Things to Do in Nainital: Famous Attractions, Activities & Local Experiences

Nainital, the jewel of Kumaon, is one of the most loved hill stations in Uttarakhand. With its peaceful lakes, majestic mountains, colonial charm, bustling local markets, and scenic walking trails, Nainital offers something for every traveller. Whether you’re a nature lover, adventure seeker, honeymoon couple, family traveller, or someone searching for a refreshing getaway, Nainital has countless activities to explore.

This detailed guide covers the best things to do in Nainital, including top attractions, must-do activities, local experiences, hidden gems, and travel tips to help you plan a perfect trip.

Best Things To Do in Nainital

Here’s a comprehensive guide to the best things to do in Nainital:

Explore the Iconic Naini Lake

Naini Lake is the star attraction of Nainital and a must-visit spot for every traveler. Surrounded by hills and colorful houses, the lake offers magical views throughout the day. Boating in Naini Lake is one of the best things to do in Nainital.

Top Activities at Naini Lake

• Paddle boating and row boating
• Evening lake-side stroll
• Enjoying sunset views
• Photography at the lake bridge

Tips

Visit early morning or evening for the best view and pleasant weather.

Take a Scenic Ropeway Ride to Snow View Point

The cable car ride from Mallital to Snow View Point is one of the most thrilling experiences in Nainital. It gives you an aerial view of the town along with panoramic Himalayan peaks.

Why Visit?

• Witness snow-clad Nanda Devi peak
• Experience thrilling heights
• Kids’ fun activity area available

This is one of the most loved attractions, especially for families and couples.

Visit Eco Cave Gardens – A Fun Adventure Spot

Eco Cave Gardens is one of the most unique places to visit in Nainital and a great activity for adventure lovers. These interconnected natural caves represent different animals like tigers, bats, and panthers.

Highlights

• Musical fountain show
• Beautiful garden lighting
• Crawling adventure inside caves

A perfect spot for kids and families seeking fun activities.

Seek Blessings at Naina Devi Temple

Located on the northern end of Naini Lake, Naina Devi Temple is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas in India. It is a sacred place where devotees come to seek blessings and admire the peaceful ambience.

Best Experience

Visit early morning for a peaceful darshan and mesmerizing lake views.

Shop & Stroll at Mall Road

A walk along Mall Road is one of the most popular things to do in Nainital. This lively street runs parallel to Naini Lake and is filled with cafes, restaurants, shops, and local vendors.

What to Buy?

• Woolen clothes
• Local handicrafts
• Candles and souvenirs
• Herbal products

Mall Road is perfect for evening walks, street food, and photography.

Experience Stunning Panoramic Views at Tiffin Top

Also known as Dorothy’s Seat, Tiffin Top is a famous viewpoint offering a 360-degree view of Nainital.

Why It’s Special

• Ideal for trekking
• Perfect for sunrise and sunset photography
• Peaceful picnic spot

Adventure lovers can also trek from Ayarpatta to Tiffin Top.

Enjoy the Beauty of Nainital Zoo

This high-altitude zoo is home to several rare Himalayan species.

Animals You May Spot

• Snow Leopard
• Himalayan Black Bear
• Steppe Eagle
• Tibetan Wolf
• Barking Deer

Visiting the zoo is a great activity for families and wildlife lovers.

Enjoy a Calm Evening at Thandi Sadak

Thandi Sadak is a peaceful walking trail located away from the crowd. Surrounded by tall trees and cool breezes, it is perfect for nature lovers.

Why Visit?

• Great for morning jogs
• Serene nature walk
• Ideal for photography
• Less crowded

One of the most relaxing free activities in Nainital.

Visit the Historic Governor’s House

Raj Bhawan is an architectural masterpiece built in the Gothic style, featuring a golf course and lush green lawns.

Must See

• Beautiful gardens
• The British-era architecture
• Guided tours (available on request)

This is a great spot for history lovers and photographers.

Explore the Beautiful Lakes Around Nainital

Nainital is famous for its nearby lake destinations, collectively known as the “Lakes of Kumaon.”

Must-Visit Lakes

• Bhimtal – For boating and an island aquarium
• Sattal – For kayaking and bird watching
• Naukuchiatal – For paragliding and adventure sports

These lake towns offer adventure, peace, and offbeat experiences.

Adventure Activities in Nainital

Nainital is not just a scenic place; it also offers thrilling adventures.

Popular Activities

• Paragliding at Naukuchiatal
• Trekking to Naina Peak
• Kayaking at Sattal
• Rock climbing
• Rappelling
• Camping

Adventure enthusiasts will find plenty of things to do and explore.

Try Local Kumaoni Cuisine

Your Nainital trip is incomplete without trying its delicious local food.

One of the best places to begin your culinary journey is at the local dhabas and small cafes that serve authentic Kumaoni dishes. Try traditional dishes like Bhatt ki Churkani, a black soybean curry that is hearty and flavorful, or Aloo ke Gutke, a spicy potato preparation that is a favourite snack among the locals. Pair these with Mandua ki Roti, a millet bread, and you’ll get a real taste of Kumaoni food culture.

For those with a sweet tooth, make sure to visit local sweet shops for desserts like Bal Mithai and Singori. These unique treats are crafted from local ingredients and reflect the region’s culinary heritage.

Must-Try Dishes

• Aloo ke Gutke
• Bhatt ki Churkani
• Jhangore ki Kheer
• Bal Mithai
• Arsa

Visit local restaurants and dhabas to experience authentic Kumaoni flavours.

Discover the Beauty of Land’s End

Land’s End offers stunning valley views without needing a long trek. It provides one of the best viewpoints of Khurpatal Lake.

Why Visit?

• Short and easy trek
• Perfect for sunrise
• Mesmerizing photography spot

Ideal for travellers seeking a quiet and scenic escape.

Explore Offbeat Places in Nainital

If you want to escape the crowds, Nainital has several hidden gems.

Offbeat Spots Nearby

• Pangot – For birdwatching
• Kilbury Bird Sanctuary
• Kainchi Dham Ashram
• Khurpatal
• Gurney House (home of Jim Corbett)

These spots offer local culture, peace, and natural beauty.

Enjoy Boating at Bhimtal

Bhimtal is a more spacious, quieter alternative to Naini Lake. The island in the middle with an aquarium makes it special.

Best Experiences

• Boating
• Island visit
• Lakeside cafes
• Kayaking

A great addition to your Nainital itinerary.

Experience Birdwatching at Pangot & Kilbury

Located just 15 km from Nainital, Pangot is a paradise for bird lovers with over 500 species.

Birds You Can Spot

• Himalayan Griffon
• Blue-winged Minla
• Lammergeier
• Khalij Pheasant

A dream destination for nature lovers and photographers.

Enjoy the Ropeway to Naina Peak (China Peak)

Naina Peak is the highest point of Nainital and offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas.

Why Go?

• Best place for trekking
• Sunrise and sunset views
• Snow-covered peaks in winter

A must-visit for adventure seekers.

Visit Kainchi Dham – A Spiritual & Peaceful Retreat

Kainchi Dham is a spiritual ashram dedicated to Neem Karoli Baba and attracts thousands of devotees.

Why It’s Famous

• Mark Zuckerberg & Steve Jobs visited here
• Peaceful atmosphere
• Beautiful valley views

Perfect spot for meditation and spiritual seekers.

Enjoy Candle Market Shopping

Nainital is famous for its handmade candles and home décor items.

Popular Candle Types

• Aroma candles
• Flower candles
• Gel candles
• Decorative jar candles

You’ll find the best candle shops near Mall Road and Bhotiya Market.

Experience Nainital’s Vibrant Cafe Culture

From lake-view cafes to rustic mountain eateries, Nainital has a charming café culture.

Popular Cafes

• Cafe Chica
• Simz Cafe
• Boat House Club Cafe
• Honey Hut

Perfect spots for couples and young travellers.

Image Gallery Of Nanital

Best Time to Visit Nainital

• Summer (March–June) – Best weather, ideal for sightseeing
• Monsoon (July–September) – Green landscapes, fewer crowds
• Winter (October–February) – Cold weather, snow in nearby areas

Choose according to your travel mood!

Travel Tips for Nainital

• Carry warm clothes even in summer evenings.
• Pre-book hotels during peak season.
• Mall Road gets crowded; explore early morning or late evening.
• Respect nature—avoid littering near lakes and forests.
• Try local transport or walking for better sightseeing.

Final Thoughts

From boating at Naini Lake to exploring nearby lakes, trekking to Tiffin Top, enjoying Mall Road shopping, or discovering offbeat places, there are endless things to do in Nainital.

Nainital is a destination where nature, adventure, spirituality, and local culture come together in perfect harmony. Whether you want peaceful lakes, breathtaking views, fun activities, or authentic experiences, Nainital has it all.

From boating at Naini Lake to exploring nearby lakes, trekking to Tiffin Top, enjoying Mall Road shopping, or discovering offbeat places, there are endless things to do in Nainital.

FAQs About Things to Do in Nainital