Nainital History 

Nainital is also known as the “Lake District of India”. Nainital is a very beautiful hill station located in the hilly region in Uttarakhand of the Kumaon ranges. Nainital is a perfect weekend getaway for Delhiites and other nearby places. Nainital is being referred to in the ‘Manas Khand’ of the ‘Skanda Purana’ as the Tri-Rishi-Sarovar, the lake of the three sages, Atri, Pulastya, and Pulaha. The important mythological fact of Nainital is that it has one of 64 ‘Shakti Peeths’. The Nainital name has been derived from the well-known Naini Lake-based at the center of the district. Nainital fascinates the soul of many travelers to the view of Sattal, which is formed by the speculation of seven lakes. Nainital has a rich culture and heritage. The major part of the Nainital population is from the Kumaon region. The Fairs and festivals of the district Nainital are Basant Panchami, Uttarayani, Phool Dei, Nanda Devi Fair, and many more. 

Nainital Geography

Nainital is lying in the Kumaun Range, Nainital is covered by the Almora district on the north side and the Udham Singh Nagar district on the south side. Pauri Garhwal and Champawat district surrounded it on the western and eastern sides sequentially. The highest peak in Nainital is Bandhan Thali which is at 2623 mtr in the hilly region, and it is also known as Krol by geologists. The lower area is named Bhabhar which is obtained from the tall grasses of the region. The major facts of the Nainital district are: Geographical Area (4251 sq. km), Altitude(1938m), Latitude(29.38 degrees north), Longitude(79.45 degrees East), Languages spoken(Hindi, Garhwali, Kumauni). The most ideal time to explore Nainital is between March to June. Places for sightseeing in Nainital are Naini Lake, Snow View Point, Mall Road, Tiffin Top, Eco Cave Gardens, High Altitude Zoo, Naina Devi Temple, and many more. The famous lakes of Nainital are Bhimtal, Sattal, Khurpatal, Naukuchiatal, Malwatal, Harishtal and Lokhamtal. The Sattal of Nainital are Hanuman Tal, Bharat Tal, Ram Tal, Laxman Tal, Sita Tal, Garud Tal and Nal Damyanti Tal.

Plan My Package Recommends: Places to Visit in Nainital

Naini Lake

Naini Lake is one of the most famous lakes for its magnificent beauty and shimmery water located in Nainital. Naini lake is also famous for boating, photography, natural water bodies, and sightseeing. The entry fee for parking at Naini lake is INR 100. The visiting time of Naini lake is from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm. Charges for the Gondola Ride is INR 210 and the charges for Pedal Boat is INR 150 per hour. The distance from Pantnagar airport to Naini Lake is approx 69 km. Know More

Tiffin Top

Tiffin Top is the topmost attraction for every tourist who is visiting Nainital and it is also known as the “Dorothy’s Seat”. It is the most romantic place in Nainital. From the Tiffin Top, you can enjoy the 360-degree view of the beautiful hill station Nainital. Hiking and Trekking are the two topmost adventure activities. The distance from Nainital Mall Road to Tiffin Top is approx 3.2 km. Tiffin Top is open for 24 hours but it is preferable to visit between 8:00 am to 6:00 pm. The fees for Pony Ride cost between Rs. 500 to Rs. 700. If you want to enjoy the view of Sunrise and Sunset then you must visit Tiffin Top.

Nainital Zoo

The Nainital Zoo is also known as a high-Altitude Zoo situated on the Sher Ka Danda at a height of 2,100m. It was built in 1984 but for tourists, it was opened in 1995. This zoo ranked number three in India as the high altitude zoo. The distance from Nainital Mall Road to High Altitude Zoo is approx 2.3 km. Nainital Zoo is also a popular sightseeing place in Nainital. The entry fee of the zoo is Rs. 50 for adults and Rs. 20 for children. There is also a fee for bringing a camera Rs. 25 for a still camera and Rs. 200 for a professional video camera. There is no entry fee for senior citizens and differently-abled people, the students are allowed to enter free of cost on World Environment Day, Ozone Day, Zoo Foundation Day, and throughout the Wild Life Week. Timings for visiting the Nainital Zoo are from 10:00 am to 4:30 pm. The Zoo will remain closed on Holi, Diwali, Independence Day, and Republic Day. You must carry a water bottle and some eatables while visiting Nainital Zoo. 

Snow View Point 

The Snow View Point has been magistrate to its name and offers an elevated view of the hilltops making it one of the most preferable and visited destinations in Nainital. The height of the Snow View Point is 2,270 m high altitude creates the destination access to snowy valleys and the mountains to the great Himalayas. At the top of Snow View Point, a pair of binoculars is connected and allows tourists to have a closer look at the snow-covered peaks. When you zoom in, you will see a small temple covered in the snowy blanket where you can see images of Lord Rama, Goddess Sita, Lord Lakshman, Lord Hanuman, Lord Shiva, and Goddess Durga. Timing to visit Snow View Point is from 10:30 am to 5:00 pm except for Saturday. You can reach here by cab or by Ropeway. The distance from Nainital Mall Road to Snow view Point is approx 1.5km. The best time to visit here is in the month of mid-march. 

Nanda Devi Temple

The Naina Devi temple is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas in India which shows power and devotion towards the goddess. The temple is located near Naini Lake, and many tourists visit this temple throughout the year. The timings of visiting this temple are between 6:00 am to 10:00 pm. In August and September Nanda Ashtami is celebrated all over the Kumaon region. The festival shows the celebration and worship of the Goddess Naina Devi. It is considered the most visited sightseeing destination. The distance from Kathgodam Railway station to Naina Devi temple is approx 35 km. 

Kilbury Bird Sanctuary

Kilbury Bird Sanctuary is one of the ideal destinations for bird lovers and that’s why it is also known as bird watcher’s paradise. Most of the tourists who visit this place are regular visitors who take time from their busy lives to relax there and see the birds. The main specialty of the Kilbury Bird Sanctuary is that it has 580 different types of species which is a pleasure for bird lovers. The distance from Nainital Mall Road to Kilbury Bird Sanctuary is approx 13 km. The best time to visit Kilbury Bird Sanctuary is between March to June.  

Eco Cave Gardens

Eco Cave Gardens is a newly developed sightseeing destination in Nainital. It comprises many natural inter-connected caves of unique animals. The main attraction of this garden is hanging gardens. You need to crawl and climb some of the decreasing caves in the garden. The entry fee for the adult is INR 20 and for the children is INR 10. The timing of the opening and closing of Eco Cave Gardens is 9:30 am to 5:30 pm. The distance from Pantnagar Airport to Eco Cave Gardens is approx 72 km. 

Mall Road Nainital 

Nainital’s immigrant heart is the most famous Mall Road and a street offering the view of Naini Lake and it is also known as Govind Ballabh Pant Marg. Mall Road is the main center for all the activities. The trip is incomplete for the tourists if they come to Nainital and don't visit the Mall Road. Tourists can explore up and down Mall Road and enjoy the majestic view of Nainital. The most occupied streets of Nainital are Mallital and Tallital. The most selling things in Mall Road have scented candles and wooden man-made objects. The distance from Kathgodam Railway Station to The Mall Road is approx 1.6 km. The vehicles are not allowed on Mall Road between 6:00 am to 8:00 pm.  

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Places near Nainital

Jim Corbett (approx 68.8 Km from Nainital)

 Jim Corbett was established in 1936 and it was located at Himalaya’s foothills it is home to a large number of Tigers. The area of National Park is 1318.54 sq km. Jim Corbett National Park is divided into zones where tourists can enjoy the wildlife safari. The jeep safari goes into the dense forest to see the wild animals in their natural habitat is a must-have experience. And if you are lucky, then you even got a chance to spot a tiger. While on the jeep safari, you can enjoy the lush green forest's views cut across by streams and rivers and a few beautiful waterfalls. There are accommodations available inside the park for night-stay as well, which offer you a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

• The distance from Kathgodam Railway Station to Jim Corbett National Park is approx 54.2km.
• The ideal time to travel to the Jim Corbett National park is between December to March.
• Things to do here are Jeep Safari, Camping, Trekking, Fishing, Elephant Safari, River Crossing, and many more. 

Ranikhet (approx 57.6 Km from Nainital)

Ranikhet is the most famous and most visited destination in Uttarakhand. It is blessed with the best natural beauty and scenic views. Tourists usually come here to cure their minds and relax. Ranikhet is home to some of the gardens grown with apple orchards, pine trees, and apricots. Places to see in Ranikhet are Chaubatia Gardens, Haidakhan Temple, Jhula Devi Temple, Upat Golf Course, Majkhali, Bhaludam, Mankameshwar Temple, Tarikhet Village, Dunagiri Temple, and many more such places.

• The distance from Pantnagar National Airport to Ranikhet is approx 109 km.
• The best time to visit Ranikhet is throughout the year but it will be more preferable in March to June or either September to November.
• Places to stay in Ranikhet are Stonewood Villa, Parwati Retreat, Meraki, and many more.
• Popular things to eat in Ranikhet are Gahat Ke Paranthe, Aalu ka jhol, Bhang ki Chutney, Phaanu, Kumaoni Raita, and many more.
• The distance from Nainital to Ranikhet is approx 57.6 km.

Almora (64.5 Km from Nainital)

Almora is also known as the cultural capital of Kumaon. Almora is well known for its cultural diversity. Almora is situated at an elevation of 1,638 meters and is covered by the pines and old oaks. Almora is famous for its mesmerizing beauty, beautiful view of the Himalayas, authentic cultural heritage, and delicious cuisines. The two famous temples of Almora district are Chitai Golu Devta Temple and Nanda Devi Temple. Other temples of Almora are Katarmal, Jageshwar, and Kasar Devi which were built on a mountain peak and were near Kalimat.

• Popular places to see in Almora are Chitai Golu Devta, Bright End Corner, Martola, Kalimat, Deer Park, Govind Ballabh Pant Public Museum, Simtola, Katarmal Sun Temple.
• Activities which you all can do in Almora are Rock Climbing, Spider Web, Burma Bridge, Cycling, Shopping, Nature Walks.
• The distance from Pantnagar Airport to Almora is approx 116 km.
• The distance from Nainital to Almora is 61 km.

Haridwar (approx 228.3 Km from Nainital)

Haridwar is one of the most important Pilgrimage sites, also considered one of the seven holy places in India. ‘Hari’ is another name of Lord Vishnu and ‘Dwar’ means ‘Gateway’ which makes sense as Haridwar is the point of entry to Badrinath, Temple of Lord Vishnu, along with the other three of Chardham. This is one of the reasons Haridwar is considered sacred. Haridwar was previously named ‘Gangadwara’ which translates to ‘Gateway of Ganga’ as the river Ganga which is again holy for Hindus enters the Indo-Gangetic Plain here in Haridwar after flowing for almost 157kms.

• The most popular places to see in Haridwar are Chandi Devi Temple, Mansa Devi Temple, Chilla Wildlife Sanctuary, Har ki Pauri, Rajaji National Park, Dakeshwar Mahadev, Shantikunj Gayatri Parivar.
• Popular cuisines and street food of Haridwar are Aloo Poori, Kachori, Rasmalai & Jalebi, Lassi & Kulhar wala Milk, and Fresh Fruit Chaat.
• The distance from Nainital Airport to Haridwar is approx 207 km.
• The distance from Nainital to Haridwar is approx 233.4 km.

Mussoorie (308.9 Km from Nainital)

Mussoorie which is also known as “ The queen of hill stations”, is one of the most popular hill stations in the Dehradun district of Uttarakhand. Its altitude is about 7000 feet above sea level and has a very cool and pleasant climate all through the year. Mussoorie is also very popular for honeymooners and families. The distance from Nainital to Mussoorie is approx 177 km via train. The tourist attractions in Mussoorie are The Mall Road which is famous for shopping and it is also known as “The hub of shopping in Mussoorie”.  Another major attraction of Mussoorie is the Ropeway to Gun Hill, it is the second-highest peak in Mussoorie.

• The best time to visit Mussoorie is between April and June.
• The distance from Nainital to Mussoorie is approx 314 km.

 Mukteshwar (48.2 Km from Nainital)

Mukteshwar is 2286m, it has been surrounded by beautiful fruit orchards and forests. In Mukteshwar it is believed that Lord Shiva killed a devil at this point and he allowed him mukti. Mukteshwar is a majestic place that you can visit throughout the year. In Mukteshwar there is a chance of snowfall in December.

• Places to see in Mukteshwar are Mukteshwar Temple, Chauli ki Jali, Dhanachuli, Methodist Church, Indian Veterinary Research Institute, and Bhalu Gaad Waterfalls.
• Adventure activities that you can do in Mukteshwar are Trekking/ Hiking, Camping, Rock Climbing, and Paragliding. 
• The distance from Nainital to Mukteshwar is approx 48.2 km. The most preferable time to travel to Mukteshwar is between March to May. 

Bhimtal (23.8 Km from Nainital)

Bhimtal is not a well-known destination by tourists. Although it is older than Nainital. Places to see in Bhimtal are Bhimtal Lake, Victoria Dam, Folk Culture Museum, Hidimba Parvat, Nal Damyanti Tal, Butterfly Research Center, Pines Old Cemetery, Bhimtal Island Aquarium, and Naukuchiatal. You can also go and visit Rudrapur.

• The most ideal time to visit Bhimtal is from April to Mid-July.
• The Distance From Nainital to Bhimtal is approx 22 km.
• The adventure activities you can do in Bhimtal are Trekking, Paragliding, Horse Riding, Rappelling, Boating, and Mountain Biking.
• The distance from Nainital to Bhimtal is approx 22 km. 

Kausani (approx 115.9 Km from Nainital)

Kausani is also known as “The Switzerland of India”. It is the most perfect destination for backpackers. It has been surrounded by a covering of blossom sun and beautiful hills. The most famous thing to purchase from Kausani is Kumaoni jams. 

• Places to see in Kausani are Sumitranandan Pant Gallery, Anasakti Ashram, Rudradhari Falls, Kausani Tea Estate, Sarla Ashram and Baijnath.
• The most approachable time to visit Kausani is between April to June. Kausani is well known for its different types of fruit plantations.
• The distance from Nainital to Kausani is approx 116 km.

How to Reach Nainital

Nainital by Air

Well, Nainital does not have an airport but the nearest airport from Nainital is Pantnagar Airport, Pantnagar. You can take a  flight from New Delhi or Mumbai to Nainital. From the Pantnagar Airport, you can take a cab to reach Nainital. Nainital has the finest quality of road connectivity with many cities of North India including New Delhi, Agra, Varanasi, Chandigarh, You can take a beautiful ride from New Delhi of approx 315 km, You can even book a ticket from Volvo and come to Nainital by Volvo. 

Nainital by Train 

The nearest Railway Station of Nainital is Kathgodam Railway Station, Distance from the Kathgodam Railway Station to Nainital is approx 34 km. You can hire a taxi from the railway station to reach Nainital. Some of the trains from Nainital to Delhi are Kathgodam Railway Express, Uttaranchal Samprk Kranti Express, and Ranikhet Express.

Nainital by Road

Nainital has the finest quality of road connectivity with many cities of North India connecting New Delhi, Agra, Varanasi, Chandigarh, and more. You can take a beautiful ride from New Delhi of approx 315 km, Private and government buses are available from Anand Vihar, ISBT Kashmiri gate.

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Best Time to Visit Nainital  

Nainital is a destination where you can visit in any month of the year, But the most ideal time and when most of the tourists travel is in March to June and if you want to see and enjoy the snowfall then December is the most approachable month. The maximum and minimum temperature from March to June is 22 degrees Celsius and 15 degrees Celsius respectively. 

Nainital in Summer 

Nainital in summer ranges between March to May. Nainital has been blessed with pleasant weather. Summers are the best months for sightseeing like boating, especially during May and June, it is preferable to go boating in the evening or after 4 pm. The maximum and minimum temperatures in these months are 22 degrees Celsius and 15 degrees Celsius respectively. 

Nainital in Monsoon 

Nainital in monsoon ranges between June to September. During these months it is expected to have a very high amount of rainfall. In Nainital, it is the ideal time for boating. Due to the dry season, you can avail of special offers on the hotels, it is especially for budget travelers. Tourist spots to explore in this season are Guano Hills(trek), the Bhotia market, and many more. The minimum and maximum temperatures between June to September are 10 degrees Celsius and 25 degrees Celsius respectively. 

Nainital in winter 

Nainital in winter ranges between October to February. The winter season starts from October with a few cold winds. If you want to enjoy the view of snowfall then December and January are the ideal months for travelers. Some of the tourist spots to explore in the winter season are Bhimtal lake, Nainital Lake, Naina Peak, Eco Cave Gardens, Snow View Point. The temperature ranges between 15 degrees Celsius to 0 degrees Celsius during the winter season.

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Places to Eat in Nainital 

Sakley’s Restaurant

Sakley’s Restaurant (Satisfies your Appetite) was built in the year 1944, this is a perfect place for very choose and selective types of persons for their food. The visitors can enjoy their food with the beautiful views of the Himalayas. It is recommended as the best restaurant in Nainital. The restaurant is located on Mall Road. Timings of opening and closing of the restaurant are 9:30 am to 10:00 pm respectively. Some of the famous cuisines of this restaurant are North Indian, Chinese, and Dessert. Sakley’s Restaurant is also a pastry shop. 

Embassy Restaurant 

Embassy Restaurant (A Pocket Saving Food Hub) was built in the year 1964. This restaurant is ideal for both International and Domestic tourists. This restaurant is located on the famous Mall Road of Nainital. The restaurant is famous for North Indian and Indo- Chinese dishes, The most famous cuisine of Embassy Restaurant is buttery dal makhani. It is the most visited famous restaurant in Nainital. Timings of opening and closing of the restaurant are from 10:00 am to 10:00 pm respectively. 

Capri Restaurant

Capri Restaurant (Delectable Chinese, Continental, and Indian Delicacies) was established in the year 2007. The restaurant is located at the Mailital Market. This restaurant serves different types of cuisines which include Chinese, Continental, Indian and South Indian. Timings of opening and closing of the restaurant are from 10:00 am to 11:00 pm respectively. This restaurant has the most beautiful ambiance and decor. 

Nanak’s Restaurant 

Nanak’s Restaurant (Get Immerse Into Scrumptious Tibetan Dishes) was established in the year. It was located at Mall Road, Mailital. The timings of opening and closing of the restaurant are 9:00 am to 10:00 pm respectively.  Nanak’s Restaurant only serves vegetarian food. The cuisines the restaurant has are Indian and Chinese. 

Chandni Chowk 

Chandni Chowk (Well-Known For Vegetarian Thalis) was established in the year 2011. It was located at Mall Road, Tallital, Nainital. The timings of opening and closing of the restaurant are 9:00 am to 10:00 pm respectively. This restaurant is well known for the famous street food of Delhi. People can have veg and non-veg starters here. It has a beautiful ambiance and decor like you are enjoying at Chandni Chowk, Delhi. 

Sher-E-Punjab

Sher-E-Punjab (Enjoy Assorted Dishes Of Punjabi Cuisine) was established in the year 1972. It was located at Mall Road, Mallital, Nainital. The timings of opening and closing of the restaurant are 9:00 am to 11:00 pm respectively. This restaurant provides you with the original Punjabi-style atmosphere and mouth-watering food and makes you fall in love with this place. Know More

Places to Stay in Nainital 

The Nature’s Green Resort

Nature’s Green Resort is a mixture of both Nature and Architecture, It is one of the most famous luxury resorts of Nainital. The hotel has a Restaurant, Bar, Yoga Hall, Garden and a Sport area where you can enjoy the pleasant weather of Nainital. The amenities of the hotel room are a Comfortable bed, LED TV, Sofa, Chairs, Tea & Coffee machine, and many more such amenities. Tourists can go for various adventure activities from their resorts like Camping, Bird watching, Paragliding, and Hillclimbing.

• The distance from Nainital Mall Road to The Nature’s Green Resort is approx 20km. 

Ayar Jungle Resort

The Ayar Jungle Resort is spread over 5 acres with overgrown green lands, beautiful trees, mouth-watering food at Garden of Eden Restaurant. The ambiance of the resort is modern, stylish, and plush. The activities performed in the resort are Bar, LIve Teppanyaki Grill, Live Singing, Bonfire and there are some adventure activities performed in the resorts are Zip Lining, Sky Cycling, and Caving.

• The distance from Nainital Mall Road to Ayar Jungle Resort is approx 3.1 km. 

Royal Windsor Hotel

Royal Windsor Hotel is an ideal choice for travelers who are looking for a budget hotel in Nainital. The hotel is located at Ranibagh, Nainital. The biggest advantage of staying in this hotel is that it is well connected to the transit points of the city. The distance from Kathgodam Railway Station to Royal Windsor Hotel is approx 2.4 km.

•  The distance from Pantnagar Airport to Royal Windsor Hotel is approx 36.3 km. The amenities provided by the hotel are Free Wifi, Room Service, Air-conditioned rooms, One restaurant, one coffee shop.  

Alka - The Lake Side Hotel

Alka - The Lake Side Hotel is a hotel near the lake of Nainital it is surrounded by majestic views, greenery, and a peaceful atmosphere. Nainital is a perfect destination for Honeymooners, Families, and Adventure loving tourists. Alka hotel provides you with the best hospitality service. The different types of rooms provided by Alka hotel are Economy, Standard, Suite, Luxury, Executive, and Family Apartment. The amenities provided by Alka hotel are Free WiFi, Restaurant, Smart App, Centralised Heating, and Terrace Lawn.

• The distance from Nainital Mall Road to Alka hotel is approx 1km. 

Elphinstone Hotel

Elphinstone Hotel is a luxurious hotel of Nainital. The hotel was established in 1929 and it is considered one of the most popular hotels in Nainital. The hotel is situated near the Nainital Mall road. Nearby places from the hotel are Jageshwar, Bageshwar, Binsar, Kausani, Chaukori. Amenities provided by Elphinstone Hotel are Restaurant, Buffet Dinner, Laundry Service.

• The Distance From Kathgodam Railway Station and Pantnagar Airport is approx 34.5 km and 68 km respectively. 

The Manu Maharani 

The Manu Maharani Hotel was established in 1991 and is now fully furnished in the year 2006. The hotel is surrounded by fascinating surroundings, excellent service, and one of the greatest cuisines and it is merged with the beauty of the Kumaon region. Famous tourists near The Manu Maharani hotel are Snow View Point, Governor’s House Raj Bhawan, Gurudwara Shri Singh Sabha. Some of the amenities provided by the hotel are a spa, free parking, free breakfast, free wifi, bar, and laundry service. 

• The Distance from Pantnagar Airport to The Manu Maharani Hotel is approx 71.1 km. 

Earl’s Court

It is one the best luxury hotels in Nainital and it is located near the Nainital Lake. This hotel is most suitable for families and honeymoon couples. Popular tourist spots near Earls Court Hotel are Snow View Point, Nainital View Point, Jim Corbett Gurney House, G B Pant High Altitude Zoo, Lake View Point, and Dorothy’s Seat. The distance from Pantnagar Airport to Earl’s Court Hotel is approx 71 km. The amenities provided by the hotel are Free parking, Free WiFi, and Restaurant, there are two different types of rooms: Nonsmoking rooms and Family Rooms. It is a 3-star hotel in Nainital. Know More

Do’s and Don'ts in Nainital

Do’s 

• Do carry essential things during travel. 
• Do carry a medical kit as per your health condition.
• Do carry some woolen clothes if you are traveling during monsoon or winters.
• Do carry the government's ID proof during traveling. 
• Do wear a good pair of shoes during trekking.
• Do wear a mask and carry sanitizer during the trip.

Dont's

• Don’t throw plastic waste in public areas.
• Do not consume alcohol near any pilgrimage site.
• Do not break any rule regulation of a particular area. 
• Do not pollute the lake while boating. 
• Do not hang around the boat for touching the water.