Mahindra Homestays » himalayas

11 Things That Make Nainital Queen Of Hill Stations

Mahindra Homestays — Wed, 06 Jan 2010 17:41:26 +0000

Nainital is one of North India’s most popular and famous hill stations. And here are 11 ways in which you can make the most of this land of the nine lakes.

1. Lake lovers
Nainital’s most popular feature are its numerous lakes, making boating a popular pastime. You can opt for a paddle boat, where you do all the work, or a languid ride on a row boat, operated by the boat’s owner. For those skilled at sailing, sailboats are easily available for rent as well. You can hire any of these options for as long as you want. Bargain over the price – it’s common.

2. The height of beauty
As you enjoy the panoramic vistas of the city below, the Naini Cable Car takes you up to Snow View, a beautiful viewpoint located 7,500 ft above sea level. The popular tourist spot offers enchanting vistas of the Himalayan range. Be sure to grab a cup of hot chai and some steaming pakoras from one of the food stalls before you leave.

3. Hello Himalayas
There’s a viewpoint is located between Nainital and the town of Kilbury. It’s proudly perched at an impressive height of 2300 meters and offers wonderful views of the majestic Himalayas. It is one of the lesser known viewpoints around Nainital. It’s worth seeking out, away from the crowds and chatter.

4. A walk to remember
The best place to enjoy a trek or walk in Nainital is Thandi Sadak or Cold Street. It’s a lovely spot to find solitude and has a romantic ambiance. Your walk will be lined by tall, lush pines, deodars and oaks. During summer and fall, your walk will be set to the sweet sound of chirping birds and the gentle breeze rustling through the leaves.

5. Test of the terrain
Naina Peak is the highest peak in Nainital and obviously provides unmatched vistas to those who can take on the intense journey. Even the most skilled hikers find the journey daunting but the company of cheery rhododendrons, soaring deodars and lush cypresses is a welcome distraction. If you have persevering feet, then the peak rewards you with a magnificent bird’s eye view of Nainital, the Himalayas and the Terai region. Given the right season you can enjoy a 360 degree view of snow-cloaked Himalayas.

6. In the company of fish
Bhimtal has long been one of the most popular day trips from Nainital. A 22 kilometre long journey will take you to this small but popular island. Nainital’s authorities recently replaced Bhimtal’s overcrowded restaurant with an enchanting aquarium, which houses a variety of fish from all over the world such as South Africa, Mexico and China.

7. Let’s celebrate
All year round, vibrant festivals can be observed in Nainital. Whether or not you understand their historic and religious importance, they’re always fun to participate in. Most of the festivals are all about building community spirit and are filled music, dance and colours, as well as delicious local specialties.

8. Putting green
Golf has arrived in Nainital. The 9-hole course is fun, simple to master and can be enjoyed by people of all ages. It’s a great way to bond with the family while honing your putting skills.

9. Horsing around
An interesting way to explore Nainital is on horseback. If you can’t ride well, the horse’s owner will accompany you. Pony rides are available for children.

10. Shopping
In Nainital you’ll find inexpensive, locally produced, and usually handmade merchandise. It is very popular for its unique and interesting candles. From a glittering Christmas tree to a jolly Buddha with a wick sticking out of his head, you’ll find lots of choice when it comes to souvenirs.

11. A day away
Nainital is surrounded by lakes that are getaways in their own right. One of such places is Sat-tal, which literally means “seven lakes.” It is one of the places around Nainital that have not been overwhelmed by commercialization and crowds. The other option is called Naukuchiyatal. This is a small and beautiful lake which has nau (nine) corners. It is just four kilometers from BhimTal and enveloped by lush green hills. The perfect place to be with yourself and your thoughts.

Inspired? Take a look at our Nainital homestays and book yourself a break.

We have more things to do in India articles.

Small Village, Grand Experience: 8 Incredible Things To Do In Kewzing – Sikkim’s Little Gem

Mahindra Homestays — Wed, 13 May 2009 09:45:55 +0000

Main photo credit: Creative Commons

Kewzing might not be on most tourists’ itinerary but that’s what adds to its charm.

Gracious people, untouched scenery and an experience of a lifetime.

We bring you nine things to do in Kewzing that live long in your mind after you leave.

1. Trekking
Kewzing seems to have jumped out of an artist’s canvas, such is its picturesque, placid beauty. The best way to experience this bounty of nature is by trekking it. Armed with a good pair of shoes and with a friendly local guide you can trek to the local monastery, through the cardamom fields and along the village, as he enlightens you about the village’s history and culture.

2. Festivals
Festivals are an integral part of the Sikkimese culture. Celebrations are ongoing, almost all year round, throughout the state, and Kewzing is no exception. Festivals are celebrated here with great vigor and joy. Guests are encouraged to join in the festivities. Special cultural programs, which include music and dancing, are enthusiastically organised for those guests who have the misfortune of missing the festival season.

3. Organic Food
Most homes in Kewzing grow organic vegetables in their fields, which are unbelievably fresh and juicy. They redefine what organic food is supposed to be like and almost ruin the food experienced in big cities. With a little help and guidance from your hosts you can learn how to turn these delicious vegetables into remarkable dishes using a clay stove. A true pleasure for those who appreciate the rare and exotic, because these recipes are rarely found in a cookbook.

4. Local Drinks
Sikkim is known for its unique locally produced wines, beers and spirits. While bars in the city stock beer brands like Hit and Dansberg, in the countryside one can savor brands like Roxy. But in Kewzing, most homes produce their own homemade millet-based drinks that have a distinct and rich flavor. They have to be tried.

5. Hot Stone Baths
Imagine being surrounded by mountains and soaking in a traditional hot-stone, open-air herbal bath. This relaxing and curative bath is arranged for guests every winter and allows them to laze in a hot water while cloaked above by the nippy air of Kewzing’s winter.

6. Village Life
A typical day in a local’s life involves getting up at the crack of dawn to the milk the cow, feed the animals, tend to the fields and pick fresh vegetables to prepare for meals. Villagers realise that partaking in these activities is a novelty for most visitors, so if you’re staying in a Homestay your host will be happy to include you in these errands, teaching you their ways.

7. Photography
The idyllic and enigmatic surroundings of Kewzing are almost custom-made for budding as well as professional photographers. The sunsets, sunrises, vibrant hues of green and ever-smiling people are inspiration to start clicking away.

8. Nothing
Do nothing. In today’s world, where it’s hard to know when or how to stop, doing nothing has become a luxury. And a cottage in Kewzing in the company of a hot cup of chai is perhaps the perfect place to do that.

Liked this Things To Do India article? We’ve got lots more – see our updated list.

Images of Himalayan Region (including Homestays)

Mahindra Homestays — Thu, 30 Apr 2009 08:37:45 +0000