Nainital tourist places

Top 15 Nainital Tourist Places

Nainital is one of the most popular hill stations in entire India. If you’re visiting India and if you want to capture the Himalayan mountain ranges, there is no better place than anything. Even though the Himalayan mountain ranges start at a bit of distance from Nainital, you would be able to see their beauty easily from Nainital Owing to the large number of tourists which the hill station receives throughout the year, you would be able to find plenty of tourist-friendly amenities in the hill station. That is why visiting Nainital is surely going to be a pleasant experience for you. If you’re confused about the Nainital tourist places, we would share with you 15 different places which you should definitely visit when you’re in Nainital.

Naini Lake –

Naini Lake - Nainital Tourist Places

Naini Lake is the most popular tourist attraction in Nainital, located in the heart of the town. The lake is shaped like a pear and is surrounded by beautiful mountains and lush green forests. It is a perfect spot for boating and picnics. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll around the lake while enjoying the serene ambiance and the stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The lake is also home to a variety of fish, making it a popular spot for anglers. There are also several temples and ashrams located around the lake, making it a popular spot for religious tourists.

Naini Peak (China Peak) –

Naini Peak, also known as China Peak, is the highest peak in Nainital and offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. It is a popular spot for trekking and hiking, and the trek to the peak is a must-do for adventure enthusiasts. The trek is considered moderate to difficult, and the views from the top are truly breathtaking. Visitors can also enjoy paragliding, rock climbing, and rappelling at China peak. There are also several camping sites around the peak, making it a great spot for overnight camping.

Governor’s House –

Also known as Raj Bhavan, Governor’s House is a colonial-era building that serves as the official residence of the Governor of Uttarakhand. The building is an architectural marvel and is surrounded by beautiful gardens and lawns. Visitors can take a tour of the building and learn about its history and architecture. The building also houses a museum that displays a collection of rare photographs, artifacts, and paintings of the Governor’s House.

Naina Devi Temple –

Naina Devi Temple - Nainital Tourist Places

Naina Devi Temple is a temple dedicated to the Hindu goddess Naina Devi and is one of the most important religious sites in the town. The temple is located on the northern shore of Naini Lake and is visited by a large number of devotees every year. The temple is built in the traditional style of Kumaon architecture and is adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures. Visitors can also take a dip in the holy pond located next to the temple, which is believed to have healing powers.

John’s Church –

St. John’s Church is a beautiful church built in 1844 and is known for its stained glass windows and Gothic architecture. The church is located on Mall Road and is a popular spot for visitors to admire its architecture and take in the serene ambiance. The church also has a small museum that displays a collection of religious artifacts and paintings. Visitors can also take a guided tour of the church to learn more about its history and architecture.

Snow View Point –

Snow View Point - Nainital Tourist Places

Snow View Point offers a panoramic view of the Himalayan range, including the Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Nanda Kot peaks. The viewpoint is located at an altitude of 2270m and can be reached by a ropeway or a trek. Visitors can take in the stunning views of the snow-capped peaks and enjoy the tranquility of the surrounding forests. There is also a temple located at the viewpoint, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Visitors can also enjoy a cup of hot tea or coffee at the viewpoint café, while admiring the views.

Tiffin Top (Dorothy’s Seat) –

Tiffin Top

Tiffin Top, also known as Dorothy’s Seat, is a viewpoint that offers breathtaking views of the town and the surrounding hills. The viewpoint is located at an altitude of 2292m and can be reached by a trek. Visitors can take in the stunning views of the Nainital valley and the surrounding mountains. The viewpoint is also a popular spot for photography and is named after an English artist, Dorothy Kellet, who used to frequent this spot and painted many landscapes. There is a small café at the viewpoint, where visitors can enjoy a hot cup of tea or coffee while admiring the views.

Nainital Zoo –

Nainital Zoo is a high-altitude zoo, located at an altitude of 2100m and is home to a wide variety of animals and birds native to the Himalayan region. The zoo is spread over an area of 4.6 hectares and is known for its conservation efforts of endangered species. Visitors can see the animals in their natural habitat, including the snow leopard, the black bear, the musk deer, and the Himalayan tahr. There is also a snake house, an aviary, and a leopard breeding center in the zoo.

Hanuman Garhi –

Hanuman Garhi - Nainital Tourist Places

Hanuman Garhi is a temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, located 3 km from Nainital. The temple is built on a hilltop and is a popular spot for religious tourists. The temple is surrounded by beautiful gardens and offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills. Visitors can take a trek to the temple, which is considered to be a moderate trek. There is also a cave temple inside the complex, which is believed to have been visited by Lord Hanuman himself.

Sariyatal –

Sariyatal is a beautiful lake, surrounded by oak and pine trees, is a perfect spot for bird watching and picnics. The lake is located 7km from Nainital and is known for its serene ambiance and beautiful views of the surrounding hills. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll around the lake while enjoying the tranquility of the surrounding forests. There are also several picnic spots around the lake, making it a great spot for a family outing. The lake is also a popular spot for bird watching, as it is home to a wide variety of migratory birds.

Naini Temple –

Naini Temple is one of the most ancient and sacred temples in Nainital. The temple is dedicated to the goddess Naina Devi, who is believed to be an incarnation of the Hindu goddess Parvati. The temple is located on the northern shore of Naini Lake and is considered to be one of the Shakti Peethas. The temple is visited by thousands of devotees every year, especially during the Navratri festival when the temple is decorated with lights and flowers.

Governor’s House –

Governor’s House, also known as Raj Bhavan, is the official residence of the Governor of Uttarakhand. The palace was built in 1899 by the British and is located on the northern shore of Naini Lake. The palace is a fine example of British colonial architecture and is surrounded by beautiful gardens. Visitors can take a tour of the palace, which is open to the public during certain days of the week.

Nainital Ropeway –

Nainital Ropeway is a popular tourist attraction in Nainital, offering breathtaking views of the town and the surrounding hills. The ropeway takes visitors from the Mallital area to Snow View point, which is located at an altitude of 2270m. The journey takes about 10 minutes and offers panoramic views of the Himalayan range. Visitors can also take a chairlift ride, which takes them to Khurpatal lake, a beautiful lake located in the midst of the forest.

Astronomical Observatory –

The astronomical observatory in Nainital is one of the oldest observatories in India. The observatory was established in the 19th century and is located on the top of the Sher-ka-danda hill. The observatory is equipped with telescopes and other scientific instruments, which are used for research and study of the stars and planets. Visitors can take a tour of the observatory and learn about the history of astronomy in India.

John in the Wilderness Church –

St. John in the Wilderness Church is a beautiful church located in Nainital, built-in 1844. The church is dedicated to St. John the Baptist and is known for its beautiful stained-glass windows, which depict the life of Jesus Christ. The church is surrounded by beautiful gardens and is a popular spot for photography. Visitors can take a tour of the church and admire the intricate architecture and the serene atmosphere of the church.

Travel Tips

  1. Plan your trip in advance: Nainital is a popular tourist destination, especially during the peak seasons of summer and monsoon, so it’s best to plan your trip in advance to avoid any last-minute hassles. Book your accommodation and transportation well in advance to ensure that you have a comfortable and hassle-free trip.
  2. Pack warm clothing: Nainital is located in the Himalayas, and the weather can be quite chilly, especially during the nights. Make sure to pack warm clothing, including a jacket, sweater, and a pair of comfortable shoes.
  3. Carry a waterproof jacket: Nainital is known for its unpredictable weather, so it’s best to carry a waterproof jacket or umbrella to protect yourself from the rain.
  4. Be prepared for the altitude: Nainital is located at an altitude of 1,938m above sea level, so visitors may experience some symptoms of altitude sickness. To avoid this, it’s best to take it easy on your first day and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
  5. Respect the culture and customs: Nainital is a small town and is home to a diverse population of different cultures and customs. It’s important to respect the local culture and customs while visiting the town.
  6. Take a local guide: Hiring a local guide can be a great way to learn more about the history, culture and customs of Nainital. They can also take you to some of the off-beaten paths and lesser-known tourist spots, which you might miss otherwise.
  7. Carry cash: Nainital is a small town, and not all places accept card payments. It’s best to carry cash with you to avoid any inconvenience.
  8. Avoid visiting during monsoon: Although the monsoon season can be a beautiful time to visit Nainital, it’s best to avoid visiting during this time as the roads can be slippery and landslides are common.

Stay here

  1. The Manu Maharani Hotel: The Manu Maharani Hotel is a 5-star luxury hotel located in Nainital. The hotel offers a range of amenities, including a spa, fitness center, and an indoor swimming pool. The hotel also has a restaurant that serves a variety of Indian and international cuisines.
  2. The Naini Retreat: The Naini Retreat is a 4-star hotel located in Nainital. The hotel offers comfortable rooms and suites, a fitness center, and a restaurant that serves a variety of Indian and international cuisines. The hotel also has a beautiful garden and a terrace from where you can enjoy the panoramic views of Naini Lake.
  3. The Naini Village: The Naini Village is a 3-star hotel located in Nainital. The hotel offers comfortable rooms and suites, a fitness center, and a restaurant that serves a variety of Indian and international cuisines. The hotel also has a beautiful garden and a terrace from where you can enjoy the panoramic views of Naini Lake.
  4. The Naini Chalet: The Naini Chalet is a budget-friendly hotel located in Nainital. The hotel offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant that serves a variety of Indian and international cuisines, and a terrace from which you can enjoy the panoramic views of Naini Lake.
  5. The Lakeview Hotel: The Lakeview Hotel is a budget-friendly hotel located in Nainital. The hotel offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant that serves a variety of Indian and international cuisines, and a terrace from which you can enjoy the panoramic views of Naini Lake.
  6. Kumaon Mandal Vikas Nigam (KMVN) Tourist Rest House: KMVN Tourist Rest House is a budget-friendly hotel run by the government, located in Nainital. The hotel offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant that serves a variety of Indian and international cuisines, and a terrace from which you can enjoy the panoramic views of Naini Lake.

These are some of the popular options for staying in Nainital, However, please do check the availability and the price before finalizing the stay.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Nainital is during the months of April to June and September to November. During this time, the weather is pleasant and perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The temperature ranges between 20-25 degree Celsius making it comfortable for the visitors to move around and enjoy the beauty of the place.

The summer months of April to June are perfect for a family vacation as the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities such as boating, trekking, and hiking. The months of September to November are ideal for honeymooners and couples as the weather is cool and perfect for romantic walks around the lake and exploring the town.

The monsoon season, which falls between July and August, is not the best time to visit Nainital as the area receives heavy rainfall and landslides are common. It can be difficult to travel around during this time, and many tourist spots may be closed.

The winter months of December to February can also be a great time to visit Nainital if you’re looking to enjoy snowfall and winter sports. The temperature can drop to freezing point, so it is important to carry warm clothing during these months.

It’s always a good idea to check the weather forecast and plan your trip accordingly, to make the most of your visit to Nainital.

How to reach

Nainital can be reached by air, train, and bus.

  1. By Air: The nearest airport to Nainital is Pantnagar Airport, located about 71 km away. From there, you can hire a taxi to reach Nainital. The other nearest airport is Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi, which is about 300 km away. From there, you can take a flight to Pantnagar and then hire a taxi to reach Nainital.
  2. By Train: The nearest railway station to Nainital is Kathgodam Railway Station, located about 34 km away. The station is well-connected to major cities in India such as Delhi, Kolkata and Mumbai. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Nainital.
  3. By Bus: Nainital is well-connected by road to major cities in the state such as Haldwani, Kathgodam, and Almora. State-run and private buses operate regularly from these cities to Nainital. You can also hire a taxi or drive to Nainital from these cities.

It’s always a good idea to plan your trip in advance, check the availability of transportation, and book tickets accordingly to avoid any inconvenience.

Nainital is Famous for?

Nainital is a popular hill station located in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. The town is famous for its picturesque setting and natural beauty, with the Naini Lake at its center and surrounded by lush green hills. It is known for its peaceful atmosphere and colonial-era architecture and is a popular tourist destination for both domestic and international travelers.

Some of the things that Nainital is famous for include:

  1. Naini Lake: Naini Lake is the main attraction of Nainital and is the heart of the town. The lake is surrounded by beautiful hills and is a popular spot for boating and picnics. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll around the lake, or take a boat ride to enjoy the panoramic views of the town.
  2. Nainital Zoo: The Nainital Zoo is a popular tourist attraction and is home to a wide variety of animals, including tigers, leopards, and bears. The zoo is also home to a number of endangered species, such as the snow leopard and the red panda.
  3. John’s Church: St. John’s Church is an old church built in 1844 and is one of the most famous tourist spot in Nainital. The church is a fine example of Gothic architecture and is known for its beautiful stained glass windows.
  4. Naina Peak: Naina Peak is the highest peak in Nainital and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. It is a popular spot for trekking and hiking and is a must-visit for adventure enthusiasts.
  5. Governor’s House: The Governor’s House is a beautiful colonial-era building that was once the residence of the British Governor of the United Provinces. The building is now a hotel and is open to visitors. It offers a glimpse of the colonial past of Nainital and the lifestyle of the British Raj.
  6. Hanuman Garhi: Hanuman Garhi is a famous temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman and is located on a hilltop. It is a popular pilgrimage destination and offers panoramic views of the town.
  7. Khurpa Taal: Khurpa Taal is a small lake located near Nainital and is known for its scenic beauty and peaceful atmosphere. It is a popular spot for picnics and bird watching.

These are some of the things that Nainital is famous for, however, there are many other small and big reasons that make this place a perfect tourist spot.

Share this article:
Previous Post: Kolkata Tourism

July 12, 2017 - In Summer Tour, Top Destination

Next Post: Dakshineswar Mandir and Rani Rashmoni Skywalk

July 13, 2017 - In Blog

Related Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.