Naukuchiatal is a small hill station in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand, India. It is famous for its lake of nine corners, which is said to be the deepest lake in the region. The name Naukuchiatal literally means “nine-cornered lake” in Hindi. The lake is surrounded by lush green hills and forests, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Naukuchiatal is not as crowded or commercialized as its neighboring hill stations like Nainital, Bhimtal, or Sattal. It offers a peaceful and relaxing getaway from the hectic and stressful life of the city. You can enjoy boating, fishing, kayaking, birdwatching, camping, trekking, rock climbing, and more in and around Naukuchiatal. You can also visit the ancient temples, museums, ashrams, and waterfalls that add to the charm and culture of this place.
If you are looking for a refreshing and rejuvenating vacation in the lap of nature, then Naukuchiatal is the place for you. Here are some of the best things to do, places to visit, how to reach, where to stay, and what to eat in Naukuchiatal.
Things to do in Naukuchiatal
Naukuchiatal has something for everyone. Whether you are a thrill-seeker, a spiritual seeker, or a leisure seeker, you will find plenty of activities and attractions to suit your taste and preference. Here are some of the top things to do in Naukuchiatal:
1. Boating and fishing in Naukuchiatal lake
The main attraction of Naukuchiatal is its lake of nine corners. The lake is about 1 km long and 0.5 km wide and has a depth of 40 meters. The lake is fed by an underground perennial spring and has crystal clear water. You can enjoy boating on the lake with various options such as paddle boats, row boats, or motorboats. You can also try fishing in the lake with a permit from the local authorities. The lake is home to various species of fish such as carp, rohu, catla, etc.
2. Birdwatching and camping in Sattal lake
Sattal is a cluster of seven freshwater lakes near Naukuchiatal that are interconnected by natural channels. The lakes are named after the seven sages or rishis of Hindu mythology: Purna, Ram, Sita, Lakshman, Bharat, Shatrughan, and Nal Damyanti. The lakes are surrounded by dense forests and rich biodiversity. The place is ideal for birdwatching as it hosts more than 500 species of resident and migratory birds such as kingfishers, woodpeckers, barbets, flycatchers, warblers, etc.
3. Visiting the island and aquarium in Bhimtal lake
Bhimtal is another popular lake near Naukuchiatal that is famous for its island in the middle that houses an aquarium. The island can be reached by boat or rope-way from the shore. The aquarium has various species of fish from India and abroad such as goldfish, piranha, angelfish, etc.
4. Trekking and rock climbing in Mukteshwar
Mukteshwar is a hill station near Naukuchiatal that offers panoramic views of the Himalayas and the Kumaon region. The place is also known for its ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, which is believed to be more than 3500 years old. The temple has a white marble shivling and a copper yoni. The temple also has a chauli ki jali, a natural rock formation that has holes and cracks that resemble a spider’s web. It is said that women who touch this rock are blessed with a child.
5. Meditating and praying in Hanuman temple
Hanuman temple is a temple complex located on a hilltop near Naukuchiatal that has a 52-feet high statue of Lord Hanuman, the monkey god and devotee of Lord Rama. The statue is visible from a distance and attracts many pilgrims and tourists. The temple also has a replica of the famous Vaishno Devi shrine, which is one of the most revered Hindu pilgrimage sites in India.
How to reach Naukuchiatal
Naukuchiatal is well connected by different modes of transport such as flight, road, and train.
By flight
The nearest airport to Naukuchiatal is Pantnagar Airport, which is about 65 km away. The airport has regular flights from Delhi and other major cities in India. You can take a taxi or a bus from the airport to reach Naukuchiatal.
By road
Naukuchiatal is about 300 km from Delhi and 25 km from Nainital by road. You can drive your own car or hire a taxi or a cab from Delhi or Nainital to reach Naukuchiatal. You can also take a bus from Delhi or Nainital to Naukuchiatal. There are many state-run and private buses that ply on this route.
By train
The nearest railway station to Naukuchiatal is Kathgodam Railway Station, which is about 35 km away. The station has regular trains from Delhi and other major cities in India.
Best time to visit Naukuchiatal
Naukuchiatal can be visited throughout the year as it has pleasant weather conditions and seasons. However, some months are better than others depending on your preference and purpose of visit.
March to June: Summer season
The summer season is the best time to visit Naukuchiatal if you want to escape the heat and humidity of the plains.
July to September: Monsoon season
The monsoon season is the best time to visit Naukuchiatal if you love rain and greenery. The place becomes more beautiful and refreshing after the rains. The lake fills up with water and reflects the colors of the sky and the hills.
October to February: Winter season
The winter season is the best time to visit Naukuchiatal if you want to witness snowfall and misty atmosphere. The place becomes a winter wonderland with snow-covered hills and trees. The lake freezes partially and creates a magical effect.
Where to stay in Naukuchiatal
Naukuchiatal has a range of hotels and accommodations to suit your budget, luxury, location, and preference. You can choose from resorts, homestays, villas, cottages, tents, tree houses, etc. Some of the top hotels and accommodations in Naukuchiatal Lake Resort, Lake View Homestay and Lake Side Villa.
Places near Naukuchiatal
Naukuchiatal is not only a destination in itself but also a gateway to many other destinations that can be visited along with or instead of Naukuchiatal. Some of the places near Naukuchiatal that you can explore are Nainital, Almora and Ranikhet.
Naukuchiatal is a hidden gem in the Kumaon hills that offers a serene and scenic escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. It has a lake of nine corners that is the deepest and most beautiful in the region. It also has many other attractions and activities that will make your vacation memorable and enjoyable.
If you are looking for a refreshing and rejuvenating vacation in the lap of nature, then Naukuchiatal is the place for you. Book your trip to Naukuchiatal today and experience the magic of the lake of nine corners.