Awesome Getaways to the Hills of Nanital and the Wilderness of Corbett

Exasperated by the rising mercury? Dying for an escape to a world where the sun doesn't scorch your skin the second you step out? It’s time to take out those light woollens you carefully put away for the summer and beat the heat with the hills of Uttarakhand. Here’s our itinerary for a delightful getaway to the hills of Nainital and the wilderness of Jim Corbett.

Nainital

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Of all the hill stations nestled in the Himalayas, Nainital has a unique appeal. The enticing beauty of its emerald lakes makes it special amongst all hill stations in India. Nainital derives its name from Naina Devi Temple, a Shaktipeeth of profound importance for Hindus and the Naini Lake or taal. The lower Kumaon hills of Uttarakhand offer comfortably cool temperatures in the summers too and the peaceful town of Nainital has developed around the immense Naini Lake.

Things to do in Nainital: The first view of Nainital is so picture perfect that it feels like you’re looking at a postcard and not a real town. The first thing you’d want to do here is touch the emerald waters of the lake. The next thing to do is to hop on a boat and go for a ride. You can opt for a traditional boat rowed by an oarsman while you recline taking in the sights and smells around you or take a joy ride on a motor powered boat. An hour later, you’ll find yourself back on land, refreshed and excited for more.

The most striking memory I have from my most recent visit to Nainital is the non-stop Vedic chants that resonated from Naina Devi Temple. Other religious landmarks here include St. John’s Church, Gurdwara Sri Singh Sabha and the Jama Masjid, which stand formidably on the north end of the lake proclaiming the secularity of this divine mountain retreat.

Like most popular hill stations in the country, Nainital too has a Mall Road. Constructed in a very imperial style with immaculate shops on one side and park benches facing the lake on another, you can shop for winter clothes, wooden crafts and candles here.

The hills in and around Nainital have several awesome trekking trails for those who have an adventurous spirit. Three towering peaks, Naina Peak, Tiffin Top and Snow View surround Nainital and provide some excellent views of the Himalayan ranges. You can also explore the narrow caves at Cave Garden and take a horse ride if your feet get tired from all the walking.

Getting to Nainital: Nainital is fairly well connected by road and rail. Driving to Nainital from Delhi takes about 7-8 hours approximately on the well maintained NH 24. You can also take a train up to Kathgodam or Ramnagar and then hire a cab to take you uphill.

Corbett National Park

Edward James ‘Jim’ Corbett was a British hunter turned conservationist who gave this tiger reserve his name and an identity that survives and thrives even today. Corbett National Park is the oldest and one of the most frequented Tiger Reserves for wildlife lovers in India. Located in the foothills of the sub Himalayan belt, Corbett is marked by gigantic trees that form dark green canopies overlooking the Kosi River that cuts its way through the hills.

Corbett Jungle Safari: The reason you find yourself at Corbett National Park is of course to go on a jungle safari. Pull up those pants, grab a pair of binoculars and head in to the park’s wilderness. A word of caution from the wise; don’t hire a jeep or any motorized vehicle to take you around. The noise of the engines tends to drive animals away. For a shot at photographing a majestic Bengal tiger on its turf, I recommend an elephant safari instead. The elephants tread with caution and in silence, providing a much better chance to spot animals and birds in their natural habitat. The success of a safari here is wholly dependent on spotting the tiger and the moment you see one, you’ll likely to be shocked and awed all at once.

Corbett National Park spans over 510 square kilometres, most of which is protected forest area. The park houses approximately 50 species of mammals and over 500 species of birds. The vegetation ranges from dried dull brown to dense green forests, providing fascinating contrasts of landscape. The terrain is beautifully varied with ravines, ridges, plateaus and numerous small streams. It is alternately rocky and grassy, complete with the magnificent lake called the Ramganga reservoir.

British era guesthouses just add to the old world charm at Corbett. Do climb up the rickety ladder leading to the watch tower. Though the rusted iron rails feel like they might give up any moment under your feet, you must not miss the view from the top as it’s absolutely magnificent.

Beyond Corbett National Park: While Corbett National Park is undoubtedly the main attraction in Corbett, take some time to relax by the picturesque Kosi River when free from your safari. You can even  hike down the river to the Garjiya Devi Temple. It’s quite a serene location as the river fans out beautifully to wind around the temple area. From here, you can choose to walk or take a jeep back uphill.

Staying in Corbett: In Corbett, the narrow strip of flat land between the Kosi River and the hills is lined with resorts and camps ranging from the modest tents to luxurious hotels. MakeMyTrip offers varied accommodation choices in Corbett to match your needs and budget. Book your summer escape today!