Nainital, Uttarakhand, India

Best Things to Do in Nainital

Experience the Best of Nainital

• Take a Boat Ride on Naini Lake

No visit to Nainital is complete without spending time around Naini Lake. Take a boat ride, walk along the promenade or simply enjoy the views of the surrounding hills reflected in the water.

• Explore Mall Road

Mall Road is the heart of Nainital and runs alongside Naini Lake. It's a great place to walk, shop for local products, enjoy Kumaoni food and soak in the atmosphere of the town.

• Visit Naina Devi Temple

Located beside Naini Lake, the Naina Devi Temple is one of the important religious landmarks of Nainital and attracts devotees throughout the year.

• Enjoy the Views from Snow View Point

Snow View Point offers spectacular views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks on clear days. It is one of the most popular viewpoints around Nainital.

• Explore the G.B. Pant High Altitude Zoo

Located on the hills above Nainital, the zoo provides an opportunity to see several Himalayan and high-altitude species in a natural mountain setting.

• Discover the Lakes Around Nainital

If you have more time, explore Bhimtal, Sattal and Naukuchiatal. These quieter lakes make excellent additions to a Nainital itinerary and offer a more relaxed experience away from the main town.

Best Time to Visit Nainital

When Should You Plan Your Nainital Trip?

• Nainital can be visited throughout the year, but each season offers a different experience.
• March to June is popular for pleasant weather and escaping the summer heat of the plains. This is also one of the busiest periods.
• July to September brings monsoon greenery, although heavy rain can sometimes affect road travel and cause landslides.
• October to November offers crisp weather, clearer mountain views and fewer crowds.
• December to February brings cold winter weather and occasional snowfall, making it an attractive time for travellers hoping to experience a winter Nainital.

OurGuest Tip: If you want pleasant weather without the peak summer crowds, consider visiting Nainital in March–April or October–November.

Where to Stay in Nainital

Find a Stay That Suits Your Trip

Choosing where to stay can make a big difference to your Nainital experience.

Staying around Mall Road or Naini Lake puts you close to the main attractions and makes exploring the town convenient. However, travellers looking for peace, mountain views and a slower experience can consider staying outside the busy centre.

OurGuest helps travellers discover curated hotels, homestays, retreats and other unique stays in and around Nainital and across Uttarakhand.

Whether you're looking for a comfortable family stay, a romantic mountain retreat or a quieter property surrounded by nature, explore stays that let you experience Kumaon at your own pace.

Nainital, often called the "Lake District of India," is a charming hill station located in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand at an altitude of around 1,938 meters above sea level. The town is built around the crescent-shaped Naini Lake, which is believed to be one of the 64 Shakti Peeths in Hindu mythology, where the eye of Goddess Sati is said to have fallen. Established by the British in the mid-19th century as a summer retreat, Nainital still retains its colonial charm with heritage buildings like the Raj Bhavan and St. John in the Wilderness Church. It is home to the prestigious Sherwood College, one of India’s oldest boarding schools. The town offers stunning views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks and is also home to the G.B. Pant High Altitude Zoo, one of the few high-altitude zoos in the country. Nainital experiences a mild summer, a vibrant monsoon, and a snowy winter, making it a year-round destination for tourists.