Nainital

Nainital, the serene Lake City of India, is nestled amidst the Kumaon hills in Uttarakhand. Known for its picturesque Naini Lake, lush surroundings, and pleasant climate, it’s a perfect retreat for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Explore boating, trekking, and panoramic views in this charming hill station.
District:
Nainital
Division :
Kumaon
State :
Uttarakhand
Zip Code :
263001/263002
Elevation:
2,084 m
When to Visit:
All Season

Overview

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Nainital is a popular hill station in the Indian state of Uttarakhand and headquarters of Nainital district in the Kumaon foothills of the outer Himalayas. Situated at an altitude of 2,084 meters (6,837 ft) above sea level, Nainital is set in a valley containing a pear-shaped lake, approximately two miles in circumference, and surrounded by mountains, of which the highest are Naina (2,615 m (8,579 ft)) on the north, Deopatha (2,438 m (7,999 ft)) on the west, and Ayarpatha (2,278 m (7,474 ft)) on the south. From the tops of the higher peaks, “magnificent views can be obtained of the vast plain to the south, or of the mass of tangled ridges lying north, bounded by the great snowy range which forms the central axis of the Himalayas.

Places To Visit

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Naini Lake

The fact that Nainital is named after the Naini Lake speaks highly of its significance. This beautiful, stagnant pool of water is in the heart of the city, surrounded by seven majestic mountains, and is a popular tourist attraction. You can enjoy row boating and paddle boating at the lake, while the stunning scenic surroundings please your senses. An excellent place to click the Naini Lake in all its glory is at the Band Stand in Mallital.

Naina Devi Temple

Situated alongside the northern shore of the Naini Lake, this temple is dedicated to Goddess Sati and is counted amongst the 64 Shakti Peethas devoted to Her. According to mythological legends, the eye of Goddess Sati fell at this spot while Lord Shiva was carrying Her mortal remains to Mount Kailash. This is how She began to be worshipped as ‘Naina’, which means eye on translation. The Nanda Devi Temple (also known as Naina Devi Temple) is one of the most important places of religious significance in Nainital. It is also the venue of the Nanda Devi Mahotsav, a grand religious celebration organized to honor Ma Nanda and Sunanda, two local goddesses.

Mall Road

One of the main highlights of Nainital, the vibrant Mall Road, was built during the British rule in India and is the center of all activities in town. There are several shops, restaurants, hotels, and cafés on Mall Road and no trip to Nainital is complete without taking a walk around here. Mall Road has been the shooting location for many Bollywood films including Kati Patang and Koi Mil Gaya.

Sattal

Sattal is another excellent tourist and picnic spot with seven lakes, each in a different hue of green and blue. Bhimtal, 23 kilometers away, is a large lake with an island restaurant in the middle that’s accessible by boat. While visiting Sattal you should also visit Naukutchiatal, a placid lake with nine corners, which is located about 26 kilometers away. Capture a full view of the Garud Tal from the hairpin bend at Mehragaon, where the roads to Nainital, Sattal, and Bhimtal conjoin.

Snow View Point

Situated at an altitude of 2,270 meters, Snow View Point offers spectacular views of the snow-clad Himalayas. Located about 3 km away from the main township of Nainital, this spot can be reached by an adventurous hilly trek or a comfortable taxi drive. Out of the different ways to reach this place, the most exciting one is by cable car, which commences at Mallital. To provide a perfect view to visitors, a pair of huge binoculars is installed at this spot. A small temple is also present at this high-altitude point, along with shacks for souvenirs, tea, and snacks.

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How To Reach

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Via Air

The nearest airport is Pantnagar (70 km). If no direct flights are available, take a connecting flight via Delhi. From Pantnagar, hire a taxi to Nainital.

Via Train

Kathgodam is the nearest railway station (35 km). Major cities like Delhi and Lucknow offer direct trains. From Kathgodam, take a taxi or bus to Nainital.

Via Road

Nainital is well-connected by road. Drive from Delhi (320 km) via NH9 or take a bus from ISBT Anand Vihar. Frequent buses and taxis are available from nearby cities.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to Your Common Questions

The best time to visit Nainital is from March to June for pleasant weather and outdoor activities or from October to February to enjoy snowfall and winter charm.
Top attractions include Naini Lake, Naina Devi Temple, Snow View Point, Eco Cave Gardens, Tiffin Top, and Mall Road.
Nainital is well-connected by road. The nearest railway station is Kathgodam (34 km away), and the closest is Pantnagar Airport (65 km).
You can enjoy trekking, boating on Naini Lake, horse riding, rock climbing, and cable car rides to Snow View Point
Nainital is renowned for its scenic beauty, Naini Lake, colonial charm, and bustling Mall Road. It is also famous for its local woolen, candles, and handmade items.
Nainital’s weather offers a delightful mix—pleasant summers, refreshing monsoons, and snow-kissed winters for year-round appeal.

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