; one of them is snow view point. This 3km away spot from the main town can also be reached by the thrilling experience of Cable Car/ Rope Way. This eminent spot offers an interesting perspective for many. You get the endearing view of tinsel town nainital from here. In the perfect weather you will feel as if you have entered into a fantastical fiction movie scene. At the elevation of 2,270 m (7,450 ft) this point is located up on Sher-ka-danda Ridge. From there if you’ll scour you’ll see the sparkling snow covered 350 km long range of gigantic and majestic Himalayas including Nanda Devi, Trisul, and Nanda Kot. The beauty of the scenery will give you Goosebumps. You will learn a fascinating fact at the spot that is written on a brass plate there "The Highest Mountain in the British Empire" because Naina Devi was India’s highest peak until Sikkim (Kanchenjunga) joined the Indian Union. Like that the place conceals lots of history and legends that you can explore. If you are an artist you’ll find your revelation here. The poet’s rhythm, photographer’s likeness, painter’s mural, traveler’s haven and a common person’s nirvana; the place has something for everyone. With the help of huge binoculars provided there you can bring the majestic world of lake, mountains and wilderness close to you. Breath of fresh air and stillness of the sight will help you establish a connection between your mind, body and soul in all the new ways. Because watching the wonders of Mother Nature stirs up ones anima. A sacred temple is also built on snow view for the devotees who look for spiritual purification. And you can buy souvenirs, key chains, Kashmiri suits and other stuff from the carnival stalls. Food joints are also available at the place. It is a perfect picnic spot with views to kill and all the fun stuff to do. The spot looks beautiful in all seasons but as the name gives the exquisiteness of the place is moving in winters when the entire landscape is covered with snow. The intensity of the surroundings is strikingly flawless. There is no doubt about it that a person with a heart will definitely skip a beat when he/she will feel the serenity of the place. For the safe and comfortable accommodation near the snow view point you can count on Ashoka's Naini Chalet at Pangot Nainital. They provide you with the best lodging experience with full assistance of any kind. So grab your traveling bag, your camera and your cloudless mind to jaunt into the sheer bliss.

Tiffin Top: picnic box on top

Also known as Dorothy's Seat it is a terraced hill top approx. 2,292 m (7,520 ft) on Ayarpatta hill is a 4 km (2.5 mi) hike from the town centre. Dorothy's Seat is a stonework resting spot on Tiffin Top built as a memorial to a British Army Officer's wife, Dorothy Kellet, by her husband Col J.P. Kellett DSO MC, City of London Regiment. From there you get to look upon the breathtaking view Himalayas and the Nainital town. When you’ll look at the neighboring countryside from the spot you’ll feel as if someone has painted the finest work of art landscape with each detail so vibrant and effervescent. Hiking through the hushed quiescence pathways the touch of Mother Nature’s unanimity will start filling in your mind, body and soul. And that rejuvenating feeling will magnify once you will stare upon the divine beauty that the place surrounds. It is a perfect spot to open up the picnic baskets and relish some joyful moments with your loved ones. Under the breath of fresh air if you’ll look really deep into the pure environment you might unfold some hidden secrets of the nature. The pleasant weather enhances the grace of the place. When beams of sunlight peek through the clouds they form the pockets of sparkling sunshine on the mountains that can steal your heart away. Or when in winters the frigid winds brushes your cheeks and nothing but the clouds envelope you, you’ll blissfully adrift from the deranged modern world. There is a magic in the nature that has the power to aspire you in the ways you yourself never knew before. And Tiffin Top has been doing the same since the day of its existence. Do not forget your camera if you are visiting there because the place lets you capture the most intense and enduring images that you don’t wanna miss and forget for your life. You can also enjoy some adventure activities there available. The climb up to Nainital is one of the most picturesque of the Indian hills. The visions from some of the vantage points are out of this world. It’s a must visit destination while on your trip to this district. And if you are puzzled about the lodging options offered there, then it is not at all a worry because you can always choose the best Ashoka’s Naini Chalet Hotel and Resorts that promises the all luxury conveniences in a simple package. So travel this splendid picture perfect destination and explore the galore of exhilarating nirvana that the place replenishes. You will get everything at one Place Mountains, adventure, unearthliness, nature walks, tranquility, charisma and hospitality.

Naina Peak: the nature’s dare

Previously known as CHINA PEAK or CHEENA PEAK is the highest peak in Nainital with an altitude of 2,615 m (8,579 ft). If you want to live the wanderer in you then Naina Peak is your answer. From mallital (the north end of the town) it is about 6 km in distance. The Ariel perspective of Nainital, the Himalayas and also the immense stretch of the Terai regions of Kumaon is mesmerizing. You can call it a view to kill from up top. The road to Naina Peak leads to eye pleasing forest of vivacious rhododendrons, towering deodars and cypresses. It is surprising that how nature offers us such diversity, we just need to open our mind, body and soul to accept it and we can figure out many hidden secrets of life that we can not otherwise while living in a disordered crowd. While trekking through this magnificent portion of earth you will get a sense of joy and satisfaction because we you will feel so close to Mother Nature. Naina Peak offers appealing views of the surrounding scenery. Bravura is the right word to describe this terrific peak. One can have 360 degree view of the snow-cloaked Himalayan peaks flanking the rolling panorama beneath. You can also see Nanda Devi peak and the mountains on the Tibet border from there. It is perfect excursion spot for tourists but as there are no shops and restaurants there you have to carry your own picnic baskets. It’s bliss sometimes to get lost in the arms of pure wilderness. That is how you can connect with the harmony of the environment surrounding us. The quietness of the place will consume you in it and you will forget all your worries in that moment. You can visit Naina Peak by walking or by horse ride but we should keep in mind that it is meant only for pedestrians. And there is no comparison to the amount of satiation that you get by walking on foot through this wonder of nature than by going on a horse. Getting tired after a long walk and then resting at the peak is like achieving a sense of greatness in you. And after viewing the inviting view from there will leave you astounded. Hiking there takes around 60 minutes, the 60 minutes of sheer delight. It is a great escape from the chaotic world and to make some bewitching reminiscence. Come and capture one of the most endearing destinations in India. Stay in the best Ashoka’s Naini Chalet Hotel and Resorts structured very near to all the reasons to why a person should visit Nainital, Naina Peak being one of them. It will definitely add the extra charm in your trip. Naina Peak not only offers a perfect getaway for people but it also inspires many artists, photographers and explorers because of its vastness and deep enigma. The place promises the perfect solitude so that you could indulge in the serenity as well as the adventure of the boonies at the same time.

Nainital Zoo!

Nainital Zoo: animals on high rise In a little time we want to see everything. Deciding a destination for a holiday is the toughest part of the whole scenario. You don’t want to choose a place that turn out to be a bummer at the end of the day. But I would say that nainital is one such place that does not lets you get bored for even a single minute. Mountains, lakes, history, national parks and zoo, adventure, love; tranquility, diversity in religion, wilderness the place offers you everything that can make your trip worthwhile. One out of many justifiable reasons to visit nainital is Pt. G.B. Pant High Altitude Zoo. It is fascinating to see that even on the high elevation ranging from 2,100 to 2,150 meters (6,900 to 7,050 ft) above sea level between Shivalik and middle Himalayan’s mountain range, the zoo and the animals residing in it are kept so well. It was established in 1984 and is situated on the Sher Ka Danda hill. It is one of the two High altitudes Zoo in India. The design of the zoo is very well laid and also well maintained. In between the profuse greenery the habitats for birds and animals are made really safe. It has been planned on different platforms with comfortable stone stairs, a lovely flourishing garden and lush green bushes and towering mountain trees. If you are a nature lover then you know how imperative it is to save the other living species of the planet. There importance is significant. And that is what The Nainital Zoo focuses on: how to preserve and create awareness about the wildlife of the Himalayas. It feeds to several endangered species of animals in the Himalayas like Snow Leopard, Tibetan wolf, Sambar, Leopard Cat and Himalayan Bear. It also has an immense gathering of high altitude birds, like Kalij Pheasant, Lady Amherst Pheasant, Rose Ringed Parakeet, Golden Pheasant and Red Junglefowl. It’s a happy as well as an educational place for children. It’s a heaven for the photographers; they just need the right eye to explore the place. If they are lucky enough and the animals are happy they become the models themselves. The care takers of the zoo has managed really well to provide a real environment for the animals and each one of them is kept according to their habitat altitude, e.g. Snow Leopard is kept on the highest point. They rescue, cure, rehabilitate and research ways on how to encourage the endangered Himalayan fauna. And it’s a must say that they are doing a job well done. By following some simple rules of the zoo we can enjoy the perfect harmony between the nature’s wonders and us. And we can also contribute under the “animal adoption scheme” in which any person or institution can adopt any animal in the zoo by paying its annual feeding expenditure and the name of the person is displayed on the cage of the adopted animal. It’s a little but an impactful step to make a little more sense of the world.

Kilbury: a little birdie flies tall

If we open our eyes and gaze upon the nature very deeply then we’ll know that the meaning of the life can not be found in the materialistic things. And a trip to Kilbury in nainital would definitely help in justifying that thought. At about 12 km. from Nainital at a height of (2528 MT) lies a place that can change the perspective of your mind and it is the best spot for having fun with your loved ones. When staring upon the wide panoramic view of Himalayas along with a view of Tarai and Bhabhar you’ll find yourself in true sense. It’s a place of peace. The only sounds that you’ll hear will be of natures like birds humming, pleasant wind whistling, and trees warbling. And you’ll get lost in your train of thoughts. There is no other way to relax your senses then lying back down and watching the sky flowing and different birds and vibrant flora surrounds you. Lined by lush oak, pine and rhododendron forests and with picture perfect views of majestic snow-capped peaks in the distance is like a day spent in the dreamland. Brown Wood-Owls, Collared Grosbeaks, White-throated Laughing Thrushes, Forktails, Jungle crow, house crow, green backed tit, Turdus boulboul, The Himalayan Tree Creeper, short billed minivet and more than 580 species of birds have been recorded in this area. Every bird with their unique different features will leave you awe-struck. It is amazing to see the diversity of Mother Nature. Capturing through lens to those flying beauties in their natural habitat is tough but satisfying given the birds also cooperate with you. After the excursion of exploring the nature resting at the best Ashoka's Naini Chalet hotels and resorts in the near area is very rejuvenating. If you are planning on visiting the divine nainital doesn’t forget to pack your picnic baskets and take a round of the Kilbury. Because sometimes in the middle of nowhere lies the contentment for life. So stroll, breathe in breathe out, cherish, respect the nature and it will all be ok.

Aerial Ropeway: the bird-eye view

A vacation is a getaway from your regular monotonous life. And you need a destination where you can escape with your loved ones and you also want to leave your worries behind. You need it to be perfect and exclusive. And in my personal opinion nainital is one such place. It has many reasons to invite you and one of them is Aerial Ropeway. Aerial Ropeway also called cable car is one of the main allurement of Nainital that runs from Mallital to Snow view point elevated at 2270 mts above sea level. Throughout your journey into this flying car you’ll get a wider view of the magnificent Himalayas including the entire town below. There are two trolleys that take passengers to and fro taking approximately 151.7 seconds each way and can hold a capacity of up to 10+1 people or 825 kg of total weight. It is made with state of the Art Swiss Collaboration and has got a very steep ascend and descend. It offers a panoramic view of the lake while climbing and a bird eye view of the flats while going downward. It is breath taking to see eye-shaped Naini Lake, the rolling hills and the distant snow-covered white peaks of the Himalayas altogether. While in the car wherever you’ll look through the beauty of the nature will captivate your eyes and will leave you spellbound. The Aerial Ropeway is opened for seven days a week from 10 AM to 4 PM and tickets for an adult is Rs. 100/- both ways and for a child Rs. 60/- both ways and charges are for a one hour stay at the point. Traveling through the cable car might look risky but it is very safe and is fun of course. The Aerial Ropeway in Nainital is one-of-its-kind and riding in them is a very exceptional experience. It will give you the sense of sailing trough the skies and among the clouds. If you need a help with the accommodation facilities in the near area, my suggestion would the Ashoka's Naini Chalet hotels and resorts. They are the best in the field. Who doesn’t want to be on the top of the world? Maybe for just a while but the trip through the car will definitely give you that feeling. And in the middle of the vibrant spectacular nature you’ll get to see the world differently.