Located at the foothills of the Kumaon Mountains, Naukuchiatal is perhaps the most picturesque lake in Uttarakhand, surrounded by green slopes and oak forests. At an altitude of 1,219 m and just 24 km from Nainital, Naukuchiatal or ‘lake of nine corners’ is known for its tranquillity and for the orchards and dense jungles that surround it. The lake is fed by an underground perennial spring. This lake boasts of a good walking track around the lake, apart from boating and angling. One could also take off on a trek in the neighbouring hillside.

Pretty views of terraced fields and meadows make this lake destination an enjoyable stopover. Although the lake is the prime attraction here, there are more activities for tourists such as angling, trekking, bird-watching and paragliding.