Nainital Thing to do and see

* NAINITAL  

Nainital is a glitttering jewel in the Himalayan necklace , blessed with scenic natural spledour and varied natural resourses . Dotted with lakes , Nainital has earned the epithet of ' Lake District ' of india . The most promient of the lakes is Naini lake ringed by hills . This lake is situated at a height of 1,938 meters . Nainital is heaquarter of   Nainital District . It is  also located in  Kumaon Division of Uttarakhand State and is bounded on the north by the Almora District and on the south by the Udham Singh Nager District . Haldwani is the largest town in the district .

* City Facts 

In Winter

➤State : Uttarakhand

➤District : Nainital

⮞Area : 4,251 Sq.Km.
➤Language : Kumaoni , Hindi , Garhwali Best
➤Village : 1141
➤Division : Kumaon
➤Rank : 4(Out of 13 district in Uttrakhand)
➤Population (2011): 9,54,605
➤Male : 4, 93,666
➤Female : 4,60,939

➤Weather : Summer 15 to 30°C And Winter 0 to 24°C

➤Pincode : 263001 , 263002 

➤ STD code : 05942                   

                              BEST TIME TO VISIT 

 The best time to visit the place is between April to June and then again in September and October. The months of January to March are marked by snowfall. Equipped with right clothing, this unique hill resort can otherwise be visited any time of the year.

                      How to Reach

By Flight : 

The nearest Airport is Pant Nagar, at a distance of 65 kms .

By Train : 

Kathgodam is the nearest railhead Situated at a distance of 41 kms .

By Road :

Nainital is well connected via roads.

 17 Best Places To Visit In Nainital

Nainital is a hill station comfortably nestled in the Himalayas of Uttarakhand. From boating at Naini Lake to trekking up to Tiffin Top, there are a number of things to do in Nainital. A must do is going for a evening stroll by the lakeside. Let us take you on a journey where we will share with you the best things to do in Nainital.

• Naini lake - Enjoy Boating , Lifeline of Nainital 
• Naina Peak - Highest Peak In Nainital
• Tiffon Top - View The Sunrise And The Quaint Hill Town 
• Tibetan Market - Shop For Local Souvenirs 
• Mall Road - Shopping Centre
• Hanuman Garhi - A Beautifull Temple 
• Nainital Ropeway - For The Bird's Eye View
• Naina Devi Temple - A Temple By The Lake 
• Raj Bhawan - A Royal Palace And Governor's House  
• Nainital Zoo - A Wild Range Of Animals 
• Rock Climbing - For An Adventure Time 
• Chandni Chowk - An Old Restaurant
• Eco Cave Garden - Explore The Hidden Gem
• Snow View Point - Oldest Viewpoint
• Lover's Point - A Vantage Point With Scenic Views
• Gurney House - Colonial Magnificence 
• Corbett Falls - A Beauty In The Wild
• Ramgarh - A Perfect Place For Quietude
• Peora - A Hill Station In Kumaon Hills 
• St. John's Wilderness Church - Explore Around
• Astronomical Observatory - Gaze At Stars

1. Naini Lake – Lifeline Of Nainital , Enjoy Boating 

One of the most popular tourist attractions in Nainital and its heart – Naini Lake reflects the color of beautiful surroundings. The lake is a pear-shaped, attracts lots of tourists who come and enjoy   boating, yachting or paddling in the lake. One can explore the lake from one end to another watching dynamic and peaceful views of the sunset. Boats are available for 30 mins to 1 hour for one family The lake is surrounded by seven verdant hills and steals the heart of many! Stop over at points to savor a delicious lunch at famous eateries like Boat House club or Sonam’s, places famous for the momos they offer.

Category: Leisure
Location: Ayarpatta, Nainital, Uttarakhand
Famous for: Boating, picnic
Tip: Be careful and always keep a life jacket before riding
Opening time:Open all days
Duration: 2 hours
Price: Boating prices depend on the time you want to ride .The boating charges in Nainital is around Rs 150 per head for half round which stretches at about 20 minutes in pedal boat ride and Rs 200 per head for full round of 40 minutes in row boat ride.
Entry fees: 150 to 200 INR

2. Naini Peak – Highest Peak In Nainital

The Naini Peak gives magnificent panoramic view of the snow-capped Himalayas and an excellent view of the Nainital city. Also known as Cheena Peak or China Peak, the peak is famousfor trekking and  horse riding in Nainital. Wake up a little early in the morning and climb up to this peak for a mesmerizing view of the sunset you’ll never forget, as a plus point the crowd during this time is almost nill so you can enjoy peace in the lap of nature.The trek to Naina Peak is little challenging, covering a distance of 6 km from Mallital. 

Category: Nature
Location: Nainital, Uttarakhand 263001
Famous for: Trekking, awesome views, amusement rides
Tip: Carry trekking boots with you
Opening time: Open all days
Duration: 2 to 4 hour
Entry fees: Free entry

3. Tiffin Top – View The Sunrise And The Quaint Hill Town

 

Also known as Dorothy Seat which is a stone work perch on the Tiffin Top built in memory of painter Dorothy Kellet , this viewpoint  offers      breathtaking views of the Himalayas and Nainital. It provides splendid views of the town. Perched at a height of 2290 meters, Tiffin Top is a famous picnic spot in Nainital. The place is only about 4 km from the heart of Nainital and makes for a wonderful trek. You can also enjoy a horse ride to go there.

Category: Sightseeing

Location: Ayarpatta, Nainital, Uttarakhand 263002

Famous for: Stunning views, hiking, sightseeing

Tip: You will need trekking shoes to trek to this point

Opening time: Open all days

Duration: 2 hours

Entry fees: Free entry, activities like horse riding and shooting are chargeable 

4. Tibetan Market – Shop For Local Souvenirs

One of the top preferred markets for shopping in nainital and collect souvenirs  from  your visit is at the Tibetan Market where you can find artifacts made by locals. Dotted  with shops and shacks of local specialties, this bustling market impresses visitors with its vibrancy and uniqueness. Tibetan bags, exquisite scarves, ethnic dresses, intricately designed shawls, woollen mufflers, junk accessories and stylish watches  are sold here. 

Location: Ayarpatta, Nainital, Uttarakhand 263001
Timings: 9:30 AM – 9 PM
Tip: The prices could be steep. Do keep a lot of cash
Famous for: Shopping local souvenirs
Entry fees: Free entry

5. The Mall Road – Shopping Centre

The Mall Road is amongst the best places for shopping in Nainital. A shopaholic’s paradise, one could stroll here for hours. The road has many street shops, shopping centers, banks, hotels, restaurants, and more. This is a perfect tourist hub as has everything a tourist wants, with a perfect backdrop! Collecting candles of various forms, shapes and sizes is one of the best things to do in Nainital. The locals make amazing candles here – designs and patterns that you have never seen. Don’t forget to buy some and include them in your home décor. Bargain to strike the best deal. Also, having an ice cream here in the winter season is one of the best things to do in Nainital in December .

Category: Shopping
Location: Mall Road, Nainital, Uttarakhand
Famous for: Shopping, authentic winter products, street food
Opening time: 7 am to 10 pm
Duration: 2 hours
Entry fees: Free entry

   6. Hanuman Garhi - A Beautifull Temple




Built in 1950, this hillside Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman offers sunrise & sunset views. One of the top Nainital attractions, the Hanuman Garhi was established by Baba Neem Karauli with a beautiful statue of Lord Hanuman at the top that attracts visitors from far off. Located at an altitude of 6,401 ft above sea level, it gives magnificent views of the sunset, besides being a charming place for travelers to enjoy a leisurely walk. It is around 3.5 km away from the bus stop and taxis are available to reach there. Reach before 4 in the evening to witness the frenzy.


Category: Religious
Location: Haldwani Road, Nainital, Uttarakhand 263002
Famous for: Views of sunrise and sunset, praying, photography
Opening time: 5 am to noon and 4 pm to 9 pm
Duration: 1 hour
Entry fees: No entry fee

7. Nainital Ropeway – For The Bird’s Eye View

The ropeway takes you to small peaks in Nainital and also gives you a bird’s eye view of the hill station. It should definitely be given a shot if you love high rise views. The cable car runs from Mallital to Snow View, passing through hills and enchanting beauty of Naini Lake and other scenic environs.Snow View Point is located at 3 kms from Nainital town and can be reach by road, trek, pony or ropeway.

Location: Mallital, Nainital, Uttarakhand 263001
Timings: 10 AM – 4 PM
Tip: Avoid it if you are afraid of heights
Famous for: Bird’s eye view
Price: INR 300 for Adult and 20 INR per Binocular

   8. Naina Devi – A Temple By The Lake
   

Naina Devi temple rests over the banks of Naini Lake and is a popular place to see in Nainital in May & June. It is believed that Goddess Sati’s eyes fell at the exact same spot where this temple stands, which attracts a great number of devotees. The temple is situated at the top of Naina Hill. This is one of the most popular temples in Nainital. 

Category: Religious
Location: Ayarpatta, Nainital, Uttarakhand 263002
Famous for: Peaceful vibes, praying, view of the lake
Tip: Dress moderately while entering the temple
Opening time: 6 am to 10 pm
Duration: 30 minutes
Entry fees: Free entry

9. Raj Bhawan – A Royal Palace

At a Distance of 3 Km of  Tallital Bus Stand, Raj Bhawan also called as Governor House is a colonial building located at Tallital area of Nainital. It serves as the official residence of Governor of Uttarakhand. Uttarakhand is one of the few Indian states with two official Raj Bhawans. The first one is located in the capital city of Dehradun and the second one is situated here in Nainital. Raj Bhawan was built by British as a residence of Governor of then North West Province. The foundation stone of the Nainital Government House was laid on 27th April 1897 and the building was completed in March 1900.
This Nainital Governer's house gives a feel of Buckingham palace London and is a treat to visit , mostly if you are a lover of museums. The two-storey mansion contains around 113 rooms, but visitors are only allowed in its vast lawns and in the 18-hole golf course within its premises. Constructed by the British in 1924, the golf course is set around a scenic forest, and is home to several rare species of flora and fauna . 

Category: History

Location: Amghari, Nainital, Uttarakhand 263002
Famous for: Gothic architecture, photography

Tip: The Bhawan remains closed on Sundays and national holidays 
Opening time: 8 am to 5 pm

Duration: 1 hour

Entry fees: INR 50, INR 450 for golf course

10. Nainital Zoo – A Wide Range Of Animals

The zoo contains several exotic and endangered species of animals and birds which are native to this region. Spot Snow Leopard, Hill Fox, Siberian Tiger, Palm Civet Cat, Wolf, Barking Deer, Himalayan Black Bear, White peacock and many more species here. Since it is nestled at an altitude of 2100 meters, various birds and animals have made it their beloved habitat. Situated in Tallital, it is open from Friday to Wednesday between 10 AM and 4:30 PM. Being such a blissful destination, the Nainital Zoo is one of the best tourist places in Nainital. Just 2 km from Tallital Bus Stand .

Category: Wildlife

Location: Tallital, Nainital, Uttarakhand 263002

Famous for: Wildlife, viewpoints, nature 

Tip: Do not feed or tease the animals

Opening time: 9:30 am to 5:30 pm

Duration: 2 hours

Entry fees: INR 300

11. Rock Climbing – For An Adventure Time

If you are looking for adventure sports in Nainital, you have to look no further than this. A number of people who visit Nainital usually overlook this activity. There are a number of rock-climbing schools in the area where you can learn the ropes and try the sport even if you have not before. Nainital Mountaineering Club (NMC) is one of the first places that you should check out if you are looking for adventure activities in Nainital. The fee starts from INR 600. Distance from Mallital is 800m .

Location of NMC: CRST Inter College, Mallital, Nainital
Timings: 9 AM – 6 PM
Tip: Listen to the experts and follow instructions carefully
Price: INR 600

12. Chandni Chowk – An Old Restaurant

           

We all know about the Chandni Chowk in Delhi. But have you heard about the one in Nainital? One of the top things to do in Nainital is enjoying a meal at the famous markets. Chandni Chowk, one of the oldest restaurants in Nainital seeks to recreate the taste that we associate with Paranthe Wali Gali. The delicacies are the ones we commonly see in North India, such as Gol Gappas, Paneer, Jalebi, Samosa, Gulab Jamun and a mouth-watering assortment of dishes.
The restaurant is located on Mall Road and is open between 9 am and 10 pm each day. On average, the price for two people is somewhere around INR 400. Also, if you are looking for things to do in Nainital in December, then hitting this joint is a must.

Location: Mall Rd, Mallital, Nainital, Uttarakhand 263002
Timings: 9 AM – 10 PM
Tip: Eat to your heart’s content
Famous for: Mouthwatering dishes
Price: Depends on what you eat

13. Cave Garden – Explore The Hidden Gem

If you are thinking of offbeat things to do in Nainital, Eco Cave Gardens is just the place. There is a series of interconnected caves that aim to educate visitors about the Himalayan wildlife. Caves such as Tiger Cave, Bat Cave, Panther Cave and others, are named after the animals they put under the spotlight. The park comprises of seven caves which can be reached through a narrow and winding road. On your visit to Sukhatal, you can easily visit this place. It is open 7 days a week and has a musical fountain and hanging gardens in the premises. Eco Cave Gardens are among the best spot to hangout with family, where everyone can relax and unwind amidst the natural surroundings. Eco Cave Garden is located at just 1 Km from Mall Road .

Category: Adventure

Location: Sukhatal, Mallital, Nainital, Uttarakhand 263001

Famous for: Picnicking and relaxing

Tip: Do visit for an offbeat experience

Opening time: 9 am to 6 pm

Duration: 2 hours

Entry fees: INR 35 for adults, INR 25 for children

14. Lover’s Point – A Vantage Point With Scenic Views

`1.5 km further from Eco Cave Garden lies a Lover’s Point where couples visit to enjoy moments of solitude. The vantage point offers some amazing views of the valley making it one of the popular Nainital tourist places. So, whether you are a couple or not, you should visit this place. However, families should refrain from visiting this place because of the obvious reasons. You can go further to Tiffin Top from this place which comes in the list of top Nainital sightseeing places. There are cars and horses available.

Category: Nature
Location: Naina Range, Uttarakhand 263002
Famous for: Awesome views of the valley
Opening time: Always open, preferable during day
Duration: 30 minutes
Entry fees: Free entry

15. Gurney House – Colonial Magnificence

Jim Corbett was said to have spent several years living here. A short hike to this place, nestled between trees and valley views. There was a caretaker and we had a chance to look through the interiors of the house and the artifacts/furniture etc from the earlier times.

This is famous house as Jim corbett stayed many years ago. House is sold out and owned by some businessman . You can reach this house by trekking and enjoy the view of surroundings. Otherwise nothing great and not on tourist map. Gurney House is located at 3 Km from Mallital .

Category: Leisure

Location: Ayarpatta, Nainital, Uttarakhand 263002

Famous for: Colonial architecture and history, nature

Opening time: 9 am to 5 pm

Duration: 2 hours

Entry fees: NA

16. St. John’s Wilderness Church – Explore Around

Surrounded by pine and deodar trees, St. John’s Church is perched on a hilltop which was constructed in the year 1844 and is one of the famous Nainital tourist places. The architecture of this church was inspired from Neo-Gothic style and the windows are covered with tainted colourful glasses. A Bishop from Kolkata spent half of his life here and being a true follower of John the Baptist, the church got its name. It is visited by several history buffs and backpackers in today’s date. It is located at 1 Km from Main City Center and 5 min walk from Nainital High Court .

Category: History
Location: Nainital – Kaladungi Rd, Sherwani, Nainital, Uttarakhand 263002
Famous for: Neo-Gothic architecture and interiors, history, nature
Opening time: 7 am to 6:30 pm, Sunday: 9 am to 6:30 pm
Duration: 45 minutes
Entry fees: Free entry

17. Astronomical Observatory – Gaze At Stars

Positioned on the top of the Manora Peak, Aryabhatta Research Institute of Observational Sciences (ARIES) or Astronomical Observatory is one of the best places to go to in Nainital. One can see the stars, moon, and the celestial bodies at night but before heading to this observatory you will have to make a prior booking. It is open only on working days so that the public can visit it at any time and for night viewing few days are fixed during the full moon but to attend that one has to take permission priorly. It is located 4.5 Km from Nainital.

Category: Adventure
Location: Beluwakhan, Uttarakhand 263002
Famous for: Unique astrophysics tech
Opening time: 2 pm to 4 pm, 7 pm to 9 pm (closed on Saturday and Sunday)
Duration: 1 hour
Entry fees: Free entry

Ideal Duration For A Trip To Nainital

A trip of 3 nights and 4 days is enough to explore all the popular Nainital places to visit and experience the real essence of this charming city. You can add a day or two to your sightseeing trip if you wish to also experience the thrill of trekking in Nainital or if you wish to explore the places near Nainital.

Now that you know that there are a number of places to visit in Nainital, you must be really excited to visit this destination. If that is true, what are waiting for? Plan a trip to Nainital with your family, friends or solo and head out on an adventurous and scenic holiday ever.

Suggested Read: Top 16 Places to Eat In Nainital