Nainital, India. 21st May, 2011
Reached Kathgodam, the base for the lovely hill-town of Nainital in the North-Indian state of Uttarakhand, after an overnight rail journey from Dehradun, at 07:25. No sooner had we exited the railway station than we were accosted by taxiwallahs. Selected a Wagon R, driver's name Sushil Gupta. The road to Nainital brought back to mind The Beatles' song, "The long and winding road..." It was beautiful. Reached hotel Anamika after an arduous ascent from Mall road. The hotel was dark and the rooms claustrophobic, hence decided to change. Sushil took us to Hotel Prashant, amidst pouring rain and co0ld, but we liked the place that had long balconies affording views of Naini lake.
Set out at 12:30 for an ATM, lunch and then on a sightseeing trip with Sushil. Climbed above Nainital through woods hosting various Himalayan trees - cedar, pine and cypress. The first halt at 'Himalaya Darshan' (view of the Himalayas) point was instantly rewarding, as we saw what is in my opinion the best sight on earth - snow clad mountains! I was absolutely thrilled to have spotted the Himalayan peaks of Trishul, Comet and Mrigthuni. Also managed to catch a glimpse of Nanda Devi, who lifted her veil of clouds like a shy bride, for a brief moment! My trip is made ! The other points that we visited like 'Bird's eye view', Khurpa tal, etc. all paled into insignificance before the magnificent vista of the snow-capped peaks.
Returned to the Mall by 17:30 and went for a boat ride on Naini lake. The ride was fun but a bit scary at times. The view of the town on both sides of the lake, was wonderful. Savoured local fruits like mulberry, apricot and plums. Must try peach tomorrow. Returned to the hotel for a brief rest and then were back on mall road. Began a leisurely stroll with the lake to our left and colourful shops to our right. Sampled the local fried papad; tastes good. As we were enjoying the colours and flavours of this delightful hill-town, we came upon a 'Mallside" tea stall selling omlette-bread, noodles; and above all 'bun-muska'(sweet bun lavishly buttered)! The last mentioned is my favourite, I can have it anywhere at any time!! Boiled eggs were also on offer. We wasted no time in gorging on all the items, washed down by tea or coffee.
Continued the stroll, punctuated by entry into every alternate shop. Turned left at the 'flats' and admired colourful candles (a local speciality) at roadside stalls and shops. Returned to the hotel by 21=00, admiring night views of the hill-town. Packed a few snacks on the way and had them in our room, to the accompaniment of 'Old Monk'.
