Nainital is a picturesque hill station located in the state of Uttarakhand in northern India. It is a popular tourist destination famous as the “Queen of Hill Stations.” It is surrounded by lush green hills, serene lakes, and beautiful landscapes that attract tourists worldwide. If there is any place of peace and bliss amidst the mountain ranges in Uttarakhand, then Nainital tops the list. With its beautiful landscapes and serene lakes, it offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Nainital offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and adventure activities, making it an ideal destination for all kinds of travelers. There are several best places to visit in Nainital that offer a unique experience for visitors.
Nainital is also an important place spiritually. According to Hindu mythology, it is said that the right eye (or Nain) of Goddess Sati fell here, and thereafter the place came to be known as Naini-tal or the lake of the eye. Goddess Shakti is worshiped at the Naina Devi temple, locally known as Naini Mata Mandir, located on the lake’s northern bank.
Naina Devi Temple is one of the most prominent religious places, one of the 51 Shakti Peeths. The tranquil environment and snowy hills on all sides provide an amazing moment for visitors to relax and unwind. Nainital is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a peaceful and refreshing holiday experience. So pack your bags and get ready to explore the best places to visit in Nainital.
Nature’s Paradise: Best Places To Visit In Nainital
Nainital is a beautiful destination that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, adventure activities, and religious sites. Nainital offers picturesque rolling hills, lush green valleys, and beautiful lakes. The serene environment of nature and pollution-free air of Nainital is a quick respite from the busy and fast-paced world. Nainital is also known for its adventure activities, including trekking, camping, rock climbing, and paragliding. Hence, without any further ado, let’s quickly dive into some of the best places to visit in Nainital.
1. Naini Lake
Another famous place in Nainital, the Naini Lake is known for its awesome shape as that of an eye, thus popularly known as Naini jheel. Naina devi is located on one shore and the other end is the famous mall road. It offers various exciting activities like boating, yachting, and kayaking. The pedal boats are available at a nominal charge of 120 INR per hour whereas the gondola boats are available at 150 INR taking you around the lake. It is open from 6 in the morning till 6 in the evening. The misty scent and serene aura along makes a very popular tourist destination in Nainital.
2. Naina Devi Temple
Among the 51 Shaktipeeths mentioned in Hindu mythology, the Shri Naina Devi Temple is dedicated to Goddess Sati. According to the legend, the eyes of Mother Sati fell here. The temple is said to have been built by the Pandavas during the Mahabharata era. Every day many devotees come here to seek his grace and blessings. During Navratri, this place becomes a popular tourist spot in Nainital. Devotees make special offerings during the Navratri (nine auspicious days). Being one of the important religious sites it is one of the best places to visit in Nainital to take blessing from the Goddess Naina Devi.
3. Sattal
Popular amongst nature enthusiasts and photographers, this famous place in Nainital boasts picturesque views that are must-capture. Sattal means seven lakes, which true to its name is a group of seven mystical lakes perfectly placed in the setting amidst dense oak and pine trees. The place is also famous for being a location for several migratory birds. It is a serene place, a must to visit for honeymooners and nature lovers.
4. Neem Karoli BaBa Temple
Dedicated to a great saint, the shrine is among the most popular places in Nainital. Baba Neem Karoli Ashram attracts devotees not only from India but also from all parts of the World. Many people are relieved of their distress on their visit to the temple as per the local word. It is one of the most visited and most popular tourist destinations in Nainital.
5. Mukteshwar Shiv Mandir
Regarded as one of the most famous Shiva temples in Nainital, the Mukteshwar temple is believed to be almost 350 years old and is revered among the 18 sacred Shiva temples from the scriptures. For those looking for serenity to meditate upon the divine, this is one of the best places to visit in Nainital.
6. Hanuman Garhi
Another very famous temple in Nainital, the Hanuman Garhi is dedicated to Lord Hanuman, the bestower of fearlessness and the epitome of bhakti. Here he is shown splitting his chest wherein Lord Ram and Mata Sita are residing lovingly. The idol symbolizes that God lives in the heart of His true devotee. Also, the temple is famous for its panoramic view of sunrise and sunset.
7. Nainital zoo
The Nainital zoo is another very popular tourist destination in Nainital which is known to inhabit many endangered species like the Himalayan Civet, Tibetan Wolf, Himalayan bear and Hill Patridge. The zoo is also known as the High altitude zoo. It is an ideal place for a short trip with friends and family. The kids will enjoy this lively place.
Nainital zoo unravels such exciting gifts at a nominal charge of 50 INR for adults and 20 INR for children under 12 years of age. Another catchy fact is that there’s no entry fee for senior citizens and disabled people. Even students are offered free entry on world environment day, Zoo foundation day or wildlife week.
Timings:- 10:00 AM to 4:30 PM, closed on Mondays.
8. Sitabani
Another very famous place in Nainital, Sitabani is a wildlife reserve that houses an immaculate number of almost 600 species of resident and migratory birds. The Himalayan Black Bear, Yellow-throated Pine Marten, Himalayan weasel and Goral can also be spotted here. Sitabani offers a tranquil untouched environment that possesses rejuvenating powers. You can do bird-watching or go on a safari. During the months of November through June, Sitabani is at its best.
9. Astronomical Observatory
Though not a very popular tourist destination in Nainital yet a very exciting one. The Aryabhatta Research Institute of Observational Science (ARIES) is equipped with imported telescopes from which stars, planets and other celestial bodies can be seen. It is an ideal place for space lovers and those who are keenly into exploration. Appointment and permission prior to the visit are required as there is no entry fee.
10. Eco Cave Garden
Eco Cave Garden is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Nainital. The place is all about caves, fountains and hanging gardens. It is a favourite spot for not only adventure seekers but also for kids and families. A musical fountain show is organised every evening which is the main attraction of the place. There are caves namely Panther cave, tiger cave, Apes caves, Bat cave and Flying fox cave which are major attractions in this place. The nature-like habitat with a surprising setting is enjoyed greatly by the tourists. A nominal entry fee of rupees 60 for adults and rupees 25 for children is charged and the timings are 9 30 in the morning to 5:30 p.m.
11. Tiffin Top
This popular tourist destination in Nainital is also a great picnic spot for all those willing to enjoy some quality time in the lap of nature imbibing all the peace and serenity Tiffin Top offers. It is also known as Dorothy’s seat. In addition to offering a 360-degree view of Nainital, the place is famous for its panoramic views. A major attraction for photographers, Tiffin top is located almost 4 km from Nainital owing to which many tourists love to hike to the top and enjoy the majestic views of the place.
12. Gurney House
Gurney house is also a famous place in Nainital for you to visit. The place was the abode of Jim Corbett, a renowned face of Uttarakhand. Gurney’s house is now turned into a museum that showcases his life story and the achievements of his decent work. One has to take prior permission for a complete house tour.
13. Mall Road
A very popular tourist destination in Nainital for the shopaholics and foodies, the mall road is located near the Naini jheel. The road is about 1 to 1.5 km wherein you can stroll around while buying stuff. The road was built by Britishers during their rule and offered a parallel soothing view of the Naini jheel. The road was originally named Govind Ballabh Pant Marg. The road is usually crowded during the daytime and heavy traffic entry is strictly prohibited.
14. Tibetan Market
A place perfect for the shop-a-holics, The Tibetan market is located very close to Mall road. It is also referred to as the Bhutiya Market by the locals. As the name suggests it is a market full of life, food and shopping. The tourists flocking to Nainital are in love with the Himalayan Shawls, Handicrafts and street food in and around the place.
15. Sariya Tal
The place is set in a pristine location. The lake is artificially made and is a popular tourist destination in Nainital offering the visitors fun activities like paddle boating and various water sports. Besides being a butterfly and herbarium research centre, it also houses a beautiful botanical garden. A nominal entry fee of rupees 20 is charged and the place is open from 10 a.m. to 5 in the evening.
16. Land’s End
A famous picnic spot in Nainital, Land’s end can be reached with an uphill trek. The place is known for the panoramic views of the Khurpa Tal and the majestic Kumaon ranges. It feels like a cosy envelope of tranquillity, a hug from Mother nature. The place is set across the Khurpa Tal which is also a place for you to visit in Nainital. Marking the end of the land, the cliff offers panoramic views of snow-clad mountains and rosy views of valleys and lakes.
17. Khurpa Tal
If you want a quick visit to a cozy and tranquil place then Khurpa Tal is the one for you. Generally called the emerald lake, it also changes its color from sunrise to sunset, which makes it an excellent attraction for the tourists flocking to Nainital. It is located at a distance of 10 km from Nainital and one can easily Khurpa Tal in just 15-20 minutes. The best part about this place is its serenity and the fact that it can be visited throughout the year making it a popular tourist destination in Nainital.
Final Words
Hope this article has brought to you an intuitive imagery of the wonders of some of the best places in Nainital. It is a place you must visit during a short holiday period wherein your trip will be great fun and worthwhile.