Top 10 Places to visit in Nainital, the lake district of India

Nainital is considered as one of the most popular hill stations of India. Located in the Indian state of Uttarakhand, it tops the list of North India Tourist Places. The place attracts domestic as well as foreign tourists throughout the year. The popular Naina Lake, which is located in the heart of the city and surrounded by Naina peak, Deopatha, Ayarpatha is one of the popular attraction in the city. The beauty of the Naina Lake looks even more amazing from the hill top. The place is like a heaven for Nature’s lover. One can indulge in several activities like boating, shopping, Trekking & Hiking, Picnic over here. Nainital is well connected via Road, Railway, and Air. One can either reach IGI Delhi or Pant Nagar Airport and then transfer to Nainital, the distance from the airport is 72 kilometers and 300 kilometers respectively. Nearest Railway station is at Kathgodam and trains for all the major stations in India are available here. Direct bus service to Nainital from Delhi, Dehradun, and other important cities are available. Check out the list of top places to visit in Nainital, if you are planning to visit this enthralling hill station.

Naini Devi Temple

Naini Devi Temple is the important landmark of the city. It is situated beside Naina lake and is dedicated to Naini Devi, who is represented by her eyes. The temple is an important Shakti Peeth in Hindu religion and attracts the attention of the devotees round the year. Tibetan market and local eating restaurant are located near the temple complex and one can have some refreshment with shopping over here. You can spend hours in the temple adoring the beauty of Naina Lake and worshipping Naina Devi Mata.

The Mall

The mall is the major area of activities in Nainital, it is also known by the name Govind Ballabh Pant Marg. It is a road which runs side by side of Naina Lake and connects the two important end of the city Mallital and Tallital. Various shopping outlets, eating joints, travel agencies, and local handicraft bazaar is situated on the road. You will definitely find your products of interest over here. You may buy special Nainital Candles, which are just amazing and woolen items, which are sold here at a genuine rate.

Nainital Lake

Nainital Lake is the most important landmark in the city. It can be seen while taking a stroll on Mall road or from Naina Devi temple. The shape of the lake is like a pear, which can be seen from the hill-top. It is the most important lake in the district of Nainital. You can indulge in the activity like boating over here or may just stand by the side of the lake and enjoy its serenity. We had an awesome Shikara ride in Nainital lake. The charge of the boat ride is about 200 INR and you can see the splendid peaks surrounding the lake while enjoying your boat ride.

Naina Peak

Naina Peak, also known as China peak is the highest peak in Nainital. One can reach there by trekking or by hiring a Pony. Trekking to Naina peak is joyous as it provides a magnificent view of the valley with Deodar and other trees. It is about 7 kilometers from Tallital bus stand. Naina Peak offers a splendid view of the Himalayas and birds-eye-view of Nainital city. You can also see the vast area of Kumaon region from here. It is recommended to visit there during daylight and pack your own food & drink as there’s no refreshment centers available here.

Tiffin Top

Tiffin top is a popular picnic spot in Nainital. It is situated on Ayarpatta hills and is also known as Dorothy’s seat, which offers a splendid panoramic view of Nainital city. This place is also good for photographers who loves to capture the beauty of Nature. It is about 4 to 5 kilometers from main Nainital city and one can reach here by trekking or by horse riding, which is available from Mall road. The charge of hiring a pony is around 500 to 700 INR depending on the season. It is a great place to hangout with family and friends. In order to make the most out of your visit to Tiffin Top, make sure that you go there during sunlight, to enjoy the sight of amazing valleys.

Eco Cave Gardens

It is located in Sukhatal at a distance of 1 kilometer from Mall Road. This place is both fun and adventurous for children and adults alike. There are several interconnected narrow caves in this garden, which are given animals name like Tiger cave, Pather cave, flying fox cave etc. Exploring each cave is fun as you have to crawl and climb, in order to exit each cave. It is fun and engaging for children. There is a nominal entry fee of 20 INR and the opening and closing time is 9.30 A.M and 5.30 P.M respectively.

Snow View Point

Snow view point is situated on the hilltop, at a distance of 3 kilometers from Mall road and can be reached by hiring a private cab, through cable ropeway or by trekking. It provides a mesmerizing view of the Himalayas. The enthralling sight of Nanda Devi, Nanda kot and Trishul has an hypnotizing effect. Several refreshment centers are available here, and you can spend your time here by watching the splendid Himalayas while having snacks. Binoculars are available at nominal cost to behold the beauty of the valley more clearly. We spent an amazing time here, check my post on visiting Snow View Point.

High Altitude Zoo

Pt. G.B.Pant high altitude zoo is situated at the height of 2100 meters. It is about 3 kilometers from Mall road and you may reach there by taking a stroll or by shared taxi which is easily available. Several endangered animals are found here. Himalayan bear, Snow leopard, Tiger and rare species of birds can be seen here. It is the favorable place for Children and adult alike. The entry fee to this zoo is 50 INR and it takes about 1.5 hours to explore the entire Zoo.

Kilbury Bird Sanctuary

Kilbury is a paradise for anyone who loves birds watching or birds photography. The place is located about 15 kilometers from Tallital bus stand and one can reach there by private cab. There are about 580 different species of birds found in their natural habitat here. It is also a great picnic spot and is fun to be here with your friends and family amidst the sight and sound of bird’s chirping.

Land’s end

Land’s end provides an amazing view of Khurpatal. It is located at an altitude of 2120 meters and offers a magnificent view of hills and valleys.

These were the top 10 places to visit in Nainital, there are also some other landmarks & attractions like Binayak, Peora village, Aurobindo Ashram, Hanuman Garhi, Kainchi Dham, ARIES, The Flatts, Gurney house, and Raj Bhawan. It will take around 2 days to explore Nainital and enjoy all the things to do here. If you have been to any Nainital before, please share your experience in comments.