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Famous Places Of The Nainital District
- Discover the mesmerising Naini Lake, famously shaped like an eye, where you can enjoy serene boating by day and witness the shore beautifully illuminated at night. Our comprehensive travel guide helps you explore the best places to visit in Nainital, featuring top tourist attractions you won’t want to miss. Be sure to visit the Naina Devi Temple, where the resonating bells guide lost travellers and mark the beginning of their journey into this charming city, once under British rule.
- In nearby Ranikhet, observe locals skillfully preparing terraces for farming, a testament to human perseverance. According to legend, Goddess Sati’s eyes fell here, forming Naini Lake, as Lord Shiva carried her body, mourning deeply. The temple dedicated to the goddess on the lake’s northern shore remains a significant place of worship. As you plan your Nainital tour, get ready to uncover many fascinating myths and stories that enrich this enchanting destination.
1. Naini Lake
Naini Lake, situated at the heart of Nainital town, stands as its premier attraction. Visitors can enjoy boating and strolls along its scenic shores, offering a truly relaxing and memorable experience. This natural lake plays a vital role in Nainital’s tourism and is an essential stop for anyone exploring this beautiful hill station.
2. Naina Devi Temple
The Naina Devi Temple, a renowned Indian pilgrimage destination, is nestled beside the stunning Naini Lake. It is revered as one of India’s 51 Shaktipeeths, believed to be the sacred site where Goddess Sati’s eyes fell after her body was divided into 51 parts. This temple attracts tourists due to its picturesque lakeside setting, with the town, lake, and temple all named after this ancient myth. Devotees from across the globe visit the Naina Devi Temple seeking blessings, as it stands among the country’s most holy and revered shrines. Surrounded by the majestic Shivalik Himalayan range, the temple offers a tranquil and spiritually uplifting atmosphere.
3. Eco Cave Garden
The Eco Cave Garden is a unique collection of natural rocky caves transformed into beautiful gardens, rapidly gaining popularity near Nainital’s famous Mall Road. Managed by Nainital Tourism, it’s located on Kaladungi Road in the Mallital area. The garden features six spectacular caves shaped like animals, offering an exciting and educational adventure for children to discover various creatures and their natural habitats.
Adding to its charm, the garden boasts a musical fountain with impressive audio-visual effects. To maintain its authentic feel, traditional petroleum lamps light up the pathways. Popular caves include those shaped like a Panther, Tiger, Bat, Apes, and Flying Fox. The walkway is adorned with enchanting hanging gardens, making the entire exploration a memorable experience.
The Eco Cave Garden holds great significance in Nainital’s tourism, beautifully illustrating the balance between nature and humans. More than just a scenic spot, it provides valuable educational insights into the wildlife habitats of the Kumaon region. When visiting Nainital, be sure to explore the Eco Cave Garden to enjoy its natural wonders and enriching environment.
4. Tiffin Top
Tiffin Top, also known as Dorothy’s Seat, is a beloved highlight of Nainital, famed for its breathtaking panoramic views of the town and the majestic Kumaon mountains.
Perched at an altitude of 2,290 meters, this scenic hilltop is an ideal spot for photography enthusiasts and family picnics alike. Its name originated from families who used to bring their lunchboxes—tiffins—to enjoy meals amidst nature’s beauty.
Located on the Ayarpatta hills surrounding Nainital, Tiffin Top is a must-visit attraction, drawing tourists and professional photographers alike to capture its stunning vistas and serene atmosphere.
5. St. John in the Wilderness
Bishop Daniel Wilson of Calcutta (now Kolkata) laid the foundation stone of this church in 1844, naming it after himself. According to legend, Bishop Wilson fell ill during his visit and was compelled to stay in an unfinished cottage near the forest, which inspired the name St. John in the Wilderness Church. The renowned hunter and naturalist Jim Corbett was a frequent visitor here for prayers.
Located in Nainital, St. John in the Wilderness Church is celebrated for its exquisite Neo-Gothic architecture, set amidst towering deodar and pine trees that create a tranquil environment. Inside, visitors can admire beautiful stained-glass windows and a peaceful graveyard.
This historic church is a draw for architects and enthusiasts of Neo-Gothic design. The adjacent graveyard also holds a brass memorial commemorating the victims of the 1880 landslide, listing their names as a solemn tribute.
6. Bhotia Market
The Tibetan Market, also called the Bhotia Market, is a popular shopping destination in Nainital. Located close to the city centre, this vibrant street market offers a wide range of winter clothing and mouth-watering Tibetan delicacies like thukpa and momos.
Here, you can browse through an array of shawls, sweaters, mufflers, backpacks, and unique souvenirs. Don’t forget to bargain with the vendors to snag the best deals!
Bhotia Market has a lot of interesting things to buy:
1. The Bhotia Market is renowned for its Himalayan bags, making them a must-buy souvenir for every visitor.
2. Discover exquisite scarves and shrugs crafted from fine wool, perfect for adding warmth and style to your wardrobe.
3. Explore a selection of handmade candles, potpourri, and household fragrances, ideal for creating a cosy and inviting atmosphere at home.
4. Discover a variety of books, keychains, and fashionable imitation jewellery to take home as unique souvenirs or gifts.
5. Explore authentic Tibetan traditional clothing that showcases rich cultural heritage and craftsmanship.
6. Skilled local women from Almora and surrounding Kumaon villages expertly craft authentic Kumaon woollens, preserving traditional artistry.
7. During your visit, discover bamboo fabric, a distinctive and eco-friendly textile choice.
8. Here, you’ll find pine wood crafts meticulously handcrafted with great care and artistry.
7. China Peak or Naina Peak
Naina Peak is a premier destination in Nainital, especially popular among hikers. Located about 9.4 kilometres from the city, the journey includes a motorable road for part of the way, followed by a 6-kilometre trek through the stunning natural beauty of Kumaon.
The trail winds through dense forests of cypress, oak, and pine trees, with vibrant bursts of pink and red from rhododendrons. Along the route, trekkers can enjoy views of Jim Corbett National Park on one side and breathtaking landscapes of Nainital on the other.
Offering a variety of trekking paths, from steep climbs to scenic routes, Naina Peak’s forest grows thicker as you ascend. The hike to the summit takes roughly an hour and a half. At the top, you’ll be rewarded with fresh mountain air and spectacular panoramic views, including the majestic Himalayas on one side and Nainital city and its lake on the other, making it an unforgettable experience immersed in rich flora and fauna.
8. Governor’s House
The British constructed Raj Bhavan as the Governor’s residence for the North West Province. Today, it serves as the official residence of the Governor and welcomes state visitors to Nainital. The estate boasts beautiful gardens, golf courses, and a swimming pool. Within the complex lie Jhandidhar Modi Heights and Munshi Heights. The Governor’s House, with its 113 rooms, is architecturally reminiscent of Buckingham Palace.
9. Gurney House
The Gurney House in Nainital served as the summer residence of renowned British hunter and naturalist Jim Corbett during the 1800s. Today, it stands as a heritage landmark owned by the Dalmia family. This charming abode is nestled amidst the lush greenery of Nainital, located just a ten-minute uphill walk from Mall Road. Built in 1880 specifically for Corbett, it was his preferred retreat to enjoy the cool summer months.
10. Bhalu Gaad Waterfall
Bhalu Gaad Waterfalls is a hidden treasure in Mukteshwar, located about 40 kilometres from Nainital, ideal for day treks and nature lovers who enjoy bird watching. Named after the beautiful rainbow that often appears at its base, this waterfall is among the most stunning in the Nainital region, offering a tranquil setting and refreshing waters.
The crystal-clear waters of Bhalu Gaad are truly mesmerising. After travelling 14 kilometres from Mukteshwar, visitors embark on a 30-45 minute forest walk to reach the falls. It’s wise to bring a change of clothes for a comfortable experience. In the local Kumaoni dialect, “Bhalu” means Bear and “Gaad” means Stream, a name inspired by frequent bear sightings in the vicinity.
Nainital, with its serene charm and year-round pleasant climate, invites nature enthusiasts to escape the busy urban life and immerse themselves in the breathtaking beauty of India’s natural landscapes.
Conclusion
To sum up, Nainital offers an enchanting mix of scenic beauty, adventure, and cultural heritage. From the shimmering Naini Lake to the panoramic vistas at Tiffin Top and Naina Peak, along with serene spots like Eco Cave Garden and vibrant markets like the Tibetan Market, the town has something for everyone. Whether you’re a nature lover, history enthusiast, or adventure seeker, these top 10 places to visit in Nainital promise an unforgettable experience filled with charm and tranquillity. Make sure to explore these highlights to truly appreciate the magic of this Himalayan gem.
