10 Awesome places to visit in Nainital

Last Updated on June 12, 2024 by admin

Nainital is a bounty full of lakes, mountain views and bespoke valley views. It is a beautiful, serene and perfect hill station for all types of tourists. Blessed with good weather throughout the year, Nainital sightseeing offers a relaxing vacation. Check out the best places to visit in Nainital.

The word Nainital is derived from “Naini” which means ‘Eyes’ and ‘Tal’ which means ‘Lake’. The breathtaking view of Naini lake is surrounded by seven Peaks which are known as Ayarpata, Deopata, Handi Bandi, Cheena peak, Alma, Laria Kanta and Sher–Ka-danda. These peaks are a haven for mountain birds and one of the best ways to spend time here is by Birdwatching in Pangot, Sattal and Kilbury. 

The town rose to stardom after a British sugar merchant explored it in the year 1839. It slowly captured the attention of British soldiers as the lake reminded them of their native lake in Britain.  

Known as the Lake District of Uttarakhand, Nainital boasts of one of the oldest 18-hole Golf Courses in India and houses a few of the best and oldest schools in India like Sherwood College and St. Joseph’s college. Tourists generally combine a visit to Nainital with Jim Corbett National Park.

Mythology around Nainital 

In Hindu mythology, Naini Lake is believed to be the ‘Naina’ or eye of Sati, the wife of Lord Shiva, which had fallen on earth as he carried her charred body across the sky, deep into the mountains. It is considered to be one of the sacred places to worship Devi Sati and categorises itself among the Sixty Four Shakti Peeths. Best places to visit in Nainital

Whether you are visiting Nainital over the weekend or looking for a long-term stay in Nainital, the following are the best places to visit in Nainital.

Best Places to visit in Nainital

Nainital Lake/ Naini Lake 

Nainital Tourism thrives around this lake. 

Nainital lake is divided into two sections: Mallital and Tallital. The northern part is known as Mallital and the Southern part is known as Tallital. It is a treat to walk around this beautiful lake where natural beauty blends with the smiling and welcoming local population. The magnificence of Nainital has inspired many world-famous writers and poets, making it one of the best places to visit in Nainital, Uttarakhand.

Locals take pride in the lake and it is equally cherished by tourists. It is a pear-shaped, freshwater lake, located at a height of 1938 m above sea level. The scenes here are picture-perfect with the lake surrounding lush green hills. 

The days are usually sunny and mornings and evenings are a bit chilly. It is the favourite spot amongst tourists, especially honeymooners. One can have a stroll at the lake or just sit on the bench there chit-chatting with friends and family. 

Boating in the lake is one of the honeymooners’ dreams to come true. Along the boundary of the lake, there are numerous cafes offering multiple cuisines to local, authentic Kumaoni food.

Naina Peak

Naina peak is one of the favourite Nainital Tourist places. Being the highest hill in the Nainital district, Naina peak offers the best views of Nainital valley and Nainital city. It is located at a height of 2615 m above sea level and is also called by the name of China Peak or Cheena peak by the locals. 

This road is motorable to an extent and can be trekked ahead for the best views. It offers great insight to Trekkers and Photographers into various flora and fauna of the region along with the breathtaking views of the lush green hills. The peak sights the view of the mountains of the border of Tibet as also the Nanda Devi peak. 

Naina Peak also houses Naina Devi Temple which is positioned on top of the hill which is among the sixty-four Shaktipeeths. It is considered very sacred in Hinduism. Another Shakti Peeth that I have visited is Kamakhya Temple Guwahati and it was a powerful experience. 
One needs to trek to reach the Naina Devi temple. The entire trek is through Pine trees, Oak trees and beautiful Rhododendrons. Trekking through Rhododendrons is always an amazing experience. I enjoyed the Rhododendron blossoms on Triund trek in Himachal and would highly recommend doing it here.

Tiffin Top 

Tiffin top is also known as Dorothy’s seat. It was constructed by Col J.P. Kellet of the British Army in memory of his loving wife who died in a plane crash along with his four children. 

It is located at a distance of 4 km from the Mall Road in Nainital and is at a height of 2290 m from the sea level on top of the Ayarpatta region. One can either trek to this place or can take a pony which is available from the Pony stand in the city. On the days of clearer weather, one can see the Great Himalayas from here. 

Tiffin Top is one of the biggest attractions in Nainital among tourists and trekking enthusiasts. Tourists can enjoy beautiful scenery, great weather and the amazing freshness of the hills making it one of the best places to visit in Nainital. 

The name tiffin top was kept when people started flocking to the place with their pre-packed tiffins to enjoy family picnics there. One can also enjoy hot beverages and noodles offered at the local shops here. 

St. John’s Church Nainital

St John’s Church happens to be one of the oldest buildings in Nainital and the first of its kind of Methodist Church in India. This makes it among the top-rated sightseeing places in Nainital. 

It is named after Bishop Daniel Wilson of Kolkata. He had come here and had to stay here in an unfinished building in the wilderness as he got sick, for a longer duration of time. Jim Corbett was a follower of this place and visited this place often. 

The architecture of the Church is Neo-Gothic and is frequented by students of architecture to understand structures of that time. The backside of this Church has a cemetery where the victims of the deadly landslide of 1880 are buried and also houses a brass memorial with their names mentioned on it. 

Pt. G.B. Pant High Altitude Zoo 

It is located on the Sher ka Danda Hills at a height of 2100 m, GB Pant Zoo in Nainital is one of the best High Altitude Zoos in India, with others being in Gangtok and Darjeeling. 

It is one of the most visited sightseeing places in Nainital. It is home to big cats like Siberian Tiger, Bengal Tiger, and Leopard cat as also animals like Himalayan Bear and Tibetan Wolves. One can spot different varieties of birds like Macaus, Parakeets and Pheasants. It also offers views of beautiful flora and amazing landscapes. The Zoo organises various programs on days of the importance of Nature Conservation. 

Gurney House 

Currently a private residence and located just about 10 minutes walk from Mall Road in Nainital, Gurney House is dedicated to Jim Corbett and his family. 

One can visit this place only by prior appointment by sending an email to Nilanjana Dalmia, the granddaughter of Mr Verma who bought the house from the Corbett family. One can book an appointment by sending an email at [email protected] or walk-in at the house. It happens to be a colonial-style house with a lot of space in front and back. It showcases all the precious belongings of Jim Corbett like his trophies, books, fishing rod etc.

Snow view Point 

If you are fond of watching snow-peaked mountains with the beautiful and misty lining of clouds surrounding it, this is a must-visit place for you. Located at a distance of just 2 km from Nainital town, this place offers breathtaking and photography-worthy views of snow-peaked mountains of the greater Himalayan range. 

This viewpoint can be reached both by road and aerial ropeway. The ropeway offers amazing views of the town as also the Naini Lake. For a clearer picture of the Himalayan range, a pair of big binoculars have been placed so tourists can have a closer and clearer look at the snow-capped mountains. The place also encompasses a small temple and a Tibetan monastery.

Land’s End 

As the name suggests, there is no land after this cliff which is why it is called Land’s End. If you seek adventure on your trips, this is a must-visit place in Nainital, for you. It is located at a height of 2118 m from the sea level and around 4 km from Nainital town. 

One can enjoy the supreme natural beauty as the place offers views of the forest, mountains and valley. It mesmerises trekkers and photographers as they get amazing views throughout the time spent here with the hint of fresh air and pure air to breathe. One can either trek the route or ride a Pony to reach this place which is open throughout the day and night, on all days. 

Pangot & Kilbury Bird Sanctuary 

Pangot is a remote Himalayan village and is located approximately 13 km from Nainital town. It is a bird watchers paradise. It houses nearly 580 species of birds both endemic and migratory. 

Not only bird watchers but this place is of great interest to photographers and trekkers as it offers amazing and picturesque views along with lush greenery which makes it a perfect place to spend one’s day holidaying with friends and family. 

It has something to offer to all kinds of tourists thus making it one of the best things to do in Nainital. Carrying your camera is essential and if possible binoculars too. Preferably start early in the morning to have the whole day at your disposal to explore and watch amazing flora and fauna. Sanctuary is open on all days of the week from 6:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Eco Cave Garden 

It is located very close to Mall Road in Nainital and is looked after by Nainital Tourism. It is famous especially amongst children for its rocky caves in the shape of animals, hanging gardens and a musical fountain. 

The fountain has audio-visual effects and the place is lit with petroleum lamps to keep the natural look of the place intact. The popular caves are Panther Cave, Tiger Cave, Bat Cave, Apes Cave, and Flying Fox Cave. This garden was built to give an insight to the tourists of the Wildlife in the Himalayan region. This is a great place to spend a day with kids.

The beautiful Lake District of Uttarakhand, Nainital houses seven taals (Lakes) in and around the place. They are Bhimtal, Saattal, Naukuchiatal, Khurpatal, Malwatal, Harishtal and Lokhamtal. Out of all these, Bhimtal happens to be the biggest one. Nainital is the most visited Tal and Sattal is the most picturesque but least visited one. 

Places to visit near Nainital 

Ramgarh 

Located 35 km away from Nainital (one Hour and Fifteen minutes), Ramgarh is also known as the Fruit Bowl of Kumaon. Once an Army Cantt during British rule, Ramgarh offers breathtaking scenery of the Himalayan mountains. There are still old-styled buildings of the British era here. 

Mukteshwar 

48 km away from Nainital, Mukteshwar is popular for homestays and people staying for extended time for work-from-home options. If you are fond of adventure sports, this is a must-visit place. It is a place well-known for rock climbing, rappelling and other adventure sports. An Army Cantt again, Mukhteshwar also houses beautiful orchards like Ramgarh.

Ranikhet 

Close to Nainital, Ranikhet is just an hour’s drive. It showcases the beautiful scenery of the breathtaking Himalayas, Orchards, Green Golf courses and temples that give you a spiritual edge. It also has a Sun Temple named Katarmal Sun Temple. Also, read about Konark Sun Temple and Modhera Sun Temple. 

Bhowali 

Just 12 Km away from Nainital, Bhowali gives you a complete adventure experience. Any kind of adventure sports from Paragliding, Bungee jumping, water sports and activities like mountain biking and camping can be done here. There are various sports organisations that indulge in all the activities for tourists, right from reservations to arranging for the desired sports. 

Jim Corbett National Park 

Located at a distance of 140 km from Nainital, most tourists combine their trip to Jim Corbett National Park. 

It is India’s oldest and most prestigious National park and boasts the maximum number of Tigers in the country. It’s the same Park where Project Tiger was first launched in 1973. It is famous for not only the sightings of Tigers but also other animals and beautiful landscapes. 

Love Tiger park? Also, check out Tadoba National Park in Maharashtra and Manas National Park in Assam.

Famous Food of Nainital

Bal Mithai 

It is the most famous sweet in the region made of Khoya and covered with Sugar Balls from Mamu Naini’s sweets. 

Bun Tikki 

It is a desi version of HamBurgers quite common in the region and liked across all age groups. One can avail of it at Lakshmi Restaurant in MalliTal. 

Momos and Thukpa 

Owing to the large Tibetan population in Nainital, the food items like momos and Thukpa are like local food. One can savour them in the narrow bylanes of Tibet Market. It is a favourite amongst tourists as well as locals.

Best time to visit Nainital 

Nainital is a place to visit in all seasons. However, for a few, winters can be quite chilly as the average winter temperature dips to 3 degrees Celsius. If one wants to enjoy all the places to visit in Nainital, the best time to visit is from March to June which is the Spring/ Summer season. Bright sunny weather with a nip in the air gives a perfect mood for tourists to explore this amazing destination.

How to reach Nainital 

By Flight

Nainital does not have an airport of its own. The nearest airport to Nainital is Pantnagar however the airport operates only chartered private flights from here. For commercial airlines, the nearest airport is Delhi. Delhi is very well connected to all the major cities in India and abroad. From Delhi, one can avail of a taxi to reach Nainital which takes 6 hours and a bus takes approximately 7 hours.

By Rail 

The nearest Railway station to Nainital is Kathgodam. It is located around 34 km away. Kathgodam is very well connected to all the major cities of India through a widespread railway network. Tourists can come up to Kathgodam by train and then take a taxi to Nainital which is only an hour’s drive. 

By Road 

Uttarakhand has an amazing road network of National and State Highways which is connected to all the major destinations near it. 

Where to stay in Nainital

Nainital has no dearth of accommodation options. Resorts, cosy cottages, luxurious hotels and hotels there are many options.

The Hive Cottage

The Hive is a tastefully maintained heritage property from yesteryear. We stayed in the Kipling 2-bedroom suite. Our rooms were sophisticated with comfortable beds and branded drapes, which just proved how thoughtful the hosts were. The bathroom and sheets were very clean.

The food was done on request and it just felt like home to be eating hot rotis, dal and vegetables. It was lip-smacking good. Breakfast was good too but had limited options.

The views from the property of the valley are nice and the Mall road is within walking distance from the property. We had a lovely time sitting by their backyard and photographing exotic birds while sipping on hot tea. It can be booked here.

Other Heritage cottages in Nainital are: Welcomheritage Ashdale, The Naini Retreat

Resorts: Cygnett Resort Mountain Breeze, Shervani Hilltop Resort

FAQs for Places to visit in Nainital

Is it worth to go Nainital?

Yes! Nainital is a great option for vacation in the hills. Due to its proximity to Delhi, it is a popular choice for birdwatching, trekking, hiking, boating, and more. 

Which month is best to go to Nainital?

Nainital is beautiful in summer, spring and winter each season offering something amazing for tourists. The best time to visit Nainital is from March to June which is the summer/spring season. The weather is perfect and the Rhododendron blooms make the town beautiful.

Is there any snowfall in Nainital?

Unlike other hill stations in Himachal and Uttarakhand, Nainital has subtropical highland weather. Due to this, Nainital does not get snowfall every year and it is difficult to predict the same. 

Are 2 days sufficient for Nainital?

A weekend is perfect to explore the best of Nainital. However if one wants to cover Sattal or Pangot for birdwatching, then more days are required.

Sustainable tips for Places to visit in Nainital

• Nainital is a hill town and so it is best to avoid polythene bags. Do not use single-use or disposable plastic. Dispose of biscuit wrappers, wafer packets, and juice boxes in designated bins. Do not litter the highways, places of tourist interest or riverbanks.
• Respect nature during adventure activities and do not harm it in any form. A single cigarette butt can give rise to fires hurting the economy of the entire region.
• Do not pluck flowers/fruits without permission. Be a responsible and respectful tourist.
• Eat and enjoy local food.

Read More Posts from Uttarakhand

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• Gucchu Pani
• Is Dehradun worth a stopover?
• Chopta Chandrashila trek

I hope this Mcleodganj travel guide on Places to visit in Nainital will help you to plan your trip. Did I miss out on any things to do in Nainital? Let me know in the comments below.

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