Nainital Trivia & Stories

Nainital holds countless fascinating stories and secrets waiting to be discovered. From ancient legends to modern marvels, this destination continues to captivate visitors with its rich heritage.

The Mystery of the Missing Mallital Ropeway Car

Nainital's Mallital Ropeway has been a popular attraction since its inception, ferrying tourists between Mallital and Snow View Point. However, a lesser-known incident shrouds its history in mystery. In the early years, one of the ropeway cars mysteriously detached and plummeted into the valley below. No one was inside the car at the time, averting a potential tragedy. The exact cause of the accident remains unknown, fueling local speculation about sabotage or mechanical failure. Despite investigations, the incident remains an unsolved puzzle, adding an eerie element to the otherwise scenic ride. The car was never recovered completely, and small pieces were said to be spotted from time to time.

KEY FACT: The exact cause of the detached ropeway car remains unknown to this day.

Nainital's Connection to Jim Corbett

The renowned conservationist and hunter Jim Corbett spent a significant portion of his life in the Kumaon region, including Nainital. While he is more famously associated with areas like Corbett National Park, Corbett's early life and many of his early hunting expeditions were based around Nainital and the nearby areas. He was instrumental in eradicating man-eating tigers and leopards that plagued the region, earning him the respect and gratitude of the local communities. Many local residents remember stories passed down from their ancestors about Corbett's bravery and his deep understanding of the jungle. Exploring the surrounding forests, one can still feel the echoes of Corbett's presence and his dedication to preserving the region's wildlife. He established a strong connection with the people, helping them whenever he could.

KEY FACT: Jim Corbett spent a significant part of his early life around Nainital, protecting the local population from man-eating animals.

The Great Earthquake of 1880

On September 18, 1880, Nainital was struck by a devastating earthquake that caused widespread destruction and loss of life. The earthquake triggered massive landslides that swept away buildings and homes, including the original Naina Devi Temple. The earthquake registered an estimated magnitude of 6.5 on the Richter scale and resulted in hundreds of fatalities. In the aftermath, extensive rebuilding efforts were undertaken to reconstruct the town, including the construction of flood protection walls and the relocation of vulnerable structures. The rebuilt Naina Devi Temple stands as a testament to the resilience of the people of Nainital and their determination to overcome adversity. This event shaped the architecture and infrastructure of the town as measures were taken to prevent such a tragedy in the future.

KEY FACT: The 1880 earthquake reshaped Nainital's architecture and led to the construction of flood protection walls.