Nainital (BTW, the tal in the name came from the Sanskrit word Tal meaning lake, you didn’t know that, right?) is one of the old favorites as summer gateway for the whole of India. Why else even the Brits would think of making it the summer capital of India! If you want this never-ageing experience, I suggest that you visit Nainital during the peak season. Hotels in Nainital are crowded during the peak season, according to data from Yatra, India’s premier holiday management service, but it does not reduce the attraction at all. To help you do what many tourists skip while in Nainital, here are some fun activities to try out during your stay there.
Paragliding
This is the first suggestion because this is the only time I am not afraid of height. I simply love paragliding and so will you, when you sail over the Naukuchiatal, situated at the foothills of Kumaon. This is one of the most beautiful lakes of Nainital, and the birds and butterflies you see here will make you forget that you are flying. The backdrop is created by Kumaun mountain range so you might feel like you are dreaming.
Trekking
Whether you are trying to burn some body fat or simply love the nature, the hilly locations of Nainital are just perfect for adventure lovers. This is one of the most scenic areas of India and a perfect gateway to multiple nearby places. I would personally suggest two spots, Kilbury which is around 10-12 km from your hotel in Nainital and Bara Patthar, around 3-4 km. Both places will offer you moderately challenged trekking experience, and when you reach the top, the lush green forest offers a breathe-taking view and offer you unmatched peace and solitude from the din and bustle of the urban life.
Boating
When you reach Nainital which has a lake in its name itself, can you not go boating? These lakes, surrounded by the mountains, offer fresh breeze to calm your nerves down after an age and ask you to float atop doing perfect nothing idly (if not with a partner, if yes, then it is the perfect time to remind her how much you love her).
Naini Lake, Bhim Lake (Bhimtal) and Sattal are some of the lakes to explore here. Due to the cover by the mountains, even during the summer, these lakes are perfectly cool. Once you row or paddle to the middle, you can observe the shoreline and enjoy the view of the hills. The boats are easily and readily available on rent but please, don’t go overboard and take adequate precaution (a life jacket, i.e.) before you start floating.
Rope-Way
This one is not for me, but that should stop you from trying it out. It connects the central city to Snow View point. The magnificent view of the rifts down under is too much for me but surely is something you would want to carry in your memory of Nainital.
You get a view from the top of the whole city and the surrounding mountains and the forest which is panoramic, to say the least. The tickets are not too costly, the cars are safe enough and can accommodate the family or group of friends if you are not a loner.
Camping
The ultimate adventure experience for me, to spend a night under the sky, like the primitive man. There are several popular camping sites around the lakes of Nainital, including Naina Devi jungle camp. You can also choose places like Sattal, Mangoli, Naukuchiatal and Mukteshwar, with each having its inebriating attraction. However, if star gazing is not your ideal camping activity, you have a lot to choose from. You can establish your base here and go trekking, hiking, yoga-ing (if that is a word). You can try some of the packages from Yatra, they are offering some really good value for money packages for Nainital. Package tours mean no worries of preparation and all you need to plan is the activities. Good luck, amigo!
