Nainital, a charming hill station in Uttarakhand, is not only a haven for nature lovers but also a spiritual hub for seekers. Surrounded by dense forests, shimmering lakes, and majestic mountains, the region is blessed with several ancient and revered temples. Whether you are on a pilgrimage or simply looking to find peace and serenity, here are ten remarkable temples near Nainital to visit in 2025 for a truly spiritual experience.
Top 10 Temples Near Nainital to Visit:
1. Naina Devi Temple, Nainital
Naina Devi Temple is one of the most revered Shakti Peethas in India. Located on the northern shore of the Naini Lake, it is believed that the eyes (naina) of Goddess Sati fell here, hence the name. This temple is not only significant from a religious point of view but also offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and the Naini Lake. During Navratri and other festivals, the temple is beautifully decorated and attracts thousands of devotees.
- Location: Northern shore of Naini Lake, Nainital
- Deity: Goddess Naina Devi (form of Shakti)
- Best Time to Visit: All year round, especially during Navratri
- Timings: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Special Features: Offers panoramic views of the lake; heavily decorated during festivals
- How to Reach: Located centrally in Nainital, accessible by foot or taxi from Mallital and Tallital
2. Hanuman Garhi, Nainital
Located just 3.5 km from Tallital, Hanuman Garhi is a scenic temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman. It was established by the famous saint Neem Karoli Baba. The temple houses a striking idol of Hanuman tearing open his chest to reveal Rama and Sita. Perched at an altitude of 1951 meters, Hanuman Garhi offers captivating views of sunrise and sunset, making it both a spiritual and scenic spot.
- Location: 3.5 km from Tallital, Nainital
- Deity: Lord Hanuman
- Best Time to Visit: Sunrise and sunset
- Timings: 5:00 AM – 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Special Features: Scenic sunrise and sunset views; high altitude vantage point
- How to Reach: Reachable by cab or walking trail from Tallital
3. Kainchi Dham, Bhowali
Situated around 17 km from Nainital, Kainchi Dham is a spiritual ashram founded by Neem Karoli Baba in the 1960s. The temple has become globally recognized due to visits by personalities like Steve Jobs and Mark Zuckerberg. Surrounded by thick forests and set along a river, the temple exudes peace and attracts thousands of followers seeking spiritual enlightenment. Read Also: How to Reach Kainchi Dham from Delhi – A Detailed Travel Guide
- Location: 17 km from Nainital on Nainital-Almora Road
- Deity: Lord Hanuman and Neem Karoli Baba
- Best Time to Visit: June (Annual Bhandara)
- Timings: 6:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Special Features: Visited by Steve Jobs and Mark Zuckerberg; peaceful forest setting
- How to Reach: Accessible by road; taxis and buses from Nainital
4. Pashan Devi Temple, Nainital
Pashan Devi Temple is a lesser-known yet spiritually significant site located near Mall Road in Nainital. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga in her stone form. The unique idol, carved out of stone, represents the grounding energy of the goddess. Its serene atmosphere amidst the bustling town makes it a perfect spot for quiet reflection and prayer.
- Location: Near Mall Road, Nainital
- Deity: Goddess Durga (stone form)
- Best Time to Visit: September to April
- Timings: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Special Features: Rare stone-carved idol; peaceful site in town center
- How to Reach: Walking distance from Naini Lake and Mall Road
5. Mukteshwar Dham, Mukteshwar
Around 50 km from Nainital lies the sacred Mukteshwar Dham, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Believed to be over 350 years old, this temple sits on a hilltop at an elevation of 2,312 meters. It is said to be the place where Lord Shiva granted salvation (mukti) to a demon. The panoramic views of the Himalayas and the temple’s spiritual energy make it a must-visit.
- Location: Mukteshwar, around 50 km from Nainital
- Deity: Lord Shiva
- Best Time to Visit: March to June, and October
- Timings: 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Special Features: Ancient hilltop shrine; Himalayan views
- How to Reach: Accessible by road via taxi or bus from Nainital
6. Golu Devta Temple, Ghorakhal
Located near Bhowali, approximately 16.5 km from Nainital, Golu Devta Temple is dedicated to a local deity considered an incarnation of Lord Shiva. He is popularly known as the “God of Justice”. Devotees hang bells and write petitions to seek justice and blessings. The temple’s tranquil setting amidst pine trees adds to its divine charm.
- Location: Ghorakhal near Bhowali, 16.5 km from Nainital
- Deity: Golu Devta (incarnation of Lord Shiva)
- Best Time to Visit: All seasons
- Timings: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Special Features: Bell offerings and petitions; shrine of justice
- How to Reach: Reachable by taxi or local bus from Bhowali/Nainital
7. Garjiya Devi Temple, Ramnagar
Garjiya Devi Temple is perched on a large rock in the Kosi River, about 14 km from Ramnagar. Dedicated to Goddess Parvati, the temple is especially revered during the Kartik Poornima fair when thousands of devotees come to offer prayers. The location, surrounded by water and natural beauty, provides an intensely spiritual ambiance.
- Location: 14 km from Ramnagar, on Kosi River
- Deity: Goddess Garjiya (form of Parvati)
- Best Time to Visit: Kartik Poornima (November)
- Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Special Features: Located on a large rock; riverbank setting
- How to Reach: Taxis available from Ramnagar or Corbett National Park area
8. Jageshwar Dham, Almora
Though about 100 km from Nainital, Jageshwar Dham is a must-visit for those on a spiritual journey. This temple complex comprises over 100 ancient shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva, nestled amidst dense deodar forests. It is considered one of the twelve Jyotirlingas. The temple’s architecture, serenity, and historical significance attract both pilgrims and historians alike.
- Location: 100 km from Nainital, near Almora
- Deity: Lord Shiva (Jyotirlinga)
- Best Time to Visit: March to June and September to November
- Timings: 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Special Features: Cluster of 100+ temples; ancient heritage site
- How to Reach: Road access via Almora; taxis and buses available
9. Katarmal Sun Temple, Almora
Located around 70 km from Nainital, the Katarmal Sun Temple is one of the few temples in India dedicated to the Sun God. Built in the 9th century by the Katyuri kings, this temple is a masterpiece of ancient architecture. Though less frequented, its mystic aura and historical relevance make it a gem for spiritual and history enthusiasts.
- Location: 70 km from Nainital, near Almora
- Deity: Surya (Sun God)
- Best Time to Visit: Winter months (October to February)
- Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Special Features: 9th-century sun temple with fine stonework
- How to Reach: 1-hour drive from Almora or 3-hour drive from Nainital
10. Bhimeshwar Mahadev Temple, Bhimtal
Situated beside the picturesque Bhimtal Lake, Bhimeshwar Mahadev Temple is believed to have been built by Bhima from the Mahabharata. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and has a tranquil ambiance ideal for meditation. The blend of mythology, spirituality, and natural beauty makes it a popular stop for travelers.
- Location: Bhimtal, 22 km from Nainital
- Deity: Lord Shiva
- Best Time to Visit: All year round
- Timings: 6:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Special Features: Mythological roots to Bhima; lakeside ambiance
- How to Reach: Accessible via road from Nainital or Kathgodam
Conclusion
A visit to these 10 temples near Nainital in 2025 offers more than just religious fulfillment—it’s a journey into the cultural, historical, and spiritual fabric of Uttarakhand. Whether nestled in remote forests or standing tall on mountain peaks, each temple has a unique tale, energy, and setting. For anyone looking to combine travel with a deeper sense of inner peace, these temples are the perfect pilgrimage destinations.
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