The Naini Retreat History, Hidden Gems, Best Time to Visit and Photography
Located at
Ayyarpatta, Mallital, Nainital
Uttarakhand
The Naini Retreat is a luxury heritage resort located in the charming hill station of Nainital, Uttar Pradesh, rather than Karnataka. Nainital is known for its stunning views of the Naini Lake, lush landscapes, and colonial architecture. This resort provides an elegant blend of natural beauty, heritage charm, and modern amenities. Here is a detailed overview of The Naini Retreat:
Description:
The Naini Retreat offers guests a unique stay with a blend of colonial-era architecture and modern luxury. The resort is perched on a hilltop, offering panoramic views of the famous Naini Lake and the surrounding valleys and mountains. It is one of the most sought-after resorts in Nainital, providing a peaceful and serene environment for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
The resort features a variety of luxurious rooms, suites, and cottages, designed to offer comfort and elegance. It is known for its picturesque setting and is ideal for nature lovers, honeymooners, and those seeking tranquility.
History:
The Naini Retreat has a rich historical legacy. The property was originally a colonial bungalow and has been converted into a luxurious resort. Its location on a hilltop provides incredible views of Nainital Lake, and its architecture reflects the heritage and charm of the British era, retaining many of its original features. Over time, it has been renovated and modernized to offer a more comfortable and upscale experience to visitors while maintaining its historical appeal.
Nearest Attractions:
- Naini Lake: Just 1 km away, Naini Lake is the main attraction in Nainital, where you can enjoy boating, take a stroll around the lake, or simply relax by its serene waters.
- Naina Devi Temple: Situated near Naini Lake, the temple is dedicated to Goddess Naina Devi and is an important religious site in the region.
- Tiffin Top: Around 4 km away, this viewpoint offers stunning views of Nainital and the surrounding peaks and is accessible by a short trek or horse ride.
- Snow View Point: Located around 3 km from the resort, this point offers a clear view of the snow-covered peaks of the Himalayas, and is accessible via a cable car ride.
- The Mall Road: The main street in Nainital, known for its shopping, restaurants, and cafés, is just 1 km from the resort.
- High Altitude Zoo: Located around 3.5 km away, the zoo is home to a variety of endangered species like the Himalayan Monal and snow leopards.
Things to Do:
- Boating on Naini Lake: Rent a boat and explore the scenic Naini Lake, which is the heart of Nainital. You can enjoy pedal boating or rowing with a guide.
- Trekking to Tiffin Top: Enjoy a short but picturesque trek to Tiffin Top for panoramic views of the town and its surroundings.
- Visit Naina Devi Temple: Pay a visit to the sacred Naina Devi Temple, a significant religious landmark for devotees of Goddess Naina Devi.
- Shopping on Mall Road: Take a walk down Mall Road for local handicrafts, woolen clothes, and souvenirs.
- Cultural Exploration: Attend the local cultural events, fairs, and performances that frequently occur in Nainital.
- Fishing: Nainital is famous for its fishing activities. You can enjoy angling on the lake with proper permits.
Adventures:
- Boating: Boating in Naini Lake is one of the best adventures, offering picturesque views of the surrounding mountains.
- Trekking: Explore the numerous trekking routes around the area, including the trek to Tiffin Top and Snow View Point.
- Horse Riding: Ride horses to Snow View Point for a scenic journey through the hills.
- Nature Walks: Take part in nature walks around the resort and enjoy the breathtaking views of the valleys and pine forests.
Budget:
- Luxury Category: As a luxury heritage resort, The Naini Retreat is priced higher compared to regular hotels. Rates for rooms typically range from INR 6,000 to INR 15,000 per night depending on the room type and the season.
- Off-Peak Rates: The rates tend to be more affordable during the off-peak months (May–October), with prices starting around INR 5,000 per night.
Hidden Gem:
- Serene Sunsets: One of the hidden gems of The Naini Retreat is the spectacular sunset views over Nainital Lake and the surrounding hills, especially from the resort”s viewing deck.
- Vintage Colonial Charm: The old colonial-style rooms with antique furniture and heritage architecture make for a unique and charming stay. These are often overlooked by visitors but provide a taste of history and luxury combined.
- Secluded Garden: The resort has a beautifully landscaped garden offering a peaceful retreat away from the tourist crowds, ideal for a quiet afternoon amidst nature.
Photography:
- Naini Lake: The lake provides ample opportunities for stunning photography, with reflections of the surrounding mountains and sky on its calm waters.
- Tiffin Top Views: The panoramic views from Tiffin Top are perfect for photography, capturing the breathtaking landscape of Nainital.
- Colonial Architecture: The resort”s vintage colonial design offers great opportunities for architectural photography, capturing the essence of a bygone era.
Food:
- Vegetarian: The Naini Retreat offers a wide variety of vegetarian options including traditional North Indian dishes, as well as local Kumaoni cuisine like Aloo Ke Gutke, Bhatt Ki Churkani, and Kachmauli (local meat delicacy).
- Non-Vegetarian: Non-vegetarian guests can enjoy traditional North Indian meats like Chicken Curry, Mutton Korma, and fish dishes.
- Vegan: The resort offers vegan options such as vegetable curries, lentil stews, and seasonal vegetable dishes, made with locally sourced ingredients.
The resort has an on-site restaurant, which serves a mix of Indian, Chinese, and Continental cuisines. Guests can enjoy meals with a view of the hills and Naini Lake.
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport, located 65 km from Nainital. It is well connected to major cities like Delhi. From the airport, you can hire a taxi to reach the resort.
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Kathgodam Railway Station, around 35 km away, which is well connected to major cities in Northern India. You can hire a taxi or use public transport from the station.
- By Road: Nainital is easily accessible by road from Delhi (about 300 km, 6-7 hours) and other major cities in Uttarakhand. The resort is about 2 km from Nainital”s main bus stand.
ATM and Medical:
- ATM: There are ATMs available in Nainital, around 1 km from the resort.
- Medical: The Nainital District Hospital is around 2 km from the resort. The resort also offers emergency medical services and can assist with medical requirements.
Parking:
- Parking: The resort offers secure parking facilities for its guests. There is ample space for private vehicles, and guests can safely park their cars while they enjoy their stay.
Conclusion:
The Naini Retreat is a perfect blend of heritage charm and modern luxury, offering guests a peaceful and scenic getaway in Nainital. Whether you are looking for relaxation by the lake, adventure through trekking, or cultural experiences, this resort offers it all. It is an ideal choice for anyone seeking a quiet retreat with a touch of colonial elegance and natural beauty.
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