Naini Lake, the charm of Nainital, is a freshwater body in the heart of the town. It is a crescent-shaped lake that offers tourists the experience of boating amidst serene and scenic surroundings. Boating in Naini Lake is a tranquil activity where visitors can rent yachts, paddle boats, or rowboats to explore the lake at their own pace. The mesmerizing views of the hillside and the cool breeze brushing against one’s face make the boating experience unforgettable. The lake is surrounded by the seven hills, collectively known as 'Sapta-Shring', giving a breathtaking panorama of the entire town of Nainital. The boat ride also offers a splendid view of the Naina Devi Temple, situated at the northern shore of the lake.
The Snow View Point in Nainital provides a magnificent vista of the snow-clad Himalayas, including peaks like Nanda Devi, Trisul, and Nanda Kot. The Cable Car Ride, or the aerial ropeway, takes tourists from Mallital to Snow View Point and is among the most popular attractions. This ride gives you the thrilling sensation of floating above the city, with the beautiful landscape unfolding beneath you. The aerial tramway adds a hint of adventure while providing a panoramic view of the town and the glimmering Naini Lake below. Once at the top, visitors can soak in the magnificent views of the mountains, sip on hot tea from the small teashop, and snap memorable photos of the scenic vistas.
The Naina Devi Temple, positioned on the northern shore of Naini Lake, is a revered Hindu shrine and one of the 52 Shakti Peeths in India. According to legend, it is said to be the exact spot where the eyes (Naina) of Goddess Sati fell to earth after her body was destroyed. The temple itself is simple yet holds great religious significance, attracting devotees from across the country. Visitors can feel the spiritual aura and tranquility as they step inside the temple premises. The temple features two eyes depicting the Goddess Naina Devi, flanked by statues of Goddess Kali and Lord Ganesha. The temple's bustling atmosphere comes alive during festivals like Nanda Ashtami, when its surroundings are embellished with lights and decorations.
Tiffin Top, also known as Dorothy’s Seat, is a terraced hilltop on Ayarpatta hill in Nainital that offers an incredible view of the Himalayas and the Nainital town. Named after the British artist Dorothy Kellett, this viewpoint showcases a beautiful stone bench built in her memory. Trekkers and nature enthusiasts enjoy the hike up to Tiffin Top, which winds through forested areas filled with oak, deodar, and rhododendron trees. The trek is a delight for photographers and peace-seekers alike. Apart from trekking, pony rides to the summit are also available. Once at the top, travelers can bask in the panoramic vistas, enjoy a picnic, or indulge in horse riding and rappelling activities, adding more thrill to their visit.
The Mall Road of Nainital runs parallel to the Naini Lake, providing a vibrant and dynamic atmosphere to the town. It is the prime shopping, dining, and cultural zone of the picturesque hill station. Lined with a variety of shops selling candles, handicrafts, woolen clothes, and souvenirs, it is a shopper’s delight and offers a perfect blend of tradition and modernity. Several restaurants here provide cozy dining spots with lake views, where visitors can enjoy local Kumaoni as well as international cuisine. The evenings are particularly lively, as tourists throng the area for leisurely walks, enjoying the cool mountain air and views of the lit-up lake and hills. The colonial-era buildings along Mall Road add to the charm of this bustling street.
The Governor's House, or Raj Bhawan, is the official residence of the Governor of Uttarakhand and is a striking example of British colonial architecture in India. Built in 1899, the mansion is set amidst lush gardens and has a Gothic design that resembles the castles of Scotland. Spread over a vast expanse of 220 acres, it includes a golf course, a swimming pool, and beautifully maintained gardens, offering a historical tour of its grand halls, ballrooms, and sprawling lawns. Visiting this estate gives a glimpse into the regal lifestyle of the British era. Art lovers and history buffs will find the visit particularly rewarding, as they can admire the Raj Bhawan's stately rooms and exquisite furnishings, which have been kept intact and maintained over the years.
Land's End is one of the most picturesque locales in Nainital and is a popular trekking destination for both beginners and experienced hikers. As the name suggests, this scenic spot gives an illusion of the land finishing or dropping straight down, owing to its unique geographical location, set against a backdrop of magnificent khurpatal lake and terraced fields. The spot is accessible via a short but invigorating hike through quaint villages and pine forests, which brings travelers face to face with the simplicity of rural life and raw natural beauty. From Land’s End, the view of the rolling hills and the vast expanse of the plains is truly majestic. The tranquility of this place makes it perfect for anyone looking to escape the town’s hustle and reconnect with nature.
Eco Cave Gardens is a newly developed tourist spot in Nainital, which is an exciting and educational experience, especially for children. The park features several natural caves that have been transformed into a sort of maze, with different caves named after wild animals they resemble. Visitors can crawl through these caves and get a sense of what it might be like to inhabit such spaces in the wild. The gardens themselves are a peaceful spot for a family picnic amidst the rustic charm of hanging gardens, musical fountains, and lush greenery. Along with the adventure and fun, the Eco Cave Gardens offer an informative journey, making it a place where leisure meets learning, and visitors can enjoy the experience of exploring natural habitats.
Situated above the hills of Sher ka Danda at a height of 2100 meters (6890 feet), the Pt. Govind Ballabh Pant High Altitude Zoo is a must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts. Being one of the two high-altitude Zoos in India, it houses a variety of exotic and endangered species that thrive in the alpine climate. The spacious enclosures with naturalistic habitats are home to royal Bengal tigers, Tibetan wolves, sambar deer, leopard cats, and many more. The zoo also contains a number of high-altitude birds. The uphill walk to the zoo can be strenuous, but it is worth the effort as visitors get the chance to observe these animals in a habitat similar to their natural surroundings. Apart from the wildlife, the panoramic views of the hill town from the zoo are breathtaking.
Bhimtal Lake, located around 22 kilometers from Nainital, is a serene and less crowded alternative to Naini Lake. Named after Bhima, the mythological character from Mahabharata, the lake is larger and offers boating and angling opportunities to visitors. The tranquil surroundings are perfect for a relaxed day out, and the little island at the center of the lake, which houses an aquarium, adds to the charm. Bhimtal provides a peaceful environment for travelers to escape the often busy streets of Nainital and enjoy nature at its best. Surrounding the area are several attractions such as the Bhimeshwar Temple, an ancient temple part of the local heritage, and inviting cafes and restaurants that serve delicious food with lovely lake views.
Hill Stations (41)
Religious Places (284)
Historical Places (135)
Museums (43)
Wildlife Sanctuaries (16)
National Parks (16)
Forts (4)
Villages (39)
Zoos (10)
Mountains (14)
Gardens (21)
Waterfalls (14)
Dams (8)
Lakes (19)
Trekking Places (27)
