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Nainital, with its serene lakes and stunning landscape, serves as an excellent base for exploring nearby hill stations. These destinations offer diverse experiences, from peaceful getaways to thrilling adventures. Whether you’re looking for snow-clad peaks, lush forests, or a cultural retreat, the hill stations near Nainital cater to all types of travellers. This guide will help you explore the best hill stations around Nainital, ensuring an unforgettable experience amidst nature.
9 Hill Stations Near Nainital
Nainital’s central location offers easy access to nearby hill stations. Here are the top hill stations near Nainital that guarantee scenic beauty, adventure, and tranquillity.
1. Bhimtal
Photo: Shubrajyoti07 / Wikimedia Commons
Located just 22 kilometres from Nainital, Bhimtal is famous for its peaceful lake surrounded by thick greenery. The town’s star attraction is Bhimtal Lake, where visitors can enjoy boat rides and admire the scenic surroundings. The island in the middle of the lake hosts a unique aquarium. Bhimtal also features the historic Bhimeshwar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. With its calm environment and natural beauty, Bhimtal is ideal for travellers seeking relaxation away from Nainital’s bustling tourist spots.
Distance From Nainital: 22 km
Best Time To Visit: March to June and September to November
Tips: Try early morning boat rides for a peaceful experience without crowds.
2. Sattal
Photo: Sumita Roy Dutta / Wikimedia Commons
Sattal, meaning “seven lakes,” is a scenic hill station located 23 kilometres from Nainital. It’s a paradise for nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts, and birdwatchers, as it is surrounded by lush forests and seven interconnected lakes. It offers various activities like boating, trekking, and lakeside camping. Visitors can explore trails nearby and spot rare bird species which makes it a favorite destination for photographers and wildlife enthusiasts. With its peaceful environment, Sattal is a perfect place providing a refreshing break from city life.
Distance From Nainital: 23 km
Best Time To Visit: March to June; September to November for pleasant weather
Tips: Bring binoculars to spot rare bird species along the lakes.
3. Ranikhet
Photo: Schwiki / Wikimedia Commons
Approximately 57 kilometres from Nainital, Ranikhet is a serene hill station known for its lush meadows, pine forests, and charming colonial-era ambience. The town offers attractions like Jhula Devi Temple and the beautiful Chaubatia Gardens, known for fruit orchards and panoramic views of the Himalayas. History enthusiasts can explore the Kumaon Regimental Centre Museum, which informs about the region’s military heritage. With its tranquil environment, scenic trails, and cool weather, it is ideal for leisurely nature walks and picnics.
Distance From Nainital: 57 km
Best Time To Visit: March to June and September to November
Tips: Ideal for a laid-back vacation; bring warm clothes during winter.
4. Almora
Photo: Miheer Tewari / Unsplash
Located 64 kilometres from Nainital, Almora is celebrated for its cultural heritage and breathtaking views of the Himalayas. This beautiful hill station offers several attractions like the Kasar Devi Temple and the Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary. Visitors can also explore Lala Bazaar, a vibrant market known for traditional crafts and local delicacies. Almora’s blend of old-world charm, natural beauty, and cultural vibrancy makes it an ideal destination for those looking to experience Uttarakhand’s heritage.
Distance From Nainital: 64 km
Best Time To Visit: April to June; September to November
Tips: Don’t miss the sunset view from Bright End Corner.
5. Mukteshwar
Photo: Ashwini Chaudhary(Monty) / Unsplash
Mukteshwar, located 48 kilometres from Nainital, is renowned for its scenic beauty and thrilling adventure activities. Perched at over 2,200 meters, it offers breathtaking views of the snow-clad Himalayan peaks. Key attractions include the Mukteshwar Temple, a sacred site dedicated to Lord Shiva, and Chauli Ki Jali, a popular spot for rock climbing and rappelling. The town is also surrounded by lush orchards. Mukteshwar’s cool climate, peaceful environment, and adventure options like paragliding make it an ideal destination for relaxation.
Distance From Nainital: 48 km
Best Time To Visit: March to June; September to November
Tips: Early mornings offer the clearest views of the Himalayas
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6. Kausani
Photo: Yogendra Joshi / Wikimedia Commons
Kausani, located 116 kilometres from Nainital, is renowned for its panoramic views of the Himalayan ranges, including majestic peaks like Nanda Devi and Trishul. Visitors can explore the Anasakti Ashram(where Mahatma Gandhi once stayed), Rudradhari Falls and surrounding caves. The lush tea gardens of Kausani also offer guided tours, allowing visitors to learn about the tea-making process. Known as the “Switzerland of India” for its natural beauty, Kausani’s tranquil atmosphere makes it a popular retreat for writers, photographers, and travellers seeking peace and inspiration.
Distance From Nainital: 116 km
Best Time To Visit: April to June; September to November
Tips: Visit the tea gardens for a guided tour and tasting.
7. Pangot
Photo: Abhinavguptaa11 / Wikimedia Commons
Pangot, situated just 16 kilometres from Nainital, is a small hill station renowned for its abundant birdlife and scenic forest trails. It is a paradise for birdwatchers and wildlife photographers home to over 500 recorded bird species, including Himalayan griffons, khalij pheasants, and various woodpeckers. Trekking through the dense oak and pine forests offers breathtaking views. Pangot’s serene environment makes it a perfect destination for those seeking a peaceful weekend escape amidst nature.
Distance From Nainital: 16 km
Best Time To Visit: October to April for birdwatching
Tips: Pack binoculars and trekking shoes for the forest trails.
8. Binsar
Photo: Shyamal / Wikimedia Commons
Binsar, located 109 kilometres from Nainital, offers stunning views of the Himalayan peaks, including Nanda Devi, Kedarnath, and Trishul. This hill station is famous for the Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, a heaven for nature lovers and birdwatchers, with several trekking trails winding through dense oak and rhododendron forests. Visitors can explore hidden waterfalls, enjoy peaceful nature walks, or spot rare wildlife and birds within the sanctuary. Binsar’s tranquil atmosphere and breathtaking landscapes make it an ideal destination for travellers seeking solitude and scenic beauty.
Distance From Nainital: 109 km
Best Time To Visit: March to June; September to November
Tips: Carry essentials as shops and services are limited in the area.
9. Champawat
Photo: Whiteraven335 / Wikimedia Commons
Champawat, situated 208 kilometres from Nainital, is a charming hill station that offers a blend of history, spirituality, and scenic landscapes. The town is known for the ancient Baleshwar Temple, a fine example of Kumaoni architecture, dedicated to Lord Shiva. It also serves as a gateway to other scenic spots like Lohaghat and Mayawati Ashram. Champawat’s serene atmosphere and historical significance provide a unique experience, making it an ideal destination for travellers.
Distance From Nainital: 208 km
Best Time To Visit: April to June; September to November
Tips: Ideal for history enthusiasts and peace seekers.
The hill stations near Nainital offer the perfect blend of peaceful escapes like Mukteshwar or thrilling adventures in Sattal, each destination promises something unique. These serene spots are ideal for unwinding, trekking, or simply enjoying panoramic views of the Himalayas. From lush forests to tranquil lakes, the surrounding hill stations provide refreshing getaways. Plan your trip with TripXL to explore these beautiful destinations, creating unforgettable memories amidst nature.
Cover Photo: Supratik Deshmukh / Wikimedia Commons
