Located at 5000 ft, on Bhowali-Bhimtal bypass, Green Glen is a quaint retreat tucked away in the lake district of Nainital. The countryside cottage is surrounded by smaller Himalayan peaks, lush green forest, tiny water streams and pristine mountain lakes.
Green Glen offers a unique opportunity to experience the homestay in the hills. You can soak up the sun in the garden sitting on the swings, go for trekking by the waterfall, take lazy stroll around the lakes or go birding; there is something for everyone at Green Glen. Read more about Green Glen – Home away from home.
Lake District of Nainital
The location of Green Glen, in the middle of the lake district of Uttarakhand, is its biggest highlight. The unspoilt beauty of Sattal, Bhimtal, Naukuchiatal, Sukhatal, Garundtal and an overrun Nainital can be explored by a short walk or a short drive.
Garundtal
Garundtal lake can be reached with a short walk from Green Glen. A stroll on the quiet road passes by isolated colorful houses. The Garundtal lake falls under a private patch of land belonging to the Sattal Methodist Mission Church. The quaint estate spreading across few acres is dotted with cottages overlooking the pristine lake. After due permissions, it is possible to walk around the lake or go fishing. The reflection of White Cross shines bright on the crystal waters amidst the hues of green and blue cast by the surrounding hills. The Christian missionary trust has built a little auditorium by the lake which is used for sermons now and then.
Sattal
A short trek from Garundtal through the forest brings you to Sattal. A paradise for migratory birds, Sattal is one of the unpolluted fresh water lakes in Kumaon. The lake shore is lined with stalls offering variety of activities from river crossing, lake dipping, kayaking to boat rides. The lake corner is dotted with stalls serving tea, snacks and meals. Take a leisure walk around the lake shore and appreciate the untouched beauty and tranquility of Sattal. This is an ideal spot to gorge on a hearty meal of Kadhi Chawal, Rajma Chawal and Jeera Aloo before heading home.
Trekking by Sukhatal
A short waterfall trek starts from the trail located along the main road. The parchment of Sukhatal (dry lake) is quite a contrast compared to the lakes filled with clear waters. It is frequented by cows and buffalos who use the flat plains for grazing, this also makes it a favorite hunting place for leopards after the dark. A brief walk along the canal and after a short descent, the thrashing sound of water is unmissable. The trek drops steeply at certain point before you witness the crystal waters gushing down the rocks. The waterfall hidden amidst the lush green vegetation is an ideal place for a picnic. The water is cool enough to chill beers. The adventurous ones can go for a cool water dip. Do ensure you pick up your garbage on thee way back.
Nainital
Nainital, the biggest lake in the region, can be visited before arriving at Green Glen or on the way back. Green Glen is located just 40 minute drive from Nainital. Of course after experiencing the hospitality at the quaint homestay, the cacophony of Nainital is what you would like to avoid. A short stop over to take pictures is enough to tick it off your list. Away from the hustle bustle, Green Glen in fact is an ideal place to stay even if you have plans to spend more time in and around Nainital. You can always return to the tranquility and warmth after a day of sightseeing and shopping.
Bhimtal
With relatively quiet surroundings, Bhimtal serves as another stop over before reaching Green Glen. The Bhimtal central bazaar which begins next to the lake is a buzzing market catering to the needs of every local. The drive past the serene lake reveals a laid back lifestyle of the mountain people.
Naukuchiatal
The small lake of Naukuchiatal (lake of nine corners) requires a short drive up the hill on the lane right next to the main Bhimtal Bhowali bypass. It is the deepest of all the lakes in the Nainital region. The hidden lake offers multitude of activities including boating, kayaking, rowing, paddling, gliding on the water in a crystal ball and parasailing.
Mukteshwar
Mukteshwar is another gateway which can be explored from Green Glen. The hour and half drive through the Himalaya reveals step terraces and isolated cottages on the distant slopes. From 7500 feet, the snow capped peaks in the horizon appear at its glorious best. The 350 years old Shiva temple is worth visiting from where the town gets its name. Mukteshwar received recognition after being mentioned in Jim Corbett’s famous book ‘ Man eaters of Kumaon’.
Neem Karoli Baba Ashram
The Neem Karoli Baba Ashram and the temple can be accessed with a short detour from Green Glen. The ashram tucked away in a village Kaichi can be reached in 45 minutes. The ashram receives several foreign devotees; the most famous of them is Steve Job who found inspiration to launch Apple after his stay in the ashram in 1971. In 2008 Marc Zuckerberg also made a trip to the ashram seeking blessings to turnaround the Facebook.
Located at a decent elevation, Green Glen can be visited year round. Whether it is a weekend adventure or an escape from pollution, Green Glen offers a wholesome entertainment for families, corporate teams or couples looking for a quaint outing. Read about an experience at Green Glen- Home away from home.
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