Nainital Tourism | Places to Visit | Things To Do

Nainital, nestled in the picturesque lake district of Uttarakhand, is indeed a charming hill station renowned for its natural beauty and serene environment. Situated at an altitude of 2,084 meters amidst the Himalayan Mountains, it offers a perfect retreat for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. The endless sweeps of valleys and forests that surround this picturesque city makes it a nature lover’s favorite destination.

Natural Beauty and Lakes

The centerpiece of Nainital is the Naini Lake, which holds historical and mythological significance, being associated with legends like the Tririshi Sarovar and Naini Taal. Surrounded by hills and lush forests, the lake offers a tranquil setting ideal for boating and leisurely strolls along the Mall Road.

Naini Lake and the surroundings, a historically revered location, has some interesting legends behind it gaining itself many names like city of 60 lakes, Tririshi Sarovar (three sages lake) and Naini Taal (Sati’s eye lake). In more current history, one Mr. P. Barron, a European merchant smitten by the beauty and grandeur of the Naini lake marked it as the most wonderful site in a long stretch of Himalayan region. There are many places to visit in Nainital and around.

Major Attractions

1. Nainital Lake: The heart of the city, perfect for boating and enjoying the scenic views.
2. Naina Peak: Known for its panoramic views of the Himalayas and the town.
3. Tiffin Top: A popular viewpoint offering breathtaking vistas of the Himalayan peaks.
4. Naina Devi Temple: A sacred spot dedicated to Goddess Naina Devi.
5. High Altitude Zoo: Famous for its exotic Himalayan fauna including snow leopards and Himalayan black bears.

Snow View Point at an elevation of 2,270 meters can be reached by a cable car and offers Panoramic view of the Himalayas including Nanda Devi, Trishul and Nanda Kot peaks.

Nearby Attractions

Beyond Nainital, there are several other attractions worth exploring:

• Bhimtal, Naukhuchiatal, and Saat Tal: Nearby lakes offering serene surroundings and water-based activities.
• Mukteshwar: Known for its temples and scenic beauty, ideal for day trips.
• Kainchi Dham: A spiritual retreat famous for its association with Neem Karoli Baba.
• Corbett National Park: A renowned wildlife sanctuary nearby, perfect for wildlife enthusiasts.

Activities:

• Adventure Sports: Enjoy parasailing and paragliding over Naini Lake, or embark on trekking adventures to China Peak and beyond.

• Boating: Relax with a boat ride on Naini Lake, surrounded by lush hills and serene waters.

• Local Culture: Wander through the bustling Mall Road, indulge in local delicacies, and shop for handicrafts.

Nainital now offers some adventure activities as well like parasailing in Naini Lake and paragliding. As a trekking destination Nainital is a good place for easy treks and day hikes. China peak, the highest peak in the region is a good place to go for a day hike and wonderful experience for first timers.

Best Time to Visit: Plan your visit between March to June and September to November for pleasant weather and clear views. Winter months offer a snowy charm for those seeking a colder, quieter retreat.

How to Reach:

• By Air: The nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport, approximately 65 km away. From there, taxis or buses are available to Nainital.

• By Train: Kathgodam Railway Station, about 34 km away, is the nearest railhead. Regular trains connect Kathgodam to major cities like Delhi and Dehradun.

• By Road: Nainital is well-connected by road with regular buses from Delhi, Dehradun, and other nearby cities. It's approximately 300 km from Delhi.

Accommodation: Choose from a range of accommodations including hotels, resorts, and guesthouses offering scenic views and comfortable stays. Popular options include lakeside resorts and cozy hilltop retreats.

Local Cuisine: Savor local delights such as Kumaoni dishes, hot tea, and sweets like Bal Mithai while enjoying the cool mountain breeze.

Cherish in Nainital hill station with jumbling around, places to visit in Nainital like illustrious Naini Lake, strolling on the mall road, thandi sarak and viewpoints of Snow View, China Peak, Tiffin Top. Nainital is set and spread across hills covered with trees around the lake. There is a lively market and narrow walking paths and roads that originate from Mall Road.

Tucked away from the hustles and heat of the plains, speckled with lakes and coupled with magnificent views of the majestic Himalayas and the surroundings, this serene city is definitely a treat for sore eyes and tired souls.

Activities and Adventure

Nainital also caters to adventure enthusiasts with activities such as paragliding, parasailing, and trekking. China Peak, the highest point in the region, offers excellent opportunities for hiking and enjoying panoramic views.

Experience and Atmosphere

The atmosphere in Nainital is tranquil yet lively, with a bustling market on the Mall Road and narrow paths leading to various viewpoints and attractions. The hill station is known for its pleasant climate and clean mountain air, making it a rejuvenating destination for visitors of all ages.

Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat amidst nature or looking to indulge in adventure activities, Nainital offers a perfect blend of both. With its rich history, natural beauty, and range of activities, Nainital promises an unforgettable experience for every traveler, making it an ideal family vacation spot in Northern India.

This quaint city though looks peaceful, is a haven of activities. Though trekking is the most favored and popular activity, other things to do in Nainital include boating, horse riding, and paragliding, rappelling and walking. With its serene location, tranquil environment and the intoxicating mountain fresh air, Nainital in Uttarakhand is an addictive destination that grows on you with fresh and fond memories. A perfect hill station packed with pleasant surprises for all ages, this is the best of family vacation spots one could ever ask for.

Nainital is 337 km from Delhi and a road trip is the best way to explore Nainital.