Nestled amidst the serene landscapes of Uttarakhand’s Kumaon region, Nainital offers more than just its picturesque lakes and misty mountains. During my recent stay at Sterling Nainital, I discovered one of the region’s most cherished delicacies Bal Mithai.

The origins of Bal Mithai trace back to the early 20th century in Almora, a town not far from Nainital. It is widely believed that Lala Joga Ram Shah of Lal Bazaar, Almora, was instrumental in popularizing this sweet in its current form. His dedication to perfecting the recipe laid the foundation for what would become a beloved delicacy across the region.

Bal Mithai is a unique confection made from roasted khoya that’s caramelized to a deep brown hue giving it a fudge-like consistency. This rich base is then coated with tiny white sugar balls, creating a delightful contrast in texture and appearance. The result is a sweet that’s both visually appealing and irresistibly tasty and I had them at Mamu’s Naini Sweets, Bara Bazar, Mallital, Mall Road, Nainital which opens 9am – 9pm and I got them at ₹300 for two.

As I stood there ate Bal Mithai and my curiosity to know about more the sweet increased and while conversing with the local people, I got to know about its cultural importance that how this is not just a sweet but also an emotion for the local people of Nainital. It’s more than just a dessert it’s a symbol of Kumaoni heritage. Traditionally, it was offered to the Sun God, reflecting its spiritual significance. Over time, it became an integral part of festivals, weddings, and other celebrations, symbolizing joy and togetherness.

My discovery of Bal Mithai Nainital’s iconic sweet became even more special because of where I stayed that is Sterling Nainital a resort which is nestled amidst the tranquil hills, the resort not only offered breathtaking views but also served as the perfect base to explore the town’s culinary treasures. Sterling Nainital location strikes the perfect balance close enough to the town’s vibrant markets yet peacefully secluded letting me soak in Nainital’s charm at my own pace.

Taste the Hills at Sterling Nainital as Bal Mithai Awaits

Arushi Singh

Graphic Designer