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Nainital Tourism

Explore Nainital Hill Station amidst the Himalayan majesty and experience mesmerizing vistas of Himalayan heights, lakeside romance, and local tales.

Nainital, known as "The Lake City," is a hill station in Uttarakhand with several picturesque locations. It is one of the most popular hill stations in North India as it is a tranquil little valley at an elevation of roughly 2,084 metres with a lake in the middle. A well-known tourist destination in India, Nainital is recognised for its alluring natural beauty, tranquil lakes, lush green hills, and a wide range of leisure activities. Visitors from around the nation and internationally travel to this hill station in the state of Uttarakhand to experience its serene lakes and Himalayan mountains.

Nainital, which was founded by the British because of its likeness to the Cumbrian Lake District, is filled with exquisite colonial buildings that add to the area's natural beauty. Near Nainital, there are a few unexplored little hill cities including Pangot, Ranikhet, and Almora. There are also a few short hiking routes in Nainital.

Nainital is a popular hill station for families, couples, and even solo tourists because of its excellent year-round climate. It is convenient for a weekend visit and can be reached by road from adjacent large cities. Nainital's major attraction is the Naini Lake, which is bordered by Thandi Sadak and Mall Road on either side of it. Nainital Tourism is guaranteed to leave an impression on visitors, whether one wishes to go boating in the lovely Naini Lake, eat some Garhwali and Kumaoni specialities, buy souvenirs, or take a ropeway trip to Snow View Point to take in the Himalayan splendour.

Town Nainital
Coordinates 29°23'31″N 79°27'15″E
Geographical area 11.73 km2 (4.53 sq mi)
Popular Tourist Attractions in Nainital Nainital Lake, Naina Devi Temple, Naina Peak, The Mall Road, Tiffin Top, High Altitude Zoo, Lands End, Snow View Point..etc
Popular Festivals of Nainital Basant Panchami, Uttarayani, Phool Dei, Nanda Devi Fair, Khatarna, Harela (Bhikauti), Gheeya Sankranti (Olgia), Sharadotsav (winter fair)
Best Time to Visit Nainital Round the year

Top Tourist Attractions in and around Nainital

It is incredibly simple to plan a tour to India's hill station because Nainital has so many attractions to see. The town draws many tourists from across the nation because of its stunning lakes, welcoming hill station environment, and exquisite architecture. Nainital, which is extremely popular from April to June during the summer, gets its name from the eye-shaped lake that sits at the centre of this stunning hill station. Many best places to visit in and around Nainital that can be visited with family and friends include:

Nainital Lake

One of the most gorgeous lakes in the country is Nainital Lakes, which is renowned for its beauty. It is one of the Kumaon Hills' four lakes, together with the Nainital Lake, Sattal Lake, Bhimtal Lake, and Naukuchiatal Lake. Numerous poetry by famous writers as well as ancient scriptures make relation to the highly-known lake. On this lake, where the Naina Devi Temple is located, Sati's left eye is said to have fallen after she committed self-immolation.

Gorgeous hills surround the lake, providing the town with a fascinating landscape. The lake is a great place for nature lovers to recharge, unwind, and spend some quality time with their loved ones. The lake is a natural freshwater lake. When visiting Nainital Lake, visitors should take one of the famed boat adventures; otherwise, their trip would be incomplete. The boat ride will enable visitors to capture stunning photos and take in a breathtaking perspective of the Lake District. There are numerous best things to do such as boating, canoeing, kayaking, and paddling on Nainital Lake. It is one of the most widely recognised lakes in the Kumaon region and has a crescent or kidney form. The Nainital Lake, which is surrounded by the summits Naini Peak on the north, Tiffin Point on the south, and snow-capped peaks on the west, provides an incredible view, particularly at sunrise and sunset. The most popular activities there include boats, picnics, and evening walks.

Ayarpata, Deopata, Handi Bandi, Cheena Peak, Alma, Laria Kanta, and Sher Ka Danda are the seven peaks that surround the lovely Nainital Lake, which is a sight to behold. The lake itself is divided into two distinct regions: the northern region, known as Mallital, and the southern region, known as Tallital. The hillside's dense canopy of coniferous trees enhances the area's natural splendour.

Boating Charges :

  • Rowboat Half Round - INR 160
  • Rowboat Full Round - INR 210
  • Paddle boat - INR 210 (each hour)

Timing - 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Naina Devi Temple

Perched gracefully on the northern shore of the alluring Naini Lake in Nainital, the Naina Devi Temple is not only an emblem of deep-rooted spirituality but also an epitome of Uttarakhand's rich culture and history. Dedicated to the Goddess Naina Devi, a form of Maa Shakti, this temple has a fascinating legend attached to it. It's believed that the eyes (naina) of Goddess Sati fell here, making it a significant Shakti Peeth.

A blend of serene spirituality and mesmerizing natural beauty, the temple attracts devotees and tourists alike. As you ascend the bustling market-lined steps towards the shrine, the spiritual aura intensifies, leading to the sacred sanctorum of the goddess. Two eyes depicted on the temple's main gate symbolize the legend, capturing the essence of the temple's name and significance.

Besides its religious importance, the temple offers a panoramic view of the pristine Naini Lake set against the backdrop of lush green mountains. The annual Nanda Ashtami festival further amplifies the temple's charm, drawing pilgrims from far and wide. Whether you seek spiritual solace or wish to immerse in local lore, the Naina Devi Temple stands as a testament to Nainital's multifaceted allure.

Tiffin Top (Dorothy's Seat)

Visitors can take in the breathtaking scenery of Nainital from the highest point at the Tiffin Top, one of the city's favoured picnic areas. When tourists started to eat lunch atop the hill on Dorothy's Seat, the attraction was given the name Tiffin Top. It can also be referred to as Dorothy's Seat and is located atop the Ayarpatta Hills. It provides a stunning 360-degree panorama of the Lake District. A British Army officer gave it the name Dorothy's Seat in honour of his wife Dorothy Kellet, who passed away from septicemia.

Cher, Oak, and Deodar trees surround the lovely Tiffin Top. From here, Kumaon Hills and Naini Lake appear beautiful. One can even catch a glimpse of Nanda Devi's breathtaking scenery on clearer days. All tourists will find this site quite delightful because of the Kumaun Hills' surrounding peaceful and serene environment. For those who enjoy hiking, the Tiffin Top is an excellent 4-kilometre adventure from the main city, from where one can travel on foot or by renting a pony from Mall Road. When travellers go horseback riding with a group of friends and family, it is full of adventure and joy. In the Tiffin Top, additional activities like rappelling and rock climbing are also conducted. However, to fully appreciate the experience, it is advised to engage in the majority of activities throughout the day.

  • Pony/Horse Ride Charges - INR 500 - INR 700
  • Timing - 8:00 AM - 11:00 PM

High Altitude Zoo

The High-Altitude Zoo, or GB Pant High Altitude Zoo, is a remarkable zoo that is set apart by its fascinating location at 2,100 metres above sea level. The zoo is situated on the Sher Ka Danda hilltop, 1.8 kilometres away from the Nainital bus stop. The zoo was established in 1984 and now spans 4.6 acres of beautiful vegetation. It is one of only three high-altitude zoos in India. The Bharat Ratna Pandit Govind Vallabh Pant High Altitude Zoo Management Society is in charge of managing the Nainital Zoo, which is funded by entry fees.

The zoo lets visitors observe Royal Bengal tigers, Tibetan wolves, the Himalayan bear, Hill Partridge, Kalij Pheasant, and Red Junglefowl, among many more endangered and uncommon species of birds and animals. The majority of the animals at the zoo are either owned by people or adopted by animal organisations. The zoo offers its guests a breathtaking scene to admire and get immersed in because it is situated between the Great Himalayas and the Shivalik Range.

The Nainital Zoo Management Society frequently plans various community outreach activities. The major goals of these activities are to raise public awareness of endangered species, wildlife conservation, and animal habitat preservation. The programmes include going to the zoo, painting, tests, competitive debates, etc. Students are made more aware of concerns relating to wildlife and animals by this outreach programme.

Entry Fee :

  • Adult - INR 50
  • Kids (5 to 12 years) - INR 20
  • Camera - INR 25
  • Videography - INR 200

Timing : 10:00 AM - 4:30 PM

Snow View Point

Snow View Point is the place to go if one desires to see snow-covered mountain summits emerge from the clouds, presenting various hues of the sun and a mirror-like brilliance from a distance. The Snow View Point, which is only 2 km from the main town of Nainital, provides visitors with a breathtaking view of the snow-covered peaks of Nanda Devi, Nanda Kot, and Trishul.

One of the most popular tourist places in Nainital is The Snow View Point, which truly lives up to its name and provides a beautiful view of these hilltops. This location is a doorway to the Great Himalayas' snowy mountain ranges and valleys due to its elevation of 2,270 m. One can see Nainital City and Naini Lake from a helicopter on the other side. If one can take a ropeway to the Snow View Point and see the surrounding splendour on the way up, the enthusiasm will increase significantly.

Visitors can get a closer look at the snow-covered peaks due to a massive pair of binoculars that have been put at the summit of the Snow View Point. The people can zoom in to view a modest temple with statues of Lord Rama, Goddess Sita, Lord Lakshman, Lord Hanuman, Lord Shiva, and Goddess Durga that is encircled by a blanket of snow.

Ropeway Ticket Charges (two-way):

  • Adult - INR 150
  • Children - INR 75

Timing : 10 AM to 5 PM & Closed on Saturdays.

The Mall Road

In Nainital, the Mall Road is a representation for the entire city. It is one of the most well-liked and frequently visited tourist attractions in Nainital. The 1.5-kilometre-long Mall Road follows the lake's shoreline as it connects Nainital's two outermost neighbourhoods, Mallital and Tallital. For travellers from all around the world, it serves as the prime location for cultural, dining, and shopping.

One should always head to Mall Road if looking for some wonderful food, especially momos. Woollens, candles, and local crafts are other draws. If Nainital had anything to offer its guests in addition to its remarkable natural beauty, it would be unique candles and other scented goods.

British officers built the Mall Road as a destination for families residing in British territories between 1841 and 1885. Although the street is now formally known as Govind Ballabh Pant Marg, it is still frequently referred to as Mall Road. To prevent any annoyance to travellers, especially during the busy tourist months of May, June, and October, the road is maintained by PWD and is subject to rigorous traffic regulations.

The place is typically bustling during the day as locals and visitors come for shopping and strolling. Numerous hotels, shops, banks, office buildings, travel agencies, restaurants, and cafes can be found throughout the mall road.

Timing : 9:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Naina Peak

Naina Peak is the perfect location for those who wish to go the extra mile to have the greatest outcomes, remedies, and vistas. Naina Peak, which towers 2,615 metres above sea level, provides the greatest view of the valley and Nainital city. Locally known as China Peak or Cheena Peak, Naina Peak offers the ideal viewpoint for discovering the city, the Kumaon region, and the Himalayas.

One of Nainital's popular tourist attractions, particularly for trekkers, is Naina Peak. The peak is approximately 9.4 kilometres from the city and is accessible via a motorable road for a short distance. The entire stretch needs to be hiked for around 6 km, which provides excellent exposure to the Kumaon flora and animals. A thick forest of cypress, oak, and pine trees that are scattered with rhododendrons that are pink and crimson covers the entire walk. One gets a beautiful perspective of Nainital's magnificence from the trek on one side, which runs beside Jim Corbett National Park.

Timing : 8:00 AM - 5:30 PM

Kaichi Dham

The Kainchi Dham is a famous Hanuman temple situated in the centre of the Kumaon mountains. The setting provides an ideal blend of spirituality and beauty. Kainchi Dham, which is surrounded by mountains, forests, and a river, is an ideal retreat for those who seek peace and tranquillity.

Neem Karoli Baba, a respected local saint, founded the temple in the 1960s. Additionally, Neem Karoli Baba, who is thought to be an incarnation of Lord Hanuman, maintains an ashram there. At the ashram, devotees assert that they may sense the spiritual presence of Neem Karoli Baba and Lord Hanuman. The ashram's name is derived from its geographical location, which resembles a scissor (Kainchi in Hindi) since the two hills between which it is situated cut and cross each other. Since 1973, when Karoli Baba attained samadhi, people have believed that he is the actual Lord Hanuman.

The Kainchi Dham gained popularity when Steve Jobs, the former CEO of Apple Inc., paid a visit to the temple in 1973. Jobs travelled to India in search of answers during a challenging period in his professional life and to find Nirvana and Prajna, the ultimate reality of life. Jobs visited the ashram to meditate and left feeling enlightened. Later, Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg also travelled to the Kainchi Dham in search of tranquillity and wisdom.

Timing : 5:00 am - 4:00 pm

Lands End

A cliff after which there is no more land is known as Nainital Land's End. Land's End is a sanctuary for nature lovers and adventure seekers because of the magnificent view of the small valley town of Nainital and the incredibly wonderful trek to this cliff. It is the location from which one can see the entire Kumaon mountain range in its entirety as well as a beautiful view of the Khurpa Lake, or Khurpatal as it is known locally. The advantage of the endless views comes from the Land's End's elevation of 2118 metres above sea level. Enjoy the breathtaking view of Khurpatal, the valley, and the surrounding, lush forest as far as the eye can see.

It takes a lovely journey uphill to get to The Land's End. To get there, one can alternatively ride a horse or a pony. This is acknowledged as Nainital's most picturesque location. The location is widely recognised among aspiring photographers as well since it provides a magnificent perspective of the valley and woodlands below.

  • Horse Ride Charges: INR 700 - INR 800
  • Timing: 5:30 AM - 6:00 PM

Best Time to Visit Nainital

Nainital is a year-round attraction due to its nice climate all through the year

  • Summer (March to June) : The best time to enjoy the sights is during the summer when Nainital is highly visited. With daytime temperatures ranging from 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F), the climate remains pleasant. Boating on Naini Lake is a lot of fun when the weather is nice. This is a fantastic time for outdoor activities like hiking. Beautiful scenery is created by the luxuriant vegetation and the blue skies.
  • Monsoon (July to September) : With thick vegetation all around, Nainital appears even more gorgeous during the monsoon. There are fewer tourists, which means it will be peaceful. Always be ready for unexpected severe downpours; there can also be landslides, which might cause travel plans to fall through.
  • Winter (December to February) : Nainital in the winter is the ideal time of year for those who enjoy snow and winter activities. Snowfall is to be expected, especially in January and February. Temperatures during the day can range from 0°C to 15°C (32°F to 59°F), making it fairly cold. Enjoy the snowfall and winter sports like ice skating and snowshoeing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. How long should one stay in Nainital ?

Depending on how much time is intended to be spent in this charming Hill Town. The places in and surrounding Nainital, as well as the tourist attractions there, are all fascinating. There are many enjoyable activities one can partake in, like adventure sports, temple hopping, animal sightseeing tours, and shopping. It also makes a fantastic weekend retreat. If one wants to get the most out of Nainital, three to four days are enough to explore its beauty.

Q. When is Nainital's National Carnival held ?

Every year in December, Nainital has its National Winter Carnival. It is a five-day festival with a range of entertaining activities and cultural events.

Q. Which restaurants in Nainital offer the greatest local cuisine ?

Yes, Bhimtal is a fantastic vacation spot. It features a peaceful setting, natural beauty, and opportunities for sightseeing tours, trekking, and outdoor enjoyment. The town is quite secure, and there are lodging options for all budgets. Bhimtal is an excellent place for wildlife enthusiasts. The atmosphere is really serene, and the weather is incredibly calming.

Q. What are some of Nainital's best nightlife attractions ?

With its picturesque hill town ambiance, Nainital provides several spots to visit at night that give a tranquil atmosphere, such as Naina Devi Temple, Mall Road Tibetan Market, and Tiffin Top.

Q. What are the most popular activities in Nainital ?

Nainital has a diverse choice of activities to satisfy all interests, whether they are seeking relaxation, adventure, or cultural experiences. The top things to do in Nainital are :
  • Boating
  • Trekking and Hiking
  • Wildlife Tour
  • Horse Riding
  • Ropeway
  • Camping
  • Paragliding

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