Nainital, Uttarakhand, (North India)
Nainital is a popular hill station located in the state of Uttarakhand, India. Situated around the picturesque Naini Lake, the town offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests. Nainital is known for its pleasant weather, boating opportunities, the Naina Devi Temple, and the Mall Road, lined with shops and eateries. Visitors can enjoy activities like horse riding, cable car rides, and exploring nearby attractions like Bhimtal and Naukuchiatal.
Unlock the beauty of Nainital with our comprehensive guide to the best things to do and places to visit in this mesmerizing region. From nature's marvels to cultural gems, Nainital has it all
Sightseeing
This viewpoint offers panoramic views of Nainital. You can reach there by horse ride or trekking.
Best Time to Visit: March - June, September - November
Timings: 08:00-17:00
Closing Days: Open all days
Price: Free
Hiking gear recommended & INR 500 - INR 700 per person for Horse Ride
Sightseeing
This colonial structure is a blend of Gothic and Victorian architecture styles.
Best Time to Visit: All Season
Timings: 10:00-17:00
Closing Days: Closed on Sunday
Price: 50.0 (Price is for 1 people)
There is a separate fee for the Golf course which is ₹ 450 per head.
Sightseeing
Here, you can see several high altitude wildlife species. It's a great spot for families and wildlife enthusiasts.
Best Time to Visit: All Season
Timings: 10:00-16:30
Closing Days: Closed on Monday
Price: 50.0 (Price is for 1 people)
Closed on national holidays & Additional Charges of INR 25 for still cameras and INR 200 for professional video cameras
Experiences
The cable car ride offers spectacular views of Nainital and leads to Snow View Point, where on a clear day, you can see the Himalayas.
Best Time to Visit: All Season
Timings: 10:00-17:00
Closing Days: Open all days
Price: 300.0 (Price is for 1 people)
Check the weather forecast before planning your visit.
Experiences
It's the perfect place to enjoy the city's culture, try local food, shop for souvenirs, and enjoy the beautiful views of the Naini Lake.
Best Time to Visit: All Season
Timings: 10:00-22:00
Closing Days: Open all days
Price: Flexible (As per your budget)
Vehicle restrictions might apply during peak hours.
Religious Visit
This temple is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas in India and is a significant religious site in Nainital.
Best Time to Visit: All Season
Timings: 06:00-22:00
Closing Days: Open all days
Price: Free
Shoes must be removed before entering.
Religious Visit
One of the oldest and finest churches in Nainital.
Best Time to Visit: All Season
Timings: 07:00-18:30
Closing Days: Open all days
Price: Free
Respectful attire is recommended.
Trekking
Also known as China Peak, it's the highest point in Nainital, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayas and the city.
Best Time to Visit: March - June, September - November
Timings: 06:00-16:00
Closing Days: Open all days
Price: Free
Hiking gear and sufficient water is recommended.
Experiences
Located in the heart of Nainital, it's famous for its magnificent views. Boating is a must-try activity here.
Best Time to Visit: March - June, September - November
Timings: 10:00-18:00
Closing Days: Open all days
Price: 160.0 (Price is for 1 people)
Weather conditions can affect availability.
Travel Guidelines for Nainital, Uttarakhand (North India) For Indian Travellers Only
1. Place Information
Nainital is a charming hill station in the state of Uttarakhand. Situated around the Naini Lake, it offers a picturesque setting with its colonial architecture, vibrant boat clubs, and a backdrop of the lush Kumaon hills. The town gets its name from the Naini Lake and is a popular destination for both families and honeymooners.
2. Travel Related Information
By Road: Nainital is well-connected by road. Regular bus services and taxis operate from major cities like Delhi (around 300 km away) and Dehradun.
By Air: The nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport, approximately 70 km from Nainital. It has limited connectivity, so travellers often prefer Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport and then make the journey by road or rail.
By Railway: The nearest railway station is Kathgodam, around 34 km away, which connects Nainital to cities like Delhi, Kolkata, and Lucknow.
3. Visa Related Information
Indian citizens don't require a visa to travel within India. For any ID or travel-related concerns, refer to local administrative offices or the Ministry of Home Affairs website.
4. SIM Card/Network Related Information
Major telecom providers in Nainital include Jio, Airtel, Vodafone-Idea, and BSNL. Network connectivity is generally good in the town, though it might be spotty in some remote areas or higher elevations.
5. Govt Safety Guidelines
Nainital is a popular and generally safe tourist destination. Visitors should take standard precautions, especially while boating or engaging in adventure activities. The Uttarakhand Police website provides safety advisories and other relevant details.
6. Internal Transport Related Information
In Nainital, taxis are the most common mode of transport for sightseeing. The central part of the town around the Naini Lake is also great for walking. Boating in Naini Lake is a must-do activity for many tourists.
7. Special Mentions
Naini Lake: The heart of Nainital, it's perfect for boating or simply taking a leisurely walk around its perimeter.
Naina Devi Temple: Located at the northern end of the lake, it's dedicated to Goddess Naina Devi.
Snow View Point: Offers panoramic views of the snow-clad Himalayas.
Tiffin Top: A popular viewpoint, it provides a panoramic view of Nainital.
The Mall Road: Nainital's main shopping street with eateries, shops, and hotels.
Nainital Zoo: Houses several endangered species and offers a glimpse into the region's biodiversity.
Governor's House (Raj Bhavan): A colonial structure showcasing Gothic architecture.