Nestled in the picturesque Kumaon hills of Uttarakhand, Nainital is a captivating hill station that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and tranquility. Known for its serene lakes, lush green surroundings, and colonial-era charm, this delightful destination promises an unforgettable experience for travelers. In this blog, we will highlight seven great places to visit in Nainital, providing you with valuable insights to make the most of your trip.

Great Places to Visit in Nainital

Nainital, a picturesque hill station located in the Indian state of Uttarakhand, offers a perfect escape with its serene beauty and pleasant weather. Surrounded by lush greenery and the enchanting Naini Lake, it’s a haven for nature lovers. From boating on the lake to exploring vibrant markets and scenic viewpoints like Snow View and Tiffin Top, Nainital promises unforgettable experiences for all ages. Come, and discover the magic of Nainital.

Naini Lake

At the heart of Nainital lies the enchanting Naini Lake, the town’s main attraction and the reason behind its name. This eye-shaped lake, surrounded by hills and colonial-era buildings, is a sight to behold. Visitors can enjoy boat rides, visit the Naina Devi Temple located on the northern bank, or simply stroll along the lakeside promenade, taking in the stunning views.

How to reach: Naini Lake is easily accessible from various parts of Nainital.

Nearby places: Naina Devi Temple, Mall Road, and Govind Ballabh Pant High Altitude Zoo.

Opening hours and entry fee: The lake is open 24/7, and there is no entry fee.

Nainital Zoo (Govind Ballabh Pant High Altitude Zoo)

Situated at an altitude of 2,084 meters, the Nainital Zoo, also known as the Govind Ballabh Pant High Altitude Zoo, is a delight for animal lovers. This unique zoo houses a wide variety of high-altitude animals, including snow leopards, Himalayan black bears, and various bird species. The zoo also offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys.

How to reach: The zoo is located near Naini Lake and is easily accessible by local transportation or on foot.

Nearby places: Naini Lake, Mall Road, and Eco Cave Gardens.

Opening hours and entry fee: The zoo is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and the entry fee for adults is around ₹50, while children are charged ₹20.

Eco Cave Gardens

 The Eco Cave Gardens in Nainital is a unique attraction that combines natural beauty with man-made caves and gardens. These underground caves, carved into the hillside, offer a cool and serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the town. The gardens feature a variety of plants, waterfalls, and rock formations, making it a delightful spot for nature lovers.

How to reach: The Eco Cave Gardens are located near Naini Lake and are accessible by local transportation or on foot.

Nearby places: Naini Lake, Mall Road, and Nainital Zoo.

Opening hours and entry fee: The gardens are open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and the entry fee is around ₹50 for adults and ₹30 for children.

Naina Devi Temple

The Naina Devi Temple, situated on the northern bank of Naini Lake, is a revered Hindu shrine dedicated to the goddess Naina Devi. This temple is known for its intricate architecture and stunning location, offering panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding hills. Visitors can seek blessings and witness the vibrant Hindu rituals and ceremonies.

How to reach: The temple is accessible by boat from Naini Lake or by a short walk from the lakeside.

Nearby places: Naini Lake, Mall Road, and Nainital Zoo.

Opening hours and entry fee: The temple is open from early morning until late evening, and there is no entry fee.

Mall Road

Mall Road is the bustling heart of Nainital, lined with shops, restaurants, and markets. This pedestrian-friendly street offers a glimpse into the town’s vibrant culture and is a great place to indulge in local cuisine, shop for souvenirs, or simply soak in the lively atmosphere. Additionally, visitors can enjoy horse-drawn carriage rides along the road, adding to the charm.

How to reach: Mall Road is easily accessible from various parts of Nainital.

Nearby places: Naini Lake, Naina Devi Temple, and Nainital Zoo.

Opening hours and entry fee: Mall Road is open throughout the day, and there is no entry fee.

Snow View Point

For those seeking panoramic views of the Himalayan ranges, Snow View Point is a must-visit destination in Nainital. Located at an altitude of 2,270 meters, this viewpoint offers breathtaking vistas of the snow-capped peaks, including Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Nanda Kot. It is a popular place for the photography lovers and the nature lovers too.

How to reach: Snow View Point is located about 4 kilometers from Nainital and can be reached by local transportation or hired taxis.

Nearby places: Eco Cave Gardens, Naini Lake, and Mall Road.

Opening hours and entry fee: The viewpoint is open throughout the day, and there is no entry fee.

Sattal

Nestled amidst lush green forests, Sattal is a cluster of seven interconnected lakes that offer a serene and picturesque escape from the hustle and bustle of Nainital. This hidden gem place is perfect for nature lovers and those who want peace. Visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, or simply relax in the serene surroundings.

How to reach: Sattal is located about 22 kilometers from Nainital and can be reached by local transportation or hired taxis.

Nearby places: Bhimtal, Naukuchiatal, and Mukteshwar.

Opening hours and entry fee: The lakes are open throughout the day, and there is no entry fee.

Nainital is a great and beautiful hill station that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and scenic vistas. From the serene Naini Lake to the majestic Snow View Point, and from the tranquil Sattal lakes to the vibrant Mall Road, this destination promises an unforgettable experience for all visitors. So, pack your bags and go on a journey to explore the wonders of Nainital, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

FAQs

Q: What is the best time to visit Nainital?

A: The best time to visit Nainital is from March to June and September to November when the weather is pleasant, and the scenic beauty is at its peak.

Q: What are the best places to visit in Nainital?

A: Naini Lake, Naina Devi Temple, Eco Cave Gardens, Tiffin Top, and Nainital Zoo are some of the best places to visit in Nainital.

Q: What adventure activities can we do in Nainital?

A: You can indulge in adventure activities like trekking, rock climbing, rappelling, and boating in Nainital.

Q: What is the approximate cost of visiting Nainital?

A: The approximate cost of a 3-day trip to Nainital for two people can range from INR 10,000 to INR 15,000, including accommodation, food, and sightseeing.

Q: What can one do during a 3-day visit to Nainital?

A: During a 3-day visit to Nainital, you can explore Naini Lake, visit Naina Devi Temple, go boating, trek to Tiffin Top, and visit Eco Cave Gardens.

Also Read:

7 Unmissable Places to Visit in Uttarakhand

7 Best Places to Visit in India in August: The Monsoon Blues

7 Must Places to Visit in Maharashtra

 References:

https://uttarakhandtourism.gov.in/destination/nainital
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tourism_in_Uttarakhand

Disclaimer: The information provided in this guide is for general purposes only. Please verify details before visiting, as conditions may change. We are not responsible for any inaccuracies.