Nainital Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do in Nainital, Uttarakhand, including the top attractions, hotels, food, and local culture. Plan your perfect trip with this extensive guide!


Introduction to Nainital

Nainital is a charming hill station nestled in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, a state located in the northern part of India. Known for its serene lakes, breathtaking views of the Himalayan ranges, and plethora of adventure activities, Nainital is an ideal place for solo travelers, couples, and families alike. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful getaway or an adrenaline-fueled vacation, Nainital’s got you covered.

List of Places to Visit in Nainital

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Governor’s House: Built in the early 20th century, this historical building was the summer residence of the Governor of the United Provinces during the British Raj. The architecture of the building is inspired by the Buckingham Palace in London, UK.

  • Nainital Zoo: Located at an elevation of 2100 meters, this high altitude zoo is home to several endangered species like the Royal Bengal Tiger and the Himalayan Snow Leopard.

  • Eco Cave Gardens: A series of interconnected caves that offer visitors a glimpse into the life of pre-historic humans. These caves are located on the Mallital hill and are a must-visit for history enthusiasts.

Natural Attractions of Nainital: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Naini Lake: The centerpiece of Nainital, this picturesque lake is surrounded by lush green hills and offers boating facilities to tourists.

  • Tiffin Top: Also known as Dorothy’s Seat, this viewpoint offers panoramic views of the Nainital town and the Himalayan ranges.

  • Naina Peak: At an elevation of 2611 meters, this peak is the highest in Nainital and offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Nainital

  • Pangot Trek: This easy trek takes you through the lush forests of Cheena Peak Range, offering scenic views of the Himalayas and the surrounding valleys.

  • Binsar Trek: A moderate trek that takes you through dense forests, wildlife sanctuaries, and remote villages. The trek culminates at the Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, which is home to several species of animals and birds.

Best Things to Do in Nainital: Activities and Tours

  • Adventure Sports: Nainital is a haven for adventure enthusiasts with activities like trekking, rock climbing, rappelling, paragliding, and camping.

  • Shopping: The local markets in Nainital offer a variety of handicrafts, souvenirs, and woolen clothes that are perfect for gifting or taking back home as mementos.

  • Boating: Taking a boat ride in the Naini Lake is a must-do activity when visiting Nainital.

Week-Long Itinerary for Nainital

Day Activity
1 Arrival and leisurely walk around the mall road
2 Visit Naina Devi Temple and Snow View Point
3 Trek to Tiffin Top or Pangot Trek
4 Boating in Naini Lake and shopping in local markets
5 Visit Governor’s House and Nainital Zoo
6 Adventure activities like paragliding, rappelling or rock climbing
7 Departure

Food and Drink Scene of Nainital

Must-Try Dishes

  • Bhatt Ki Churkani: A Kumaoni specialty made with black beans and served with a variety of bread.

  • Ras: A refreshing fruit juice made with locally grown fruits like peach, plum, and apricot.

Local Beverages

  • Kaapa: A strong milk tea that is a popular beverage in the hills.

  • Bal Mithai: A sweet made from roasted khoya and coated with sugar balls.

Where to Stay in Nainital: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • The Naini Retreat: One of the oldest hotels in Nainital, located on the edge of the Naini Lake and offering scenic views.

  • The Pavilion: A budget-friendly option located on the Mall Road, close to the major attractions of Nainital.

  • Abbotsford Prasada Bhawan: A heritage guest house that dates back to the 19th century, offering a glimpse into the colonial era architecture.

What to Buy in Nainital: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Handicrafts: Shop for the locally made handicrafts like wooden artifacts, copper and brass utensils, jewelry boxes and home decor items.

  • Woolens: Nainital offers a variety of woolen clothes like shawls, stoles, sweaters, and jackets that are perfect for the chilly weather.

Local Culture and Customs of Nainital

  • The Kumaoni people are known for their simple way of life, traditional music, and unique cuisine.

  • The Nanda Devi Fair is a major festival in Nainital, celebrated in the month of September every year, which attracts tourists from all over the world.

Best Time to Visit Nainital

The best time to visit Nainital is between the months of March to June, and from September to November, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Nainital

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and traditions.

  • Keep the surroundings clean and litter-free.

Don’t:

  • Do not feed the animals in the zoo or indulge in any activity that might harm them.

  • Do not drink and drive or take any drugs.

Safety and Health

Safety in Nainital

  • Avoid traveling alone after dark, especially in remote areas.

  • Be careful when indulging in adventure sports like paragliding and rock climbing.

Health in Nainital

  • Carry sufficient warm clothing during the winters.

  • Drink only bottled water and avoid drinking tap water.

Getting to Nainital: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Nainital

  • Pantnagar Airport: The nearest airport, located at a distance of 68 km from Nainital, with daily flights to major cities like Delhi.

  • Indira Gandhi International Airport: Located in New Delhi, at a distance of 290 km from Nainital, this airport is well-connected to major cities across the world.

Bus Stations Near Nainital

  • Tallital Bus Stand: Located in the heart of Nainital, with frequent buses running to nearby towns and cities.

  • Haldwani Bus Stand: Situated at a distance of 30 km from Nainital, this is the major bus stand for Uttarakhand.

Other Options

  • Taxis and private cars are easily available for hire from nearby cities.

  • The nearest railway station is Kathgodam, located at a distance of 34 km from Nainital, which is well-connected to major cities like Delhi and Kolkata.

How to Get Around in Nainital

  • Taxis, private cars, and motorcycles are easily available for hire.

  • Buses run regularly from Tallital Bus Stand to different parts of Nainital.

Where to Go Next from Nainital: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Bhimtal: A picturesque lake town located at a distance of 18 km from Nainital, known for its serene lake and adventure activities.

  • Ranikhet: A scenic hill station located at a distance of 56 km from Nainital, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayas and lush green forests.

Conclusion

Nainital is a hidden gem in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, offering travelers a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and scenic beauty. Plan your perfect trip to Nainital with this extensive guide and make memories that will last a lifetime!

Nainital lake in the morning Nainital lake in the morning On the way to Nainital On the way to Nainital Naina Devi Temple, after which Nainital, gets its name. Naina Devi Temple, after which Nainital, gets its name. Boating in Naini Lake Boating in Naini Lake