Nainital, often called the ‘Lake District of India’, is a charming hill station in Uttarakhand, if you’re planning a trip to Uttarakhand, exploring the best Nainital tourist places should be your top priority. With its scenic lakes, panoramic viewpoints, lively markets, and charming hidden spots, Nainital offers something for every kind of traveller From classic attractions to offbeat gems, here are the top tourist places in Nainital you shouldn’t miss on your next trip. Why Visit Nainital? Nainital is the perfect hill station for anyone looking to relax and enjoy nature. Surrounded by peaceful lakes, green hills, and stunning viewpoints, it offers a refreshing escape from busy city life. From boating on Naini Lake to exploring vibrant markets and enjoying adventure activities, there’s something for every traveller. Nainital’s calm weather, beautiful landscapes, and friendly atmosphere make it a must-visit destination for families, couples, and solo travellers alike. Naini Lake Naini Lake is the heart of Nainital, located right in the town centre. Surrounded by green hills, it is perfect for relaxing and enjoying nature. The calm water reflects the sky and mountains, making it a beautiful spot for photos. People visit to enjoy boating, peaceful walks, and the serene atmosphere. Bhimtal Lake Bhimtal Lake is about 22 km from Nainital and is larger and quieter than Naini Lake. Surrounded by hills and greenery, it is perfect for a peaceful day away from the busy town. The lake has a small island in the centre, adding to its charm and making it ideal for photography. Visitors come here to enjoy boating, relax by the lakeside, and spend quality time with family or friends. Naina Devi Temple Naina Devi Temple is located near the northern shore of Naini Lake, just 0.5 km from Mall Road. It is a sacred Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Naina Devi and is considered one of the 64 Shakti Peeths. The temple attracts both devotees and tourists who want to experience its peaceful and spiritual atmosphere. Visitors also enjoy the scenic views of Naini Lake and the surrounding hills while exploring the temple. The Mall Road The Mall Road is Nainital’s main street and is right next to Naini Lake. It’s the best place to walk, shop, and try local food while enjoying views of the lake. You can find souvenirs, woollens, handicrafts, and small cafes along the road. Evening walks are very pleasant as the lights reflect on the lake and create a lively yet relaxed atmosphere. Snow View Point Snow View Point is about 2 km from Nainital town centre and gives a stunning view of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks. You can reach it by a short cable car ride or a small trek, making it suitable for families and adventure lovers alike. Panoramic views of the Himalayas and Nainital town Nainital Zoo (Pt. GB Pant High Altitude Zoo) Nainital Zoo, also called Pt. GB Pant High Altitude Zoo, is about 3 km from Nainital town centre. It is home to many Himalayan animals like snow leopards, Himalayan bears, and Siberian tigers. The zoo is located in a scenic hill area, making it a fun and educational spot for families and wildlife lovers. Visitors can also enjoy walking through the forested paths while spotting various birds and animals. Eco Cave Gardens Nainital Mall Road and is a fun spot for families and kids. It has a series of interconnected caves and hanging gardens built on a hillside. Visitors can explore the caves, enjoy nature walks, and take pictures of the scenic surroundings. It’s a good place to spend a couple of hours, especially with children, for both adventure and sightseeing. Tiffin Top (Dorothy’s Seat) A short trek takes you to the top, where you can enjoy panoramic views of Nainital town and surrounding hills. It’s a peaceful spot for picnics, photography, and spending time in nature away from the crowded areas. Visitors often go in the morning or late afternoon to enjoy the cool breeze and beautiful scenery. Kilbury Bird Sanctuary Kilbury Bird Sanctuary is about 10 km from Nainital and is perfect for nature lovers and bird watchers. It is home to over 200 species of native and migratory birds, along with lush forest trails. Visitors can enjoy peaceful walks, photography, and spotting rare birds in their natural habitat. Raj Bhavan Raj Bhavan in Nainital is the official residence of the Governor of Uttarakhand, located on a hill with beautiful gardens and panoramic views of the surrounding hills. Although entry inside the building is restricted, the outer area offers a perfect spot for relaxation and a short stop during sightseeing. Its colonial architecture and well-maintained gardens make it a unique place to experience Nainital’s charm. Kainchi Dham Kainchi Dham is about 17 km from Nainital and is a serene spiritual retreat nestled amidst lush hills and forests. Established by the revered saint Neem Karoli Baba, the ashram and Hanuman temple attract devotees and visitors seeking peace and spiritual solace. The tranquil surroundings make it perfect for meditation, quiet reflection, and connecting with nature. Visitors come here to attend prayers, explore the ashram, and enjoy the calm mountain environment. • Spiritual retreat and Hanuman temple visit• Meditation and peaceful walks in the ashram grounds• Photography of the scenic hills and temple Hanuman Garhi A short uphill trek or drive leads you to this hilltop temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman. The spot offers breath-taking views of Nainital town and the surrounding mountains. It’s a serene place to enjoy the sunrise or sunset while soaking in spiritual vibes. Visitors often visit early in the morning or during late afternoon for a peaceful experience. Naukuchiatal A short drive from Nainital takes you to this beautiful nine-cornered lake, surrounded by lush hills and forests. It’s perfect for adventure lovers and nature enthusiasts, offering activities like boating, rowing, and paragliding. Visitors often come early morning to enjoy the calm waters and scenic sunrise. St. John in the Wilderness Church Located about 2 km from Nainital Mall Road, this historic
