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Nainital, Uttarakhand, India

Nainital, Uttarakhand, India

About the Nainital

Nainital, nestled in the Kumaon foothills of the Himalayas, is a charming hill station renowned for its emerald-green Naini Lake, surrounded by towering peaks. It offers a refreshing escape from the plains, with colonial-era architecture adding to its picturesque appeal. The town is a blend of natural beauty, adventure activities, and cultural experiences, making it a popular destination for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Nainital is during the summer months (March to June) and the autumn months (September to November). Summer (March to June) offers pleasant weather, ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The temperature ranges from 11°C to 28°C. Monsoon (July to August) experiences heavy rainfall, which can disrupt travel plans and limit outdoor activities. The region is prone to landslides during this period. Autumn (September to November) offers clear skies, comfortable temperatures, and stunning views of the Himalayas. It's an excellent time for trekking and enjoying the natural beauty of the region. Winter (December to February) experiences cold weather with temperatures dropping below freezing. Snowfall is common, attracting visitors who enjoy winter sports and the snowy landscape. However, some roads and attractions may be closed due to snowfall.

Trip Duration

2 days 2-3 days
A 2-3 day trip is ideal for exploring the major attractions of Nainital at a relaxed pace. This allows you to enjoy boating, visit viewpoints, explore the Mall Road, and indulge in adventure activities. You can also extend your stay if you want to explore nearby destinations.

Best Tourist Places to Visit in Nainital

Nainital Lake
Nainital Lake
★★★★★

4.7

Popularity

Tiffin Top
Tiffin Top
★★★★★

4.5

Popularity

Snow View point
Snow View point
★★★★★

4.4

Popularity

Maa Naina Devi Temple, Nainital
Maa Naina Devi Temple, Nainital
★★★★★

4.7

Popularity

Eco Cave Park
Eco Cave Park
★★★★★

4.2

Popularity

G B Pant High Altitude Zoo
G B Pant High Altitude Zoo
★★★★★

4.3

Popularity

Lands End Picnic Spot
Lands End Picnic Spot
★★★★★

4.3

Popularity

Kilbury and Pangot Wildlife and Bird Sanctuary
Kilbury and Pangot Wildlife and Bird Sanctuary
★★★★★

4.2

Popularity

Sankat Mochan Mandir,Hanuman Garhi
Sankat Mochan Mandir,Hanuman Garhi
★★★★★

4.8

Popularity

Activities / Things To Do in Nainital

  • Boating in Naini Lake Enjoy a leisurely boat ride on the serene Naini Lake. Choose from paddle boats, rowboats, or shikaras (traditional houseboats) for a relaxing experience. Many boats are available for hire near the Mall Road.
  • Visit Naina Devi Temple Seek blessings at the Naina Devi Temple, a significant Hindu shrine located on the northern edge of Naini Lake. The temple offers panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Remember to dress respectfully.
  • Trek to Tiffin Top (Dorothy's Seat) Embark on a scenic trek to Tiffin Top, also known as Dorothy's Seat, offering panoramic views of Nainital and the surrounding Himalayas. You can hire a horse or pony for the ascent, or enjoy a rewarding hike. Pack water and snacks.
  • Explore Snow View Point Take a cable car ride or drive to Snow View Point for breathtaking views of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks, including Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Nanda Kot. Telescopes are available for closer viewing.
  • Stroll along the Mall Road Take a leisurely walk along the Mall Road, the main thoroughfare of Nainital, lined with shops, restaurants, and hotels. It's a great place to soak in the atmosphere and shop for souvenirs. Enjoy some local snacks and street food.
  • Visit the High Altitude Zoo Explore the Pt. G.B. Pant High Altitude Zoo, home to a variety of animals adapted to high-altitude environments, including snow leopards, Himalayan black bears, and Tibetan wolves. It's a great place for families with children.
  • Horse Riding Enjoy a horse riding experience to various viewpoints like Tiffin Top and Naina Peak. Horse riding is a popular activity and provides a different perspective of the landscape. Negotiate the price beforehand.
  • Ropeway Ride Take a thrilling ropeway ride from Mallital to Snow View Point, offering panoramic views of the town and the surrounding mountains. It's a convenient and exciting way to reach Snow View Point.
  • Shop at the Tibetan Market Browse through the vibrant Tibetan Market, located near the Naini Lake, offering a variety of woolen clothes, handicrafts, souvenirs, and local products. Bargaining is common.
  • Visit Governor's House (Raj Bhavan) Explore the magnificent Governor's House (Raj Bhavan), a colonial-era building showcasing impressive architecture and manicured gardens. Entry requires prior permission.

Nainital Best Restaurant | Your Ultimate Dining Guide

Machan Restaurant
Machan Restaurant
★★★★★

4.1

Popularity

Zooby's Kitchen
Zooby's Kitchen
★★★★★

4.3

Popularity

The Sakley's Restaurant & Pastry Shop
The Sakley's Restaurant & Pastry Shop
★★★★★

4.1

Popularity

Nanak Restaurant Nainital
Nanak Restaurant Nainital
★★★★★

4.2

Popularity

Embassy Restaurant
Embassy Restaurant
★★★★

3.9

Popularity

Chandni Chowk Restaurant
Chandni Chowk Restaurant
★★★★

3.9

Popularity

Zooby's Kitchen
Zooby's Kitchen
★★★★★

4.4

Popularity

Café LakeSide
Café LakeSide
★★★★★

4.5

Popularity

The Kumaon Kettle Cafe and Restaurant
The Kumaon Kettle Cafe and Restaurant
★★★★★

4.8

Popularity

Simz Cafe - Cafe and Restaurant
Simz Cafe - Cafe and Restaurant
★★★★★

4.4

Popularity

Accommodation

Manu Maharani Regency
Manu Maharani Regency
★★★★★

4.2

Popularity

Shervani Hilltop Nainital
Shervani Hilltop Nainital
★★★★★

4.2

Popularity

Alka The Lake Side Hotel
Alka The Lake Side Hotel
★★★★

4

Popularity

Sterling Nainital
Sterling Nainital
★★★★★

4.3

Popularity

Vikram Vintage Inn
Vikram Vintage Inn
★★★★★

4.2

Popularity

The Naini Retreat, Nainital
The Naini Retreat, Nainital
★★★★★

4.3

Popularity

Himalaya Hotel, Nainital
Himalaya Hotel, Nainital
★★★★

3.8

Popularity

LakeSide Inn Nainital
LakeSide Inn Nainital
★★★★

4

Popularity

Dynasty Resort
Dynasty Resort
★★★★★

4.1

Popularity

Hotel Arif Castles Nainital
Hotel Arif Castles Nainital
★★★★

3.9

Popularity

How to Reach Nainital

Air

Pantnagar Airport (PGH) is the nearest airport to Nainital, approximately 70 km away. You can hire a taxi from the airport to reach Nainital. Flights to Pantnagar are limited, so check availability in advance.

Bus

Nainital is well-connected by road to major cities in Uttarakhand and neighboring states. Regular bus services and taxis are available from Delhi, Dehradun, and other cities. The drive to Nainital offers scenic views of the hills.

Train

Kathgodam Railway Station (KGM) is the nearest railway station to Nainital, approximately 34 km away. It is well-connected to major cities in India. You can hire a taxi or take a bus from Kathgodam to reach Nainital.

Important Notes

Carry warm clothes even during the summer months, as the weather can be unpredictable in the hills.
Be prepared for potential traffic congestion, especially during peak season and weekends.
If you are planning to trek, carry appropriate footwear and clothing.
Bargain while shopping in the local markets.
Respect the local culture and traditions.
Avoid littering and help keep the environment clean.
Carry necessary medications and a first-aid kit.
Check weather conditions before planning outdoor activities.
Be aware of potential landslides during the monsoon season.

Nainital Nearby Destinations

Bhimtal

Bhimtal

A town known for its beautiful lake and island.

Distance : 11 KM (approx)

Rating : 4.4

Popularity Score : 4.4

Must Visit : Bhimtal Lake, Bhimtal Island Aquarium, Nal Damyanti Tal.

Naukuchia Taal

Naukuchia Taal

A lake with nine corners, surrounded by lush greenery.

Distance : 13 KM (approx)

Rating : 4.3

Popularity Score : 4.3

Must Visit : Naukuchiatal Lake, Hanuman Temple.

Sattal

Sattal

A cluster of seven interconnected freshwater lakes.

Distance : 8 KM (approx)

Rating : 4.2

Popularity Score : 4.2

Must Visit : Butterfly Museum, Sattal Lake, Methodist Ashram.

Mukteshwar

Mukteshwar

A town known for its beautiful views and temples

Distance : 8 KM (approx)

Rating : 4.4

Popularity Score : 4.4

Must Visit : Mukteshwar Temple

Ranikhet

Ranikhet

A hill station with great views of Himalayas

Distance : 8 KM (approx)

Rating : 4.5

Popularity Score : 4.5

Must Visit : Chaubatia Gardens

Kausani

Kausani

A hill station known as Switerland of India

Distance : 8 KM (approx)

Rating : 4.6

Popularity Score : 4.6

Must Visit : Anasakti Ashram

Almora

Almora

A cultural center of Kumaon

Distance : 8 KM (approx)

Rating : 4.3

Popularity Score : 4.3

Must Visit : Kasar Devi Temple

Jim Corbett National Park

Jim Corbett National Park

Home to wild animals

Distance : 8 KM (approx)

Rating : 4.7

Popularity Score : 4.7

Must Visit : Jim Corbett Museum

Ramgarh Cantonment

Ramgarh Cantonment

Known for views of the Himalayas

Distance : 15 KM (approx)

Rating : 4.1

Popularity Score : 4.1

Must Visit : Tagore Top

Jeolikote

Jeolikote

Also called as Gateway to NainiTal

Distance : 15 KM (approx)

Rating : 4

Popularity Score : 4

Must Visit : Jeolikot town

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Nainital famous for?
Nainital is famous for its scenic beauty, Naini Lake, colonial architecture, adventure activities, and the Naina Devi Temple.
What is the best time to visit Nainital?
The best time to visit Nainital is during the summer months (March to June) and the autumn months (September to November).
How do I reach Nainital?
You can reach Nainital by air (Pantnagar Airport), train (Kathgodam Railway Station), or road (bus or taxi).
What are some popular activities to do in Nainital?
Popular activities include boating in Naini Lake, visiting Naina Devi Temple, trekking to Tiffin Top, exploring Snow View Point, and strolling along the Mall Road.
Are there any adventure activities available in Nainital?
Yes, Nainital offers a range of adventure activities like trekking, paragliding, rock climbing, and horse riding.
Is Nainital safe?
Nainital is generally considered safe for tourists. However, it's always advisable to be cautious and aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Be careful during the monsoon season due to the risk of landslides.
What kind of clothes should I pack for Nainital?
Pack warm clothes even during the summer months, as the weather can be unpredictable in the hills. During winter, pack heavy woolens, including gloves, scarves, and hats. Comfortable walking shoes are also essential.
Are there ATMs available in Nainital?
Yes, ATMs are available in Nainital, particularly around Mall Road. However, it's always a good idea to carry some cash with you.

Location Map

Coordinates: Latitude 29.3908, Longitude 79.4625 (Nainital, Uttarakhand, India)