Things to Do in Nainital
Enjoy Boating at Naini Lake, Enjoy Himalayan View from Tiffin Top, Shop at Tibetan Market, Ropeway of Nainital, Paragliding in Nainital, Flying Fox Nainital, Kali River Rafting and many more
Every category of traveller can find their taste of things to do in Nainital. From leisure tourists to the nature-loving or adventure enthusiast, this destination has everything for everyone. Activities like Bird watching, nature exploration, and adventure sports are very popular among the tourists visiting here. People also shop for hand knitted woollens from the natives here as souvenirs for their trip.
Some of the popular activities in Nainital that capture the attention of the travellers at this place are Boating, paragliding, trekking, camping and others. People who love to trek may find this place as paradise. With tons of trekking spots like Tiffin’s Top, Naini peak and others, this tourist destination satisfies the adventure lust in each traveller.
For the kids too, activities like boating, water Zorbing, rock climbing and others help them feel the thrill of adventure with utmost safety. With homely food, adventure sports, bonfire, fun games and sleeping under the star lit sky, visit Nainital for an exceptional experience.
Here are some of the best things to do in Nainital:
1. Enjoy Boating at Naini Lake:
In the entire district of Nainital, the Naini Lake is the one that is the most famous, owing to its location and ease of access. Surrounded by beauty on all sides, the lake is a great place to have some mesmerizing memories of the city. As you sit on a boat that slowly glides on the waters, indulge in what is one of best activities to do in Nainital.
Take a boating trip of the lake and marvel at the beauty that surrounds you in this amazing location, from where you can see the serene snow-capped peaks, the Cheena Peak, and the Tiffin Top. Take pictures of the amazing valley or record a video of the pleasant weather.
Location: Naini Lake, Nainital, Uttarakhand
Timings: Every day, 6 AM to 6 PM
Charges/Fees: Starts from INR 150 and goes on to INR 500 (per person)
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2. Enjoy Himalayan View from Tiffin Top:
Also known as Dorothy’s seat, the Tiffin Top is a locals’ favorite picnic spot in Nainital. Located on the Ayarpatta Hill, Tiffin top sits in a location where you can see the city of Nainital on one side, and the majestically beautiful Kumaon hills on the other side. A photographer’s paradise, the place got its name because Dorothy’s Seat was popular for picnics.
If you are looking for activities to do in Nainital, then a hike up to Tiffin Top to capture the beauty of Himalayas, is surely a thing you should go for.
Location: Ayarpatta Hill, Nainital, Uttarakhand.
Timings: Everyday, 8 AM to 5:30 PM
Charges/Fees: Free Entry
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3. Shop at Tibetan Market:
Right along the banks of the Naini Lake, the famous Tibetan Market of Nainital runs. Offering authentic Tibetan winterwear, souvenirs, and much more, the market is one of the most famous, affordable, and beautiful setup to shop in the city, and is run by the natives of Tibet.
Skillful at their work, Tibetans have shops and shacks on the side of the road selling Tibetan bags, scarves, ethnic dresses, designer shawls, woolen mufflers, junk accessories, and stylish watches, all of which are available at affordable prices and can be bargained for.
Location: Nanda Devi Path, Ayarpatta, Nainital, 263002, Uttarakhand
Timings: Everyday, 9:30 AM to 9 PM
Charges/Fees: None
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4. Experience Sunset at Hanuman Garhi:
Dedicated to Hindu God and loyal follower of Lord Ram, Lord Hanuman, Hanuman Garhi is a temple that enjoys an amazing location on the top of a hill in Nainital. Built in the year 1950 by a local saint, the best part about this temple is the amazing sunset view of the place, where people can watch the sun slowly gliding down and set behind the hills.
Tourists from all over the country come to witness this marvel, and the best part is that it does not require a strenuous walk to reach the temple. Take the blessings of the lord and take in the beauty of the scene as it unfolds in front of you.
Location: Hanuman Garhi, Haldwani Road, Nainital, Uttarakhand
Timings: Sunset Time
Charges/Fees: None
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5. Enjoy Ropeway of Nainital:
The main attractions of Nainital include the amazing name of the Ropeway of Nainital. Connecting the city to the snow view point, the ropeway takes one to a height of about 2,250 m above sea level. While the destination is undoubtedly beautiful, the ride to the top is itself very serene, making it one of the best things to do in Nainital.
There are 2 trolleys that run between the two terminals and take time of about 2 and a half minutes to complete the journey on one side. Another great thing about this is that the ropeway was built by the Swiss pioneers, making it the safest ropeway in the region.
Location: Ropeway RdMallital, Nainital, Uttarakhand 263001
Timings: everyday 10 AM to 4 PM
Charges/Fees: INR 150 for adults, and INR 100 for children, both way.
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6. Visit Naina Devi:
A Shakti Peeth (seat of power) in the Hindu Belief, the Naina Devi temple is perched on the northern bank of the Naini Lake in the city of Nainital. A famous attraction and a spiritual hotspot, the Naina Devi Goddess resides inside the temple and is depicted by her two eyes. Pilgrims from everywhere flock to the temple to take blessings of the mother goddess.
Despite being destroyed in a landslide in the year 1880, the Naina Devi Temple was rebuilt and has since then attracted thousands of visitors every year.
Location: Ayarpatta, Nainital, Uttarakhand 263002
Timings: Everyday 6 AM to 10 PM
Charges/Fees: None
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7. Trekking at Cheena Peak:
Also known as the Naina Peak, Cheena Peak is the highest point in Nainital. Covered in forests of Rhododendrons, Deodars, and Cypresses, the trek to the top of Cheena Peak is as rewarding as the view from the top. After just a small and relaxing hike up the hill, you will get to see the beautiful range of the Himalayas all covered in snow.
Also, the city of Nainital looks even more beautiful from the peak. The trekking to the top, and taking in the views from there, can together be called the best things to do in Nainital.
Location: Nainital, Uttarakhand
Charges/Fees: None
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8. Visit the Nainital Zoo:
Nainital Zoo, or the Pt. Govind Ballabh Pant High Altitude Zoo, is a high altitude home for wildlife, first of its kind in North India, and the 3rd in the country. Located at a height of about 2,100 m above sea level, the zoo is one of the best places to visit in Nainital.
Housing animals like Royal Bengal tiger, Tibetan wolves, sambar, leopard cat, and Himalayan bear, the zoo also has many bird species like Kalij pheasant, Lady Amherst pheasant, rose-ringed parakeet, golden pheasant, and red junglefowl. A visit here is surely one of the best things to do in Nainital.
Location: Tallital, Nainital, Uttarakhand 263002
Timings: Friday to Wednesday, 10 AM to 4:30 PM
Charges/Fees: INR 50 for adults (above 13 years), INR 20 for children.
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9. Go for Camping:
Nainital is not just hills and lakes, rather, the place has its fair share of meadows and ridges to enjoy the best of camping in Kumaon. With weather that remains pleasant for almost all throughout the year, the experience of camping in Nainital is nothing short of a getaway from the bustling life of the city.
Fill your mornings with sunrise views, catch up on some trekking and birdwatching through the day, get warm with a bonfire as you sing and dance around it, and sleep under the billions of stars in the clear sky. Find a place to pitch your tent and you will find all of the above easily.
Location: Nainital, Uttarakhand
Charges/Fees: Depends on the campsite and required permits and entry charges.
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10. Rock Climbing:
More than a place blessed with beauty, Nainital is an adventure destination as well. A roster of adventure sports waiting for you to explore is present in the lake town, but the most amazing of all things to do in Nainital has to be the rock climbing. With a few schools that will teach the basics and necessities of rock climbing, you can easily become an enthusiast of the sport.
And with plenty of opportunities to practice in the city, there is a lot of fun that is yet to be had, and rock climbing is one of those unexplored and untapped adventures. You can learn with Nainital Mountaineering Club.
Location: CRST Inter College, Mallital, Nainital, Uttarakhand 263001
Timings: Everyday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Charges/Fees: Starts from INR 600
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Location: Lands end is at a distance of around 4 KM from the town. Transportation and reaching there is not a hassle and you can easily get to the place. You can walk up to the top or simply ride on a horse back to reach the Lands end.
Highlights: The view is something which people visit the place for. The top view from the mountain is exhilarating and lets you view the plains and the Khurpa Tal. Overall, the mountain is surrounded by beautiful villages and pine forests all over. The place will get you a nice touch with nature if you haven't had it lately.
Location: It is located in the Khurpatal town of Nainital. The place is just at a distance of 10 km from Nainital.
Highlights: You can spot a lot of fishes here because it provides a natural habitat for many fish species. Even fishing activities are carried out here which suffices the need of fish eating habits in the region. If you notice, the lake resembles the color of an emerald. This is quite interesting for the tourists and they love to take pictures of this beautiful natural lake.
Location: The lake is located in Bhimtal, which is a famous town in Nainital. It is more than 22 km away from Nainital. If you want to reach a railway station from here, the nearest one is Kathgodam which is at a distance of 20 km from the lake.
Highlights: The Bhimtal lake is the largest lake in the region of Kumaon, which is popularly known as the lake district of India owing to the density of lakes present here. This lake helps in providing drinking water as well as makes sure that the different species of fishes are habitable here.
Location: The place is 5 KM from the main town of Nainital. It falls on the way to Kaladhungi.
Highlights: Although this lake is a bit small compared to other big lakes, it is quite beautiful and one of the places tourists love to visit. It is calm, serene and makes you feel better. The lake is surrounded by nature in the form of trees which makes the experience even better.
Price: The entry ticket is just Rs. 20 but it is totally worth it and for tourists, it is a must visit place.
Location: The observatory is at a 4.5 KM distance from Nainital which you can easily reach through any means of transportation.
Highlights: If you are interested in astrophysics and related domains, this place is something you must surely visit. With proper permission, you can have a look at the various celestial bodies through the telescope in the observatory.
Best time to visit: The observatory is only open from 7 to 9 in the evening. If you want to visit the place, make sure that you visit it in the given times. You must plan your trip accordingly so that you don't miss out on this amazing place.
Location: It is situated in the Kumaon Hills and is 51 KM from Nainital. Usually tourists prefer road vehicles to get to the place. However, if you prefer airways, the nearest airport is at Pantnagar and the nearest railway station is at 65 KM from the town.
Highlights: From the temple, you will get a beautiful view of the Himalayas. People tend to enjoy the nice atmosphere and the stunning view from over the mountain top.
Best time to visit: The summers are warm with moderate heat and a little rainfall sometimes. The place receives heavy rainfall during the rainy seasons. Winters usually have freezing temperatures. So, you can decide the best time for you to visit the place as per your preferences.
Location: It is located at a distance of just 2 KM from the Tallital bus stand but many visitors chose to climb up the hill without any transportation.
Highlights: You will see there are many endangered animals from the Himalayas. Some of the famous animals include the Royal Bengal Tiger, Tibetan wolf, sambar, leopard cat and Himalayan bear. It was also home to India's only Siberian tiger but he died in the year 2011.
Best time to visit: The zoo is open from Tuesday to Sunday and the timings are from 10:00 am to 4:30 pm. Plan your trip accordingly so that you can visit the place while it stays open.
Explore Kilbury Bird Sanctuary in Nainital, nestled at an altitude of 2,528 metres is a haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers. The sanctuary has 240 bird species like woodpeckers, thrushes, and eagles. You can hike peaceful trails and enjoy hill views. It is an excellent location for a peaceful escape into nature's beauty.
Standing tall at the highest point in Nainital, is Naina Peak, often referred to as China Peak. People come here for stunning views and to see the amazing Himalayan peaks and peaceful Naini Lake up close, making it a popular spot. Climb across lush forests and winding paths to this picturesque peak, a must-see location for adventure seekers and environment lovers. Including Naina Peak in your Nainital trip will ensure you experience the best of this beautiful hill station.
Nestled between the picturesque Kumaon Hills, Nainital Lake attracts everyone who witnesses its splendour. According to legend, the glistening waters' mystical charm emerged from goddess Sati's tears. It continues to be a timeless symbol of peace and mystery with vibrant sailboats scattered across its surface and the mighty Himalayas serving as its backdrop.
Location: It is located at the Sukhatal region of Nainital and falls on the Kaladungi road. Reaching here is not a hassle as most of the transportation facilities are nearby.
Highlights: There are many interconnected rocky caves as well as hanging gardens. The garden makes the most out of the hilly regions in which it is located. Even for children, it is a lot of fun due to the presence of a lot of activities on offer.
Price: The price for adults is Rs. 20 and that for children is Rs. 10. If you want to carry a camera along, you have to pay a fee of Rs. 25 for the same.
Location: It is at a distance of 9 KM from Bhowali and 17 KM from the town of Nainital.
Highlights: The place was visited by tech legend Steve Jobs in his earlier days. He also advised Mark Zuckerberg to have a visit here. It is believed that the place enhances spiritual enlightenment of oneself and thus most of the people visit for the same reason. In the annual Bhandara held on June 15, more than 1 lakh people are fed at the place.
Best time to visit: You can visit the place during anytime of the year however, if you want to stay inside Kanchi Maharaj-ji's ashram, you have to personally write a letter to the manager.
Location: It is located at a height of around 2300 meters on the Ayarpatta hills. The place is around 4 KM drive from the Nainital town and it is quite convenient to get there.
Highlights: From the place, you can have a look of the Nainital town in a 360 degree view. Also, you get a stunning view of the Kumaon hills from the Dorothy's seat.
Best time to visit: You can visit the place any time you want as it has no time restrictions. You must consider the climatic conditions before going to the place.
Located atop the Naina hillock near northern shore of the Naini Lake, the Naina Devi Temple is one of the most revered temples in Northern India. It is a famous Shakti Peeth of Hindu religion and draws devotees from all over the country. It is believed this was the place where eyes of Sati’s corpse fell when Lord Shiva carried her.
Explore Snow View Point in Nainital, located at 2,270 metres, provides stunning views of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks. Accessible via a scenic cable car ride, it is a paradise for nature lovers and photographers. This peaceful spot, which has a tiny tea shop and telescope facilities, guarantees an unparalleled panorama experience and is a must-see attraction in Nainital.
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Nainital Things To Do FAQs
What are some of the best things to do in Nainital with friends?
Mostly, the Mall Road is home to a number of hotels, restaurants, banks, travel agencies, and shops, you will find that it is closed for vehicles during peak time to ensure safe passage for the tourists.
Location: The Mall Road, Nainital.
Timings: Everyday, 9 AM to 10 PM
Charges/Fees: None
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2. Visit Pangot and Kilbury Bird Sanctuary: A small village in the boundaries of Nainital goes by the name of Pangot and is home to a small creek known to be the watering hole of several wild animals like Leopard, Civet, Goral, and Deer. In a large portion of this place is a jungle-like area especially famous for the bird species that reside here.
Home to almost 580 species of avifauna, the Kilbury Bird Sanctuary is a haven for bird lovers. One can spot Brown Wood Owls, White-Throated Laughing Thrushes, Collared Grosbeaks and Forktails, amongst many endangered, endemic and rare species of indigenous and migratory bird.
Location: Village Pangot, Budhlakoti, Via Kilbury Road, Uttarakhand 263001
Timings: Everyday, from sunrise to sunset
Charges/Fees: None
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3. Eat at Chandni Chowk: Named after a popular street of the same name in Delhi, the Chandni Chowk Restaurant tries to create the same taste like its namesake. Carefully decorated to resemble Delhi’s Chandni Chowk, even the food takes after the same taste. Eat and enjoy the delicacies of various regions of North India, incorporating the real taste of everything, including the sweets of north India.
This includes Gol Gappas, cuisines in Paneer and rice, various types of rice, hot Jalebi, Gulab Jamun, Lassi, Masala Milk, and Buttermilk.
Location: The Mall Road, Tallital, Nainital, Uttarakhand 263002
Timings: Everyday, 9:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Cost for 2: INR 400
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4. Visit Cave Garden: A rather new addition to the crown of exciting tourist attractions of Nainital, the Eco Cave Gardens are a series of several interconnected caves. Educating its visitors, especially small kids about the wildlife that resides in the Himalayas. Rising in fame in the recent years, the gardens have caves named like Tiger Cave, Panther Cave, Bat Cave, etc based on the name of the animal the cave is about.
There are also hanging gardens, as well as a musical fountain in the place, making it an even better place. A tour of the entire is recommended for the best experience, as it can be called the best of all activities to do in Nainital.
Location: Sukhatal, Mallital, Nainital, Uttarakhand 263001
Timings: Everyday, 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM
Charges/Fees: INR 20 for adults, INR 10 for children.
What are the famous things to do in Nainital for couples?
What are the best treks in Nainital?
2. Guano Hills: Get rid of the hustle and bustle of the city as you go on the moderate level trek in the tranquillity of the Guano hills. The enchanting forest with rich flora, fauna and birdwatching will add on to your experience of trek here.
3. Naini Peak-Pangot Trek: Extended up to two days, this trek commences from Mallital in Nainital and ends at Naini peak with 14 kilometres of trekking distance. This trek demands good fitness.
4. KunjKharak Trek: This jungle trek that commences from Pangot. The trekkers have to cover this trek amidst the deodar and oak forest whose tranquillity only will get you Goosebumps. It is a moderate level trek passing amidst the lush green forest.
5. Tiffin’s Top: Also known by the name of Dorothy’s peak, this 4 kilometre easy trek will take you to the peak through lush green surroundings and spectacular views of the valley.
What are the best places for camping in Nainital?
1. Ayar Jungle Camp: Travellers seeking for an adrenaline rush should definitely visit this camp. With natural beauty all around the calmness and thrilling activities will give you an ultimate experience on your trips.
2. Nainital River Camp: With a bunch of adventurous activities like wildlife sighting, river crossing, rapelling and others. Their homely food an ideal setting in the location will soothe your senses.
3. YMCA Campsite: Encouraging the youth travellers into new and thrilling adventure at this unique camping site is an ultimate experience. They aim at fitness of the youth and is also known to trains many Indian athletes for the Olympics.
4. Camp Mehi Nature Resort: With camps set up amidst the sky high trees and thick forests of oak pine, it would be a worthy experience for nature and wildlife lovers. They offer activities like trekking, Burma Bridge, Rapelling, Tarzan Swing and others.
5. Camp Dhanuli: Experience guided adventure sports like rock climbing, valley crossing, paragliding, night hiking and others at this Nainital adventure camp.
What are the best places for boating in Nainital?
1. Naini Lake: This is the best spot for a boating experience in Nainital. Get to know about the astonishing facts about the Naini Lake from your boat driver as you take a drive over the waters.
2. Bhimtal Lake: Another popular boating spot, Bhimtal Lake is named after the Mahabharat legend, Bhima. Apart from boating, one can also visit the aquarium seated in the middle of the lake.
3. Sattal Lake: Bragging its lush green aura, this destination is really extravagant for a boating experience in its emerald green waters.
4. Nakuchiatal: Another famous location popular for boating in the colourful boats here, this lake nestles in a serene landscape. It is open for boating everyday and charges a nominal cost.
5. Khurpatal: Seated in the serene landscapes of Nainital, this location also welcomes boating enthusiasts at its place amidst the gorgeous views of mountains and old cedar trees.
What is the best time to visit Nainital?
Is Nainital safe?
What is Nainital famous for?
Where can I go for paragliding in Nainital? How much is the cost of paragliding?
Paragliding in Nainital is an awesome experience of gliding through the sky with a spectacular view of amazing landscapes. There are many famous service providers at various places that offers a reasonable price and an alluring view of the mountains in Nainital. Few of the places for paragliding are at:
• Naukuchia Taal.
• Near Bhimtal
For people planning to enjoy paragliding in this hill town, it is advisable to pre-book a package with a renowned activity operator. Booking such packages in advance not only helps them get the best price for the adventure, but also ensures that they do not have to return disappointed due to shortage of time or unavailability of an operator.
Look for various offers before you opt for one. The price usually is between Rs. 1300-1500.
Which are best places for shopping in Nainital?
Elegance of Nainital lies in the cheerful murmur of the markets which speaks of the humane story of the people in some of the exclusive arts of their traditions and of the dwelling modernization in their souls. Stuff your soul with Nainital art and craft from:
• Mall Road
• Tibetan Market
• Bara Bazaar
• Bhotia Bazaar
Where can I go for rock climbing in Nainital?
Rock Climbing inculcates a sense of adventurism, develops the morale character of an individual, helps in honing the risk taking abilities of a person.
• Piteria behind Bara Pathar Nainital
• Nainital Mountaineering Club
• Rock Climbing at Sattal
• Level i rock climbing, ayarpatta hills
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