11 must-visit tourist places in Nainital in 2024

One of the most popular hill stations in north India, Nainital is known for its serene lakes, lush greenery, and breathtaking views of the Himalayas. If you're considering visiting this lovely place in 2024, here's a list of the top 11 spots you absolutely can't miss!

Naini Lake

Naini Lake is the most popular tourist attraction of Nainital, you can hop on a boat and glide over the calm water, surrounded by big, green hills. It's so peaceful and relaxing, perfect for chilling out. Everywhere you look, it's like a picture postcard with beautiful scenery. Just take a deep breath and enjoy the fresh mountain air.
Famous for: Boating, enjoying views and photography

Naina Devi Temple

The Temple is situated on the banks of Naini Lake, the Naina Devi Temple is a sacred place dedicated to Goddess Naina Devi. It's believed that this is the exact spot where the eyes of Goddess Sati fall, making it a significant pilgrimage site. The temple is situated at the top of Naina Hill. This is one of the most popular temples in Nainital and is the ideal place to add to your list of things to do in Nainital.
Famous for: Praying, views of Naini Lake

Kainchi Dham

Kainchi Dham is a really popular temple near Nainital, just a short 40-minute drive away. It's known for its beautiful Hanuman temple and is one of the top places to visit in Nainital. This shrine is absolutely stunning and draws thousands of worshippers from all over the country every year. It's a peaceful place where people come to pray and find solace. Plus, the journey there is scenic, so it's a great spot for a day trip if you're in Nainital and want to explore more of the area's spiritual side.
Famous for: Neem Karoli baba

Tiffin Top (Dorothy's Seat)

Imagine soaking in the amazing view of Nainital from Tiffin Top, or Dorothy's Seat as some call it. It's named after an artist named Dorothy Kellet. From here, you can see the whole town and even the mighty Himalayan peaks! Tiffin Top sits way up high at 2290 meters. People love coming here for picnics because it's so famous for its views and fresh mountain air. So, if you're in Nainital, don't miss out on this breathtaking spot!
Famous for: Hiking, Picnic, and sightseeing

Snow View Point

You can take a cable car ride or a short walk to get to Snow View Point. Once you're there, get ready for some jaw-dropping views of the snowy Himalayan peaks like Nanda Devi and Trisul. You can also reach here by car or even a ropeway. Many folks prefer to trek for a bit to enjoy the sights of snowy hills like Nanda Kot and Nanda Devi. And if you are worried about the trek you can take a break, there are shops nearby where you can grab some tea and snacks.
Famous for: Views of snow-capped peaks and sightseeing.

Nainital Zoo (Pt. G.B. Pant High Altitude Zoo)

The zoo contains lots of animals and birds that are rare and need protection. You can see creatures like snow leopards, Siberian tigers, and Himalayan black bears, which are native to this area. Plus, there are colourful birds like peacocks and pheasants. The animals live in nice, clean homes, and you can learn about how people are helping to keep them safe. It's a great place to visit if you love animals and want to know more.
Famous for: Wildlife, Birdwatching

Governor's House (Raj Bhavan)

Inspired by the Buckingham Palace. The house was built for the Governor of North West Province and currently serves as the summer residence of Uttarakhand’s governor. Step back in time and explore the majestic Governor's House, a splendid example of Victorian Gothic architecture. You can take a guided tour through its opulent interiors, lush gardens, and sprawling lawns, and learn about its rich history as the former summer residence of British governors.
Famous for: Photography and History

Eco Cave Gardens

One of the best places to visit with children in Nainital, take your kids on an exciting adventure through the Eco Cave Gardens, a network of natural caves and hanging gardens. Explore the winding pathways and marvel at the unique rock formations, lush vegetation, and cascading waterfalls that adorn this enchanting eco-park.
Famous for: Picnic and hanging out

Gurney House

Right by Nainital Lake, there's this cool place with amazing views of the lake and nature around it. It used to be where a famous hunter and nature lover named Jim Corbett lived. Now, it's a museum all about him! Inside, you can see things from his life, like his stuff and what he did to help animals and nature. It's like a peek into the awesome wildlife of the Himalayas and how important it is to protect it. If you're interested in animals and nature, this museum is a must-visit!
Famous for: History and Colonial architecture

Mall Road

Mall Road is the heart of Nainital, bustling with shops, hotels, and places to eat. It's a lively place where you can take a walk and soak up the fun vibe. Treat yourself to tasty local food and buy some souvenirs, crafts, or warm clothes to remember your trip by. It's the perfect spot to enjoy the local culture and bring home some special treasures.
Famous for: Shopping, street food and cafes

Naini Peak

Also called Cheena Peak or China Peak, is popular for trekking and horseback riding in Nainital. If you wake up a bit early, you can climb up here and catch an incredible sunset view that you'll remember forever. Plus, there aren't many people around at that time, so you can enjoy the peacefulness of nature all by yourself. It's definitely one of the top spots to visit in Nainital if you're looking for a memorable experience surrounded by the beauty of the mountains.
Famous for: Trekking, Amazing views

Whether you're seeking tranquillity amidst nature, cultural insights, or adrenaline-pumping adventures, Nainital offers a myriad of experiences that cater to every traveller's preferences. So, pack your bags and get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through the enchanting hills of Nainital in 2024!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the best time to visit Nainital?
Nainital is beautiful year-round, but the best time to visit is during the summer months (March to June) when the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities. Avoid the monsoon season (July to September) due to heavy rainfall, and winter (November to February) can be chilly but offers stunning views of snow-capped mountains.

2. How can I reach Nainital?
Nainital is well-connected by road and can be reached by car or bus from nearby cities like Delhi, Dehradun, and Kathgodam. The nearest railway station is in Kathgodam, which is about 34 kilometres away, and the nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport, approximately 65 kilometres away.

3. What are the popular activities to do in Nainital?
Popular activities in Nainital include boating on Naini Lake, visiting the Naina Devi Temple, exploring Eco Cave Gardens, enjoying panoramic views from viewpoints like Tiffin Top and Snow View Point, shopping on Mall Road for local handicrafts, trekking in the surrounding hills and many other things to do in Nainital.

4. Where can I find accommodation in Nainital?
Nainital offers a range of accommodation options to suit every budget, including luxury hotels, boutique resorts, guesthouses, and budget-friendly lodges. Many hotels are located near Naini Lake or Mall Road, providing easy access to attractions and amenities.