Nainital, nestled in the Kumaon foothills of Uttarakhand, is a charming hill station famous for its lake, colonial charm, and serene surroundings. But beyond Nainital’s bustling Mall Road and scenic boating experiences, lie a range of hidden gems and hill retreats worth discovering. Whether you’re seeking solitude in the mountains, a spiritual experience, or thrilling treks, there are plenty of destinations just a few hours’ drive away.
Here’s a complete guide to the top 15 nearby places to visit from Nainital, each offering something unique for the traveler in you.
1. Bhimtal
Bhimtal, just 22 km from Nainital, offers a peaceful alternative to the bustling hill station. Its expansive lake is larger and calmer than Nainital’s, making it ideal for boating and relaxation. The centerpiece of the lake is a small island that hosts a fascinating aquarium. With charming cafés, serene walking trails, and fewer tourists, Bhimtal is perfect for a rejuvenating lakeside retreat in the Kumaon hills.
Highlights: Boating, Bhimeshwar Mahadev Temple, Butterfly Research Centre
Best Time to Visit: October to June
Ideal For: Families, photographers, peace-seekers
2. Sattal – Seven Lakes & Birdsong (23 km)
Sattal, meaning “seven lakes,” is a secluded gem only 23 km away from Nainital. Surrounded by dense pine and oak forests, this destination is a paradise for birdwatchers and nature lovers. The interconnected freshwater lakes are serene and untouched by heavy tourism. With activities like kayaking, fishing, and nature walks, Sattal offers a raw, immersive experience for those looking to escape into the wilderness.
Highlights: Butterfly Museum, migratory birds, nature walks
Activities: Kayaking, jungle camping, nature photography
Best Time to Visit: September to April
3. Naukuchiatal
Naukuchiatal is a quaint lakeside village located about 26 km from Nainital. Famous for its nine-cornered lake, it’s a haven for peace-seekers and thrill lovers alike. Paragliding is the most popular activity here, offering stunning aerial views of the valley. Visitors also enjoy boating, birdwatching, and visiting nearby temples. With calm surroundings and adventurous options, Naukuchiatal is a well-balanced getaway for all kinds of travelers.
Highlights: Paragliding, boating, Bhimeshwar Temple
Ideal For: Adventure lovers, romantic getaways
Stay Options: Lake-facing resorts and cottages
4. Mukteshwar
Mukteshwar, situated 47 km from Nainital, is a charming hill town perched at 2,286 meters. It offers sweeping views of the snow-capped Himalayan ranges and is dotted with apple orchards and forests. The 350-year-old Mukteshwar Temple is a major draw, along with Chauli Ki Jali, a cliff offering dramatic sunset views. The calm atmosphere and fresh air make Mukteshwar a perfect escape for nature lovers and spiritual seekers.
Must-See: Chauli Ki Jali, Mukteshwar Temple, sunset points
Ideal For: Trekkers, peace seekers, spiritual tourists
5. Ranikhet
Ranikhet, approximately 56 km from Nainital, enchants visitors with its rolling meadows, colonial charm, and majestic Himalayan views. The town is home to the Kumaon Regiment and offers attractions like the Jhula Devi Temple, Chaubatia Gardens, and an army museum. The cool climate and pine forests make it ideal for leisurely strolls. Ranikhet is a blend of heritage, nature, and tranquility that appeals to families and solo travelers alike.
Key Attractions: Jhula Devi Temple, Chaubatia Gardens, Kumaon Regimental Centre Museum
Visit Duration: 1–2 days
Best Time: March to June, September to November
6. Almora
Almora lies 64 km from Nainital and is known for its rich culture, traditional handicrafts, and temple architecture. Its bustling bazaars are perfect for picking up local woollens and copperware, while scenic spots like Bright End Corner offer lovely sunrise views. Kasar Devi Temple adds spiritual depth, once visited by Swami Vivekananda and other spiritual thinkers. Almora blends cultural heritage and natural charm, making it a soulful hill destination.
Top Sights: Kasar Devi Temple, Bright End Corner, Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary
Local Specialties: Woollens, copperware, and sweets like Bal Mithai
7. Binsar
Located 94 km from Nainital, Binsar is nestled within a wildlife sanctuary that houses a variety of birds and rare Himalayan flora and fauna. It’s best known for the Zero Point viewpoint, which offers clear vistas of peaks like Nanda Devi and Trishul. Surrounded by dense deodar and oak forests, Binsar is a quiet, offbeat destination ideal for trekkers, nature lovers, and writers seeking serenity and inspiration.
Main Attractions: Binsar Sanctuary, Zero Point, Bineshwar Mahadev Temple
Ideal For: Nature lovers, photographers, trekkers
8. Kausani – The Switzerland of India (116 km)
Kausani, around 116 km from Nainital, is famous for its jaw-dropping views of Himalayan peaks such as Trishul and Nanda Devi. This hill town offers a tranquil atmosphere perfect for long stays. It’s home to Anashakti Ashram, associated with Mahatma Gandhi, as well as tea gardens and waterfalls. Whether you want to write, hike, or simply enjoy mountain sunrises, Kausani delivers unmatched serenity and scenic charm.
Don’t Miss: Anashakti Ashram, Rudradhari Falls, Kausani Tea Estate
Best Time to Go: March to June, October to November
9. Jim Corbett National Park
Situated just 65 km from Nainital, Jim Corbett is India’s oldest national park and a haven for wildlife lovers. Home to the Bengal tiger, elephants, and hundreds of bird species, the park offers thrilling jeep safaris, nature trails, and riverside stays. Whether you stay in a luxury forest resort or a jungle lodge, Corbett provides a rare opportunity to be one with nature and experience real wilderness.
Things to Do: Jeep safaris, nature walks, Dhikala Zone
Best Season: November to June
Tip: Book safaris in advance for core zones
10. Pangot
Only 15 km from Nainital, Pangot is a quaint village known for its thriving bird population. With over 580 species spotted here, it’s a paradise for birdwatchers and nature photographers. The area is surrounded by thick oak, pine, and rhododendron forests, making it ideal for trekking and peaceful forest walks. Pangot is an unspoiled gem where you can wake up to chirping birds and misty hills.
Activities: Birdwatching, village walks, forest trekking
Perfect For: Nature photographers, ornithologists
11. Ramgarh
Ramgarh, located 35 km from Nainital, is well-known for its apple, apricot, and peach orchards. This serene village has attracted artists and writers over the years, including Rabindranath Tagore. Its charming colonial-era bungalows, panoramic valley views, and peaceful vibes make it ideal for a quiet vacation. Ramgarh’s clean air, starry nights, and scenic trails provide a soulful alternative to the more touristy destinations nearby.
Top Picks: Orchards, sunrise points, old bungalows
Travel Tip: Ideal for writing retreats or peaceful holidays
12. Jageshwar –
About 95 km from Nainital lies Jageshwar, an ancient temple town that feels like a mystical time capsule. With more than 100 stone temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, it is set within a thick deodar forest that enhances its spiritual aura. These temples date back to the 9th–13th centuries and are known for their intricate stone carvings. Jageshwar offers a deep spiritual experience far from the crowds.
Spiritual Sites: Jageshwar Dham, Dandeshwar Temple
Atmosphere: Mystical, serene, spiritual
13. Lohaghat
Lohaghat, around 165 km from Nainital, remains largely undiscovered by mainstream tourists. This peaceful hill town offers heritage charm, pine forests, and spiritual landmarks like Advaita Ashram and Mayawati Ashram. Its colonial bungalows, gentle trails, and views of snow peaks make it perfect for solitude seekers. Abbott Mount, nearby, adds a touch of ghost stories and British-era architecture, creating a unique and tranquil getaway.
Major Attractions: Advaita Ashram, Abbott Mount, Mayawati Ashram
Offbeat Charm: Less touristy, more personal
14. Pithoragarh
Pithoragarh, located 180 km from Nainital, is a valley town often called the “Little Kashmir” of Uttarakhand. It’s known for its scenic beauty, ancient forts, and temples like the Dhwaj Temple. As the gateway to the Kailash-Mansarovar pilgrimage, it’s also a hub for treks and cultural exploration. Surrounded by snow-covered peaks, alpine meadows, and rich history, Pithoragarh is a dream destination for serious explorers.
Top Spots: Pithoragarh Fort, Dhwaj Temple, Soar Valley
Note: Great for serious trekkers and cultural explorers
15. Champawat
Champawat, 175 km from Nainital, is steeped in mythological and historical importance. It was once the capital of the Chand Dynasty and is believed to be connected to the Mahabharata. The town is home to beautifully crafted temples like Baleshwar and Kranteshwar, as well as natural springs. Its peaceful atmosphere, legends, and scenic backdrops make Champawat a hidden cultural jewel in the Kumaon region.
Must-See: Baleshwar Temple, Ek Hathiya Ka Naula
Atmosphere: Historic, spiritual, and scenic
Tips for Exploring Nearby Nainital Destinations:
- Transport: Hire a cab or drive your own car for flexibility.
- Stay Options: From boutique homestays to luxury resorts—each location offers something unique.
- Best Season: Most places are best visited between March–June and September–November.
Travel Caution: Monsoons can cause landslides in the hills; check weather before planning.
Final Thoughts: More Than Just Nainital
While Nainital offers an unforgettable lakeside holiday, these nearby spots elevate your Kumaon experience. Whether you’re seeking thrill, solitude, spirituality, or simply beautiful landscapes, there’s something close to Nainital for every type of traveler.
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