Unique Places To Visit In Nainital | Explore The Hidden Gems | 17+ Must Visits
It’s Nainital in focus once again! This resort town has been one of the most visited hill stations in India in 2024. The City of Lake especially saw a surge in tourist footfall during the Christmas and New Year holidays.
Heavy snowfall transformed Nainital and other hotspots in Uttarakhand into a snowy wonderland.
Further, this resort town in Uttarakhand grabbed everyone’s attention with Astrotourism in Takula. In December 2024, the fourth chapter of Nakshatra Sabha, an astrotourism initiative of Starscapes and The Uttarakhand Tourism Development Board, occurred near Takula.
Nainital, with its clear winter skies, is one of the best stargazing places in India today. However, the hidden gems or the unique places to visit in Nainital have always been there to make your experience in the hill station meaningful, eclectic, and vivid.
So, are you ready to explore these unique places to visit in Nainital? This is a Dream and Travel guide on the hidden gems in Nainital and every detail you need to know.
Unique Places To Visit In Nainital | The Hidden Gems You Cannot Miss
Nainital is a year-round tourist destination. However, the monsoon months of July to early September can be risky with heavy downpours, landslides, and road blockage. Still, some tourists prefer the solitude and melancholia of the rainy season in Nainital.
Nevertheless, if you are traveling with your family, March to early June is the best time to visit Nainital. In these months, the temperature ranges between 8-25 degrees Celsius, with mostly clear skies.
Again, if you are traveling solo or want adventure, the winter months of December to February will be ideal for your visit to Nainital. Temperature in these months varies from 1 to 10 degrees Celsius.
However, irrespective of the season, the following places to visit in Nainital await you with wonder and beautiful views.
1. Naini Lake
- Places to Stay: Hotel Mount N Mist Nainital (089099 61621)
- The best time to visit: March to June
- Entry fee: INR 160 for a half rowboat ride and INR 210 for a full rowboat ride, INR 210 for an hour ride in a paddle boat
- Hours Open: 6 AM to 6 PM
This pear-shaped lake is, so to speak, the heart of Nainital, with lovely surroundings, lush green hills, and palpitating markets.
It offers a peaceful boat ride, or you can even indulge in a paddle boat adventure on the lake. The sun setting creates a breathtaking picture of hues, reflecting shimmeringly across the water of this beautiful lake.
For those who enjoy activities on the land, a promenade around the lake offers just the right spot for a leisurely walk. Moreover, the surrounding views make it one of the most picturesque places to visit in Nainital.
You will find several small shops selling local handicrafts, snacks, and souvenirs. The lively atmosphere makes this a fine place to imbibe a bit of the local color.
| Did You Know? According to myths, the eyes of GoddessSati fell here when Lord Shiva carried her remains and performed the Tandava. The lake was formed with her eyes. |
2. Naina Devi Temple
- Hours Open: 6 Am to 10 PM
- Entry fee: Free
The Naina Devi Temple is one of the most significant places to visit in Nainital, situated on the northern shore of Naini Lake.
The temple is dedicated to Goddess Naina Devi and plays significant religious importance for the town’s people and its tourists. It stands majestically against the scenic surroundings, making it an ideal quiet place for worship and reflection.
The lake’s peaceful ambiance and panoramic view can be enjoyed in the temple premises. The temple is very crowded during festivals, especially by the devotees of this region.
3. Snow Viewpoint
- Places to Stay: Hotel Silverton, by Aspen (098103 06282)
- The best time to visit: December to March
- How to reach: Take a cab ride or a cable rope ride from Mallital
- Entry fee: INR 150 for adults and 100 for children
Snow Viewpoint is to be visited to have a wide-angle view of the snow-covered Himalayas. It is another place located in Mallital, and the way to reach it is by cable car. The ride is scenic by itself, but, greeted by magnificent panoramic views after the ride.
Taking great snaps, relishing the local snacks, and enjoying the breathtaking scenery of the mountains is what a person will see around Snow Viewpoint. Most nature lovers would prefer to visit Nainital; this is one of the best places to attract photography enthusiasts.
4. Tiffin Top (Dorothy’s Seat)
- Best time to visit: March to June
- Entry fee: Free, Pony rides will cost you between INR 500-700
- Distance from Nainital: 1.6 Km
- Best place to stay near Tiffin Top: goSTOPS Nainital
- Hours Open: 24 Hours
For the trekker, Tiffin Top is one of the best things to do in Nainital. Situated about an hour from the main town, this easy to moderate trek presents lovely views of Nainital and its surrounding hills as one ascends there.
At the top is Dorothy, a British artist who loved this place, the bench. It’s the best place to have a picnic or to spend some time in the tranquility of nature. The views, especially at sunrise and sunset, are breathtaking and truly worth all the effort spent hiking through.
5. Kilbury Bird Sanctuary
- Hours Open: 6 AM to 5 PM
- Best place to stay: Hidden Valley Camp & Resort (099997 02666)
- Distance from Nainital: 10.6 Km
Undoubtedly one of the least explored places in Nainital, the Kilbury Bird Sanctuary is a treasure trove for nature lovers and birdwatchers alike. Situated about 12 kilometers from the town, this sanctuary has over 200 species of birds, including several rare and migratory ones.
A quiet retreat into nature awaits one at Kilbury. For, one can trek through the forest paths while listening to chirping birds and viewing beauty in the surrounding landscape. It’s the right kind of place for photography and nature lovers alike.
6. Bhimtal
- Distance from Nainital: 20 Km
- Places to stay near Bhimtal: Country Inn Nature Resort, Bhimtal (082660 71968)
- Ideal Duration: 1 or 2 days
- Best time to visit: September to December
- Activities: Boating and fishing, stargazing, paragliding, etc.
- How to reach Bhimtal: By bus, cab, or train
Bhimtal is a quiet lake town accessible on a short drive from Nainital and seems to be a more reclusive alternative than the vocal Naini Lake.
The lake is larger in comparison and has an important island right in the center with a marvelous, flowered garden. There is even boat hire which makes it easy for you to delve into the lake or just sit by its side.
Bhimtal also has a beautiful market area where you can find local handicrafts and delicious local food. This is one of the hidden gems in Nainital, especially for those looking to get away from the crowds.
7. Sattal
- Best place to stay: Country Inn Sattal (078308 00403)
- Ideal duration: 2 Days
- Distance from Nainital: 45 Kms
- Best time to visit: April to June
- Activities to do: Yoga practices, water sports, and boating
Sattal is another beautiful lake destination near Nainital. Grouped in seven lakes connected, it offers a paradise of nature. The surrounding serenity along with lush greenery makes this an excellent spot for picnics, boating, and birdwatching.
Sattal is the least commercialized of Naini Lake because here you don’t get the feeling of disheartened distraction from the real beauty of nature. It is a great place for camping and trekking. Therefore, one must go there to enjoy it as a must-visit destination near Nainital.
8. Ghorakhal Temple
- Best place to stay: Shikha Resort By EwentBliz (082733 33399)
- Distance from Nainital: 44 Kms
- Hours Open: 6 AM to 10 PM
Ghorakhal Temple is said to be around 8 kilometers from Nainital. It has been constructed in the name of Lord Golu, who is revered for justice and truth.
It is in an absolutely serene environment surrounded by denser forests, which creates peace in the environment while performing the act of worship.
Many also visit Ghorakhal Temple to seek blessings and enjoy the beautiful scenery of the hills. This place has some local village shops selling handicrafts and religious items, so it makes a unique stop for your tour.
9. Hanuman Garhi
- Hours open: 7:30-11:30 AM and 4:30-9:30 PM (Summer), 9-11 AM and 4:00-9:00 PM (Winter)
- Distance from Nainital: 4.2 Km
The last destination that must be visited for worship is Hanuman Garhi. The temple serves to worship Lord Hanuman and is located on a hilltop about 3 kilometers from Nainital. The temple provides panoramic views of the town and the surrounding mountains.
Steps lead to the temple lined with shops selling offerings and local snacks. The view from atop is stunning and all efforts worthwhile. Extremely busy during festivals, it makes up for a lively atmosphere.
10. Mukteshwar
- Time to spend: 2 days
- Hours open: 5 AM to 7:30 PM
- Distance from Nainital: 50 Kms
Mukteshwar is a quaint little village, about 51 kilometers from Nainital. This place is famous for its breathtaking Himalayan views and is one of the favored destinations for trekking, adventure sports, and so on.
Lord Shiva is the deity to whom Mukteshwar Temple is dedicated, and a favorite of visitors. A compact range of hills beautifully surrounded the temple and has some peaceful territory for the eyes and soul.
Chauli Ki Jali-adjacent to it-is a cliff rock climbing venue as well as an amazing sight to contemplate from this site.
11. Naukuchiatal
The incredibly striking Naukuchiatal Lake is located approximately 26 km from Nainital, and its shape is described as nine-cornered, surrounded by serene and peaceful environs. One can engage in boating and fishing opportunities on the lake and seek solitude amid nature in Nainital.
Visitors can spend a serene day near lakes bound by hills and dense forests. The destination is also used for paragliding, and adventure-lovers visit this place for a thrilling experience. Naukuchiatal is one of the unvisited destinations in Nainital that gives visitors an undisturbed experience free from the noise of tourists.
12. Raj Bhawan
The Raj Bhawan is the summer residence of the Governor of Uttarakhand and an example of a site of historical landscaped gardens and colonial architecture.
Therefore, not exactly open to the interior but worth visiting for its glorious exterior, with nicely landscaped gardens, a perfect place to visit and spend some time strolling leisurely.
The premises take one through different facets of Nainital architecture and scenery. The Raj Bhawan is a treat for any history lover and structure admirer of the colonial era.
13. Eco Cave Gardens
Eco Cave Gardens stands out as the perfect place for families to visit, and for children to learn from.
Among the few unique features of the park are three interconnected caves with their hanging gardens, thereby making the tourists view the natural rock forms and learn more about local flora and fauna.
The gardens also feature a playground and picnic grounds. Therefore, this is a great place to spend a whole day with your family. With their interest in environmental conservation, the Eco Cave Gardens are a simply wonderful addition to the list of places you can visit in Nainital.
14. Thandi Sadak
Thandi Sadak is an unexplored trek that assures a quiet reprieve from the hustle and bustle of the streets of Nainital. It passes through some of the lush forests around and gives out great views of the valleys and mountains in the neighborhoods.
Walking along Thandi Sadak is a treat for those who love nature and want to bask in solitude. The trek is not overcrowded, so you can relish nature while at the same time viewing the awe-inspiring scenery.
15. Land’s End
Lands’ End is another place that falls into the category of hidden treasures of Nainital at a considerable distance from the town proper. This viewpoint offers scintillating views of the valley and the distant Himalayas. This is a great spot to spend a moment, enjoying stunning photographs quietly.
This is less visited, offering a serene atmosphere in a tranquil environment suitable for thought and relaxation. Being a beauty of nature at Land’s End, it is one of the best places to visit in Nainital for those seeking solitude and breathtaking views.
16. Khurpatal
It is a small village, 12 kilometers from Nainital, known for its scenic lake surrounded by hills. It could prove to be an excellent spot for fishing, boating, or a quiet day in and around the water.
Khurpatal also is blessed with diverse local flora and fauna, proving to be an ideal place for nature walks and birdwatching treks. In this serene and panoramic scenic paradise, it has become one of the lesser-known places to visit Nainital, ideal for a relaxing getaway.
17. Tiffin Top Trek
For all the trekkers, Tiffin Top is just the right thing. It is a moderate trek, which gives some of the most breathtaking views of the Nainital city and its surrounding mountains. The trail is well-marked and carries you through glorious forests and hills.
Panoramic views are waiting for you from the top of Tiffin. It makes a perfect picnic spot. The locale is quite silent and serene, too, and one can just let one go in nature and feel the thrill of trekking.
18. Sariyatal
Sariyatal is another hidden lake near Nainital with tranquil surroundings and breathtaking views.
Despite being one of the best places to visit in Nainital, It has fewer crowds, hence often quieter than Naini Lake, and is a popular place for a quiet day along a lake amid virgin nature.
The whole area around Sariyatal is fabulous for picnics, Nature Walks, and just relaxing in a serene atmosphere. It is also one of the several charming places that Nainital offers for anybody who wishes to be away from the chaos of life.
Wrapping Up!
Nainital is a place of hidden treasures, awaiting discovery. While popular attractions attract throngs of tourists, they are only in lesser-known places to visit in Nainital. One will experience the original experiences defining the beauty of nature and the richness of the culture of the region.
Whether you visit there to immerse yourself in nature, adventure, or just for relaxation, these hidden treasures bring unforgettable experiences to your life. So, the next time you plan to visit Nainital, do not forget to visit these must-not-miss places that make this hill station special.
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