This India’s gem is situated just 300kms away from New Delhi. Nainital is definitely worth your visit.
The picturesque destination is an ideal getaway from the bustling city of India. And an escape from the noise and congestion of New Delhi. Nainital is one of a kind experiences among locals and tourists. You might want to go back for more.
But wait, how much beauty Nainital can offer?
Nainital is one of the best hill stations in the area.
Green hills, old-fashioned cottages, and lines of strolling streets surround the area. The town has plenty of tourist attractions to see and experience. Due to its favorable climate throughout the year, Nainital is tourists’ top destinations. The charming place is a refreshing way to step back, relax, and enjoy the beauty of India.
Interesting?
Read some more, and fall in love with the scenic views only Nainital can offer.
List of Contents
What is Nainital famous for?
If you are looking for an ideal place to chill out and witness the delightful beauty of nature, Nainital is the place to be.
It has a lot of attractions to offer, from majestic landscapes, serene lakes, and cultural sites. Of course, this place will never disappoint.
Dubbed as the Lake City, Nainital is the most seen site in Uttarakhand. It is a peaceful valley that provides the best attractions during your trip.
Here are the most enjoyable sites to visit in Nainital:
Nature
Naini Lake
It is an eye-shaped lake located at Ayarpatta, Nainital, Uttarakhand.
It is the number one tourist attraction in the area. It is among the four famous lakes of Kumaon hills with a natural freshwater body.
An ideal way to connect with nature as it offers boating and paddling in the vast area of the lake. You can see a panoramic view of seven majestic mountains surrounding the lake. Take a boat ride, or paddle on your own, while falling in love with the stunning scenery of Naini Lake.
Sariyatal
A jade-green lake along the region lies Sariyatal. Located on the Kaladungi Road and picturesque of the lush green landscape surrounding it. Feel the coldness of the lake when you take a dip or visit the Botanical Garden close to it.
Khurpatal Lake
It is a peaceful getaway aside from Naini Lake. An emerald blue-green lake situated in Uttarakhand. Surrounded by pine and old cedar trees is a majestic sight to see.
Naini Peak
Be on top of the world, and hike the highest point of Nainital. The Naini Peak showcases the far-reaching view of the snow-capped Himalayas. At the top of the peak, you will see the dancing lights of Nainital city. Never miss the mesmerizing view of a beautiful sunset, and amaze yourself of how calm life can be.
Of course, you can take a trek or ride a horse to get a wonderful glimpse of Naini. If you love walking, get a blissful walk up to the peak where you can witness the vastness of the Kumaon region.
Tiffin Top
Let the view of Himalayas and Nainital take your breath away at the Tiffin Top. Otherwise, known as Dorothy Seat after the loving memory of Dorothy Kellet.
A famous destination for a picnic, the Tiffin Top has a 360 view of the Nainital town. Ride a horse going to the top of the hill, and delight yourself with its glory and charm.
Snow View Point
If winter is your favorite season, then Snow View Point is the place for you. You can see the view of the Himalayas and the town covered with snow while sipping coffee.
The snow-capped mountains of Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Nanda Kot are satisfying view enough. Add up the experience by walking along with the shops, tea, and snacks site, while you feel the beauty of nature. Never worry about getting here, as an aerial ropeway is ready and available from Mallital.
Kilbury
A bird watcher’s paradise. Kilbury is home to species right before their natural habitat. You can visit the Naina Devi Himalayan Bird Reserve and enjoy these creatures first hand.
The sound of their chirping voices and the aroma of a forest oak and pine is an experience to remember. It is the hot spot in your itinerary.
Culture and Temples
Naini Devi Temple
The majority of Indians are Hindu the country is home to Hindu temples built eons ago. The Naini Devi Temple is inside Nainital.
The Goddess Naini Devi is the one protecting the place.
It is at the northern end of Nainital Lake. You can take a side trip to this temple and experience the Hindu religion first hand.
Kainchi Dham
Just inside the famous Kumaon hills is the place that combines beauty and spirituality in one. You can have a nature tripping, while at the same time, experience the tranquility of the temple. The temple is an incarnation of Lord Hanuman and believed to be an ashram of Neem Karoli. Devotees flock inside the temple after visiting Naini Lake.
The Mall Road
A bustling road in Nainital. It is side by side the Nainital Lake and crowded with tourists during peak seasons. This road connects the ends – Mallital and Tallital. Enjoy it in the evening, and take a wonderful walk towards the lake.
Offbeat Places Near Nainital
If you have plenty of time and want to explore more, these are some of the offbeat places near Nainital:
Pangot
It is famous among bird watchers where 250 species of birds reside. It is 15km from Nainital, but worth a visit as well. You can try the must-see Corbett National Park after you had an exhausting trek in the area.
Bhimtal Lake
The lake is the largest in the district. You can see crystal clear waters and a much calmer and quiet part of the place. Alongside the lake is the Bhimeshwar Temple and the Museum Fold Culture.
Gethia
It is a beautiful village near the Jeolikote. It is 28km from the Nainital, where you can find modest cottages and lake resorts. You can interact with the locals and experience a simple life in Gethia.
Naukuchiatal Lake
It offers fun, thrill, and of course, adrenaline rush. Naukuchiatal Lake offers paragliding, yachting, and paddling. You can book your stay at Lake Resort Naukuchiatal and experience endless oak and pine trees. It is a getaway from your Nainital visit.
How many days should I spend in Nainital?
The proximity of Nainital to New Delhi allows tourists to visit any time. It is an ideal place to escape and relax.
But how many days would you need to experience the glory of Nainital?
Of course, it depends. Nainital has a load of attractions and things to do that tourists beg to experience.
The long list of incredible sights surrounding the city is never to miss. Visiting these sites will take a week or more. But if you are here to have peace and buzz off from city life, spending a week or more is ideal.
So, how will you take it all in, the Nainital and all its glory in just one week?
Simple, plan your trip. Every traveler knows that planning is the key to any successful travels. You can buy time once you know where to go, how much time you need, and where to stay.
Nainital has loads of beautiful sights and attractions. You can start your itinerary with the most visited places. You may include temple trips and cultural visits in one day and packed the next day with sightseeing.
You can add up to your list the most queer places to see and organize based on time requirements and priority.
Yet, always remember what kind of traveler you are. Are you the kind who seeks adventure, or sightseeing is enough for you? If you seek an adventure, of course, you need more time. Nainital has a lot of experience and adventure to offer. A day hiking and trekking might be short for you.
So, know that you need, and include that in your itinerary.
Best time to visit Nainital?
You can visit Nainital all year round. Its weather is enjoyable and getting here anytime is still ideal.
Yet, if you are considering the budget and want to travel smart, here are some guides on when to visit the area:
March to June:
The summer season where people came flocking the area to escape the hot weather in the city. You can enjoy the boat ride along the lake because of the favorable temperature.
Yet, since a lot of tourists and visitors are coming, the hotel and stay-ins can be a little pricey.
July to September:
If you want to experience a rainy season in the hills and mountainside, July to September is the best time to visit. You curl up in bed or sip a hot coffee while witnessing the beautiful view of Nainital in the comfort of your room.
You save more when you visit during this season, as hotels are giving away the lowest deal as possible. Yet watch out for road blockages because of some danger in the area.
October to February:
Average weather in October. Wherein winter is greeting you in February. Despite the temperature, seeing Nainital and Himalayas covered with snow is worth it. Just climb up the Snow Peak, prepare your camera for a winter picturesque Nainital. Winter is a charming and misty way to experience the area differently.
Where should we stay in Nainital?
The emerald lake, and the luscious pine and old oak trees attracted tons of visitors to the town. The cluster of hotels and stay-ins around the hills range from budget to high-end. You choose a hotel suitable for you from these categories.
So, here are the best locations to book you stay at Nainital:
Mallital
The concentration of luxury and budget hotels are here in this area. It is at the northern end of the lake where hotels and stay-ins give you a magnificent view of serene lakes. Or if you don’t have the lake view in your room, the hills and mountainside will still greet you.
Tallital
When you book your stay here, you will be near popular attractions. You can see the Tibetan Market, Mall Road, and Nainital Zoo in proximity. The local transport like a bus is accessible as well. It is a place to book. It gives you easier access to the main attractions aside from the lake.
Around Nainital
The villages of Bhimtal, Pangot, Bhowali, and Khurpatal have a wide range of mid-range hotels. It offers you calming scenery along with trees and forests.
Yet, you need to drive an estimate of 45 minutes to reach the area, but if you want to save and have more time, it is ideal.
The hotels located here provide you with nature’s best. The chirping birds, fresh and cool mountain air, and lost of hiking activities. By being here, you can already have a grasp of Nainital beauty and wonder.
Nainital should always be on your list when visiting India. It is close to the country’s capital. Thus, you have no reason not to go.
Missing this majestic place is a big no. A side trip or an intentional trip will fill your heart with the goodness of nature. So, never to miss this one out.
It is a different way to experience in India, especially its metropolitan city, like New Delhi. Aside from the food, temples, and spiritual journey, having this place in the country is a blessing.