Nainital: 15 Must Visit Amazing Places

Nainital, a stunning hill station in Uttarakhand, India, is a popular destination for travelers seeking a tranquil retreat amidst nature’s splendor. The perfect gateway to this stunning place is a journey that combines scenic beauty, adventure, and spiritual experiences. In this article, you will get to know the ideal route to Nainital, highlighting the must-visit places, activities, and tips for a memorable trip.

How to reach Nainital:

The nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport (PGH), located about 65 km from Nainital. You can take a taxi or bus from the airport to reach your destination. Alternatively, you can reach there by train from Kathgodam Railway Station (KGM), which is about 41 km away.

Best time to Visit Nainital:

Best time to visit: March to July and September to November. Temperatures usually range between 21-30 degrees Celsius with warm days and cool nights.

Places to visit in Nainital:

1. Naini Lake: A picturesque lake and the heart of Nainital.
2. Naina Devi Temple: A sacred temple dedicated to Goddess Naina Devi.
3. Snow View Point: A vantage point offering panoramic views of the Himalayas.
4. Mall Road: A bustling street lined with shops, restaurants, and hotels.
5. Bhimtal Lake: A serene lake with a beautiful island in the center.
6. Sattal Lake: A group of seven lakes offering stunning views and trekking opportunities.
7. Tiffin Top: A scenic spot with views of the Himalayas and the town.
8. Naina Peak: The highest point in Nainital, offering breathtaking views.
9. Kainchi Dham: A famous ashram and temple complex.
10. Pangoot: A scenic village and hill station nearby.
11. Nainital Zoo: A zoo housing various animals, including Himalayan black bears.
12. The Mall: A historic shopping street with colonial-era architecture.
13. Flatt’s Cottage: A historic house and museum showcasing Nainital’s history.
14. Gurney House: A historic house and museum dedicated to Jim Corbett.
15. Nainital Museum: A museum showcasing the region’s history, culture, and art.
16. Tibetan Market: A market selling Tibetan handicrafts and souvenirs.
17. Talla Nainital: A scenic village and trekking trail nearby.
18. Bhowali: A scenic village and hill station nearby.
19. Ramgarh: A scenic village and hill station nearby.
20. Mukteshwar: A scenic village and hill station nearby, known for its apple orchards.

These are just some of the many places to visit. The town and its surroundings offer a wide range of attractions and activities for all interests.

Things to do in Nainital:

1. Boating: Enjoy a relaxing boat ride on Naini Lake or Bhimtal Lake.
2. Trekking: Explore the surrounding hills and forests with treks to Snow View Point, Tiffin Top, and Naina Peak.
3. Shopping: Browse the local markets for souvenirs, handicrafts, and woolen garments.
4. Temple visits: Explore the Naina Devi Temple, Kainchi Dham, and other nearby temples.
5. Adventure sports: Try paragliding, rock climbing, and zip lining for a thrilling experience.
6. Wildlife spotting: Visit the Nainital Zoo or go on a safari in the nearby Pangoot Forest.
7. Food walks: Sample local cuisine, including Kumaoni dishes and street food.
8. Camping: Spend a night or two in the wilderness, camping in the hills.
9. Yoga and wellness: Relax and rejuvenate with yoga and spa treatments.
10. Festivals and events: Join in the celebrations during festivals like Nanda Devi Mela and Uttarayani Mela.
11. Horse riding: Explore the town and surrounding hills on horseback.
12. Picnics: Enjoy a peaceful picnic by the lake or in a scenic spot.
13. Museum visits: Learn about the region’s history and culture at the Museum.
14. Star gazing: Enjoy the clear night sky and spot stars and constellations.
15. Water sports: Try kayaking, canoeing, or paddle boating on the lakes.

Remember to check the weather and season before planning your activities.

Unique facts about Nainital:

• It’s name comes from the Hindi words for “eyes” and “lake,” and it’s said that the lake was formed from the eye of the goddess Sati.
• The town was founded in 1841 by a British sugar trader named P. Barron.
• It is also known as the “Lake District” of India, and is surrounded by several freshwater lakes.
• The town experiences “private rain” due to the lake at its northern end, causing it to rain almost every afternoon.
• It is an example of religious harmony and tolerance, with a temple, mosque, gurudwara and church all within a kilometer of each other.
• The town was once the summer capital of the United Provinces during the British Raj.
• It is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including deer, leopards, tigers, butterflies and wildflowers.
• The town offers many adventure sports, including trekking, rock climbing and paragliding.
• It was the hometown of Jim Corbett, the famous hunter and conservationist.
• The Nanda Devi Temple, dedicated to the goddess Nanda Devi, is one of the most important pilgrimage sites for Hindus.

In conclusion, it is a perfect gateway to nature’s paradise, offering a unique blend of adventure, spirituality, and scenic beauty. By following this guide, you’ll be able to experience the best of Nainital and create unforgettable memories. So pack your bags and get ready to discover the treasures of this amazing place!

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