Nainital is one of the most famous hill stations in Uttarakhand, located in the Kumaon region of the Himalayas. Surrounded by lush green hills and centered around the beautiful Naini Lake, this charming town is perfect for families, couples, and nature lovers.

Altitude: Approx. 2,084 meters above sea level
Famous For: Lakes, viewpoints, temples, colonial architecture
Ideal Trip Duration: 2–3 days

1. Naini Lake

About
Naini Lake is the heart of Nainital. It is a natural freshwater lake shaped like a mango and surrounded by seven hills.

Things to Do
Boating (Row Boat & Paddle Boat)
Evening walk around the lake
Photography during sunset


Timings
6:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Boating)


Entry Fee
No entry fee
Boating charges approx ₹160–₹300 (depends on boat type)
Best Time to Visit
March to June & October to November

2. Naina Devi Temple

About
Located on the northern shore of Naini Lake, this sacred temple is dedicated to Goddess Naina Devi and is one of the 51 Shakti Peeths.

Timings
6:00 AM – 10:00 PM


Entry Fee
Free


Best Time
Navratri festival & early morning darshan

3. Snow View Point

About
Snow View Point offers breathtaking views of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks.

How to Reach
Ropeway from Mallital
By car or bike

Timings
10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Ropeway)

Entry Fee
Ropeway approx ₹300 per person (round trip)


4. Mall Road

About
Mall Road is the main shopping and walking area in Nainital. You can buy woolens, candles, handicrafts, and local souvenirs.

Best Time to Visit
Evening (4 PM – 9 PM)

5. Tiffin Top (Dorothy’s Seat)

About
A popular picnic spot offering panoramic views of Nainital town.

Activities
Short trek (4 km)
Horse riding

Best Time
Morning hours

Nearby Tourist Places from Nainital
1. Bhimtal Lake


Distance: 22 km


Famous for island aquarium


Travel Time: 45–50 minutes


2. Sattal


Distance: 23 km


Perfect for bird watching & camping


Travel Time: 1 hour


3. Naukuchiatal


Distance: 26 km


Famous for 9-cornered lake & paragliding


Travel Time: 1 hour


4. Mukteshwar


Distance: 50 km


Known for scenic beauty & temples


Travel Time: 2 hours



How to Reach Nainital
By Air


Nearest Airport: Pantnagar Airport (Approx 70 km)


By Train


Nearest Railway Station: Kathgodam Railway Station (35 km)


By Road


Well connected from Delhi (Approx 300 km, 7–8 hours drive)



Best Time to Visit Nainital
SeasonMonthsWeatherRecommendationSummerMarch–JunePleasant (10°C–27°C)Best seasonMonsoonJuly–SeptemberHeavy rainfallAvoid if possibleWinterOctober–FebruaryCold (0°C–15°C)Snow lovers

Suggested 2-Day Itinerary for Nainital
Day 1:


Naini Lake Boating


Naina Devi Temple


Mall Road Evening Walk


Day 2:


Snow View Point


Tiffin Top


Visit Bhimtal or Sattal



Travel Tips for Nainital


Carry warm clothes even in summer.


Book hotels in advance during peak season.


Avoid weekends in peak season for less crowd.


Keep cash for small shops.



Why Visit Nainital?


Scenic Himalayan Views


Romantic & Family Friendly Destination


Perfect Weekend Getaway from Delhi


Peaceful Environment & Fresh Air