Nainital is a beautiful hill town in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, located at an altitude of about 2,000 meters. Once a British hill station, it is built around the famous Naini Lake, where visitors enjoy boating. On the northern side of the lake stands the Naina Devi Temple, a well-known Hindu shrine.
A cable car takes tourists to Snow View Point, which offers stunning views of the town and nearby mountains, including Nanda Devi, the highest peak in Uttarakhand. Naina Peak, at about 2,600 meters, is a great spot for hiking.
Back in town, Bara Bazaar is a lively market for shopping. South of the main area lies Raj Bhawan, a grand British-era building with guided tours and a public golf course.
Nearby attractions include Jim Corbett National Park, known for its Bengal tigers and diverse wildlife, and the peaceful lakes of Naukuchiatal and Sattal, perfect for boating and fishing.
Nainital – places to visit in Nainital
Nainital Lake
Nainital Lake is a natural freshwater lake located in the heart of Nainital town in Uttarakhand. It is shaped like a kidney or a crescent and is surrounded by beautiful hills. This lake is believed to have formed due to movements in the earth’s crust. The lake is a favorite spot for boating and offers peaceful views. At its southeastern end, water from the lake flows out naturally. Both locals and tourists love visiting it for relaxation and scenic beauty. It’s also close to many other attractions in the town.
Pt. G.B. Pant High Altitude Zoo
This zoo is located at a high altitude and is one of the top tourist spots in Nainital. It is home to several animals that are found in the Himalayan region. You can see rare species like the Snow Leopard, Tibetan Wolf, Himalayan Bear, and Leopard Cat here. The zoo also has deer like the Sambar. It is a great place to learn about wildlife in the mountains. Because of its height, the views from the zoo are also beautiful. The cool weather adds to the fun of exploring the zoo.
Tiffin Top
Tiffin Top is a popular hilltop picnic spot in Nainital. It offers amazing views of the town and the nearby hills. People often visit here to relax and enjoy nature. You can also enjoy a horse ride up the trail to reach the top. It’s a favorite place for photographers because of the clear views. The place is peaceful and perfect for a break from busy city life. Families and couples often come here for a quiet outing.
Naini Peak
Naini Peak is the highest point in Nainital. From here, you can see the snow-covered Himalayan mountains and the town below. It’s a great spot for trekking and nature walks. Many people hike to the top to enjoy the fresh air and peaceful surroundings. On clear days, you can even see Nanda Devi, one of India’s highest peaks. The climb is a bit steep but worth the effort for the amazing views. It’s a must-visit for nature lovers.
Gurney House
Gurney House is a historical building in Nainital. It used to be the home of Jim Corbett, the famous hunter turned conservationist. The house is now turned into a small museum with his personal items on display. You can see his furniture, books, and old photographs here. The house is located in a peaceful area surrounded by greenery. It’s a good place to learn more about Corbett and his love for nature. Many visitors stop by to take a look at his legacy.
Naina Devi Temple
Naina Devi Temple is a sacred Hindu temple located near Nainital Lake. It is dedicated to Goddess Naina Devi, a form of Goddess Durga. The temple is beautifully decorated and has colorful idols and shrines. Many people come here to offer prayers and seek blessings. According to local legends, the temple has deep mythological importance. It’s a peaceful place and gives a spiritual feel by the lakeside. Visitors also enjoy the scenic location around the temple.
Cave Garden
Eco Cave Garden is a fun and educational tourist spot in Nainital. It has man-made caves that look like homes of animals such as tigers, panthers, and bats. These caves are designed to be explored by walking or crawling through them. The place is very popular with kids and families. It teaches about different wild animals in a playful way. The garden is also decorated with lights and has a musical fountain show. It’s a great place to enjoy with children and learn something new.
Sattal
Sattal is a group of seven connected freshwater lakes near Bhimtal, not far from Nainital. The lakes are surrounded by thick forests and hills, making the place calm and beautiful. It is perfect for boating, bird watching, and nature walks. The name “Sattal” means “seven lakes.” Each lake has its own charm, and the area is peaceful and less crowded than Nainital. People who love nature often come here to relax or enjoy a picnic. It’s also great for photography and quiet holidays.
Himalaya View Point
Himalayan View Point, also called Himalayan Darshan, is located about 5 km from Nainital. From here, you can see beautiful views of the Himalayan mountain ranges. On a clear day, you can spot famous peaks like Nanda Devi. The view also includes green valleys and thick forests below. It’s a perfect place for photographers and nature lovers. The air is fresh, and the place is peaceful. It’s a good spot to enjoy the natural beauty of the region.
Best Time to Visit Nainital
Nainital is a beautiful hill station that welcomes visitors throughout the year. The weather here is pleasant in every season, making it a great place to visit any time. Summer begins in March and lasts till May. During these months, temperatures range between 10°C to 27°C, making it perfect for sightseeing and outdoor fun. You can explore places like Cave Garden, Land’s End, Naini Lake, and Naina Devi Temple during this time.
The monsoon season starts from late June and continues until September. Although it doesn’t rain too much, the light showers make the hills greener and more beautiful. This is a good time to visit spots like Hanumangarhi, Khurpatal, Kilbury, and Naina Peak.
Winter starts in November and lasts till February. It gets very cold, and temperatures can drop to 0°C or even lower. Nainital sometimes receives heavy snowfall, turning it into a winter wonderland. During this season, enjoy the snow-covered views at Snow View Point, Naini Peak, Tiffin Top, Sattal, The Mall Road, and Guano Hills.
