From the windscreen, morning was appearing a like a BRIDE covered with elegant Fog with the backdrop of the hills. We decided that the best way to enjoy the Fog will be from the windows of our car. After an early breakfast, we started our drive for Naukuchiatal. Hardly 30 minutes into the drive, gentle rain drops started to fall and turned the landscapes to Awesome from Vow.
Nestled in the heart of Uttarakhand, Naukuchiatal is a spot regularly overshadowed by its more illustrious neighbour, Nainital. After covering charming network of roads for 2.5 hours and taking a stone fall on the car, we arrived at check-in desk of KMVN Naukuchiatal. Surrounded by lush green hills, the Lake provides a postcard perfect landscape for clicking pictures. I was unable to stop myself from clicking a few shots before entering the KMVN Nine Corner Retreat.
Totally aloof from the hustles of any crowded tourist destination, this tranquil lake side spot comes with a captivating experience of serenity and chirping of birds. With such a view from the window, could not have asked for more.
So, we had a quick lunch and set out to embrace the vibes of Naukuchiatal, the "Nine-Cornered Lake". For those who love to kiss the waters, there are ample water activities like kayaking, canoeing, water zorbing, boating, hang gliding, and paragliding. Best part is the calm and clear water of the lake makes it an ideal spot for these activities, and the surrounding landscape adds to the magic.
Legend says no one or no mortal can view all nine corners of the lake in one go, if you are able to view the nine corners in one go, you will attain “Moksha”, eternal bliss. I did not try to test the legend but opted to enjoy the natural beauty of the Lake with a walk with myself on some of the most serene tracks.
In the company of some wonderful fellows -
Stretch of Naukuchiatal is the Lake only. There a few shops along the Lake reflecting the local traditions of the place and there are also a few quiet restaurants and Cafes. Nearby attractions include Bhimtal Lake, which is at the foothills for Naukuchiatal. Drive till Naukuchiatal offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
Trip to Naukuchiatal will be incomplete unless you have tried the local cuisine. Traditional Kumaoni dishes, Aloo ke Gutke which is a spicy potato dish and Bhat ki Churkhani are must to be tried and KMVN offers all of these in authentic flavours.
Keep exploring Folks.