Nainital - Abode of Goddess Naina

The mythological story behind formation of Nainital lake, which is known �Rishi Sarovar�, is that it was made by three rishis (Saints) namely Atri, Pulastya and Pulah. Mr BD Pande writes in his book �Kumaon ka Itihas�. These three rishis were climbing from Chitrasila to up hills Gargachal (Gaula) and were very thirsty. There was no water around. Hence, they dug the pit and remembered Mansarovar. Mansarovar released the water (underground) and filled the lake Rishi Sarovar or Nainital jheel. Since then, it is also called Rishi Sarovar (Lake of Saints) and considered as holy as Mansorovar. Another popular story is that one eye of goddess 'Sati' , spouse of Lord Shiva fell near the lake and thus the lake was named Naina (Eye) + Tal (Lake) = Naina tal which became later Nainital.

A VIEW OF OUTER NAINITAL (KAILAKHAN)

There are many places / spot of tourist interest as well as religious interest in Nainital. The famous temple of Goddess Naina Devi after whom the place is named, is situated at the bank of the lake in Mallital (Malla i.e. upper end of the lake). Devotees throng there everyday and special pooja is organized on Nanda Ashtami and also special celebrations are held during �Durgapuja� in Dussera days.

A VIEW OF NAINA DEVI TEMPLE

Hanumangari, some 1.5 km from Bus stand is another famous place of worship with temples of lord Hanuman. In fact it is a cluster of many temples. It is located at such a beautiful place that one visiting there can remain fascinated in the beauty of nature for hours and forget everything. It gives pace of mind to anyone.

A VIEW OF HANUMANGARI TEMPLE GATE

Half a kilometers beyond Hanumangari, at the top of adjacent peak is located Shitali Devi temple. The all round view of Nanital slopes from Shitala Devi temple is deeply engrossing.

TEMPLE TRUST HAVE DEVELOPED THE PLACE

A VIEW OF SHITALA DEVI FROM HANUMANGARI

During initial English period, a wine factory (beer bhatti) was there at the foothill, which was buried under landslide in nineteenth century. The place is now known as Birbhatti.

A MESMERISING VIEW OF BEERBHATTI FROM SUICIDE POINT

Suicide Point � One more step and you are gone down to 1-kilometer deep gorge.

SUICIDE POINT � HERE ENDS THE ROAD