A beautiful emerald lake surrounded by green hills, quaint old cottages and markets, and a web of walking tracks—there are plenty of picturesque places to visit and things to do in Nainital. One of the most popular hill destinations in India, Nainital charms include everything from boating and sailing to old temples and heritage buildings, and of course, scenic views at every other step. The Lake City Nainital, situated in the lap of Uttarakhand is one of the favorites for honeymooners and couples. Listed below are some of the best things to do in Nainital. Have a look. Nainital is a charming hill station located at the Uttarakhand. visiting places in nainital, corbett national park, Naini Lake, mall road
Undoubtedly, visiting places in Nainital is one of the best destinations to visit in Uttarakhand and all of India. It is a beautiful hill station that houses some of the finest attractions of the state. Surrounded by lush green mountains that are overlooked by the snow-clad peaks, Nainital has a unique charm that lures people throughout the year.
But what’s important here is the balance between the beautiful attractions and amazing things to do in Nainital. Want to know more? visiting places in nainital Let’s check out the best activities that can be done in this breathtaking Nainital hill station.
15 Best Things To Do 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. Naini Lake 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
- Tiffin Top – View The Sunrise
- Tibetan Market – Shop For Local Souvenirs
- Hanuman Garhi – A Beautiful Temple
- Nainital Ropeway – For The Bird’s Eye View
- Mall Road – A Fine Stretch Of Shops
- Naina Devi – A Temple By The Lake
- Pangot And Kilbury Bird Sanctuary – For Awesome Fauna
- Raj Bhawan – A Royal Palace
- Corbett National Park – Nature At Its Best
- Cheena Peak – For Splendid Views
- Nainital Zoo – A Wide Range Of Animals
- Rock Climbing – For An Adventure Time
- Chandni Chowk – An Old Restaurant
- Cave Garden – Explore The Hidden Gem
Naini Lake – Enjoy Boating
Wondering what to do in Nainital first? Don’t worry, one of the best things to do in Nainital is to go around and take a tour of the scenic lakes. You can also enjoy a peaceful Naini Lake time boating in them. Boats are available for 30 mins to 1 hour for one family. Stop over at points to savor a delicious lunch at famous eateries Naini Lake like Boat House club or Sonam, places famous for the momos they offer.
A trip to the Naini Lake is perhaps incomplete if one doesn’t indulge in boating here. visiting places in nainital The serene beauty of the Naini Lake surrounded by gently rolling mountains presents a tranquil scenery. Naini Lake With gentle winds blowing as you pedal your way through the waters, the quaint atmosphere of Naini Lake will surely transport you into a world of your own. Yachting Naini Lake and kayaking are available here as well. Naini Lake The charges and timings of various boats here includes:-
Timings: 06:00 AM – 06:00 PM (March to June)
Cost for Boating in Naini Lake:
Brightly painted Gondola-like boats: INR 210 per hour
Boat ride through Nainital Boat Club: INR 350 per hour
Pedal boat: INR 150 per hour
Tiffin Top – View The Sunrise
Tiffin Top is a very famous tourist attraction in Nainital, also popularly called Dorothy’s Seat. A fantastic picnic spot in its own right, one gets a complete view of the town of Nainital and its surrounding hills in the Kumaon region from this location. Adventure activities such as rappelling and rock climbing are conducted at Tiffin Top as well. The beautiful Tiffin Top is surrounded by trees of Cher, Oak, and Deodar. Naini Lake and Kumaon Hills look lovely when seen from here. On clearer days, one can also get hold of the majestic view of Nanda Devi.
The attraction got its name as Tiffin Top after people started to have lunch on top of the hill on Dorothy’s Seat. Tiffin Top is also called Dorothy’s Seat because it was constructed in the loving memory of the English artist named Dorothy Kellett by the army officer Col J.P. Kellett. visiting places in nainital The officer lost his wife Dorothy whilst she was aboard a ship to be with her four children
Of the many things to see in Nainital, viewing the sunrise from Tiffin Top is a must. Himalayan Range will never look this beautiful to you. Catch a glimpse from Tiffin Top, a peak in Nainital and witness the most awe-inspiring sight. 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.
Location: Ayarpatta, Nainital, Uttarakhand 263002
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Tip: You will need trekking shoes to trek to this point
Famous for: Gorgeous sunrise view
Price: Free
Tibetan Market – Shop For Local Souvenirs
Located in the vicinity of the Mall Road in Nainital, Bhutia Market is the most popular street market in the city. Besides an extensive variety of woolens and winter wears, the market is popular for its sumptuous Tibetan food. Roadside stalls and eateries sell mouthwatering Thukpa and momos among other regional food items.
Some of the best things sold at the Bhutia Tibetan Market includes shawl, muffler, Himalayan bags, and Tibetan handicraft paraphernalia. The ethnic clothes adorned with the colourful local embroidery makes a perfect souvenir for the family and friends. You can bargain with the shopkeepers but try not to haggle much as this is their primary occupation.
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, woolen 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
Hanuman Garhi – A Beautiful Temple
Located on the Nainital-Haldwani route, Hanuman Garhi is a famous temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman. Perched atop 6,401 ft. high, the temple was built by a local saint Baba Neem Karoli in 1950 and is located close to Ashram of Bapu Lila Sah and Shitla Devi temple. visiting places in nainital The idol of Lord Hanuman is portrayed as splitting his chest, depicting that Lord Ram resides in his heart. The view of the rosy sky during sunset and sunrise is what attracts tourists to Hanuman Garhi. Since it is a Lord Hanuman Temple, there is a throng of devotees on Tuesday and Saturday.
Dedicated to Hindu God and loyal follower of Lord Ram, Lord Hanuman, Hanuman Garhi is a temple that enjoys an amazing location on the top of a hill in Nainital. Built in the year 1950 by a local saint, the best part about this temple is the amazing sunset view of the place, where people can watch the sun slowly gliding down and set behind the hills.
Visit this Hanuman Temple and experience the divinity of this place. Of the many things to see in Nainital, do not miss the most romantic and enchanting sunset. 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.
Location: Haldwani Road, Nainital, Uttarakhand 263002
Timings: 5 AM – 12 PM & 4 PM – 9 PM
Tip: Do not miss the sunrise or sunset views
Famous for: Enchanting sunset view
Price: Free
Nainital Ropeway – For The Bird’s Eye View
Nainital Ropeway or the Cable Car Ride is the most popular tourist attraction in the city of Nainital and touted as one of the fastest ropeways in the country. The aerial ropeway connects Mallital to the Snow viewpoint- from the base to a height of 2270 metres. The aerial trip hovering over the Naini lake and the valley offer panoramic views of the breathtaking landscape.
The stunning Nainital ropeway covers half a mile distance in about 3 minutes with 2 trolleys accommodating around 11 people in total at a time.
If your definition of enjoyment is taking some crazy high-altitude rides then one of the best adrenaline-rushing activities to do in Nainital is to take the ropeway ride. Also known as the cable car ride, it is one of the most popular activities held by the city.
The people here call it to snow view activity because when you reach the high altitude viewpoint, the entire snow-capped Himalayan mountain range is for you to enjoy.
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.
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
Mall Road – A Fine Stretch Of Shops
Collecting candles of various forms, shapes and sizes is one of the best things to do in Nainital. mall road 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. mall road 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.
The Mall Road of Nainital, which runs parallel to the Naini Lake, connecting the two ends of mall road the hill town (Mallital and Tallital), mall road is the prime shopping, food and cultural centre of the wonder that is Nainital. Whether it is digging into some luscious food or shopping for the cutest local woolens that are to be found, Mall Road is your go-to for it all.
Officially named as Govind Ballabh Pant Marg, the Mall Road in Nainital was built by the Britishers. Today, the road is synonymous to the mall road town of Nainital. mall road You can see unwary tourists taking a stroll at Mall Road at all times of the day. Entry to heavy vehicles and traffic is prohibited during the peak season of May, June and October.
Location: Mall Road, Nainital, Uttarakhand
Timings: 24 hours
Tip: Do explore the full stretch of road for the endless varieties of shops
Famous for: Unique home decor items
Naina Devi – A Temple By The Lake
Naina Devi Temple located in Nainital is a famous Hindu pilgrimage site and one of the fifty-one Shakti Peethas in India. The presiding deity of the Naina Devi Temple is Maa Naina Devi or Mata Sati. According to Hindu mythology, the temple is built on the spot where Goddess Sati’s eyes fell when Lord Vishnu cut her body into 51 different parts.
Inside the Naina Devi Temple, you will find the two eyes on the roof, depicting Goddess Naina Devi, placed in the centre; with the statues of Goddess Kali and Lord Ganesha surrounding it. The city of Nainital got its name from the Naina Devi Temple. As you climb the hill to reach the temple, various shops selling Prasad and other essential puja items will greet you on the way.
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Soak in the divinity by visiting the Naina Devi Temple. Spend some quiet time here, you will surely come back refreshed. The Naina Devi Temple is dedicated to goddess Naina Devi, who is believed to govern the Naini Lake. It is believed to be one of the 64 Shaktipeeth’s in India. The location of the temple is simply awe-inspiring, instilling a sense of tranquility in the pilgrims who come here to offer their prayers.
Location: Ayarpatta, Nainital, Uttarakhand 263002
Timings: 4 AM – 10 PM
Tip: Dress moderately while entering the temple
Famous for: Spending quiet time
Price: Free
Pangot And Kilbury Bird Sanctuary – For Awesome Fauna
One of the best things to see in Nainital is to visit this sanctuary to witness some of the rare species of birds and animals. They will make you feel like going back to your younger days and enjoy them in a childlike manner. Kilbury is enclosed by a flourishing green thick jungle of oak and pine. Forests of Kilbury provide sufficient opportunities to bird watchers and make Kilbury a perfect birding holiday destination.
Located just 15 kilometres away from Nainital, Pangot, located in the Kosiyakutoli tehsil of the Nainital district of Uttarakhand is a small and picturesque hamlet. The village is at the height of 6,300 feet above the sea level and is well known all across the nation for its rich and exotic bird life. Pangot also becomes a hub for photography enthusiasts when hundreds of different species of birds flock here during the harsh winters in the upper Himalayas and settle down here temporarily. A step into the wilderness of Pangot, and you will find yourself in the midst of a remote Himalayan village.
Tips
1. Even if you are visiting the place during summers, carry light woollens with you as the temperature drops during night time.
2. For birdwatchers, it is advisable to wear jungle and natural colours such as olive green, beige and khaki. These colours not only help you to camouflage but are also the least disturbing and hence, visiting places in nainital the most appropriate ones.
3. Rain gear is essential for monsoons.
4. Wear shoes that you are comfortable in, as you will have to walk around a lot.
5. Make sure that you take along essential medicines, insect repellents, flashlight with extra batteries, and power banks to charge your phone.
6. You can carry snacks and food as it is difficult to find good restaurants in Pangot. You will, however, find roadside dhaba along the way.
Location: Village Pangot, Budhlakot, Via Kilbury Road, Uttarakhand 263001
Timings: 6 AM – 5 PM
Tip: Do carry your camera for awesome snapshots
Famous for: Witnessing rare species of fauna
Price: Free
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Raj Bhawan – A Royal Palace
This Nainital Governor’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-story 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, visiting places in nainital the golf course is set around a scenic forest, and is home to several rare species of flora and fauna.
Home to the popular golf course, the Governor’s House is a Victorian Gothic edifice resembling the Castle of Scotland very closely and consisting of two stories of buildings with 113 rooms, garden, swimming pool and of course, the golf course. The second raj Bhawan in Uttarakhand, it was built in 1899 by designer F.W. Steven as the summer residence of the Governor of North East Province. The Governor’s House now serves as the residence of the Governor of Uttarakhand.
Location: Amghari, Nainital, Uttarakhand 263002
Timings: 11 AM – 4 PM
Tip: The Bhawan remains closed on Sundays and national holidays
Famous for: Its magnificent looks
Price: INR 50 for entry, INR 450 for golf course
Corbett National Park – Nature At Its Best
Located in the district of Nainital, Corbett National Park is a perfect place for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers. Named after the renowned British-Indian hunter and tracker-turned-conservationist, the tourist places in Corbett National Park have a mystical status when it comes to wildlife holidays in India. After that This oldest national park in India is home to abundant flora and fauna and promises to offer quintessential experiences through its safari. The popularity of Corbett national Park is due to the presence of Royal Bengal Tiger in abundance and the captivating landscape for the delight of nature lovers.
Not only wildlife, the park has a good population of bird species and is quite known for fishing and angling as well. Also, with so many wildlife resorts, it’s loved by luxury travelers. corbett national park Situated on the foothills of Himalayas, this ‘Paradise of Tigers’ is the key to corbett national park escape corbett national park from the vivid city lights and constant traffic roar. A Jim Corbett tour will take you on an adventure through lush green hills, corbett national park reverie belts, water holes and 521 sq km of abounding animal and plant kingdom.
A 3-hour ride from Nainital will take you the biggest Tiger Reserve in India and it will surely be a visit worth it if you are lucky to spot a tiger. Enjoy watching other animals and make this safari a memorable one corbett national park. Best time to visit the Jim Corbett National Park is from November to June. corbett national park Book a nearby resort to manifold the experience. So, corbett national park if you were looking for activities to do in Nainital then your search is over.
Location: Nainital District, Ramnagar, Uttarakhand 244715
Timings: 6:30 AM – 6 PM
Tip: Stay in your vehicles and take a guide at all times during safari
Famous for: Watching birds
Price: Safari prices vary
Cheena Peak – For Splendid Views
Naina Peak is the highest peak of Nainital at a height of 2615 metres. visiting places in nainital A major tourist attraction in the city, the peak remains covered with snow throughout the year and the blanket of trees over it project a picturesque view. Due to the high altitude and scenic trails, the peak is very popular among hikers and trekkers. Also known as China Peak, it is renowned among tourists and locals for its romantic sunrise and sunset. It is a must-visit for couples as well as friend groups.
One can capture the landscape from many angles, while on a trek to Naina Peak. Apart from trekking, people also reach the summit of the mountain with the help of a pony-ride. About 3 kilometres from the base of the peak is Tanke Band, which is the nearest taxi stand. Similarly One can indulge in a photography session of nature and snowclad mountain views during the day and the immensely beautiful city line of Nainital at night.
The city of Nainital seems truly splendid from the top of this mountain. visiting places in nainital If this view does not inspire you to get the cameras out, we do not know what will. The highest point in Nainital, Cheena Peak is a famous trekking point. For a rewarding view alongside rows of Cypresses, Deodars, and Rhododendrons, you should head to the top of the peak. Also called Naina Peak, it is an epic place to enjoy splendid views of the Himalayas. The peak leads the way for many spots to enjoy camping in Nainital.
Location: Nainital, Uttarakhand 263001
Timings: 24 hours
Tip: Carry trekking boots with you
Famous for: Splendid views
Nainital Zoo – A Wide Range Of Animals
Established in 1984, Pt. G.B. Pant High Altitude Zoo or Nainital Zoo is situate on the Sher ka Danda hill in Tallital, Nainital. Perched at a height of 2100 metres and spread over an area of 4.6 hectares makes it the only one of its kind. The zoo is home to several endangered species and is a popular tourist spot.
The Nainital Zoo is managed by the fund that comes from the entry fees and is managed by the Bharat Ratna Pandit Govind Vallabh Pant High Altitude Zoo Management Society. visiting places in nainital The major wildlife spotted at the zoo includes Himalayan Bear, Himalayan Civet, Hill Patridge, Tibetan Wolf, Sambar, Barking Deer, Royal Bengal Tiger among other species of birds and animals. During the winter season, the bird enclosures are covered with curtains to keep them warm.
A high-altitude home for wild animals, Nainital Zoo is 2100m above the sea level. It is also known as Pt. Govind Ballabh Pant High Altitude Zoo. It houses animals like Tibetan wolves, leopard cat, Sambar, Lady Amherst pheasant, red jungle fowl, rose-ringed parakeet. Situated in Tallital, it is open from Friday to Wednesday between 10 AM and 4:30 PM. Another great thing about this place is that it costs around 50 bucks for an adult and around INR 20 for children. Visiting this zoo is one of the best things to do in Nainital.
Location: Tallital, Nainital, Uttarakhand 263002
Timings: 10 AM – 4:30 PM
Tip: Do not feed or tease the animals
Famous for: Wide range of animals
Price: INR 300
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Rock Climbing – For An Adventure Time
If you are looking for adventure sports in Nainital, you have to look no further than this. visiting places in nainital A number of people who visit Nainital usually overlook this activity. So 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.
Not that far from Cave Garden is the Barapathar or Bara Pathar, behind which is a rock-climbing spot. No, amateur climbers are not welcome here, you have to take at least a 7 days course in which you can learn abseiling, bouldering, climbing, scrambling and river crossing.
Now, physical agility and your duration is the main question here. If you are in the city for a long time and you are looking for something really enthralling to do, rock climbing is the best thing to do in Nainital. Being a native of Nainital, I can honestly tell you that climbing up a mountain and reaching the top is the best feeling EVER! You must include this adventure in your travel itinerary of your Nainital Tour.
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
Chandni Chowk – An Old Restaurant
We all know about the Chandni Chowk in Delhi. But have you heard about the one in Nainital? visiting places 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. So 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
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. visiting places in nainital Caves such as Tiger Cave, Bat Cave, Panther Cave and others, are name after the animals they put under the spotlight. 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
Location: Sukhatal, Mallital, Nainital, Uttarakhand 263001
Timings: 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM
Tip: Do visit for an offbeat experience
Famous for: Interconnected rocky caves
Price: INR 20 for adults and INR 10 for children
