Naukuchiatal - A Lake With Nine Corners In Uttrakhand, India

Almost 24 km from Nainital, Naukuchiatal is the deepest and by far the most picturesque lake in the Kumaon region and derives its name from the nine corners which come together to form it. It is a tranquil, pleasant expanse of water, reflected green by the low, wooded hills cradling it and surrounded by the 70 acres of predominantly oak forests which, after the monsoons, show the innumerable hues of the Himalayan forests. Situated at an altitude of 1219 m., the lake is ideal for fishing and watching migratory birds.

Many have labelled Naukuchiatal and the surrounding lakes as 'The Lake District of India', but its subtleties are purely Kumaoni and the subtitles are in Hindi.

Close enough to drive to - six hours from Delhi, but far from being overrun by the holidaying hordes that cluster in Nainital, Naukuchiatal is a luxury taste of tranquillity where the prices are modest enough to not disturb the silences and your peace of mind.  

Cradled by green mountains, this misty blue lake is fed by an underwater spring, which keeps its waters high. A single view of all nine corners of Nau-kuchia-tal is said to bestow nirvana upon the onlooker - a value add-on at no extra charge. So why not step on the gas and get to Lake Naukuchiatal for your sip of Nirvana?

LOCATION  Situated in the central Himalayas at 1,350 m ASL in the northern state of Uttaranchal, Naukuchiatal is close to Corbett country and the famous lush orchards of Kumaon. 
  

CLIMATE  All four seasons come into their own in Kumaon, including a red-gold autumn, a bitterly cold winter and a monsoon, which often brings landslides in its wake. 
  

WHEN TO GO  March to April - the wild flower season and the autumn months of October to November.