Misty Mornings and Mountain Magic: Welcome to Nainital

The Jewel of the Kumaon Hills

Nestled in the Kumaon Hills at an elevation of 2,084 metres, the picturesque town of Nainital is a beloved hill station, offering a refreshing escape from the sweltering heat of the North Indian plains. According to Hindu mythology, Naini Lake—situated at the heart of the town—is one of the sacred shaktipeeths where Sati’s eyes (or nain) are believed to have fallen. This led to the lake being named ‘Nain-tal,’ meaning ‘lake of the eye,’ from which the town derives its name. On the northern edge of the lake stands the Naini Mata Temple, dedicated to the goddess Shakti.

Nainital was established in 1841 by the British and quickly rose in prominence as a health retreat. It later became the summer residence of the governor of the United Provinces during the British Raj. The town still bears traces of its colonial past, with heritage structures like old bungalows, churches, and educational institutions scattered throughout the older parts of the area. In 1880, Nainital suffered a devastating landslide that flattened much of the land and claimed 150 lives. That site is now known as the flats or maidan.

From April to July, the town comes alive with throngs of tourists who stroll along Mall Road, which connects the bustling areas of Mallital and Tallital. While the tranquil charm of Nainital may feel diminished during this peak season, pockets of peace can still be found amidst its scenic surroundings. Forested paths lined with oak, pine, and deodar trees offer serene walking trails. In March and April, the hills burst into colour with vibrant rhododendrons and wildflowers, creating a breathtaking panorama. During the monsoon, a mystical mist settles over the town, and clouds dance across the sky, offering visitors a dreamlike experience.

Whether you’re boating on the serene lake, shopping along the lively Mall Road, or simply wandering through the forested trails, Nainital promises a magical experience that stays with you long after you’ve left.

Things to See and Do in Nainital

Naini Lake

The picturesque blue-green Naini Lake is the soul of Nainital. Adjacent to the Naina Devi Temple lies The Flats—a lively open area where locals and tourists gather each evening for relaxation and entertainment. This space hosts a bandstand, a fountain, a skating rink, the Naini Stadium, and vibrant markets including the Tibetan Market.

Boating & Yachting:

• Rowboat ride:
• Yacht (with boatman): 
• Pedal boats are also available for self-guided exploration
• Timings: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Don’t Miss:
Visit the Boat House Club, a heritage spot from the mid-19th century. Its wooden-floored bar offers charming lake views. Temporary membership includes access to the bar and billiards room.

Snow View Point

Perched at 2,250 m on Sher-ka-Danda Hill, Snow View Point offers some of the most awe-inspiring views of the snow-covered Himalayan peaks, especially between October and March. On clear days, you can spot the majestic Nanda Devi.

How to Get There:

• Hike (2 km), pony ride, or ropeway from Mall Road
• Ropeway fare

• Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM                                                                                                                         Nainital High Altitude Zoo
  

Located 1.5 km uphill from the southern end of Mall Road, this zoological park shelters Himalayan wildlife such as wolves, leopards, black bears, tigers, and vibrant pheasants.

• Entry Fee: ₹50
• Timings: 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM (Closed on Mondays)

Eco Cave Gardens

This park offers a series of six interconnected caves and a musical fountain (active in May and June). It’s an adventurous spot for families, though the tight spaces may not suit everyone.

• Timings: 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM

Naina Peak 

The highest point in Nainital, Naina Peak offers sweeping views of the lake and surrounding snowy mountains. Legends claim you can see the Great Wall of China from here!

• Trek: 4–5 km hike or hire a pony

St. John in the Wilderness Church

Nestled among tall deodar trees in the northern part of town, this Gothic-style church is one of Nainital’s oldest buildings. It features a memorial to the victims of the 1880 landslide and a serene cemetery nearby.

Tiffin Top (Dorothy’s Seat)

At 2,300 m on Ayarpatta Hill, Tiffin Top is a terraced viewpoint built in memory of artist Dorothy Kelley. It’s perfect for a picnic with panoramic Himalayan views.

Nearby:

• Gurney House, once Jim Corbett’s home, now a museum.
  Note: Being privately owned, entry is at the owner’s discretion.

Raj Bhawan (Governor’s House)

Once the summer residence of the Governor of the United Provinces, the Raj Bhawan is a grand estate with 113 rooms and lush gardens spread across 220 acres. The British crown-shaped façade, charming fireplaces, glass conservatories, and relics of the infamous bandit Sultana Daku make it a must-visit.

• Golf Course Entry
• Golf kit rental extra
• Timings: Until 4:00 PM

Shopping in Nainital

• Candles: Look for uniquely crafted candles at Gupta Departmental Store in Bara Bazaar.
• Shawls & Woollens: The Tibetan Market and Mall Road shops offer great local options.
• Handmade Textiles: Visit Pancha-chuli Store for handwoven shawls and stoles.
• Local Goodies: Fruitage Outlet sells rhododendron squash, fruit jams, chutneys, and more.

Where to Stay : Many Hotels & Resorts around the lake depending on the budget ,  you can book online websites .

Where to Eat

• Embassy: Excellent sizzlers
• Machan: Known for its tandoori delights
• Nanak: Snacks, sandwiches, sundaes, and milkshakes
• Sakley’s: A classic pastry and cake shop
• Ashoka & Purohit: Vegetarian thalis with Gujarati specialties
• Shiva Restaurant (Bara Bazaar): Affordable North Indian vegetarian food
• Tibetan Market Stalls: Hot, fresh vegetarian street food

Short Trips Around Nainital

Hanuman Garhi (3 km)

A revered temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, this spot offers stunning sunset views. The walk from town takes about 30 minutes.

Aryabhatta Astronomical Observatory (9 km)

Located on Manota Peak, this observatory houses high-powered telescopes for stargazing.

• Timings: 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM (by appointment)
• Contact: 05942-233727, 233734-35
  Fun Fact: The observatory was established in 1955 and remains a leading centre for astrophysical research.                                                                                                                                             Pangot (17 km)

A paradise for bird lovers, Pangot is just 30 minutes from Nainital. The route via Kilbury Road is rich in flora and fauna. Keep an eye out for the Himalayan griffon, lammergeier, pheasants, woodpeckers, and thrushes.  Relax on a private sit-out and enjoy the peaceful view of snow-draped peaks.