Top 10 Places to Explore in Nainital

Published on November 17, 2025

Nainital is one of the most charming hill towns in Uttarakhand. With peaceful lakes, cool breeze, colonial beauty, pine forests and nearby spiritual places like Kainchi Dham, the destination suits every kind of traveller — families, honeymoon couples, adventure lovers and budget travellers.

Whether you’re planning a relaxed holiday or a short weekend escape, Nainital fits perfectly. Families love booking Nainital Tour Packages for family because of the safe environment, easy walks and kid-friendly attractions. Couples enjoy choosing Nainital honeymoon packages for the quiet sunsets, lakeside stays and romantic weather. Those coming from Delhi often prefer Nainital Tour Package from Delhi as it includes travel, stay and sightseeing—all planned smoothly.

If you’re traveling on a tight budget, several operators offer Nainital budget tour packages with clean hotels, shared cabs and basic sightseeing. Thrill-seekers can pick Nainital adventure tour packages, combining trekking, kayaking, rope activities and nearby lakeside adventure parks. 

Nainital’s beauty lies in its simplicity—morning walks near the lake, small cafés on Mall Road, viewpoints that open to mighty Himalayan peaks, and forests that instantly lift your mood. Whether you're seeking silence, romance, spirituality or adventure, Nainital welcomes you like a home in the mountains and gives every visitor a reason to return.

Naini Lake – The Heart of Nainital

Naini Lake is the first sight that welcomes you to Nainital. Surrounded by hills, colourful markets and a refreshing breeze, this emerald lake is the centre of all activity.

 Best Things to Do

• Paddle boating & rowing

• Morning walk around the lake

• Evening photography

• Lakeside snacks & coffee

Why Visitors Love It

• Peaceful atmosphere

• Perfect for couples

• Family-friendly

• Iconic views in every season

Most Nainital travel packages, Nainital holiday packages, and Nainital honeymoon packages keep Naini Lake as the first attraction. Families with Nainital Tour Packages for family enjoy boating, while budget travellers love strolling around the lake without spending much.

Naina Devi Temple – A Sacred Himalayan Shrine

Located beside Naini Lake, this ancient temple is one of the most important Shaktipeeths. The calm atmosphere and the surrounding Himalayan views make it perfect for a peaceful visit.

 Highlights

• Maa Naina Devi sanctum

• Beautiful lake-side location

• Cultural and historic significance

Most pilgrims visiting Kainchi Dham also visit this temple because the Kainchi Dham Nainital distance is very short. Couples, families and solo travellers — all feel a connection here.

Snow View Point – Panoramic Himalayan Vistas

Snow View Point offers clear views of Hathi Parvat, Nanda Devi, Trishul and other Himalayan peaks.

How to Reach

• Ropeway

• Taxi

• Light trek

Why It Should Be in Your Trip

• Best photography spot

• Clean air & cool winds

• Small stalls & kids activities

Included in many Nainital adventure tour packages and Nainital Tour Packages, especially for travellers wanting panoramic mountain views.

Eco Cave Gardens – Thrill for All Ages

Eco Cave Gardens is a fun stop with natural caves and garden pathways. Children especially enjoy squeezing through narrow caves like Bat Cave, Tiger Cave, Panther Cave and more.

 Attractions

• Interconnected natural caves

• Garden trails

• Musical fountain show (evening)

Perfect for families taking Nainital Tour Packages for family and adventure lovers using Nainital adventure tour packages.

 Mall Road – Food, Shopping & Evening Walks

Mall Road runs along the lake and becomes magical during the evening when lights reflect on the water.

Things to Do

• Candle & woollen shopping

• Street food like momos, bun-tikki, hot chocolate

• Evening lake-view walk

• Local handicrafts

Great for couples choosing Nainital honeymoon packages and budget travellers using Nainital budget tour packages.

Tiffin Top (Dorothy’s Seat) – A Photographer’s Paradise

Tiffin Top is a scenic viewpoint known for its beautiful trek, fresh air and forest surroundings.

 What to Expect

• Light trek (or horse ride)

• Panoramic views of Nainital

• Calm picnic spots

• Perfect sunrise & sunset frames

Adventure lovers using Nainital adventure tour packages enjoy the trek, while couples appreciate the peaceful, romantic atmosphere.

 High Altitude Zoo – Home to Rare Himalayan Wildlife

This zoo sits at 2100 meters and is home to rare species like snow leopards, Himalayan bears, red pandas and mountain eagles.

Why Visit

• Unique high-altitude wildlife

• Beautiful view of Nainital town

• Great educational experience for kids

Included in Nainital Tour Packages for family, Nainital travel packages, and Nainital budget tour packages.

 Bhimtal Lake – A Calm Alternative to Naini Lake

Bhimtal Lake is larger, quieter and surrounded by hill slopes. The lake has a small island café at the centre.

Best Experiences

• Boating to the island

• Nature walks

• Peaceful lakeside cafes

• Birdwatching

A great addition to Nainital Tour Packages, Nainital holiday packages, and Nainital travel packages.

Sattal & Naukuchiatal – Lakeside Escapes with Nature

Sattal

Known for its seven connected lakes, dense forests and peaceful trails. Perfect for birdwatching and photography.

Naukuchiatal

Famous for its nine-cornered lake, calm environment and open landscapes.

Popular Activities

• Kayaking

• Boating

• Paragliding

• Trekking

• Forest trails

Adventure lovers choosing Nainital adventure tour packages absolutely love these lakes. Couples and families also enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

Kainchi Dham – A Divine Retreat Surrounded by Kumaon’s Serenity

A Spiritual Haven Near Nainital

Kainchi Dham is one of the most powerful and peaceful spiritual destinations near Nainital. Established by Neem Karoli Baba, this ashram sits between forested hills and a quiet stream, creating a natural setting that instantly calms your mind. Because the Kainchi Dham Nainital distance is only around 18 km, most travellers make it their first spiritual stop while exploring Nainital and nearby areas.

Why Kainchi Dham is Special

• Home to Neem Karoli Baba’s blessings

• Peaceful ambience ideal for meditation

• Surrounded by forests & fresh mountain air

• Clean, simple and spiritually energizing

• Loved by tourists, seekers and global personalities

Families booking Nainital Tour Packages for family add Kainchi Dham for divine blessings, while couples on Nainital honeymoon packages visit the ashram for peace and positivity. Adventure travellers choosing Nainital adventure tour packages stop here before heading toward trekking routes, lake activities or mountain viewpoints.

Frequently Asked Questions:

What is the best time to visit Nainital?

The best time to visit Nainital is March to June and September to November. The weather stays pleasant, perfect for boating, sightseeing and nature walks. Families booking Nainital Tour Packages for family prefer summer, while couples choose winter for cozy weather.

 How far is Kainchi Dham from Nainital?

The Kainchi Dham Nainital distance is around 18 km, which takes about 35–40 minutes by car. It’s an easy and scenic hillside drive.

What is the Delhi to Kainchi Dham distance?

The Delhi to Kainchi Dham distance is nearly 320 km, taking around 7–8 hours depending on traffic and route. Many travellers choose Nainital Tour Package from Delhi that includes Kainchi Dham.

 Is boating available in Naini Lake?

Yes, boating is available throughout the year except during heavy rains. Options include paddle boats, rowing boats and traditional boats operated by locals.

Which are the best places to visit in Nainital?

Top attractions include Naini Lake, Naina Devi Temple, Snow View Point, Tiffin Top, Mall Road, Eco Cave Gardens, Bhimtal, Sattal and Naukuchiatal.

Are Nainital budget tour packages worth it?

Yes, Nainital budget tour packages are ideal for solo travellers and small families. They include hotel stay, sightseeing and cab transfers at a pocket-friendly price.

 Is Kainchi Dham open throughout the year?

Yes, Kainchi Dham remains open all year. The most crowded day is 15 June, the Annual Bhandara attended by thousands of devotees.

Can I visit Kainchi Dham with family?

Absolutely. It is peaceful, safe and suitable for all age groups. That’s why many travellers include it in their Nainital Tour Packages for family.

 Are honeymoon packages available for Nainital?

Yes, several operators offer Nainital honeymoon packages with lakeside stays, candlelight dinners, scenic viewpoints and a serene visit to Kainchi Dham.

 What adventure activities can we do in Nainital?

You can enjoy trekking, ropeway rides, boating, kayaking, rock climbing, paragliding (nearby), and nature walks. These are usually part of Nainital adventure tour packages.

 How many days are enough to explore Nainital?

A 2 to 3-day trip is perfect to cover major attractions, Kainchi Dham, nearby lakes and local sightseeing. Many travellers book Nainital travel packages for smooth planning.

 Are Nainital holiday packages customizable?

Yes, most Nainital holiday packages and Nainital travel packages are fully customizable. You can add Kainchi Dham visit, adventure activities, lakeside resorts, ropeway, Mall Road shopping and more.