An Offbeat Homestay Amidst Scenic Mountains near Nainital

It is a famous lake located in the town of Bhimtal. The reason why it is so famous is because of the masonry dam built in the year 1883 which enabled a good storage facility. It has a catchment area of around 17.12 sq km which is quite large. Location: The lake is located in Bhimtal, which is a famous town in Nainital. It is more than 22 km away from Nainital. If you want to reach a railway station from here, the nearest one is Kathgodam which is at a distance of 20 km from the lake. Highlights: The Bhimtal lake is the largest lake in the region of Kumaon, which is popularly known as the lake district of India owing to the density of lakes present here. This lake helps in providing drinking water as well as makes sure that the different species of fishes are habitable here.

The High Altitude zoo is a place every animal lover must visit. It has some of the most endangered as well as reserved animals which you can't see elsewhere. It was opened in the year 1995 and receives around 125,000 annual visitors. Location: It is located at a distance of just 2 KM from the Tallital bus stand but many visitors chose to climb up the hill without any transportation. Highlights: You will see there are many endangered animals from the Himalayas. Some of the famous animals include the Royal Bengal Tiger, Tibetan wolf, sambar, leopard cat and Himalayan bear. It was also home to India's only Siberian tiger but he died in the year 2011. Best time to visit: The zoo is open from Tuesday to Sunday and the timings are from 10:00 am to 4:30 pm. Plan your trip accordingly so that you can visit the place while it stays open.

It is one of the most popular gardens in Nainital which tourists often visit and apart from the visitors, even the residents come here often because of its nice atmosphere. The natural park is maintained and taken care by the local administration. Location: It is located at the Sukhatal region of Nainital and falls on the Kaladungi road. Reaching here is not a hassle as most of the transportation facilities are nearby. Highlights: There are many interconnected rocky caves as well as hanging gardens. The garden makes the most out of the hilly regions in which it is located. Even for children, it is a lot of fun due to the presence of a lot of activities on offer. Price: The price for adults is Rs. 20 and that for children is Rs. 10. If you want to carry a camera along, you have to pay a fee of Rs. 25 for the same.

As the region of Nainital is famous for its lakes and various water bodies, Khurpatal lake is one such body which plays an essential role in supplying water to the town. These lakes make sure that residents can drink safe water and never fall short of it. There are hills and tall trees surrounding the lake which makes the location look more beautiful. Location: It is located in the Khurpatal town of Nainital. The place is just at a distance of 10 km from Nainital. Highlights: You can spot a lot of fishes here because it provides a natural habitat for many fish species. Even fishing activities are carried out here which suffices the need of fish eating habits in the region. If you notice, the lake resembles the color of an emerald. This is quite interesting for the tourists and they love to take pictures of this beautiful natural lake.

Nainital Lake is one of the best natural freshwater bodies in the state of Uttarakhand. Being a lake in midst of a bustling township, it receives huge tourist attraction. It is a crescent shaped lake with Naina Devi Temple at one end. Location: It is located in the city of Nainital which lies in Uttarakhand. The Sukhatal and Tallital bustands are nearby and thus you can choose to opt for roadways while travelling to the place in public transport. Highlights: There is a famous Nainital Boat Club which offers yachting facilities at the lake. You can enjoy boating through the lake with the calm and serene atmosphere. Price: The Nainital Boat club charges Rs. 350 for boating you around the lake. If you want to pedal the boat yourselves, you will get them for Rs. 150 per hour. Other boatmens will boat you for Rs. 210 in the Nainital Lake.

It is a 350 year old temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and is a famous tourist destination in Uttarakhand. There are many such temples throughout various states in India. Location: It is situated in the Kumaon Hills and is 51 KM from Nainital. Usually tourists prefer road vehicles to get to the place. However, if you prefer airways, the nearest airport is at Pantnagar and the nearest railway station is at 65 KM from the town. Highlights: From the temple, you will get a beautiful view of the Himalayas. People tend to enjoy the nice atmosphere and the stunning view from over the mountain top. Best time to visit: The summers are warm with moderate heat and a little rainfall sometimes. The place receives heavy rainfall during the rainy seasons. Winters usually have freezing temperatures. So, you can decide the best time for you to visit the place as per your preferences.

It is one of the most famous ashrams in our country. There are many followers of Kaninchi Maharaj who believe in his teachings. If you want to go through a spiritual journey, this place is a must visit. Location: It is at a distance of 9 KM from Bhowali and 17 KM from the town of Nainital. Highlights: The place was visited by tech legend Steve Jobs in his earlier days. He also advised Mark Zuckerberg to have a visit here. It is believed that the place enhances spiritual enlightenment of oneself and thus most of the people visit for the same reason. In the annual Bhandara held on June 15, more than 1 lakh people are fed at the place. Best time to visit: You can visit the place during anytime of the year however, if you want to stay inside Kanchi Maharaj-ji's ashram, you have to personally write a letter to the manager.

If we check out the most visited tourist spots in Nainital, Snow view point is surely the most visited and loved spot by people all over. The mountain also has a temple to which residents worship. While you move in the cable rope, you can have a great view of the Nainital lake. Location: The point is around 3 Km from the town of Nainital and you can travel there through either cable rope or your car. If you are comfortable, you can also visit Snow view point by walking there or book a taxi if you prefer it. Highlights: From the top of the mountain, you can have a full view of the city which looks just marvelous. If you notice, there will be a place which says The highest mountain in the British empire. Before Sikkim became a part of India, Naina Devi was India's highest peak.