Nainital, a beautiful hill station in Uttarakhand, India, is renowned for its scenic beauty and serene environment. Here are ten must-visit places in Nainital, along with their locations, how to reach them, main attractions, and interesting facts:
Naini Lake
Location: Central Nainital
How to Reach: Easily accessible by walking from Mall Road.
Attractions: Boating, evening walks, views of the surrounding hills.
Facts: This kidney-shaped lake is the centerpiece of Nainital, offering picturesque views and boating opportunities.
Naina Devi Temple
Location: Northern shore of Naini Lake
How to Reach: Short walk from Mall Road or take a local taxi.
Attractions: Religious site, panoramic lake views.
Facts: Dedicated to Goddess Naina Devi, this temple is one of the 51 Shakti Peeths in India.
Tiffin Top (Dorothy’s Seat)
Location: Ayarpatta Hill
How to Reach: 4 km hike from Nainital town or hire a pony.
Attractions: Trekking, picnic spot, 360-degree views of Nainital.
Facts: Named in memory of Dorothy Kellet, an English artist, it offers splendid views of the town and surrounding countryside.
Snow View Point
Location: Sher-ka-Danda Ridge
How to Reach: 3 km by road or take the ropeway from Mallital.
Attractions: Himalayan views, cable car ride.
Facts: Offers panoramic views of the snow-clad peaks of the Great Himalayas, including Nanda Devi.
The Mall Road
Location: Along the Naini Lake
How to Reach: Central Nainital, easily walkable.
Attractions: Shopping, restaurants, evening strolls.
Facts: This is the main shopping, dining, and cultural hub of Nainital, bustling with activity.
Eco Cave Gardens
Location: Sukhatal
How to Reach: 2 km from Mall Road, accessible by local taxi.
Attractions: Cave exploration, musical fountain.
Facts: A series of interconnected caves and hanging gardens designed to give visitors a glimpse of Himalayan wildlife habitat.
Nainital Zoo (GB Pant High Altitude Zoo)
Location: Sher-ka-Danda Hill
How to Reach: 2 km from Tallital, local taxis available.
Attractions: Wildlife, including Himalayan black bears, snow leopards.
Facts: This high-altitude zoo is one of the few in India and is home to several endangered species.
Pangot and Kilbury Bird Sanctuary
Location: 15 km from Nainital
How to Reach: By car or taxi from Nainital.
Attractions: Bird watching, nature walks.
Facts: Known for its rich avian population, this sanctuary is a paradise for bird watchers with over 580 bird species.
Naina Peak (China Peak)
Location: 6 km from Mallital
How to Reach: Accessible by a trek or hire a pony.
Attractions: Hiking, highest peak in Nainital.
Facts: At an altitude of 2,615 meters, it offers the most expansive views of the town and the surrounding Himalayas.
Sattal
Location: 23 km from Nainital
How to Reach: By car or taxi from Nainital.
Attractions: Cluster of seven lakes, boating, bird watching.
Facts: This group of interconnected freshwater lakes is set amidst dense forests of oak and pine, making it a serene getaway.
These attractions offer a mix of natural beauty, adventure, and cultural experiences, making Nainital a versatile destination for tourists.
Nainital, nestled amidst the Kumaon hills in Uttarakhand, India, offers a serene retreat with its beautiful lakes, lush forests, and stunning viewpoints. Here are some must-visit places in Nainital:
1. Naini Lake
Description: The centerpiece of Nainital, a picturesque lake surrounded by hills and dotted with colorful boats.
Attractions: Boating (pedal and row boats), Naina Devi Temple on the northern shore, lakeside promenade.
2. Naina Devi Temple
Description: A sacred Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Naina Devi, situated on the northern shore of Naini Lake.
Attractions: Religious significance, serene ambiance, panoramic views of the lake.
3. Snow View Point
Description: Offers breathtaking views of the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas.
Attractions: Cable car ride (ropeway), panoramic views of Nanda Devi Peak and Trisul.
4. Tiffin Top (Dorothy’s Seat)
Description: A hilltop viewpoint named after Dorothy Kellet, known for its stunning views of the surrounding mountains and Nainital town.
Attractions: Trekking, horse riding, picnic spot.
5. Eco Cave Gardens
Description: A series of interconnected caves and gardens that provide an adventurous experience for visitors.
Attractions: Cave exploration, musical fountain, hanging gardens.
6. Mall Road
Description: The bustling heart of Nainital lined with shops, restaurants, and colonial-era buildings.
Attractions: Shopping for local handicrafts, eateries offering local cuisine, scenic views.
7. Hanuman Garhi
Description: A temple complex dedicated to Lord Hanuman, located atop a hill with panoramic views of sunrise and sunset.
Attractions: Religious significance, scenic views, peaceful ambiance.
8. Nainital Zoo (Pt. G.B. Pant High Altitude Zoo)
Description: One of the highest zoos in India, home to several endangered species and Himalayan fauna.
Attractions: Snow leopard, Himalayan black bear, red panda, bird watching.
9. Bhimtal Lake
Description: A serene lake located about 22 km from Nainital, larger than Naini Lake, with an island at its center.
Attractions: Boating, Bhimeshwar Mahadev Temple on the island, water sports.
10. Kilbury Bird Sanctuary
Description: A haven for bird watchers and nature enthusiasts, located about 12 km from Nainital.
Attractions: Bird watching (especially migratory birds), nature trails, panoramic views of the valley.
Additional Tips:
Best Time to Visit: The ideal time to visit Nainital is from March to June and September to November to enjoy pleasant weather and clear views.
Local Cuisine: Don’t miss trying local delicacies like Bal Mithai, Aloo ke Gutke, and local sweets.
Adventure Activities: Nainital offers opportunities for trekking, horse riding, paragliding, and boating.
Exploring these attractions will give you a comprehensive experience of Nainital’s natural beauty, culture, and serenity.