Nainital, the Lake District of India, offers a captivating blend of natural splendor. Nestled amidst the picturesque Kumaon Hills of Uttarakhand, Nanital beckons travellers with her mesmerizing beauty and lush greenery. The “Queen of Hills”, is popular for its colonial charms, quiet environment, and adventure activities catering to the many needs of modern travellers. Whether you seek tranquillity or an escape from the hustles of city life, Nainital welcomes you with open arms. From the tranquil Naini Lake to the expansive vistas at Snow View Point you are spoilt for choice. Let us look at some of the top places to visit in Nainital so you can plan your itinerary to this mesmerizing land of lakes.
11 Best Places to Visit in Nainital
With a plethora of tourist attractions, Nainital has something to offer for every tourist and traveller. Here is a carefully curated list of the 11 famous places to visit in Nainital, ranging from peaceful lakes and breathtaking viewpoints to historical sites and adventure activities.
Nainital Lake – A Serene Gem Amidst the Hills
The crown jewel of Nainital, the Naini Lake is a sight to behold. This serene lake’s beauty finds its mention in various ancient scriptures and poems by notable authors. One of the four lakes in the Kumaon Hills, along with the Sattal Lake, Bhimtal Lake, and Naukuchiatal Lake, the Naini Lake, is one of the best places to visit in Nainital. Take a leisurely walk along the promenade or enjoy a cozy boat ride, the thrilling landscape of this heart-shaped, emerald-green natural freshwater lake will create a magical atmosphere for you.
Timing: Monday to Sunday 6 am – to 6 pm
Entry – Free
Boating – approx Rs 210/- for 30 min on row/paddle boat
Eco-Cave Garden – A Hidden Paradise
Nestled near the bustling Mall Road in Nainital, Eco Cave Garden is one of the popular tourist spots that has seen a rise in popularity recently. Eco Cave Gardens, a collection of naturally occurring caves turned into a cave garden, is home to six fascinating animal-shaped caves that give kids and adults alike the opportunity to see some animals in nearly natural settings. It is a perfect spot to enjoy when you are travelling with family and kids.
The cavern features a sequence of exquisite hanging gardens all along the caved pathway in addition to a musical fountain with an audio-visual effect. The Eco Cave Gardens, which are devoted to the Kumaon region’s wildlife, offer Nainital tourists far more than their money’s worth.
Timing: Monday to Sunday 9:30 am – to 5:30 pm
Entry – Rs. 60/- per adult, Rs. 25/- per child, 25/- for camera
Location – 1 km away from the Nainital Mall Road
Snow View Point – for Breathtaking Beauty
Enjoy the enchantment of the snow-covered peaks of The Himalayas from Snow View Point – one of the top places to visit in Nainital. It provides amazing views of the Himalayan peaks covered in snow, particularly in the winter. Watch the majesty of the Himalayan giants, including Nanda Devi, the second-highest mountain in India. Both nature lovers and photographers will love this picturesque location. Gather a picnic basket and savour a meal while admiring a million-dollar panorama!
Timing: Monday to Sunday 10:30 am – to 5 pm (Saturday Closed)
Entry – Free
Location – 3 km away from the Nainital
Nainital Ropeway – Enjoy a Thrilling Experience
You cannot miss the thrill of travelling in a ropeway while visiting Nainital. This stunning ropeway that ascends the hill from Mallital offers a breathtaking view of Naini Lake as you travel upwards. After reaching the top of the hill, you can relax by playing a few games or enjoying some lip-smacking food at the restaurants. You can use telescopes to view the peaks of the mountains after taking a quick stroll up the hill.
Timing: Monday to Sunday 10 am – to 4 pm
Entry – Rs. 300/- per adult, Rs. 200/- per child (children aged 3 – 12), for both-way trip
Location – Ropeway Rd, Mallital
Himalayan Botanical Garden – Spend a Day Closer to Nature
Nature lovers, rejoice! The Himalayan Botanical Garden is a haven for plant lovers and avid photographers. This expansive garden is home to a wide variety of plant life, including conifer species, rhododendrons, and Himalayan orchids. Go on a guided tour to discover the distinctive flora of the area, or just meander along the well-maintained paths to take in the striking hues and alluring aromas.
Timing: Tuesday to Sunday 9 am – to 5 pm (Monday Closed)
Entry – Rs. 50/- per adult, Rs. 50/- per child (children aged 5 – 12), Free Entry For Children below 5, senior citizens and specially-abled individuals.
Location – Himalayan Botanical Garden, Narayan Nagar, Nainital
Tiffin Top or Dorothy’s Seat – For Breathtaking Views
Tiffin Top, also popularly known as “Dorothy’s Seat,” is a local favourite in Nainital. Situated atop the picturesque Ayarpatta hill, Tiffin Top provides a breathtaking perspective of the whole city of Nainital. If you are a photography enthusiast, this picturesque site guarantees you endless moments to capture stunning backdrops and breathtaking views of the hills.
Timing: Monday to Sunday 8 am – to 5:30 pm
Entry – Free. A pony ride up the hill can cost Rs. 500 to Rs. 700 for one side
Location – 4 km from Nainital Mall Road
The Mall Road
The Mall Road in Nainital connects the city’s two main hubs, Mallital and Tallital. A commercial centre for all Nainital traders, it offers a plethora of options for people to shop, dine, or simply stroll beside the river. You can expect to find a variety of shopping options at this popular place to visit in Nainital, including souvenirs from the city, scented candles in various sizes and shapes, decorative items made of wood and bronze, handlooms, shawls and handicraft items.
Timing: Monday to Sunday 9 am – to 10 pm
Location – Parallel to Naini Lake
Pangot and Kilbury Bird Sanctuary
If the enticing sight of the forest captivates your lonely gaze and makes you feel exuberant then Kilbury is a must-visit location. You can get up close and personal with nature as you can spot a variety of exotic Himalayan birds flocking the trees.
The Pangot and Kilbury Bird Sanctuary is situated about 14 km from the main city of Nainital. Its many bird species like woodpeckers, Whistling Thrush, Barbets, and the wooded landscape of pine, oak, and rhododendron trees are most well-known among tourists.
Timing: Monday to Sunday 6 am – to 5 pm
Entry Fee – No Entry Fee
Location – 14 Km from Nainital Mall Road
Naina Devi Temple
Apart from being a popular tourist destination, Nainital boasts of various pious Hindu pilgrimage spots. Naina Devi Temple is one of the famous places to visit in Nainital that sees devotees swarming all year long. This fifteenth-century temple is devoted to Goddess Sati, the spouse of Lord Shiva and she is represented by only her two eyes. It is believed, that devotee, Moti Ram Shah installed the idol inside the temple in 1842. Due to its auspicious location, the temple was rebuilt there even after suffering damage from a significant landslide in 1880. This pilgrimage spot also contains the statues of Lord Hanuman, Kali Mata, and Lord Ganesha.
Timing: Monday to Sunday 6 am – to 10 pm
Location – 3 km from the Nainital city bus stand
Bhimtal – The Pristine Beauty
Located about 22 kilometers from Nainital, lies the pristine lake of Bhimtal another famous place to visit in Nainital. Known for its immaculate scenery and interesting history, this lake has an island in the middle. It is believed that this lake is named after Bhima or Mahabharat. According to legends, Bhima constructed the Bhimeshwara Mahadev Temple when he paid a visit there during the Pandavas’ vanvas, or exile.
Timing: Monday to Sunday 6 am – to 6 pm
Entry Fee – No Entry Fee
Location – 22 km from the Nainital
Neem Karoli Baba Ashram Kainchi Dhaam
Kainchi Dham has become immensely popular in recent years for celebrities making a round for spirituality and wisdom. It was constructed in 1962 by revered monk Neem Karoli Baba, the man behind Hanuman Garhi. Kainchi Dham is a blessed spot and an ashram for devotees, surrounded by lush greenery and a wonderful hill. The temple, devoted to Lord Hanuman is built on the banks of the serene Kosi river and is frequently frequented by worshippers and supporters.
The likes of the Late Steve Jobs, Mark Zuckerburg, and Virat Kohli have all been spotted in Kainchi Dham.
Timing: Monday to Sunday 5 am – to 4 pm
Entry Fee – No Entry Fee
Location – 17 km from the Nainital
While planning your next trip to this hill station do not forget to include these top places to visit in Nainital in your itinerary. Book your stay with Blue Book, the luxury hotel in Nainital, and enjoy the serenity of this quaint town.