The 49 best things to do in Nainital

If you're in Nainital and craving more than just lakes and boating, Tiffin Top (also known as Dorothy’s Seat) is a perfect escape into the hills. It’s not overcrowded, not too commercial, and offers a panoramic view of Nainital town, the lake, and the Himalayan range—especially on a clear day. This spot truly feels like a hidden picnic patch carved out by nature, meant for those who enjoy peace, panoramic views, and a little bit of effort. 🧭 How to Reach / Transportation: Option 1: Trekking (most popular & rewarding) !Ticket price is 50 rupees per head by walking !Ticket price with horse ride 100rupees per head Starting Point: Ayarpatta / Sherwood College area Distance: ~4 km uphill from Mallital (one way) Time Required: 40 to 90 minutes depending on fitness level and weather Trail is shaded with trees, birds chirping, and occasional monkeys (don’t carry loose food in hand). Option 2: Horse Ride Available near Cave Garden or Mallital Cost: ₹600–₹800 (round trip, may vary seasonally) Great option for those who can’t hike but still want the view Option 3: By Car (partial) You can drive or take a local taxi up to a point, then walk ~15–20 minutes Roads are narrow and parking is limited 🌄 What You’ll See at the Top: A beautiful stone bench (Dorothy’s Seat) made in memory of an English artist who died in a plane crash. A large open area surrounded by trees—ideal for a tiffin picnic, reading, or simply sitting in silence. Breathtaking views of Nainital Lake, forest ridges, and the Kumaon hills. On clear mornings, you may even glimpse snow-capped peaks in the distance. ⚠️ Trekking Precautions: 🥾 Wear proper shoes – trail can be slippery during monsoon. 💧 Carry water – there are no vendors once you’re on the trail. 🧥 Bring a light jacket or shawl – weather turns cool quickly, even in summer. 🕒 Start early (before 10 AM) – for best views and to avoid afternoon cloud cover or fog. 🐒 Avoid feeding monkeys – they can get aggressive. 🍃 Why Tiffin Top is Special: Unlike commercial viewpoints, this one offers quiet beauty, not chaos. It’s ideal for travelers who: Want a calm place to sit and enjoy nature Love photography, sketching, or meditation Prefer nature over noise Tiffin Top is not for the lazy tourist. It’s for the nature lover. You won’t find stalls, music, or crowd selfies here. You’ll find wind through the trees, raw mountain air, a story in every stone, and a view that makes the climb worth it. Go for the hike. Stay for the peace. Return with calm.

🛕 Naina Devi Temple, Nainital – A Divine Presence Beyond Words I recently visited Naina Devi Temple in Nainital, and I can confidently say—this is not just a temple, it's a powerful spiritual experience that stays with you long after you leave. Right from the moment you step through the entrance arch, there’s something in the air—peace, divinity, and a sense of stillness that instantly calms your heart. The temple is located at the northern end of Naini Lake, and as you climb the short steps, you’re greeted by bells, incense, and the soft chants that echo around the space. Honestly, I didn’t take any photos or videos—not because I forgot, but because I couldn’t. Sometimes, there are places where your phone automatically takes a backseat. I felt so connected and in the moment that capturing it digitally didn’t even cross my mind. You have to go and feel it yourself. Important Note (Real Info Alert!) Don't trust Google Maps for the timings—it’s outdated or just plain wrong. 🕔 The temple opens at 5:00 AM with the morning aarti 🕖 Closes by 7:00 PM sharp — after which the main gates are closed, and no one is allowed in. I saw many people disappointed who came relying on online timings. So, plan accordingly. Inside, the temple is simple yet soul-touching. The main deity, Goddess Naina Devi, is beautifully adorned, and the energy inside the sanctum is intense. There’s also a Hanumanji and Ganeshji murti beside, with hundreds of bells tied by devotees. Offerings like prasad and flowers are available just outside, and the pandas (priests) are polite—not pushy. Other Info: The view of the Naini Lake from the temple compound is stunning—especially around sunset. It gets a bit crowded on weekends and during aarti hours. Shoes must be left outside (there's a counter). Prasad is simple, fresh, and blessed (I took some home for family). Final Words: If you’re in Nainital, don’t miss this temple. Not for the photos, not for sightseeing, but for the calm, the blessings, and the rare feeling of stillness it gives you. Naina Devi isn’t just a place, she’s a presence.

We embarked on the breathtaking Trek to Naina Peak, which proved to be an unforgettable experience. For just ₹50, we purchased our tickets and began our 3-kilometer journey, which felt like 5 kilometers due to the winding path. The trail was mesmerizing, with stunning scenery at every turn. The 360-degree bird's-eye view of Naina Lake from the top, which made the trek truly worthwhile. At the summit, we relaxed with a warm cup of tea and Maggie at the sole shop, taking in the tranquility of the surroundings. A humble request to all fellow trekkers: please refrain from littering, as it's essential to preserve the pristine beauty of the mountains. Let's work together to keep our environment clean. This track comes highly recommended for anyone visiting Nainital, offering an unforgettable experience amidst nature's splendor. ♥️ congratulations you are at 8622 feet above the sea level .

Snow view is one of the tourist spots from where the majestic range of Himalayas and several peaks can be viewed on a clear sunny day. It's located at an altitude of 2270m. It has many attractions like dinosaur park, zip line, giant wheel, local dress photoshoot, temple etc. Good trek for those loving to explore nature

Eco Care Garden is a beautiful and refreshing place that truly connects you with nature. The garden is well-maintained, full of greenery, colorful flowers, and fresh air that instantly makes you feel calm and relaxed. Walking through the pathways surrounded by plants and trees is not only peaceful but also a healthy escape from busy city life.

Gurney House was corbett family's summer stay. At present it is not their property and it is owned by Dalmia family who are used it as homestay. The bunglow is really nice with it's forest environment. All furnitures, trophies are kept in well manner where you can feel the touch of Jim Corbett.

Good place for shopping for local products. Prices are on the expensive side. There are many food stalls serving delicious food. I loved the mutton fried rice. The famous Naina Devi temple is also nearby and a must visit. I purchased a couple of woolen garments and their quality was good.

Worth every rupee. The entry fee is only 100 Rs but so much to see. Tigers and Leopards are the high lights of the Zoo. Too much to climb to reach the zoo from the point where vehicles are stopped. As its in mountain one has to walk uphill a lot. If you are used to walk uphill its not an issue. Many varieties of birds are there. You can see bears and red pandas too. Very well maintained and clean zoo. Don’t make noise and follow rules when you visit the Zoo. Kids will definitely enjoy.

Such serene peaceful temple. Neeb Karoli Baba used to pray here. Beautifully maintained. Have such positive energy. Parking could be an issue here. But one of the temple you must visit if in Nainital.

St John's in the Wilderness Church is one of the oldest churches in Nainital. This church is slightly above the High Court. You can also reach here by walking through the High Court. The church is very beautiful. The government should do something to conserve it.

Mall road is so beautiful and has multiple options for shopping lovers. Truly a mesmerizing place Heaven ❤️ for camera people Couple's must travelling destination Like a beautiful graceful old lady Calm and classy 😎 Come here for making memories

As I sat in the wooden boat on Naini Lake, I felt a deep sense of serenity wash over me. The surrounding hills, covered in lush greenery, rose majestically from the water's edge, their reflections rippling gently on the lake's surface. The clear blue sky above added to the tranquility of the scene, making it a perfect moment to unwind and connect with nature. The gentle lapping of the water against the boat's hull and the occasional call of a bird were the only sounds that broke the silence, creating a sense of peacefulness that was both calming and rejuvenating. As I gazed out at the lake, I noticed the way the sunlight danced across the water, creating a mesmerizing display of light and shadow. The surrounding mountains, with their rugged terrain and verdant forests, seemed to stretch up to the sky, their grandeur a reminder of the natural world's majesty. The air was filled with the sweet scent of blooming flowers and the earthy smell of the forest floor, adding to the sensory experience. As I sat there, I felt my worries and concerns slowly drifting away, like the ripples on the lake's surface. The peacefulness of the surroundings seemed to seep into my soul, calming my mind and soothing my spirit. I felt grateful for this moment of solitude, this chance to disconnect from the world and reconnect with nature. The boat gently rocked back and forth, creating a sense of gentle motion that seemed to match the rhythm of my breathing. I closed my eyes, letting the tranquility of the moment wash over me, and felt my senses come alive. The sounds, sights, and smells of the lake all blended together to create a sense of harmony and balance. In this moment, I felt a deep connection to the natural world, a sense of oneness with the universe that was both exhilarating and humbling. The beauty of Naini Lake was more than just a visual experience – it was a spiritual one, a reminder of the magic and wonder that lies just beyond our daily lives. As I sat there, surrounded by the majesty of nature, I felt my spirit lift, my heart fill with joy, and my soul rejuvenate.

I visited this lake multiple times and in all seasons but the rainy season took my heart. The misty lake looks even more beautiful. Boating is okay but the view was amazing.

One of the most stunning spots in Nainital! Snow View Point offers a jaw-dropping view of the snow-covered Himalayan ranges (on a clear day). You can reach here by the ropeway from Mallital or by road — both are enjoyable, but the cable car ride is definitely more exciting and scenic. Once you reach the top, the view is just incredible — peaceful, panoramic, and perfect for clicking pictures. There are also a few small shops, snacks, and a temple up there, making it a pleasant place to spend some time. Highly recommended for couples, families, and solo travelers. Just check the weather — on cloudy days, you might miss the Himalayan view.

Located near Kaladhungi, Sariyatal, also spelt as Saria Tal, is an artificial lake constructed as a tourist spot. The tiny lake has numerous activities like paddle boating and water sports. It is also popular for the Himalayan botanical garden which is a research centre other than being a herbarium and a butterfly park. Hiding a steep waterfall at the corner, Sariyatal is an ideal spot for solitude seekers, nature lovers and photographers

The guides who take you for Rock climbing and trekking are really cooperative . Adventure here is value for money

Very good picnic spot in Nainital, where from you can have a beautiful panormic view of Khurpatal Lake below the Landsend. Lot many tourists coming to Nainital come here as this is a popular place of tourist attraction. No vehicles are coming here as the road is not motrable. You may reach here either on foot or on horseback. Some paid activities like river crossing, shooting by airgun etc are available on payment. Little ahead of Landsend is Tiffen Top.

Rs.50/ head entry fee for a 10-15mins trip with a guide at the ground floor of this British made building...said to be a replica of the Buckingham palace, London. Built in 1897, this house is now owned by the Government of Uttarakhand. This was used as a summer residence and the estate is spread over 220 acre of area with a golf course in 45 acre of land

Yesterday afternoon 14 June 2024, I had the opportunity to visit the Aryabhatta Institute of Astrophysics and Observatory near Nainital. To gain access, visitors must fill out a form and register. Visits to their science lab typically begin at 4:30 pm and are available to the public three days a week. The institute is located 10 kilometers from Nainital, and since there is no public transportation, visitors need to arrange their own vehicle or hire a taxi, I paid 2500/-. The drive through the hilly region takes approximately 30 minutes each way. Despite several attempts to contact the scientists beforehand, my calls went unanswered. The visitor activities are managed by postgraduate and PhD students on a rotational basis. The visit commenced with a 10-minute film about the institute and its scientists, followed by the observation of sunspots through a 50 mm telescope, concluding by 5 pm. The next scheduled activity, stargazing, begins at 7:30 pm, leaving visitors with 2.5 hours of free time. The campus has a small canteen offering tea and coffee but no snacks, which felt insufficient. The stargazing session, starting at 7:30 pm, involved adjusting their 200 mm telescope for about 30 minutes. I was the first to observe the moon and its craters, but the session ended quickly with around 30 visitors. The entire activity, lasting about 30 minutes, seemed disproportionate to the 5-6 hours invested in the visit. Additionally, the security gate is located 2 kilometers downhill, with no early departure allowed. The lack of reception, lounge, or canteen facilities at the gate was inconvenient. For example, when a lady requested drinking water for her child, she was directed to a nearby public handpump. During the sunspot observation, I inquired about the recent low-latitude sightings of the aurora borealis, but the students couldn't provide an answer. They also mentioned that stargazing sessions are canceled if the weather is cloudy. I requested to speak with a senior scientist, which was arranged. During our discussion, I asked various questions about the Starship 4 launch, neutron stars, and other astronomy-related simple topics. The senior scientist, however, indicated that their focus was on their own research and collaborations, and they were unable to address my queries. When I suggested improving the infrastructure for visitors, he mentioned that it was the government's responsibility and emphasized their heavy workload. Suggestions for Improvement: 1. Visitor Engagement: - Revise the registration form with consideration for visitors from diverse backgrounds, especially children, to address their curiosity. - Implement regular Q&A sessions led by senior scientists to answer common astronomy questions. Monthly sessions with the institute's director could help keep all scientists updated with current knowledge in astrophysics. 2. Educational Activities: - Show educational films about the institute's work that are understandable to the general public to spark interest in astronomy among younger generations. - Utilize all available telescopes on campus, including the 40-inch telescope, to provide a comprehensive experience for knowledgeable visitors. 3. Infrastructure Enhancements: - Improve facilities at the security gate, such as adding a reception area, lounge, and adequate canteen services. - Ensure drinking water and basic amenities are readily available for all visitors. 4. Professional Development: - Require annual examinations for scientists to stay updated on global advancements in their field. - Foster a culture of curiosity and public interaction, similar to the approach of Dr. Abdul Kalam Azad sir, to better educate and engage with visitors. Overall, there is a need for a more visitor-friendly approach, enhanced educational activities, and better infrastructure to make the experience at the Aryabhatta Institute of Astrophysics and Observatory more enriching and enjoyable for the public.

Surreal. Breathtaking view from here. Informative and educational stargazing tour. But make sure to book it in advance via online. No entry/tour fee. Nicely explained and shown planets via the telescope. Must visit when in Nainital

Beautiful views of the Naini lake from here. Manmohak दृश्य The Boat House Club manages the affairs of Nainital Yacht Club and was founded two decades prior in 1890. It was controlled by the British until 1948, when it passed into the hands of Indian management. The last British commodore was Sir Francis Verner Wylie.The first Indian commodore, Raj Kumar Giriraj Singh, was appointed in 1957. Yachting on the lake was reserved for members till 1970, but today non-members and tourists can sail for a fee. The Boat House Club hosts a Summer Regatta in June every year.

What a memorable experience! Boating on the beautiful and clean Naini lake is a must for everyone to experience. The boating charges are regulated so there is no hassle of price negotiations. We went there on a weekend morning and there was no wait. There was almost no one other than us on the lake. They give life jackets to adults. There are many options of boats and the duration available to choose from. It's a different experience based on the time of day and the season but each and every experience is beautiful. Do not miss this for anything!

Went for trekking and this place is awesome. Its well maintained, clean and strict. Good view and scenic. Trees everywhere and atmosphere is cold. If you are coming from one of the crowded cities like Mumbai, this is the best place to be Had one of the best times of my life...

Very scenic and beautiful view from here. One should go in the early morning when the weather is clear with good visibility without clouds or fog. Overall, Himalaya Point is highly recommended for its breathtaking views and serene ambiance, making it a highlight of any trip to Nainital. Whether you are seeking a moment of quiet reflection or a perfect backdrop for photographs, this spot will not disappoint.

🙏🙏The temple itself exudes a sense of spirituality, and it’s a place where you can truly feel the positive energy.

Definitely worth one visit, its walkable from mall road, though stairs are somewhat steep. 1 hour is too short if you want to enjoy the fun rides at the top. price for each person is 370, so it becomes quite a bit for entire family. the feeling and ride are worth every penny though. at the top we have very good views, i also recommend getting professional photos at the top, he transfers them to your mobile. other than that there is a dinosaur park with free entry, which is worth esp the act of man putting on dinosaur costume which is very realistic and it charges at you :) there are other rides, but time is not enough to enjoy all

Mall Road Nainital is always bustling with visitors and locals alike. It's a beautiful road much like that of Mussoorie Mall Road.

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Its one word for here just beautiful place..you can see from here Himalaya and Also city of nainital ..its around 3 km walking distance from the road to here..its top place of the nainital ..it is good place and Verry beautiful..

Land's End used to be the most visited spot after snow view in Nainital until the early 2000s. I was amazed that it wasn't on Google maps so I added it today. It's a relatively flat walk of about 12 minutes from Ghora Stand at Bara Pathar which can also be taken on a horseback ride. The sunsets are one of the best here and you can witness the beautiful winter line during the winter months. Unfortunately it is in a neglected state now with the protective railing broken. District administration's apathy is quite evident.

Located in front of naini lake. We had tried a few types of Maggie there and loved it. Though prices are slightly on the higher side, the quantity and quality does justice for it. Service is also ok, however, as the rush was very low at the time when we visited, hence they could attend to us fully.

Located in the heart of Nainital Mall Road, this restaurant is a gem for anyone craving budget-friendly, delicious dishes. Their Butter Naan, Egg Fried Rice, Egg Chowmein, and Chilli Paneer are absolute crowd-pleasers, bursting with flavor. The food was prepared in just 15-20 minutes, and the quality of both the dishes and the service truly matches the restaurant's charm. Had an amazing time there!

Best place for plantsmen, botanists or even for those who love gardening etc. There are lots of interesting things to know about plants, cacti and butterflies. Different canopies for different species. You may spend as much as time based on your interest in these types. In addition it's situated in the lap of a mountain.

One of the zoo i have seen in my life with so many animals present. Many tigers were spotted when i visited. Amazing experience. It took around3-4 hours for me and my wife explore full area but was totally worth it. Seating places are available around the zoo at multiple places. Well maintained zoo.

The Boat House Club in Nainital is a charming spot right by the lake, perfect for a relaxed outing. The food is delicious and reasonably priced, offering a taste of local flavors. The staff are friendly and attentive, making the experience even more enjoyable. Whether you're enjoying a meal with a view or just soaking in the serene atmosphere, it's a great place to unwind. Note: While the club primarily caters to members, non-members can access its facilities by paying a nominal temporary membership fee or through a member's reference.

Nainital is a very beautiful hill station. The lake here captivates the tourists. The houses and hotels built on the hills look very beautiful. The stadium of Nainital is very big, children play here and in summer when the number of tourists increases, it is used as a parking lot. It is very nice to stroll on Mall Road in the evening. There are various types of restaurants and gift item shops here.

Very scenic and beautiful view from here. Overall, Himalaya Point is highly recommended for its breathtaking views and serene ambiance, making it a highlight of any trip to Nainital. Whether you are seeking a moment of quiet reflection or a perfect backdrop for photographs, this spot will not disappoint.

Ishaan, offered us quality experience around Nainital, he gave us good prices and was very considerate to our needs. He made our time very well spend.

Our paragliding experience in Nainital was absolutely amazing! The GoPro pictures and videos captured the breathtaking moments perfectly. The location is stunning, and the views from 8,500 meters height were unforgettable. We were a group of 5, and everything was well-organized. The price was reasonable, making it a great value for such an incredible adventure. A special thanks to Anjali for arranging everything so smoothly. Highly recommend this experience to anyone visiting Nainital!

Visited on 25.12.2024 - with my daughter Extremely peaceful and Maharaj Poojari was nice and knowledgeable easily accessible

Very splendid place. A movie named "Tikdam" was made on Sukhatal Lake which is available now on Jio Cinema. Must watching film based on environment protection.

Small track and the karts are also not functioning properly

great view and even better if there is snow falling⁉️⁉️Book the cable car before 2 pm as it is closed after then

The gorgeous Himalayan woodland at The Great Himalayan View Point is home to a variety of bird and animal species. Kunjakhadak is one of the areas where visitors can see Rufous Sibia and Blue Magpie Birds.

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Rope way one side travel is about 2.5 minutes, after buying tickets and wait of about an hour+ we got our turn. Nice view of Nainital lake and great views around. Awesome experience.