Top attractions in Nainital
Nainital, a popular hill station in the Indian state of Uttarakhand, is known for its scenic beauty and serene lakes. Here are some of the top attractions in Nainital:
Naini Lake
The centerpiece of Nainital, Naini Lake is a beautiful freshwater lake surrounded by lush green hills. You can enjoy boating or take a leisurely walk along the lake promenade known as the Mall Road.
Naina Devi Temple
Located on the northern shore of Naini Lake, the Naina Devi Temple is a revered Hindu shrine dedicated to Goddess Naina Devi. The temple offers panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding hills.
Tiffin Top (Dorothy’s Seat)
Tiffin Top is a popular viewpoint in Nainital named after Dorothy Kellet, an English artist who used to sit here and paint. It offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas and Nainital town.
Nainital Zoo (Pt. G.B. Pant High Altitude Zoo)
This high-altitude zoo is home to a variety of Himalayan fauna, including snow leopards, Himalayan black bears, Siberian tigers, and many colorful birds. It’s a great place for animal lovers and nature enthusiasts.
Snow View Point
Located at an altitude of 2,270 meters, Snow View Point offers panoramic views of the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas. You can take a cable car ride or hike up to the viewpoint.
Eco Cave Gardens
A natural park with interconnected caves, the Eco Cave Gardens offer an adventurous experience for visitors. You can explore the different caves and enjoy the rock formations, waterfalls, and hanging gardens.
Nainital Ropeway
The Nainital Ropeway is a popular attraction that provides a thrilling ride offering panoramic views of Nainital and the surrounding mountains. It connects Mallital to Snow View Point.
Nainital Governor’s House (Raj Bhavan)
Formerly known as the Governor’s House, Raj Bhavan is an architectural marvel built during the British Raj. The beautifully landscaped gardens surrounding the building are open to the public.
Mall Road
The main street of Nainital, Mall Road, is a bustling place with shops, restaurants, and hotels. You can enjoy shopping for local handicrafts, woolens, and souvenirs, as well as savor delicious local cuisine.
Bhimtal
While technically not in Nainital, Bhimtal is a nearby town known for its picturesque lake, Bhimtal Lake. It’s a peaceful and scenic place where you can relax and enjoy boating.
These are just a few of the many attractions in and around Nainital. The hill station offers a serene and refreshing environment, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Things to do in Nainital
There are plenty of things to do in Nainital to make your visit memorable. Here are some popular activities and experiences:
Boating on Naini Lake
Rent a rowboat or paddleboat and enjoy a leisurely ride on the serene Naini Lake. It’s a great way to soak in the beauty of the surroundings and enjoy the tranquility.
Visit the Naina Devi Temple
Pay a visit to the Naina Devi Temple, located on the shore of Naini Lake. Seek blessings at this revered Hindu temple and take in the peaceful atmosphere.
Explore Mall Road
Take a stroll along the famous Mall Road, the main street of Nainital. Enjoy shopping for local handicrafts, woolens, and souvenirs. Indulge in delicious local food at the various restaurants and street food stalls.
Trekking
Nainital and its surrounding areas offer several trekking trails for adventure enthusiasts. You can go on short treks to Tiffin Top, Snow View Point, or longer treks to nearby areas like Pangot and Kilbury.
Visit the High Altitude Zoo
Explore the Pt. G.B. Pant High Altitude Zoo, also known as Nainital Zoo. Marvel at the diverse range of Himalayan wildlife, including rare species like snow leopards, Himalayan black bears, and Siberian tigers.
Enjoy the Cable Car Ride
Take a thrilling cable car ride from Mallital to Snow View Point. Admire the panoramic views of Nainital town and the Himalayan peaks during the ride.
Explore Cave Gardens
Visit the Eco Cave Gardens, a natural park with interconnected caves and hanging gardens. It offers an adventurous experience as you navigate through the caves and enjoy the natural beauty.
Visit Land’s End
Take a trip to Land’s End, a viewpoint that offers stunning views of the valley, mountains, and Khurpa Tal. It’s a great spot to witness mesmerizing sunsets.
Indulge in Water Sports
Head to Bhimtal or Sattal, which are nearby lakes, and engage in water sports activities like boating, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
Birdwatching
Nainital and its surrounding regions are home to a variety of bird species. You can go birdwatching in places like Pangot and Kilbury to spot beautiful Himalayan birds like the Himalayan bulbul, blue whistling thrush, and more.
Remember to take in the breathtaking natural beauty of Nainital, enjoy the pleasant weather, and embrace the serenity of the hills.
Nainital Tour Packages
FAQs on Nainital Tourism
The best time to visit Nainital is during the summer months of March to June when the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities. The monsoon season (July to September) brings heavy rainfall, and winters (October to February) can be quite cold, but also offer the opportunity to witness snowfall and enjoy winter sports.
Nainital is well-connected by road, rail, and air. The nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport, located around 70 kilometers away. The nearest major railway station is Kathgodam, which is well-connected to several cities in India. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Nainital.
Nainital offers a wide range of accommodation options, including luxury resorts, hotels, budget guesthouses, and homestays. You can choose accommodation based on your preferences and budget. It is advisable to book in advance, especially during the peak tourist season.
Yes, Nainital offers a variety of adventure activities. You can go trekking in the nearby hills, indulge in water sports like boating and kayaking in the lakes, go horse riding, or try paragliding. Adventure enthusiasts can also explore nearby areas like Pangot and Kilbury for birdwatching and nature walks.
There are several popular attractions near Nainital that you can explore. Some of them include Bhimtal, Sattal, Naukuchiatal (lakeside towns), Mukteshwar (known for its scenic beauty and temples), Ranikhet (a hill station with picturesque landscapes), and Jim Corbett National Park (famous for wildlife safaris).
Nainital is generally considered a safe destination for tourists. However, it is always recommended to take necessary precautions and ensure your personal safety. Be cautious while venturing into unfamiliar areas, follow local rules and regulations, and take care of your belongings.
When in Nainital, you must try local delicacies like Bal Mithai (a sweet made with khoya and chocolate), Aloo ke Gutke (spicy potato dish), Bhatt ki Churkani (black bean curry), and Arsa (a sweet made with jaggery and rice flour). Don’t miss out on savoring hot momos and thukpa from the local eateries.