Nainital Lake, Uttarakhand, India
This pretty lake is Nainital’s centrepiece and is said to be one of the emerald green eyes of Shiva’s wife, Sati (naina is Sanskrit for eye) that fell to earth after her act of self-immolation. Boatmen will row you around the lake for ₹210 in the brightly painted gondola-like boats, or the Nainital Boat Club will sail you round for ₹350. Pedal boats can also be hired for ₹150 per hour.
Naina Devi Temple is on the precise spot where the eye is believed to have fallen. Nearby is the Jama Masjid and a gurdwara. You can walk around the lake in about an hour – the southern side is more peaceful and has good views of the town.
Visit India, Epic India Route © Monika Newbound
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