24 Best Places to Visit in Nainital: Travel Guide in 2025

Nainital, a charming hill town in Uttarakhand, offers a refreshing atmosphere. It’s the kind of place where you can truly relax and enjoy nature, set around a peaceful, pear-shaped lake and surrounded by green hills. Whether you're boating on Naini Lake, walking down the lively Mall Road, or watching clouds float by from a hilltop, every moment here feels special. There’s also a cool legend behind the name—people believe the eye (nain) of Goddess Sati fell here, making it a holy spot. The renowned Naina Devi Temple is located right by the lake, and you can visit it.

Best 24 Tourist Places in Nainital

From amazing views at Snow View Point to quiet spots like Tiffin Top, there are plenty of lovely places to visit in Nainital. With friendly locals, tasty street food, and cosy weather, it’s the kind of place you’ll fall in love with—and want to visit again and again.

• Naini Lake
• Sattal
• Bhimtal Lake
• Naukuchiatal
• Khurpa Tal
• Tiffin Top (Dorothy's Seat)
• Snow View Point
• Eco Cave Gardens
• The Naina Peak (China Peak)
• Land's End
• Naina Devi Temple
• Raj Bhawan (Governor's House)
• Mall Road
• Pangot
• Kilbury Bird Sanctuary
• Aurobindo Ashram
• Hanuman Garhi
• Mukteshwar
• Bhalu Gaad Waterfalls
• Jeolikot
• Kainchi Dham
• Aryabhatta Research Institute (ARIES)
• Sariyatal
• Lover's Point

1. Naini Lake

Naini Lake is the heart of Nainital. Visitors enjoy boating, evening walks, and mountain views. Surrounded by hills, it's perfect for relaxing. It's one of the best places to visit in Nainital, thanks to its calm waters, scenic beauty, and lively atmosphere, complete with nearby shops, cafés, and street food.

• Location: Mallital, Nainital
• Timing: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Nearby Attractions: Naina Devi Temple, Mall Road, Tibetan Market
• Nearest Restaurants: Giannis Pure Veg, Zooby’s Kitchen, Sakley’s Restaurant
• Ticket Price: ₹160–₹210 for boating (rowboat/paddleboat, 30 mins)

2. Sattal

Image Courtesy: Nainital Tourism

Sattal, meaning "seven lakes," offers peaceful views and Clean Air. It’s a great escape from busy towns. People come to birdwatch, take photos, or go kayaking. As one of the quieter tourist places in Nainital, it’s ideal for nature lovers who enjoy peace and less crowded spots.

• Location: 22 km from Nainital, on Bhimtal–Sattal Road
• Timing: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Nearby Attractions: Butterfly Museum, Methodist Ashram, Subhash Dhara
• Nearest Restaurants: I Heart Café, Sattal Forest Café, The Kumaoni Karavan
• Ticket Price: No entry fee; boating from ₹150 per person

3. Bhimtal Lake

This large lake features an island with an aquarium and is surrounded by lush forests and rolling hills. It’s excellent for long boat rides and peaceful walks. For those seeking scenic places to visit near Nainital, Bhimtal offers both natural charm and nearby cafés with a relaxing atmosphere.

• Location: Bhimtal, 22 km from Nainital
• Timing: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Nearby Attractions: Aquarium Island, Bhimeshwar Temple, Hidimba Parvat
• Nearest Restaurants: The Heera Swiss Restaurant, Karkasha, The Bliss
• Ticket Price: ₹100–₹150 for boating; aquarium ₹60 (adults), ₹40 (children)

4. Naukuchiatal

Image Courtesy: The Hosteller

With nine corners, this deep lake is perfect for boating, paragliding, or fishing. Green hills make it extra beautiful. Its calm setting, fun water sports, and peaceful forests add variety to your Nainital sightseeing, making it an excellent destination for both adventure lovers and quiet explorers alike.

• Location: 26 km from Nainital, near Bhimtal
• Timing: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Nearby Attractions: Hanuman Temple, Bhimtal Lake, Mukteshwar
• Nearest Restaurants: Café by the Lake, Lake Village Resort, Jumpin Heights Café
• Ticket Price: Boating ₹150–₹250; paragliding ₹1,500–₹2,500

5. Khurpa Tal

Image Courtesy: Euttaranchal

This lake is less well-known, but it is very peaceful. It’s suitable for fishing and watching the hills. The calm water and farm surroundings provide a welcome respite from the crowds. It's one of the best places to visit in Nainital with friends for those who enjoy relaxing close to nature.

• Location: 11 km from Nainital, Kaladungi Road
• Timing: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Nearby Attractions: Waterfall viewpoint, Land’s End, Sariyatal
• Nearest Restaurants: Sweet Home Café, Machan Restaurant (in Nainital), Hallway Café
• Ticket Price: No entry fee

6. Tiffin Top (Dorothy’s Seat)

Image Courtesy: Nainital Tourism

Tiffin Top offers panoramic views of the Nainital valley. It’s a lovely picnic spot and suitable for hiking. The peaceful vibe and short trek attract nature lovers. It's ideal for those looking for places to visit in Nainital in one day that combines both adventure and scenic charm.

• Location: Ayarpatta Hill, Nainital
• Timing: 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM
• Nearby Attractions: Land’s End, Bara Patthar, Sherwood College
• Nearest Restaurants: Zooby’s Kitchen, Embassy Restaurant, Cafe Lakeside
• Ticket Price: No entry fee

7. Snow View Point

Image Courtesy: Holidify

Snow View Point gives a stunning view of snow-covered Himalayan peaks. You can reach it by cable car or a short hike. The cool breeze, tea stalls, and spectacular mountain scenery make it a top pick for quick, scenic getaways and memorable photos.

• Location: Above Mallital, Nainital
• Timing: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Nearby Attractions: Naini Lake, Mall Road, Naina Devi Temple
• Nearest Restaurants: Snow View Café, The Café Corner, The Grand Hotel Restaurant
• Ticket Price: ₹300 (cable car round trip)

8. Eco Cave Gardens

These natural caves are shaped like animals, with hanging gardens and fun activities for kids. It’s a hands-on spot to explore. This is one of the best places to visit in Nainital in two days if you enjoy fun, learning, and a bit of adventure.

• Location: Kaladungi Road, Nainital
• Timing: 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM
• Nearby Attractions: Mall Road, Snow View Point, Naini Lake
• Nearest Restaurants: Café Chica, Shiva Restaurant, Zooby’s Kitchen
• Ticket Price: ₹60 (adults), ₹25 (children)

9. The Naina Peak (China Peak)

Image Courtesy: Trawell

This is the highest Point in Nainital. It offers quiet forest paths and a full view of the Himalayas and the town below. Great for trekkers and sunrise watchers seeking peace and fresh Air in a lush environment.

• Location: 6 km from Mallital, Nainital
• Timing: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Nearby Attractions: Snow View Point, Land’s End, Camel’s Back
• Nearest Restaurants: Gardenia Restaurant, Machan, Chandni Chowk
• Ticket Price: No entry fee

10. Land’s End

Image Courtesy: Trawell

As the name suggests, Land’s End has cliffs and grand views of Khurpa Tal below. A short walk through the forest leads to the edge. It's peaceful, with mountain air and pine trees surrounding it, making it an ideal spot for nature photography enthusiasts.

• Location: Near Barapathar, Nainital
• Timing: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Nearby Attractions: Tiffin Top, Khurpa Tal, Bara Patthar
• Nearest Restaurants: Honey Hut Café, Zooby’s, Café Lakeside
• Ticket Price: No entry fee

11. Naina Devi Temple

A sacred Hindu site located near Naini Lake, this temple is believed to be one of the 51 Shakti Peeths. Devotees visit to pray and admire the architecture and spiritual aura. It’s a peaceful place with historical and religious significance.

• Location: Northern shore of Naini Lake, Nainital
• Timing: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM
• Nearby Attractions: Naini Lake, Mall Road, Tibetan Market
• Nearest Restaurants: Purohit Restaurant, Zooby’s Kitchen, Sakley’s Restaurant
• Ticket Price: No entry fee

12. Raj Bhawan (Governor’s House)

Built during the British era, Raj Bhawan features Gothic architecture, a golf course, and lush gardens. Visitors come for the heritage experience and to walk through history. A guided tour shares details of its design and royal past.

• Location: Amghari, Nainital
• Timing: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Nearby Attractions: Cave Garden, Golf Course, Naini Lake
• Nearest Restaurants: Zooby’s Kitchen, Machan Restaurant, Gardenia Restaurant
• Ticket Price: ₹45 for garden + ₹50 for mansion

13. Mall Road

This is the main street by Naini Lake, full of shops, cafés, and hotels. People love evening walks here. The road captures the spirit of the town and is ideal for shopping, snacking, or simply taking in the lake view.

• Location: Along Naini Lake, Nainital
• Timing: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
• Nearby Attractions: Naini Lake, Tibetan Market, Naina Devi Temple
• Nearest Restaurants: Embassy Restaurant, Zooby’s Kitchen, Sakley’s Restaurant
• Ticket Price: No entry fee

14. Pangot

Image Courtesy: Clear Holidays

Pangot is a small birdwatching village surrounded by dense forests and mountains. It’s a peaceful retreat just outside Nainital. Nature lovers visit for bird photography, village walks, and to stay in eco-friendly cottages.

• Location: 15 km from Nainital
• Timing: Open all day
• Nearby Attractions: Kilbury Bird Sanctuary, Naina Peak, Naini Lake
• Nearest Restaurants: Local homestays, Janardan Resort Café
• Ticket Price: No entry fee

15. Kilbury Bird Sanctuary

Image Courtesy: Uttarakhand Guide

This sanctuary is heaven for bird lovers. More than 240 bird species can be observed, including migratory and Himalayan varieties. The trails through thick oak and pine forests are great for hiking and nature photography.

• Location: Pangot, 12 km from Nainital
• Timing: 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Nearby Attractions: Pangot, Naina Peak, Sariyatal
• Nearest Restaurants: Café Chica, Janardan Café, Local Dhabas
• Ticket Price: ₹50 (Indians), ₹200 (foreigners)

16. Aurobindo Ashram

A spiritual and peaceful retreat ideal for meditation, yoga, and quiet stays. It’s a good spot to disconnect from daily life and experience calm in the lap of nature.

• Location: Aryapatta Hill, Nainital
• Timing: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Nearby Attractions: Naini Lake, Tiffin Top, Naina Devi Temple
• Nearest Restaurants: Gardenia Restaurant, Zooby’s Kitchen
• Ticket Price: No entry fee

17. Hanuman Garhi

Image Courtesy: Nainital Tourism

This hilltop temple, dedicated to Lord Hanuman, offers mesmerising sunset views. The atmosphere is spiritual and peaceful, making it an excellent stop for both pilgrims and photographers.

• Location: 3 km from Nainital
• Timing: 5:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
• Nearby Attractions: Ashram, Observatory, Naini Lake
• Nearest Restaurants: Machan, Gardenia, Shiva Restaurant
• Ticket Price: No entry fee

18. Mukteshwar

Mukteshwar is a hill station located near Nainital, renowned for its stunning views, peaceful atmosphere, and various adventure activities. Visit Mukteshwar Temple and Chauli Ki Jali for spiritual and scenic experiences.

• Location: 50 km from Nainital
• Timing: Open all day
• Nearby Attractions: Mukteshwar Dham, Bhalu Gaad Waterfalls
• Nearest Restaurants: Café Chandi Mati, Chirping Tales Café
• Ticket Price: No entry fee

19. Bhalu Gaad Waterfalls

Image Courtesy: Tripadvisor

This hidden gem offers a lovely hike and a natural waterfall, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and picnicking. Great for day trips and nature walks.

• Location: Near Mukteshwar, 2.2 km trek
• Timing: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Nearby Attractions: Mukteshwar Temple, Sitla
• Nearest Restaurants: Local cafés, Chirping Tales
• Ticket Price: ₹50–₹100 (guided entry)

20. Jeolikot

Image Courtesy: Uttarakhand Explorer

Known as the “Gateway to Naini,” Jeolikot is famous for flowers and butterflies. Great for peaceful stays, gardening, and enjoying the view before reaching Nainital.

• Location: 18 km from Nainital
• Timing: Open all day
• Nearby Attractions: Golu Devta Temple, Naini Lake
• Nearest Restaurants: Local eateries, Garden Valley Resort
• Ticket Price: No entry fee

21. Kainchi Dham

A spiritual ashram founded by Neem Karoli Baba, visited by devotees from around the world, including tech icons like Steve Jobs and Mark Zuckerberg. A serene and sacred place for reflection.

• Location: 18 km from Nainital
• Timing: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Nearby Attractions: Hanuman Garhi, Bhowali Market
• Nearest Restaurants: Ashram kitchen (simple food), roadside stalls
• Ticket Price: No entry fee

22. Aryabhatta Research Institute (ARIES)

Image Courtesy: Nainital Tourism

India’s major space observatory offers guided tours and night sky observation sessions. Fascinating for science enthusiasts and families.

• Location: Manora Peak, 9 km from Nainital
• Timing: 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM (pre-booking required)
• Nearby Attractions: Hanuman Garhi, Tiffin Top
• Nearest Restaurants: Observatory Café, local stalls
• Ticket Price: ₹50 per person (check official website)

23. Sariyatal

Image Courtesy: Clear Holiday

A small lake surrounded by pine forests and a botanical garden. Great for quiet time, photography, and light picnics. It is a peaceful stop for those who enjoy natural beauty.

• Location: 5 km from Nainital, near Kaladungi Road
• Timing: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Nearby Attractions: Himalayan Botanical Garden, Khurpa Tal
• Nearest Restaurants: Local food stalls, roadside cafés
• Ticket Price: ₹20 per person

24. Lover’s Point

Image Courtesy: Trawell

Lover's Point is a popular spot among young couples. It's a perfect place to spend quality time and enjoy peaceful moments together. Here, love and nature come together most beautifully.

• Location: Near Suicide Point, 2 km from Nainital
• Timing: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Nearby Attractions: Tiffin Top, Suicide Point
• Nearest Restaurants: Gardenia Restaurant, Shiva Café
• Ticket Price: No entry fee

How to Reach Nainital

Nainital is well-connected by road, rail, and Air, making it accessible from major cities across India.

By Road

Nainital is a popular destination for road trips, especially from North India.

• From Delhi: Approx. 300 km (7–8 hours by car).
• Well-connected by state-run and private buses from Delhi, Haldwani, and Kathgodam.
• Taxis and self-driving options are widely available.

By Train

The closest railway station is Kathgodam (34 km), serving as the entrance to the Kumaon hills.

• Connected to major cities like Delhi, Dehradun, Lucknow, and Kolkata
• From Kathgodam, take a taxi, bus, or shared jeep to Nainital (1–1.5 hours)

By Air

The closest airport is Pantnagar Airport (70 km).

• Limited flights, primarily from Delhi
• At the airport, book a taxi to travel to Nainital, which takes approximately 2 hours.

Final Thought

Whether you're craving cool mountain air, scenic boat rides, cosy cafés, or a break from the everyday rush, Nainital welcomes you with open arms. Easy to reach and full of charm, it’s the kind of place that feels like a postcard comes to life. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and let the hills of Nainital give you memories you’ll never forget.