Are you planning a trip to the highest hill station of Uttarakhand and are looking for a list of places to see in Nainital? You have come to the right place! The India Explorer has curated a list of the perfect tourist places to travel in Nainital for you. Read on to find out!
Nainital: The Highest Hill Station in Uttarakhand
Nestled in the Kumaon area of Uttarakhand, India, Nainital is a charming hill station that enthrals tourists with its quiet appeal and natural beauty. Situated 2,084 metres above sea level, Nainital is well-known for its immaculate green lake, Naini Lake, which serves as the town’s focal point and contributes to its tranquillity. The village is encircled by verdant hills that provide sweeping vistas of the Himalayas covered in snow. There are many places to see in Nainital that you must visit on your trip here.
Nainital is a well-liked year-round getaway because of its pleasant temperature. Travellers looking for a break from the intense heat are drawn to the town in the summer, and those who like the cold and snow are drawn to it in the winter. The centre of the town is the lively Mall Road, which runs around Naini Lake and is surrounded by buildings from the colonial era as well as stores and eateries. A must-do activity on Naini Lake is boating, which lets guests enjoy the beautiful surroundings and tranquil atmosphere. Located atop Naina Hill, the Naina Devi Temple is a highly respected holy location with stunning town and lake views. Snow View Point, another well-liked viewpoint, offers a panoramic view of the snow-covered summits and is reachable by cable car. The Governor’s House, often referred to as the Raj Bhavan is a historical site and a work of architectural art.
Numerous outdoor pursuits are available in Nainital, including hiking, horseback riding, and bird viewing. The area is more appealing because of the neighbouring Jim Corbett National Park, which draws tourists interested in wildlife. The bustling Tibetan market is a great spot to purchase woollen goods, souvenirs, and handicrafts.
With its natural beauty, wide range of activities, and ageless charm, Nainital is a place that appeals to anybody looking for a rejuvenating getaway in the heart of the Himalayas. Every visitor to Nainital is guaranteed a restorative experience, whether from the tranquil lakes, verdant surroundings, or good weather.
Best Places to See in Nainital
1. Naini Lake
Naini Lake is a placid body of water encircled by verdant hills, and it is located right in the centre of Nainital. It is the town’s focal point and one of the must-visit places to see in Nainital. This emerald-green lake is strewn across a gorgeous area, reflecting the beauty of its surroundings and producing a picturesque scene. Amidst the peace of the Himalayan scenery, guests may enjoy leisurely boat excursions on its placid lakes. The centre of the town’s attraction is the lake, surrounded by the quaint promenade known as Mall Road. It provides both serene surroundings and breathtaking vistas.
2. Eco Cave Gardens
Eco Cave Gardens, one of the most fascinating places to see in Nainital, provide a singular experience with its interconnecting caverns and appealing melodic fountain. This natural attraction offers guests an exciting and instructive adventure that lets them explore different cave formations and learn about the area’s geological marvels. The themed caverns incorporate a nature adventure aspect by imitating various animal habitats. It is more than simply a garden; with well-kept pathways and educational signage, it is an immersive learning environment. Families and environment lovers continue to find it a favourite since it offers amusement and a greater understanding of the region’s biological and geological complexity.
3. Tiffin Top
One of the most important places to see in Nainital is to visit Tiffin Top, which is perched at a height offering breathtaking views of the Himalayas. It was once known as Dorothy’s Seat and is a reminder of the town’s colonial past. With its expansive views, the viewpoint is a great place for picnics, strolls, and soaking in the amazing landscape. Both nature lovers seeking peace and tranquillity and thrill-seekers seeking excitement can find their fill on the well-kept trails that lead to Tiffin Top. Its attractiveness is derived from its historical significance and the breathtaking natural beauty shown at every turn, making it a highly sought-after travel destination for everyone.
4. Snow Viewpoint
Snow Viewpoint is an iconic location, easily reached by a picturesque cable car ride. Situated at a height that offers captivating views of snow-covered peaks, it’s a sanctuary for those who love the outdoors and are serious photographers. The vantage point’s stunning views of the surrounding Himalayan mountains make it the ideal getaway for those seeking peace and stunning scenery. The way the light dances across the snow-capped mountains at sunrise and dusk gives an otherworldly quality to the experience, adding to Nainital’s appeal as a mesmerizing hill station and a place that offers unmatched picturesque views.
5. Mall Road
Mall Road, which meanders around the banks of Naini Lake, becomes the lively centre of Nainital’s social life. With its colonial-style buildings, this busy promenade serves as a centre for eateries and stores, generating a vibrant atmosphere. Mall Road is one of the most popular places to see in Nainital. It invites guests to enjoy delicious food, shop for handcrafted goods and souvenirs, and mingle in a friendly atmosphere. It is more than simply a business district; the dazzling shops and the stunning lake background make it a delightful and essential part of Nainital’s character, beckoning visitors and residents alike to experience its lively vitality.
6. Naina Devi Temple
As one of the fifty-one Shakti Peethas, the Naina Devi Temple in Nainital is of great spiritual significance. According to folklore, the temple is said to have been built on the hallowed site where Goddess Sati’s eyes, a manifestation of heavenly energy, dropped to Earth. Devotees come to this hallowed location in search of blessings and spiritual comfort. The serene Naini Lake may be seen from the temple’s holy enclosure, providing a view from heaven. In addition to its religious significance, the Naina Devi Temple offers a calm haven for reflection and reverence in the centre of Nainital.
7. Naina Hill
Naina Peak, sometimes called Cheena Peak, is the most popular viewpoint in Nainital and is well-known for its stunning views. The 3km walk to the peak is marked by a steep slope and a semi-paved trail, providing adventure seekers with a test and a reward. The imposing Nanda Devi Peak and the magnificent Tibet Border are visible at the highest point. This viewpoint, tucked away among the picturesque scenery, is a must-visit location for nature enthusiasts and ardent hikers visiting Nainital. It draws people who are looking for a hiking experience and a visual feast of the Himalayan magnificence.
8. GB Pant High Altitude Zoo
At 2,100 metres, the G.B. Pant High Altitude Zoo in Nainital, Uttarakhand, India, is among the highest zoos in the world. It honours Govind Ballabh Pant, the first Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, and is devoted to preserving Himalayan flora and animals. The Himalayan Bear and Snow Leopard are rare animals that call this exclusive wildlife refuge home. The zoo, tucked away in Nainital’s scenic surroundings, offers visitors the unique chance to see high-altitude animals in settings that mimic their native habitats. The zoo actively supports the vital conservation efforts of the vulnerable Himalayan ecosystems and its teaching mission.
9. Nainital Ropeway
One of India’s fastest ropeways, the Nainital Ropeway provides an amazing ride with expansive vistas. In about three minutes, this vehicle travels half a mile from Mallital to the Snow Viewpoint. Its picturesque beauty, which offers passengers a breathtaking view of Nainital’s surroundings, equals its efficiency. With two trolleys holding approximately 11 passengers each, the ropeway adds excitement to the journey while providing an aerial perspective of the scenic surroundings. The Nainital Ropeway offers a thrilling means of exploring the terrain and reaching the alluring Snow Viewpoint by fusing speed with breathtaking scenery.
10. Bhimtal
Located 23 miles from Nainital, Bhimtal is a picture-perfect and tranquil substitute for its busier sibling. This charming hill station invites guests to escape the masses and lose themselves in a calm atmosphere with its serene appeal. Bhimtal’s charm is in its quirky environment, which provides a peaceful escape into the natural world. The town’s focal point is the charming Bhimtal Lake, encircled by lush hills and adds to the town’s charm. Bhimtal becomes a sanctuary for people seeking a more private and unspoiled hill station experience in the Kumaon area because of its slower pace and pristine surroundings.
11. Neem Karoli Baba Ashram
The temple is a hallowed residence devoted to the famed Hindu saint and global hero, Shri Neem Karoli Baba. The temple has drawn followers from around the world because of its renowned teacher, known for preaching love and dedication. Remarkably, in 1974, even Facebook’s co-founder Mark Zuckerberg expressed interest in becoming a devotee after being inspired by Shri Neem Karoli Baba’s teachings. But Mark Zuckerberg arrived after the saint’s death, much like Steve Jobs. Despite this, the temple continues to be a shelter for spiritual seekers, drawing people from various backgrounds and representing the knowledge of Shri Neem Karoli Baba.
12. Land’s End
Across Khurpa Tal, Land’s End is a notable addition to the Nainital list of places to see. It is a perfect location for a picnic and offers a captivating view of the quiet Khurpa Tal and the Kumaon mountain ranges. Reached via an exciting walk uphill, the trip becomes an experience in and of itself and culminates in a satisfying view at the summit. Land’s End, which offers guests a peaceful haven and an unhindered view of the stunning scenery, is a monument to Nainital’s natural splendour. It adds to the varied attractions in Nainital and is a must-visit location for picnickers and wildlife lovers.
13. Sattal
Sattal, with its collection of seven freshwater lakes, stands out as an intriguing addition to the list of places to see in Nainital. It is located in the lower parts of Bhimtal. This natural treasure is a favourite destination for nature lovers and ardent bird watchers since it not only enchants its tranquil lakes but also provides a refuge for migrating birds. Nainital’s natural beauties are made more appealing by the unique experience of the varied bird population and peaceful atmosphere. Sattal invites travellers to immerse themselves in the tranquil surroundings that characterize the alluring locations surrounding Nainital with its rich biodiversity and visual splendour.
14. Governor’s House
Among the important places to see in Nainital is the Raj Bhawan, also known as the Governor’s House, which is a majestic landmark and a must-see. Its architectural magnificence, reminiscent of Scotland’s Castle and serving as the Governor of Uttarakhand’s summer house, contributes to its attractiveness. Guided tours are offered every hour, allowing visitors to explore the building’s architectural beauty and historical value. The Raj Bhawan provides a window into the region’s administrative past and showcases colonial splendour. This magnificent mansion invites investigation and appreciation as it enhances Nainital’s cultural and historical tapestry with its lovely surroundings
15. Astronomical Observatory
Situated at the summit of Manora Peak in Beluwakhan, the Astronomical Observatory is a stargazer’s paradise and a notable addition to the list of places to travel in Nainital. Using powerful, imported telescopes to improve the cosmic viewing experience, this observatory provides an unmatched chance to look at stars, planets, and the moon. Booking in advance is required to fully experience this cosmic expedition, guaranteeing a private, guided stargazing experience. From the vantage point of Nainital’s alluring landscapes, the Astronomical Observatory offers aficionados and inquisitive tourists an opportunity to marvel at the wonders of the cosmos. It is a unique destination.
16. Gurney House
Gurney House is historically significant in the picturesque Nainital neighbourhood as it was formerly home to Jim Corbett. Remodelled as a museum, this home sheds light on the conservationist’s life and achievements. Guests may take a guided tour of the house to learn more about Corbett’s significant contributions to history and the time he lived in. The museum offers a fascinating trip through the pages of history with its collection of artefacts, images, and displays. Gurney House is only accessible with prior authorization, guaranteeing visitors interested in learning more about the life and accomplishments of Jim Corbett in the peaceful environs of Nainital, a customized and enlightening encounter.
Conclusion
Nainital is a kaleidoscope of fascinating locations, promising an enchanted journey. Nestled between lush hills, the famous Naini Lake is a popular destination for peaceful boat cruises. Take a stroll down the bustling Mall Road, which is lined with colourful stores and colonial charm. Take refuge in spirituality at the Naina Devi Temple, which offers expansive town views. The cable car that takes you to Tiffin Top and Snow Viewpoint offers amazing views of the Himalayas. The G.B. Pant High Altitude Zoo features rare Himalayan wildlife, while Gurney House, the converted home of Jim Corbett, and Sattal’s lakes provide a variety of attractions. The Astronomical Observatory at Manora Peak reveals cosmic marvels. Together, these unique locations provide an amazing trip around the scenic places to see in Nainital.
