Often referred to as the “Lake District of India,” Nainital is one of Uttarakhand’s most visited hill towns.. Surrounded by lush green mountains, glittering lakes, and colonial-era charm, Nainnital attracts travelers from across India and abroad. Whether you’re a honeymooner, adventure lover, or family traveler, Nainnital offers a perfect mix of nature, leisure, and culture.
In this blog, you’ll find a complete Nainital travel guide covering top tourist attractions, best activities, food, shopping, travel tips, and everything you need to plan your trip in 2025.
- A picturesque highland station 2,084 meters above sea level.
- Renowned for its pear-shaped lake, Naini Lake, which is encircled by verdant hills.
- Pleasant weather throughout the year, especially in summer.
- Rich colonial history with British-era churches, bungalows, and schools.
- Perfect for boating, trekking, shopping, photography, and relaxation.
1. Naini Lake (The Heart of Nainital)
- The most iconic attraction of the town.
- Visitors can enjoy paddle boating, rowing, and yachting.
- Surrounded by seven hills, the lake looks magical during sunrise and sunset.
2. Naina Devi Temple
- A famous Shakti Peeth located on the northern shore of Naini Lake.
- An important pilgrimage site that attracts thousands of devotees.
3. Snow View Point
- Accessible by a cable car (ropeway) or by trekking.
- Offers breathtaking views of the snow-clad Himalayan peaks like Nanda Devi and Trishul.
4. The Mall Road
- A lively stretch along the lake with cafes, restaurants, hotels, and shops.
- Perfect for evening walks, shopping, and local food tasting.
5. Tiffin Top (Dorothy’s Seat)
- A popular picnic spot and viewpoint.
- Famous for horse rides and panoramic views of Nainnital town..
6. Eco Cave Gardens
- A family-friendly attraction featuring interconnected caves and musical fountains.
- A fun place for kids and adventure seekers.
7. The Governor’s House (Raj Bhawan)
- A British-era Gothic-style mansion.
- Known for its architecture, gardens, and golf course.
8. Bhimtal, Sattal & Naukuchiatal (Nearby Lakes)
- Located within 30 km of Nainnital.
- Less crowded than Naini Lake and perfect for kayaking, fishing, and bird watching.
Best Things to Do in Nainital
- Boating at Naini Lake – Paddle, row, or sail across the calm waters.
- Ropeway Ride – Take the cable car to Snow View Point.
- Bird Watching – Explore Kilbury Bird Sanctuary for exotic Himalayan birds.
- Shopping at Tibetan Market – Buy woolens, handicrafts, and candles.
- Trekking – Popular trails include Naini Peak and Tiffin Top.
- Photography – Capture stunning mountain and lake views.
Local Food Tasting – Don’t miss Aloo ke Gutke, Bhatt ki Churkani, and Bal Mithai.
Best Time to Visit Nainital
- Summer (March – June): Ideal for boating, sightseeing, and escaping city heat.
- Monsoon (July – September): Scenic beauty but heavy rains may disrupt travel.
- Winter (October – February): Perfect for snow lovers and honeymooners.
- Recommended months: March to June and October to December.
How to Reach Nainital
- By Air: Nearest airport – Pantnagar Airport (70 km).
- By Train: Nearest railway station – Kathgodam (34 km).
- By Road: Well-connected by buses and taxis from Delhi (320 km), Dehradun, and Lucknow.
Where to Stay in Nainital
- Luxury Hotels: The Naini Retreat, The Manu Maharani.
- Mid-Range Hotels: Hotel Himalaya, Seasons Hotel.
- Budget Stays: Guesthouses and homestays near Mall Road & Tallital.
- Tip: Book early during summer and Christmas holidays as hotels fill quickly.
Shopping in Nainital
- Mall Road: Woolens, handicrafts, pine souvenirs.
- Bhotia Market (Tibetan Market): Trendy clothes, bags, and shawls.
- Candle Shops: Nainnital is famous for handmade designer candles.
What to Eat in Nainital
- Local Delicacies: Aloo Ke Gutke, Ras, Bhatt ki Churkani, Arsa.
- Street Food: Momos, Maggi, Bun-Tikki.
- Sweet Special: Bal Mithai and Singori.
Travel Tips for Nainital
1. Carry light woolens even in summer; winters require heavy jackets.
2. Avoid visiting in peak monsoon due to landslides.
3. Bargain while shopping at Tibetan Market.
4. Hire licensed boats and guides for safety.
5. For the best views, wake up early and explore before the rush begins.
Conclusion
Nainnital is truly a gem of Uttarakhand – a destination where serene lakes, majestic mountains, and colonial charm come together. From boating in Naini Lake to shopping at Mall Road, from trekking to snow viewpoints to indulging in local food, Nainnital has something for every traveler.
If you’re planning a trip in Nainnital must be on your travel bucket list. Whether it’s a family vacation, honeymoon, or solo trip, the city’s beauty will leave you with unforgettable memories.
