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Nainital, situated in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, is a calm hill station providing an ideal escape for visitors. The town is renowned for its beautiful Naini Lake, which lies in the valleys of green hills and has so many coloured boats that one cannot resist the urge to boat. There is also a ropeway to Snow View Point where snow-covered peaks of the Himalayas can be seen. There are a lot of things to do in Nainital for the rejoicement of tourists. The serene climate, beautiful landscape, spirituality plus adventures make Nainital very tourist-friendly – a feature which suits every kind of voyager.
The Ultimate Guide To Things To Do In Nainital
Here is a list of the things to do in Nainital that will help you enjoy this beautiful place where nature meets culture and adventure.
1. Boating In Naini Lake
Photo: Slyronit / Wikimedia Commons
Naini Lake is famous in Nainital, especially for tourists, who prefer to enjoy such experiences in the lap of nature, free from noise and commotion. The clear waters of the lake in Nainital form the center of attraction, surrounded by green hills making the serene and scenic boat ride more enjoyable and picturesque. Tourists have the option of rowing boats pedal boats or the local wooden boats to venture into the lake which is full of greenish waters. As the boat sails, the sceneries come into view, among them are beautifully decorated houses, green hills, the beautiful Naina Devi Temple and other views that are awe-inspiring.
Location: Naini Lake, Nainital
Major Attractions:Scenic views, Naina Devi Temple
How To Reach: Easily accessible by local transport and taxis from Nainital town
2. Trekking To Tiffin Top (Dorothy’s Seat)
Photo: Tanbatra / Wikimedia Commons
Tiffin Top, which is more often referred to as Dorothy’s Seat, is a place where one can enjoy the breathtaking hills and the town of Nainital. One can navigate the trek to Tiffin Top which takes about thirty to forty-five minutes from Nainital town with relative ease. The pathway is quite scenic with green bushes everywhere and at the top one gets an amazing view of the Himalayan range and the Nainital Valley. Tiffin Top is also a picnic and photography point so attracts many nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Location: 4 km from Nainital Town
Major Attractions:Panoramic views, serene surroundings
How To Reach: Can be reached by trekking or hiring a pony
3. Snow View Point By Cable Car
Photo: Slyronit / Wikimedia Commons
If you want the greatest experience from this place, then one of the best things to do in Nainital is a cable car ride to Snow View Point. With the cable car ride comes a sense of adventure as one does not only fly over the town but gets a 360-degree view of an amazing Nainital lake and its hills. After Scenic Snow View Point, sit and watch the Himalayan mountain range covered in snow peaks, which include Nanda Devi and Trishul. There is also a small amusement park with limited rides, as well as stalls selling trinkets.
Location: Mallital, Nainital
Major Attractions:Himalayan views, cable car ride
How To Reach: Accessible by cable car from Mallital
4. Explore Naina Devi Temple
Photo: आशीष भटनागर / Wikimedia Commons
Naina Devi Temple is located on the northern bank of Naini Lake and is one of the revered Tirupati Balaji temples in India. It is a shrine dedicated to Naina Devi, who is revered as the Goddess Parvati. Naina Devi Temple serving as a place of worship is frequented by both residents and visitors. The calm and peaceful surroundings of the temple and the picturesque scenery of the lake are an ideal spot for meditation and prayers. The beautiful temple inside its context, the spirituality it composes, and the temple grounds around it render it impossible to not pay a visit.
Location: North end of Naini Lake
Major Attractions:Religious significance, serene setting
How To Reach: Located in Mallital, easily accessible by foot or rickshaw
5. Visit Eco Cave Gardens
Photo: Pixabay / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
In Nainital, the Eco Cave Gardens are a series of caves and hanging gardens which is fun and educational for the visitors. The caves are named after animals who dwell in that region, for instance, the Tiger Cave, the Panther Cave, and the Bat Cave. The winding narrow caves can be stepped into and they lead up to a beautifully manicured garden. It’s quite a family-oriented place, brimmed with activities suited for kids, while also providing views of animals from the Himalayan range in their respective homes. The musical fountains also light up the garden in the evening and further enhance its beauty.
Location: Sukhatal, Nainital
Major Attractions:Animal-themed caves, hanging gardens
How To Reach: Easily accessible by local transport
6. Shopping At Mall Road
Photo: Abhimanyu7793 / Wikimedia Commons
An important aspect of the semi-urban and commercial activities of Nainital is Mall Road, which is surrounded by a number of shops, restaurants and cafes. Disembarking in Nainital without walking on this busy and attractive street, in every sense, is criminal. This street is also fit with various restaurants as well, types of food range from the local Kumaoni cuisine to the multi-cuisine restaurants. Mall Road is built in a straight line adjacent to Naini Lake and adds more spice to the shopping with beautiful views of the lake.
Location: Nainital Town
Major Attractions:Shopping, dining, lake views
How To Reach: Located in the heart of Nainital, easily accessible on foot
7. Bird Watching At Pangot And Kilbury Bird Sanctuary
Photo: Jeremy / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
The Pangot and Kilbury Bird Sanctuary is located a few kilometres off Nainital and more birds can be found here. The bird sanctuary covers an area of over 580 species of birds some of these species are rare and some are endangered. The green vegetation in the area and the calmness of the place are perfect for bird watching and bird photography. Many birds can be seen here such as woodpeckers, pheasants, hawk vultures and many more. The picturesque location along with the sounds of chirping of birds provides a great escape for people who love nature.
Location: 15 km from Nainital
Major Attractions:Bird species, natural beauty
How To Reach: Accessible by car or local transport
8. Visit The Governor’s House (Raj Bhavan)
Photo: Utkarsh saxena / Wikimedia Commons
The Raj Bhavan or Governor’s House is a stunning colonial building which is the official abode of the Governor of Uttarakhand. Constructed in 1899, the building is designed in the style of Buckingham Palace and is set in well-kept gardens. The tourists are offered an escorted visit to the premises which also extends to its expansive lawns, a golf course and the regal chambers within. This is a pleasant spot where the history of this region during colonial rule can be appreciated alongside the beauty of all the structures within the compound.
Location: Tallital, Nainital
Major Attractions:Colonial architecture, gardens
How To Reach: Easily accessible by local transport
9. Hike To Naina Peak (Cheena Peak)
Photo: Sahilxr / Wikimedia Commons
Naina Peak which is also called Cheena Peak being the tallest in the Nainital region provides a beautiful sight of mountains, valleys and Naini Lake. The trek to Naina Peak is of moderate difficulty level and it takes roughly 3 hours. On the way, you will meander through thick forests consisting of pine, deodar as well as rhododendron trees, making it a picturesque and invigorating trek. On reaching the summit, there will be breathtaking views of vast patches of the Kumaon region and ranges on the Himalayas. This is an ideal activity for modern-day explorers and one of the best things to do in Nainital.
Location: 6 km from Nainital Town
Major Attractions:Scenic trek, panoramic views
How To Reach: Accessible by foot or by hiring a pony
10. Visit The Gurney House
Photo: Sabyasachi Paldas / Wikimedia Commons
Gurney House is a significant structure located in Nainital and is most famous for being the home to Indian-born British hunter Jim Corbett. The building has been converted into a museum that presents a collection of artefacts, pictures, and other memorabilia in honour of Corbett’s life and achievements. It is quite interesting for people who are fond of history and nature and wish to know more about the person depicted in the famous Jim Corbett National Park. The building is also set among lovely gardens and provides a window into the Nainital of the Colonial Era.
Location: Ayarpatta, Nainital
Major Attractions:Jim Corbett’s memorabilia, colonial history
How To Reach: Easily accessible by foot or local transport
An idyllic hill station is not all that Nainital is. There is a fair share of adventure and peace as well. There are a ton of things to do in Nainital to enhance your visit. This beautiful place has it all. Be it idleness or excitement, the beautiful sights of Nainital and its vibrant culture guarantee a memorable trip. Book a visit with TripXL to soak in the spirit of Nainital, and there are lots of things which will be cherished forever!
Cover Photo: Slyronit / Wikimedia Commons
