Explore the Best of Nainital: Top 20 Attractions You Must Visit

If you want to experience a blissful yet adventurous holiday, then you must visit Nainital. The place offers countless picturesque views of mountains, valleys, and rivers. Thus, Nainital lets you unwind in the gorgeous surroundings of nature. There are many places to visit in Nainital. The amicable people, stunning views, and delicious food of these places will leave you awestruck.

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Find below some of the Top 20 Places to visit in Nainital:

1. Naini Lake

Naini Lake is one of the most famous places in Nainital. Surrounded by the gorgeous 7 hills, the lake offers amazing scenic beauty.

Also, you can watch the beautiful sunsets from the lake. Besides, there are water activities that you can enjoy. They are boating, paddling, and yachting. Also, this place is apt for a family picnic. Read Also: 100 Best Places to Visit in India.

Activities: Boating, yachting, and evening walks.
Location: Central Nainital.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late evening to avoid crowds.
Tip: Rent traditional rowboats or paddle boats for a quieter experience.
Entry Fee: None for walking; boat rental fees vary.

2. The Mall Road

If you are a shopaholic, then you must visit this place. This is one of the best places to visit in Nainital. This place has amazing shopping centers and restaurants.

You can find a large crowd hanging out at this place in the evening. Besides, you can shop for many things here. Woolen clothes, wooden handicrafts, and trinkets are famous things to buy from here. Also read: Top 20 Tourist Places to See in Uttarakhand

Activities: Shopping, dining, people watching.
Location: Stretches along the eastern edge of Naini Lake.
Best Time to Visit: Evening for vibrant market atmosphere.
Tip: Try local cuisine at the eateries and shop for handmade candles.
Parking: Limited parking available; consider walking or local transport.

3. Naina Peak

Naina Peak is the highest peak in Nainital. It is also known as China Peak. It is one of the famous places in Nainital. You can get mesmerizing panoramic views of the Himalayas from here.

Besides, you can view the whole Nainital city from the peak. Also, do not miss the peaceful sunrise and sunset at this place. Besides, you can go trekking and hiking here. Also, horse riding is a popular activity at Nainital Peak. Read Also: Uttarakhand Best Places to Visit in July

Activities: Hiking, horse riding, and panoramic views.
Location: About 6 km from Nainital.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning for the best views and cooler temperatures.
Tip: Wear comfortable trekking shoes and carry water and snacks.
Entry Fee: No entry fee, but horse rides have charges.

4. Tiffin Top

There are several viewpoints in Nainital. Tiffin Top is the most famous one. It is one of the best places to visit in Nainital. A famous English poet Dorothy Kellet would sit at this point and spend hours painting. So, this point is also known as Dorothy’s Seat.

Located in the Ayarpatta Hills, this place gives you magnificent views of the city and the hills. The sunrise and sunset views of this place attract large crowds. Besides, you can enjoy horse riding and hiking here. Also, you can go hiking amidst the beautiful pine trees. Also read: 10 Offbeat Tourist Places in Uttarakhand

Activities: Picnicking, photography.
Location: 4 km from Nainital, reachable by hike or horseback.
Best Time to Visit: Morning to mid-afternoon.
Tip: Ideal spot for sunset views; carry a camera for stunning photos of the Himalayas.
Entry Fee: No entry fee; optional horseback ride charges apply.

5. Eco Cave Gardens

Eco Cave Garden is one of the unique places to visit in Nainital. There are 7 caves in the park. You can reach the caves through a narrow road. Also, the rocky caves and the musical fountain of this place are fascinating.

Besides, there are interesting caves like Apes Cave, Tiger Cave, Panther Cave, and many more. Thus, it adds some adventure to your trip. Also, you can plan a family picnic at this spot.

Activities: Exploring caves, hanging gardens.
Location: Northwestern Nainital.
Best Time to Visit: Noon to early evening.
Tip: Wear comfortable shoes; the terrain inside the caves can be slippery.
Entry Fee: Small fee required for entrance.

6. Naina Devi Temple

Naina Devi Temple is one of the most popular places to visit in Nainital. The temple built by Raja Bir Chand is situated on the top of a hill. You can find the two eyes depicting Goddess Naina Devi inside the temple. Besides, there are idols of Lord Ganesha and Goddess Kali.

This temple has great significance to the Hindus. So, you can find many devotees coming and praying to the Goddess Naina Devi. Also, many people believe that Nainital derived its name from this temple only. Also read: Uttarakhand Religious Places & Temples.

Activities: Religious visits, cultural exploration.
Location: Northern shore of Naini Lake.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning or during festivals like Navratri.
Tip: Dress modestly as it’s a place of worship.
Entry Fee: None.

7. Snow View Point

Snow View Point is one of the oldest viewpoints in Nainital. It is also one of the best places to visit in Nainital. The stunning views of the snow-capped Himalayas will hypnotize your senses. Also, you can get amazing views of 3 peaks from here. They are Trishul, Nanda Devi, and Nanda Kot peaks.

Besides, you can enjoy a serene cable car ride from Mall Road to reach this viewpoint. Also, you can opt for trekking to reach the point to get more majestic views of the mountains. Besides, there are tea stalls and a snack center in case you feel hungry trekking down the mountain. Read Also: 10 Most Famous Trekking Destinations in Uttarakhand.

Activities: Cable car rides, panoramic views.
Location: 3 km from Nainital.
Best Time to Visit: Clear days for best views.
Tip: Accessible by cable car or hiking.
Entry Fee: Cable car has a fee.

8. Himalayan View Point

Himalayan View Point is one of the best places to visit in Nainital. You can view the gorgeous Himalayan range of mountains from here.

Besides, this place is a paradise for lovers of photography. You can capture some marvelous views of the milky mountains and lush green valleys. Also, read 10 Best Camping sites in Uttarakhand.

Activities: Sightseeing, photography.
Location: Near Kilbury Road.
Best Time to Visit: Morning for clearer skies.
Tip: Bring binoculars for a better view of the Himalayas.
Entry Fee: None.

9. Kilbury Bird Sanctuary

This is a paradise for bird lovers. This place attracts many tourists every year. It houses almost 600 species of birds. Also, you can find here both resident and migratory birds. Some of the famous birds are Rufous-bellied Woodpecker, Spotted Forktail, and Khalij Pheasant.

Besides, this place offers the amazing scenic beauty of the village of Pangot. You can just simply walk down the village roads to enjoy the scenic beauty of your surroundings. Also, you can try some of the local cuisines. Besides, you can also enjoy trekking here.

Activities: Bird watching, nature walks.
Location: 12 km from Nainital.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning.
Tip: Wear appropriate gear for bird watching and hiking.
Entry Fee: Nominal fee.

10. Jim Corbett National Park

This is one of the best places to visit in Nainital for wildlife lovers. This place is named after the famous British conservationist Jim Corbett. Many tourists from all over the world visit this place to enjoy the enigmatic wildlife. Being rich in flora and fauna, it houses various types of trees and animals.

You can find here more than 500 bird species and 25 reptile and tiger species. Also, there are gorgeous views of streams coming down from the Himalayas flowing through the park. Besides, you can enjoy Jeep Safari, Elephant Safari, and Canter Safari here.

Activities: Safari, wildlife photography, lodging.
Location: Approximately 150 km from Nainital.
Best Time to Visit: November to June.
Tip: Book safari tours in advance.
Entry Fee: Varies by safari type.

Also, read Jim Corbett’s Articles:

11. Bhimtal Lake

Bhimtal Lake is one of the best places to visit in Nainital for a peaceful vacation. The stunning lake is surrounded by green mountains. Also, there is a gorgeous island in the center of the lake. This island has an aquarium with a variety of fish in it.

Besides, there is also a temple on the island. Also, you can enjoy boating on this lake. Many people prefer boating here than at Naini Lake to avoid large crowds. Besides, you can also try fishing here with the locals. Read Also: Top 10 Destinations to Visit Uttarakhand in June.

Activities: Boating, sightseeing.
Location: 22 km from Nainital.
Best Time to Visit: Morning or late afternoon.
Tip: Visit the island at the center of the lake.
Entry Fee: No entry fee; boating charges apply.

12. St John Wilderness Church

This is a famous church in Nainital that attracts many tourists because of the story behind it. A Bishop from Kolkata was a follower of St John the Baptist. He has spent most of his life here. Thus, the church is named after St. John Baptist.

The attractive architecture inspired by the Neo-Gothic style will fascinate you. Besides, the heavenly location amongst the lush green forest gives a feeling of serenity. If you are looking for a serene place to spend some time in Solitude, then you must visit this place.

Activities: Architecture, history.
Location: Mallital, Nainital.
Best Time to Visit: During daylight hours.
Tip: Explore the churchyard and quiet surroundings.
Entry Fee: None.

13. Gurney House

This is a historical place amid the hills and mountains. It is one of the best places to visit in Nainital. This building was built in 1881. It belonged to the famous British hunter and author Jim Corbett. But it was sold to Mr. Sharad Prasad Verma in 1947. Although it is a private residence, tourists are welcome here.

Thus, this colonial building located near Naini Lake has become a great tourist spot. Also, the house is on top of the majestic Ayarpatta hills. So, this offers mesmerizing views of its surroundings full of shrubs and plants. Read Also: Famous Uttarakhand Historical Sites

Activities: Historical tours.
Location: Ayarpatta, Nainital.
Best Time to Visit: Call ahead to arrange a visit.
Tip: Former home of Jim Corbett; contains memorabilia.
Entry Fee: By donation.

14. Neem Karoli Baba Ashram

Neem Karoli Baba was a famous Hindu guru. Many Hollywood celebrities including Julia Roberts and The Beatles were his followers. Neem Karoli Baba Ashram is dedicated to Neem Karoli Baba. It is a famous pilgrim center and one of the best places to visit in Nainital.

Located at the foothills of the Himalayas in the lush green forest, this ashram provides great serenity. Besides, you can enjoy the mesmerizing views of its surroundings. Also, you can opt to stay in the ashram to gain some divine experience.

Activities: Spiritual retreat, meditation.
Location: Kainchi Dham, near Nainital.
Best Time to Visit: June during the annual festival.
Tip: Experience the communal lunch.
Entry Fee: None.

15. Jeolikot

This is one of the most famous places to visit in Nainital. Also, this place is the Gateway to Naini Lake. This gorgeous hill station is located on the Nainital- Haridwar Highway. It is rich in flora and fauna. Butterfly species are maintained here by the horticulture department.

So, you can find a variety of colorful butterflies here. Also, there are many colonial cottages you can explore. Besides, the picturesque surroundings provide serenity and vitality to the viewers. Also, you can enjoy a nature walk here. Besides, you can go trekking and jungle safari. Also, read 10 Most Beautiful Hill Stations in Uttarakhand to Plan your Vacation.

Activities: Nature walks, beekeeping.
Location: On the way to Nainital.
Best Time to Visit: Year-round.
Tip: Visit the butterfly research center.
Entry Fee: None.

16. Land’s End

Land’s End is one of the best places to visit in Nainital. This place is located at a height of 2118 meters from sea level. It provides stunning views of the Khurpa Tal. Besides, there is a long stretch of plains and then you see the cliffs.

This is surrounded by magnificent mountains. If you are up for some adventure, you can trek to this spot. This will let you enjoy the heavenly sight of nature as you walk amidst the beautiful pine trees. Besides, you can enjoy a pony or horse ride here. Read Also: Top 10 Honeymoon Places in Uttarakhand.

Activities: Trekking, views of Khurpatal.
Location: 4 km from Nainital.
Best Time to Visit: Clear weather days.
Tip: The trek is relatively easy.
Entry Fee: None.

17. Hanuman Garhi

Hanuman Garhi temple is a famous temple in Nainital. The famous spiritual guru Baba Neem Karlo built this temple in 1950. The presiding deity of the temple is Lord Hanuman. You can find large crowds of devotees here on Tuesday and Saturday.

Also, because of the location of the temple that is 6,401 ft. high from the sea level, it offers stunning views of its awesome surroundings. Besides, the views of the sunrise and sunset are a great delight to the eyes of the tourists.

Activities: Temple visits, sunset views.
Location: 3 km from Nainital.
Best Time to Visit: Evening for sunset.
Tip: Attend the evening aarti.
Entry Fee: None.

18. Sariyatal

Sariyatal is an artificial lake constructed for tourism purposes. This lake attracts large crowds because of its serene and calm atmosphere. If you are seeking some solitude, then this place is for you. Also, you can go for some fun activities here. You can enjoy boating and paddling.

Besides, there is the Himalayan Botanical Garden. You can get a sight of various species of plants here. Besides, there is also a butterfly park in the garden. Also, this place is a delight to the photographers. All of these make this one of the best places to visit in Nainital.

Activities: Picnicking, boating.
Location: 5 km from Nainital.
Best Time to Visit: Any sunny day.
Tip: Visit the Himalayan Botanical Garden nearby.
Entry Fee: Nominal fee for boating.

19. Nainital Zoo

If you are fond of wildlife, then you must visit Nainital Zoo. This is a famous place in Nainital for animal lovers. Its location is at a height of 2100 meters from sea level. So, it is also known as Pt. G.B. Pant High Altitude Zoo. This zoo houses several exotic species of birds and animals.

You can spot the Himalayan Bear, Royal Bengal tiger, and Tibetan Wolf here. Also, there are Himalayan Civet, Hill Patridge, Barking Deer, Snow Leopard, Hill Fox, etc. Since the zoo is located between the Himalayas and Shivalik ranges, many tourists prefer to walk up the hill. Besides, the lush green forest with Evergreen Oak and Cupressus trees bewilders your eyes. Read Also: 10 Famous Wildlife Sanctuaries and National Parks in Uttarakhand.

Activities: Wildlife observation, educational tours.
Location: Sher Ka Danda hill.
Best Time to Visit: Mid-morning.
Tip: Check feeding times for an interactive experience.
Entry Fee: Yes, varies by age.

20. Peora

Peora is a famous hill station in the Kumaon Hills. It is one of the famous places in Nainital. This place has immense natural beauty. The snow-covered mountains and lush green forests provide great serenity. This is a perfect place to spend some time in solitude.

Besides, you can walk around the village to get a glimpse of the simple lifestyle of the locals. Also, this place provides a great positive aura away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Besides, it is also apt to spend some alone time with your partner. Read Also: Uttarakhand’s stunning Valley of Flowers opens for tourists

Nainital provides pure bliss and unlimited fun. There are countless places in Nainital with amazing scenic vistas. So, whether you are going for a honeymoon or family vacation, Nainital has it all for you. All in all, your excitement and enjoyment will be beyond limits once you reach Nainital. So, plan out a Nainital trip to visit these places in Nainital.

Activities: Hiking, village tours.
Location: 23 km from Nainital.
Best Time to Visit: Year-round.
Tip: Explore local Kumaoni culture and crafts.
Entry Fee: None.

Is Nainital good for a family trip?

Nainital is a fantastic choice for families looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. The town offers a variety of activities that cater to both children and adults. Families can enjoy boating on the serene Naini Lake, where kids love feeding the ducks while adults appreciate the peaceful surroundings. The Nainital Zoo, home to several high-altitude animals like the Snow Leopard and Himalayan Black Bear, is educational and engaging for children. For adventurous families, a visit to the Eco Cave Gardens offers a fun and educational experience exploring different caves. Each activity is safe, accessible, and provides plenty of opportunities for creating lasting memories.

Is Nainital good for a honeymoon trip?

For couples, Nainital exudes romance with its misty lakes and lush green hills. The quiet boat rides on Naini Lake during sunset provide a magical experience for honeymooners. Couples can also take leisurely strolls along Mall Road, browsing local shops and enjoying the cool mountain air. For a more secluded experience, Tiffin Top offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas, ideal for a romantic picnic. Evenings can be spent dining by candlelight at one of the many fine restaurants overlooking the lake, making Nainital a perfect honeymoon destination.

Is Nainital good for an office trip?

Nainital serves as a refreshing retreat for corporate teams. The natural beauty and calm environment offer a break from the busy work life, fostering team bonding and relaxation. Activities like boating competitions on Bhimtal Lake, trekking to Naina Peak, or even a cable car ride to Snow View Point can serve as team-building exercises. Additionally, many resorts in Nainital cater to corporate groups by offering conference facilities with recreational activities, ensuring a productive and enjoyable corporate outing.

How many days are enough for Nainital?

To experience the essence of Nainital and its surrounding beauty, a minimum stay of three days is recommended. This duration allows for a relaxed exploration of all major attractions without feeling rushed. Day one can be spent around Naini Lake and Mall Road. The second day could include a trip to nearby peaks like Naina Peak or Tiffin Top for those spectacular hill views. The third day could be perfect for visiting attractions slightly farther away, such as the Kilbury Bird Sanctuary or a day trip to nearby places like Mukteshwar. If time permits, extending your visit to five days would allow for a deeper exploration of the region, including a possible excursion to Jim Corbett National Park or Ranikhet.

Best Time to Visit Nainital

The ideal times to visit Nainital are during the spring months of March to June and the post-monsoon months of October to December. These periods offer pleasant weather, conducive to outdoor activities and sightseeing. Here’s a detailed temperature table to help you plan better:

Month	Min Temperature (°C)	Max Temperature (°C)
March	6	20
April	10	24
May	14	28
June	16	23
October	10	20
November	6	18
December	2	15

How To Reach Nainital?

Nainital is well-connected and accessible by various means of transport:

By Air: The nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport, about 65 kilometers away. Regular flights connect Pantnagar with cities like New Delhi. Upon landing, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Nainital, which is about a two-hour drive.
By Rail: The closest railway station is at Kathgodam, situated around 34 kilometers from Nainital. It enjoys good rail connectivity with major cities of India such as Delhi, Kolkata, and Lucknow. From Kathgodam, taxis and buses are readily available to take you to Nainital.
By Road: Nainital has excellent road links with major North Indian cities. The drive from Delhi via NH 24 is scenic and enjoyable, with plenty of eateries along the route.

Transportation Options in Nainital

Once in Nainital, moving around is convenient:

Taxis are a popular choice for tourists wanting to visit multiple attractions comfortably. They can be hired for the day from numerous stands around the town.
Rickshaws are readily available for short distances, particularly around the Mall Road area.
Pony rides can be fun for visiting spots like Naina Peak and are popular among children.
Walking is perhaps the best way to enjoy the beauty of Nainital. Many of the town’s attractions are within walking distance from each other, especially around the lake.

FAQs: Nainital

1. What are the must-visit viewpoints in Nainital?

Nainital offers several stunning viewpoints that provide panoramic views of the town and its surrounding landscape. Snow View Point and Tiffin Top are popular for their breathtaking vistas of the snow-capped Himalayas and the lush greenery of the Kumaon region. For more detailed insights on Nainital’s viewpoints, check out our article on Viewpoints in Nainital.

2. Can you share some interesting facts about Nainital?

Nainital is not just known for its natural beauty but also for its rich history and culture. Did you know that Nainital was once the summer capital of the United Provinces during British rule in India? To discover more intriguing facts about this charming hill station, read our blog post on Interesting Facts about Nainital, Uttarakhand.

3. What are the top luxury resorts and hotels in Nainital?

Nainital offers a range of accommodation options, from quaint guesthouses to luxury resorts. Some top-rated luxury resorts provide excellent facilities, including spas, gourmet restaurants, and stunning lake views. For a list of the best places to stay, visit our guide on the Top Luxury Resorts & Hotels in Nainital.

4. What are the best places to visit in the Kumaon region near Nainital?

The Kumaon region is known for its idyllic landscapes and quaint hill towns. Besides Nainital, places like Almora, Ranikhet, and Mukteshwar are worth visiting. Each town has its unique charm and attractions. For more on what to see and do in Kumaon, check out Best Places to Visit in Kumaon Region, Uttarakhand.

5. How can I reach Kainchi Dham from Delhi?

Kainchi Dham, a notable pilgrimage site near Nainital, is accessible by road from Delhi. The journey typically takes around 7-8 hours by car. For a detailed travel guide, including directions and tips, visit How to Reach Kainchi Dham from Delhi.

6. What is the best time to visit Nainital?

The best time to visit Nainital is from March to June and from October to December. These months offer pleasant weather, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

7. What are some kid-friendly activities in Nainital?

Nainital is great for kids with activities like boating on Naini Lake, visiting the Nainital Zoo, and exploring the Eco Cave Gardens. These activities are both fun and safe for children, making them perfect for family outings.

8. Is Nainital suitable for adventure seekers?

Yes, Nainital caters to adventure enthusiasts with activities like trekking to Naina Peak, paragliding, and rock climbing. These activities provide thrilling experiences amidst the natural beauty of the Himalayas.

9. What local cuisine should I try in Nainital?

When in Nainital, try local Kumaoni dishes such as Aloo Ke Gutke, Bhatt ki Churkani, and Bal Mithai. These dishes offer a taste of the region’s culinary heritage.

10. Are there any cultural festivals in Nainital I should know about?

Nainital hosts several cultural festivals throughout the year, including the Nanda Devi Fair and Hariyala Devi Fair. These festivals are great opportunities to experience local traditions, music, and dance.

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