Nainital Travel Guide: Best Places to Visit, Things to Do, Itinerary & Trip Planning

Nainital, one of India’s most charming Himalayan hill stations, is famous for its scenic lakes, peaceful mountain views, colonial history, adventure activities and pleasant weather. Whether you’re planning a family holiday, a honeymoon, a long weekend trip from Delhi, or exploring Uttarakhand for the first time, Nainital offers the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.

This fully detailed Nainital Travel Guide helps you explore the best places to visit, things to do, lake tours, food, climate, itineraries, and insider tips to plan a comfortable and memorable trip.

About Nainital: Why This Hill Station Is Special

It is located in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand and is often called the “Lake District of India.” The town is built around the iconic Naini Lake, surrounded by lush hill slopes, pine forests and colonial-era architecture.

Nature lovers, honeymooners, photographers and families all find something refreshing here. The calm beauty of Naini Lake, combined with lively Mall Road, ropeway rides, serene view points and nearby lakes, makes Nainital a complete travel destination.

Nainital Quick Facts

Category	Information
Location	Kumaon, Uttarakhand
Altitude	1,938 m
Famous For	Lakes, Hills, Ropeway, Heritage
Best Time	March–June, Oct–Jan
Ideal Duration	2–4 days
Nearest Airport	Pantnagar (70 km)
Nearest Railway	Kathgodam (34 km)
Suitable For	Families, Couples, Solo, Groups

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Best Places to Visit in Nainital

It is filled with scenic attractions, heritage spots and natural gems. Here are the must-visit places you should include in your trip:

1. Naini Lake

Naini Lake is the centrepiece and the most visited attraction. The emerald water, surrounded by hills, creates a picture-perfect setting.

What to Do at Naini Lake

• Boating (paddle, rowing, shikara)
• Lakeside photography
• Sunset walk
• Candle cafe dining nearby

2. Mall Road

Mall Road runs beside Naini Lake and is packed with cafes, restaurants, bakeries, boutiques and souvenir shops.

Highlights

• Tibetan food
• Woollen clothing
• Handcrafted candles
• Evening strolls with lake views

3. Naina Devi Temple

A sacred temple located on the north side of the lake. According to mythology, it is one of the Shakti Peethas.

Why Visit?

• Spiritual atmosphere
• Beautiful views of Naini Lake
• Ideal for morning visits

4. Snow View Point

Take the cable car or drive up to Snow View Point for:

• Himalayan snow-peak views
• Breathtaking photography
• Ropeway adventures

The aerial views of Nainital and the mountains are unforgettable.

5. Tiffin Top (Dorothy’s Seat)

A 360-degree viewpoint offering grand views of Nainital town.

Perfect For

• Short trek
• Nature photography
• Family picnics

6. Eco Cave Gardens

A fun attraction especially for families, this place features:

• Natural caves
• Hanging gardens
• Musical fountain (seasonal)

It’s a great combination of adventure and fun.

7. The Nainital Zoo (Pt. G.B. Pant High Altitude Zoo)

A well-maintained high-altitude zoo where you can spot:

• Snow Leopard
• Himalayan Bear
• Tibetan Wolf
• Various rare birds

It’s one of the few zoos in India set at such elevation.

8. Raj Bhawan (Governor’s House)

A magnificent colonial monument with:

• Golf course
• Gothic architecture
• Beautiful gardens

Photography lovers will enjoy this iconic heritage building.

9. Kilbury Bird Sanctuary

Perfect for bird lovers and nature trekkers, Kilbury offers tranquil forest vibes and sightings of rare Himalayan birds.

10. Hanuman Garhi

A scenic temple known for jaw-dropping sunrise and sunset views. It also offers wide-angle photographs of the Himalayan range.

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Top Things to Do in Nainital

It is one of Uttarakhand’s most loved hill stations, offering a mix of nature, adventure, lakes, viewpoints and peaceful mountain vibes. Whether you’re travelling with family, a partner, a group or solo, you have plenty of experiences that make your trip memorable. Here are the best things to do in Nainital that you simply shouldn’t miss.

1. Enjoy Boating at Naini Lake

Naini Lake is the heart of Nainital, and boating here is the most popular activity.

Why it’s special

• Stunning views of the surrounding hills
• Peaceful shikara rides
• Perfect for photography and sunsets

Recommended: Evening boating for golden-hour views.

2. Ropeway to Snow View Point

One of the top adventure activities in Nainital, the ropeway offers a breathtaking aerial view of the valley.

Things to Expect

• Views of snow-covered Himalayan peaks
• Adventure-filled ropeway ride
• Small shops and cafés at the top

3. Visit Naina Devi Temple

A spiritually important temple located near the lake, attracting thousands of devotees.

Perfect For

• Morning prayers
• Peaceful surroundings
• Lakefront photography

4. Explore Eco Cave Gardens

A fun and adventurous place especially loved by kids and families.

Highlights

• 6 natural caves
• Adventure passageways
• Musical fountain show (seasonal)

5. Trek to Tiffin Top (Dorothy’s Seat)

A popular viewpoint offering 360-degree views of Nainital.

Why Trek?

• Scenic forest trail
• Amazing photography point
• A quiet spot away from crowds

6. Visit the High Altitude Nainital Zoo

A beautifully maintained zoo showcasing rare Himalayan wildlife.

See Animals Like

• Snow Leopard
• Himalayan Black Bear
• Tibetan Wolf
• Hill Fox & Exotic Birds

7. Shop at Mall Road & Tibetan Market

No trip to Nainital is complete without local shopping.

What to Buy

• Handmade candles
• Wooden souvenirs
• Woollen clothes
• Local snacks & dry fruits

8. Explore the Famous Lake Circuit

It is famous for its nearby lakes, each with its own beauty.

Must-Visit Lakes

• Bhimtal – boating, cafés
• Sattal – kayaking, forests
• Naukuchiatal – paragliding
• Khurpatal – photography

This lake circuit is one of the best things to do in Nainital for nature lovers.

9. Experience Sunset at Hanuman Garhi

A peaceful temple located on a hilltop.

Why Visit?

• Gorgeous sunset views
• Calm and spiritual environment
• Ideal for photographers

10. Walk Along Thandi Sadak

A peaceful walking path surrounded by tall trees, away from city noise.

Perfect For

• Morning walks
• Relaxing views
• Quiet moments

Nainital Photo Gallery

Step into the breathtaking charm of Nainital through this handpicked photo gallery. From the shimmering waters of Naini Lake to the mist-covered hills, bustling Mall Road, peaceful sunrise points and lush green viewpoints, these images capture the true magic of this beloved hill station. Let these visuals inspire your next escape and show you why Nainital remains one of the most enchanting destinations in Uttarakhand.

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Month-Wise Weather in Nainital

Remains pleasant throughout the year, offering unique seasonal experiences.

Month	Temperature	Weather	Travel Note
Jan	0°C–12°C	Very Cold	Chance of snowfall in upper areas
Feb	3°C–15°C	Cold	Good for peaceful trips
Mar	8°C–20°C	Pleasant	Start of tourist season
Apr	10°C–23°C	Pleasant	Best for sightseeing
May	12°C–26°C	Warm Days, Cool Nights	Peak Season
Jun	15°C–25°C	Pleasant	Great for boating
Jul	17°C–22°C	Rainy	Green landscapes
Aug	17°C–22°C	Rainy	Ideal for nature lovers
Sep	15°C–23°C	Clear & Fresh	Fewer tourists
Oct	10°C–20°C	Cool Breeze	Perfect for photography
Nov	7°C–18°C	Cool	Ideal weather
Dec	2°C–13°C	Cold	Winter vibes & foggy mornings

Where to Stay in Nainital

Nainital offers a variety of accommodations for every budget:

Hotel Category	Examples	Best For
Budget Hotels	Hotel New Bharat, Hotel Channi Raja	Backpackers & Groups
Mid-Range	The Pavilion, Himalayan View Retreat	Families & Couples
Luxury	The Manu Maharani, Shervani Hilltop	Honeymooners & Premium Guests
Lakeside Hotels	Classic The Mall, Lakeside Inn	Lake-view lovers
Boutique Stays	The Naini Retreat, Ayar Jungle Resort	Unique experiences

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3-Day Nainital Itinerary

This is the most popular itinerary for travellers visiting Nainital.

Day	Places
Day 1	Naini Lake, Mall Road
Day 2	Snow View, Caves, Zoo
Day 3	Bhimtal, Sattal

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How to Reach Nainital

Nainital is one of the most accessible hill stations in Uttarakhand, making it a popular weekend and holiday destination for travellers from Delhi, Noida, Gurgaon, Lucknow and nearby cities. Whether you prefer road, train or air travel, reaching Nainital is easy and comfortable. Here is a complete guide on how to reach Nainital:

Mode	Nearest Point	Travel Time	Best For
Road	Direct to Nainital	6–8 hrs (from Delhi)	Families, groups, couples
Train	Kathgodam (34 km)	1–1.5 hrs to Nainital	Budget travellers
Air	Pantnagar (70 km)	1.5–2 hrs to Nainital	Long-distance travellers
Bus	Nainital Bus Stand	7–8 hrs (from Delhi)	Solo, low-budget trips

Travel Tips for Nainital

• Book hotels early during weekends & holidays.
• Always carry light woollens — the weather changes quickly.
• Wear comfortable shoes for walking & trekking.
• Keep cash; some remote areas have limited digital payment options.
• Parking on Mall Road is limited — consider walking.
• Sunrise & sunset views from viewpoints are worth the effort.

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Why Book a Nainital Tour Package?

A well-planned Nainital tour package helps you enjoy a comfortable trip with:

• Pre-booked hotels
• Sightseeing included
• Pick-up/drop facilities
• Professional driver
• Custom itinerary

This ensures you spend more time enjoying and less time planning.

Jim Corbett National Park – A Perfect Combo Trip with Nainital

Jim Corbett National Park is one of India’s most famous wildlife destinations and a perfect extension to your Nainital trip. Located just 60–70 km from Nainital (around 2 hours by road), Corbett is known for its dense forests, diverse wildlife, river landscapes and thrilling jeep safaris.

Many travellers combine a Nainital + Jim Corbett trip for a complete experience of hill station beauty in Nainital and wildlife adventure in Corbett.

Nainital to Jim Corbett Distance & Travel Details

Route	Distance	Travel Time	Road Type
Nainital → Ramnagar	60–70 km	1.5–2 hours	Smooth, scenic roads
Nainital → Corbett via Kaladhungi	65 km	2 hours	Forest route, very scenic
Nainital → Corbett (Delhi side)	75 km	2–2.5 hours	Highway + forest

Conclusion

Nainital is a perfect blend of natural beauty, adventure, spirituality, and peace. Whether you’re planning a short getaway or a detailed hill station vacation, Nainital promises an unforgettable experience. With lakes, mountains, viewpoints, markets, cafés and scenic drives, this charming town leaves every visitor mesmerized.

Use this comprehensive Nainital Travel Guide to plan your ideal trip and make the most of your time in this beautiful hill station. And if you’re looking for a hassle-free experience, exploring a Nainital tour package can be the best option.

FAQs About Travelling to Nainital