Places To Visit Near Nainital For An Adventurous Vacation

Nainital is a beautiful hill station of the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand particularly famous for its frozen beauty and beautiful lakes. Besides being an eye-catching location for tourists, Nainital with its amazing nearby areas has things that are alluring for every traveller, be it serene water bodies, thrilling treks, or cultural exposures. Here are the 10 best places to visit near Nainital that promise to enhance your travel experience:

Table of Contents

1. Sattal

An image of the Sattal lake and the boats in Nainital, Uttarakhand

Photo: sushanta mohanta sin / Wikimedia Commons

Located just 23 km from Nainital, Sattal is a serene paradise that consists of seven interconnected lakes. Surrounded by lush forests of oak and pine, Sattal is perfect for nature lovers. It is famous for its tranquil environment, making it ideal for peaceful walks and relaxation. The area is also a hotspot for birdwatchers, with more than 500 species of birds inhabiting the region. Apart from its natural beauty, visitors can enjoy boating, kayaking, and fishing in the calm waters of the lakes. An iconic places to visit near Nainital for a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Best Time To Visit: March to May, September to November

Suggested Read: Top Places To Visit In Devprayag

2. Naina Devi Temple

A Panoramic image of the beautiful Naina Devi Temple amidst the hills of Uttarakhand

Photo: Photographer Praveen Singh Bisht / Wikimedia Commons

The Naina Devi Temple is found on the bank of the Naini Lake on the northern side of Nainital and is an important pilgrim center. This temple is devoted to the Goddess Naina Devi and there are mythological as well as historical values. Legend has it that the eyes of Goddess Sati have fallen here and therefore the place is one of the 64 Shakti Peeths in the country. After serving spiritual purpose the temple provides a vantage point to the nearby hills and the Naini lake. The temple is located at the hill top and visitors can trek up to get to the temple or they may use a cable car to visit the temple.

Best Time To Visit: March to June, September to November

3. Ranikhet

Image of the lush forest of the hills of Ranikhet near Nainital in Uttarakhand

Photo: Ravi Dwivedi / Wikimedia Commons

Ranikhet which is about 58 km away from Nainital is a beautiful hill station that is set mostly against the mighty Himalayan ranges. Attractively ravishing for its panoramic beauty, the Rohilkhand city, Ranikhet, is blessed with natural values, pines, and slopes. The town also hosts the Kumaon regiment of India army hence enhancing the image of a military town. Trekking, bird watching, or enjoying a nature trail in the area is a pleasant sight to behold and is best explored at Ranikhet. It provides serenity, thrill, and history that should make it a destination is one of the best places to visit near Nainital.

Best Time To Visit: March to June

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Gangotri

4. Jim Corbett National Park

Beautiful image of sign bord of Jim Corbett National Park in Uttarakhand

Photo: Photos Worldwide / Wikimedia Commons

Jim Corbett National Park lying at about 64 kilometers from Nainital is the dream of every wildlife tourist. It was initiated in 1936 and is one of the oldest national parks of India and also one of the most visited wildlife sanctuaries in India. The parks house the famous Tigers of Bengal, elephants, leopards, and birds; over six hundred species of them to be precise. Jeep safari is an ideal way to discover Corbett and to have the unique opportunity to see fauna and flora in the wild. For wildlife and adventurous travellers, Corbett National Park is a place of interest.

Best Time To Visit: November to February

5. Mukteshwar

Panoramic image from the hills of Mukteshwar–best places to visit near Nainital

Photo: Ashish.sadh / Wikimedia Commons

Located about 50 km from Nainital, Mukteshwar is one of the least explored places of Uttaranchal, which offers spectacular vistas of the mighty Himalayas of the region, particularly the Trishul. The Mukteshwar is named after the Mukteshwar Temple, which is a Lord Shiva Temple and the place is famous for pilgrimage as well as nature lovers. Mukteshwar is also famous for its apple gardens; this is another beauty of Mukteshwar, especially during the harvest period when apples are in production. The area has several other Off-Beat trails & paths, away from the tourist rush of the region. It does not matter if you want to go for a spiritual trip or an adventurous trip Mukteshwar will provide the best.

Best Time To Visit: March to June

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Garhwal

6. Bhimtal

Panoramic view of Bhimtal lake from Aquarium Island Cafe by The Lake Hill

Photo: Subhrajyoti07 / Wikimedia Commons

About 22 km away from Nainital, Bhimtal is a picturesque town, which houses a large freshwater lake called, Bhimtal Lake. The idea about Bhimtal is that, it is not as crowded as Nainital Lake for boating and to spend some time in a calm and composed manner. The area around the lake is densely forested and hilly, thus, the place is appropriate for relaxation. The other attraction is an island in the middle of the lake which contains an aquarium. The town also contains many historical temples, which makes a cultural note to the vacation. Bhimtal is quieter than the other hill stations of the region and offers quite a charming view of the hills.

Best Time To Visit: March to June

7. Almora

Scenic view of Almora plantation and local villages which is one of the best places to visit near Nainital

Photo: Travelling Slacker / Wikimedia Commons

Almora, located about 60 km from Nainital, is a charming hill station steeped in culture and history. Set on a ridge, Almora offers stunning views of the Himalayan range. The town is a hub for traditional Kumaoni culture, and visitors can explore local handicrafts, including woollen items, wood carvings, and brassware. One of Almora’s major attractions is the Kasar Devi Temple, which has been a spiritual site for centuries and attracts pilgrims from across the country. Almora is perfect for travellers interested in exploring both cultural heritage and natural beauty, with plenty of trails and scenic viewpoints to enjoy.

Best Time To Visit: March to June

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Haldwani

8. Kausani

Scenic image of the lower Himalayan ranges from the hills of Kausani near Nainital

Photo: David M. / Wikimedia Commons

Kausani is another beautiful hill station located at around 115 km distance from Nainital which is also famous like Switzerland because of its greenery and pleasant mountains. This place is well famous for the bird’s eye view of some of the tallest mountain peaks of India namely Trishul, Nanda Devi, panchchuli, etc. It is natural and highly recommended for those who prefer spending time surrounded by nature and lots of space and for those who want to find immunity from overcrowded cities. Enveloped in scenic beauty and calmness, Kausani which is one of the best places to visit near Nainital offers tourists and travellers an excellent opportunity for activities relating to relaxation and discovery.

Best Time To Visit: March to June, October to February

9. Pangot

image of a person taking a picture from the hills of Pangot near Nainital in Uttarakhand

Photo: Mike Prince / Wikimedia Commons

Pangot, located just 15 km from Nainital, is a quiet village set amidst the dense forests of oak, pine, and rhododendron. The village is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 250 species of birds, including the Himalayan Griffon and the Great Hornbill. The area is also known for its beautiful trekking trails, which lead through tranquil forests and offer spectacular views of the surrounding hills. Pangot is perfect for those seeking a peaceful retreat with an opportunity to reconnect with nature. Whether you’re interested in birdwatching, photography, or simply enjoying the beauty of the natural surroundings.

Best Time To Visit: March to June

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Haridwar

10. Tiffin Top

View of Nainital town from Tiffin Top ,Nainital

Photo: Tanbatra / Wikimedia Commons

Tiffin Top, situated at a close distance from Nainital through trekking, is one of the most admired viewpoints among tourists. As known as Dorothy’s Seat, it is an ideal spot for sightseeing, to enjoy the whole Nainital town along with the nearby hills. This viewpoint gets its name from Dorothy Kellet, a British lady who died an untimely death after being involved in a plane crash in that region. Tiffin Top trail is relatively easy and follows a zigzag path with a thick carpet of pine trees throughout the ascent. The climb is all worthwhile once you are up here where you are rewarded with the sight of the Naini Lake, the Nainital town, and most importantly the great Himalayas.

Best Time To Visit: March to June

The areas surrounding Nainital offer a perfect blend of natural beauty, adventure activities, and cultural charm. From freshwater lakes and lush green forests to picturesque hill stations and diverse wildlife sanctuaries, these 10 destinations provide something for every type of traveller. Whether you seek serenity, outdoor activities, or an immersion in local culture, these spots will make your trip unforgettable. To plan your next getaway to these tourist places near Nainital, visit TripXL for detailed itineraries, booking options, and expert recommendations. Let us help you create a journey that will leave you with memories to cherish forever!

Cover Photo: Skalvanov / Wikimedia Commons

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time to visit places near Nainital?

The best time to visit Nainital and nearby destinations is during the summer months, from March to June when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing. For those looking to experience snowfall, the winter months of December to February are perfect.