A perfect Gem Popularly called the lake district because of a string of closely located lakes (Bhim Tal, Sat Tal, Naukuchia Tal and, of course, Naini, Nainital district has other claims to distinction?Corbett, India's first national park: Kathgodam, nucleus of the timber trade and a railhead for Kumaon: Bhowali, Major fruit market; and Kaladhungi, fertile wheat bowl and home of Jim Corbett.

Having its origin in the fropped left eye of goddess Sati, consort of Shiva, the Naini lake waters are considered to be holy. The temple to Naina Devi on the lakes's edge turns into a huge fair ground every autumn.

For tourist who enjoy bustle, there is a lot to do: boating, or sailing in vivid coloured yachts; horse riding; walking along shady roads; taking the aerial ropeway; and shopping for woollen handicrafts, shapely candles and wicker ware.

Presenting entrancing views of the Himalayas are the several peaks surrounding the opaline Naini lake: Nalna Peak (2611m) 5.6km?the highest; Laria Kanta (2481m) 5.6 km?the next highest peak; Snow?view (2270m) 2.4 km?accessible on horseback or by cable car; Dorothy's Seat (2292m) 4.3 km?Offering a sectional view of the town and its vicinity; and Land?s Eng (2118 m) 4.8 km?presenting a sweeping view of the gem?like Khurpa Tal Hanumangarhi (1951 m) 3 km?a religious centre; State Observatory(1951 m) 4 km?a centre for astronomical studies; and Kilbury(2194m) 11km?a sylvan retreat ideal for a trek, are other nearby places of interest.

(1371 m, 22 km) Bigger than Naini, this lake is name after on of the Pandavas, heroes of the epic Mahabharat. Accommodation, boating and fishing facilities are available at this scenic resort.

1706 M 11 km En route to Ranikhet or Almora, it is a major fruit mart and health resort Only 3 km from here is Ghorakahl, famous for a temple to Gollu Devta, a demi-god highly revered by the Kumaonis.

115 km (via Kaladhungi) This is one of India's best known wildlife sanctuaries. Commemorating the celebrated hunter- conservator Jim Corbett, it spreads over 526 sq km of forested area. The wildlife here consists of tiger, panther, wild bear, sloth bear, elephants, deer python, and crocodiles among others. An astonishing number (585) of bird species have been spotted in the park.

1219 m 18 km This is a health resort and a bee-keeping centre. Strawberries grow here in plenty. Also an attraction for butterfly catchers.

1218 m 26 km This is nine-cornered lake which receives migratory birds. Both yachts and paddle boats are available for plying on the lake waters.

25 km This is known as the home of Kumaon orchards. Prosperous estates can be seen here.

21 km There are three lakes (of the original seven Sat), named after the epic personages Ram, Sita and Lakshman near the main resort. The others are some distance away.