Things to DO in Nainital
Nainital is a beautiful hill station located in the state of Uttarakhand, India. It is known for its scenic beauty, pleasant weather, and several tourist attractions. Here are some of the best things to do in Nainital
Boating in Nainital Lake
Boating in Nainital Lake is one of the most popular tourist activities in the hill station. The lake, which is spread over an area of 500 acres, is surrounded by lush green hills and offers a serene atmosphere for boating. There are various types of boats available for hire, including paddle boats, row boats, and motorboats.
Paddle boats are ideal for those who want a leisurely ride on the lake. They are powered by foot pedals and can accommodate up to four people. Row boats, on the other hand, require a bit of skill to operate as they are powered by oars. They are perfect for those who want to enjoy a peaceful ride on the lake, away from the hustle and bustle of the town.
If you want a faster ride, then motorboats are the way to go. These boats are powered by engines and can take you on a thrilling ride around the lake. They are best suited for those who want to explore the lake and its surroundings in a short time.
Boating in Nainital Lake is an experience that should not be missed. The lake offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding hills and is a perfect place to unwind and relax. The best time to go boating in Nainital Lake is during the summer months, between March and June, when the weather is pleasant and the skies are clear. However, boating is also available throughout the year, except during the monsoon season when the lake is closed for safety reasons.
Cable Car Ride in Nainital to Snow View
A cable car ride in Nainital is a thrilling and scenic experience that offers a bird’s eye view of the picturesque hill station. The cable car ride in Nainital is also known as the Nainital Ropeway, and it connects the town with Snow View Point, which is located at an altitude of 2,270 meters above sea level.
The cable car ride starts from the Mallital area of Nainital and takes you on a 3.5 km long journey to Snow View Point. The ride takes about 10-15 minutes, and during this time, you can enjoy the breathtaking views of Nainital Lake, the town, and the surrounding hills. The cable car ride is a perfect way to take in the natural beauty of Nainital and get a panoramic view of the entire town.
Once you reach Snow View Point, you can explore the area and enjoy the stunning views of the snow-clad Himalayan range. There are also some food stalls and souvenir shops where you can buy local handicrafts and snacks.
The cable car ride in Nainital is available throughout the year, except during the monsoon season when it is closed for safety reasons. The best time to go for a cable car ride in Nainital is during the summer months, between March and June, when the weather is pleasant, and the skies are clear.
Overall, a cable car ride in Nainital is an experience that should not be missed. It is a perfect way to enjoy the scenic beauty of the hill station and create unforgettable memories.
Visit Eco Cave Garden Nainital
Eco Cave Garden in Nainital is a popular tourist attraction that offers a unique and exciting experience for visitors. It is located in Sukhatal, about 2 km from the town center, and is known for its natural caves and rock formations that have been shaped by the forces of nature over thousands of years.
The Eco Cave Garden comprises seven caves, each named after various wild animals, such as tiger, panther, bat, squirrel, etc. The caves are interconnected through narrow passages, and visitors have to crawl, climb and twist their way through them. It is a perfect place for adventure seekers who want to experience the thrill of exploring natural caves.
Apart from the caves, there are also hanging gardens and musical fountains that add to the charm of the garden. The garden is also surrounded by lush greenery and offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
Eco Cave Garden is a great place for families, especially those with young children who enjoy outdoor activities. It is open all year round, and the best time to visit is during the summer months, between March and June, when the weather is pleasant.
Overall, visiting Eco Cave Garden in Nainital is a unique and exciting experience that should not be missed. It offers a glimpse into the natural wonders of the region and provides an opportunity to create unforgettable memories.
Visit Nainital Zoo
Nainital Zoo, also known as the Pt. G.B. Pant High Altitude Zoo, is a popular tourist attraction located in the beautiful hill station of Nainital. It is situated at an altitude of 2100 meters above sea level and is one of the highest altitude zoos in India. The zoo is spread over an area of 4.6 hectares and is home to a wide variety of animals and birds.
The Nainital Zoo was established in 1984 and is named after the famous Indian freedom fighter and former Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, Pandit Govind Ballabh Pant. The zoo is known for its conservation efforts and is dedicated to the preservation and breeding of endangered species.
The zoo houses a variety of animals, including the snow leopard, Himalayan black bear, Siberian tiger, Tibetan wolf, barking deer, and many more. It also has a wide variety of birds, such as the Himalayan monal, rose-ringed parakeet, and red junglefowl. Visitors can also enjoy the beautiful flora and fauna of the zoo, which includes various species of trees, shrubs, and flowers.
The zoo offers a unique experience for visitors, especially those interested in wildlife and conservation. It is open all year round, and the best time to visit is during the summer months, between March and June, when the weather is pleasant.
Overall, visiting Nainital Zoo is a great way to learn about the unique wildlife of the region and appreciate the conservation efforts being made to protect them. It is a perfect place for families, especially those with children who enjoy seeing animals and learning about nature.
Explore the Beautiful Treks in Nainital
There are several trekking trails in and around Nainital that cater to different skill levels and interests. Here are some of the most popular trekking trails in Nainital:
Nainital-Binayak Trek: This trek starts from Nainital and takes you through the beautiful forests of Cheena Peak Range to Binayak. It is a moderate-level trek and offers stunning views of the Himalayas and Nainital Lake.
Snow View Trek: This trek starts from Mallital and takes you to the Snow View Point, which offers panoramic views of the snow-clad Himalayan range. It is an easy-level trek and is suitable for beginners.
Tiffin Top Trek: This trek starts from Ayarpatta and takes you to Tiffin Top, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys. It is a moderate-level trek and is suitable for those with some hiking experience.
Pangot Trek: This trek starts from Nainital and takes you through the beautiful forests of Pangot. It is a moderate-level trek and offers a chance to see a variety of birds and wildlife, including the Himalayan monal and leopard.
Adventure Sports in Nainital
Nainital is not just a scenic hill station, but it also offers a range of thrilling adventure sports that cater to different skill levels and interests. Here are some of the most popular adventure sports in Nainital:
Paragliding: Paragliding is one of the most popular adventure sports in Nainital, and it offers a breathtaking view of the hills and valleys. It is best to do paragliding during the summer months, between March and June.
Rock Climbing and Rappelling: Nainital is surrounded by beautiful mountains that are perfect for rock climbing and rappelling. It is a great way to experience the thrill of scaling heights and testing your limits.
Trekking: Trekking is a popular adventure sport in Nainital, and there are many trekking trails that offer beautiful views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
Camping: Camping is a great way to spend a night in the great outdoors and experience the beauty of nature up close. There are several camping sites in and around Nainital that offer a unique and memorable experience.
Visit Temples in Nainital
Nainital is not only a popular tourist destination but also a significant religious center, with several temples that attract devotees and tourists alike. Here are some of the most popular temples in Nainital:
Naina Devi Temple: The Naina Devi Temple is one of the most popular temples in Nainital and is dedicated to Goddess Naina Devi, who is considered to be the presiding deity of the region. The temple is located on the northern shore of Nainital Lake and is surrounded by beautiful hills and valleys.
Hanuman Garhi Temple: The Hanuman Garhi Temple is a popular Hindu temple that is dedicated to Lord Hanuman. The temple is located on a hill and offers a panoramic view of Nainital town and the surrounding hills.
Kainchi Dham Temple: The Kainchi Dham Temple is a famous temple complex located about 17 km from Nainital. It is dedicated to Neem Karoli Baba, a famous saint who lived in the area in the 20th century. The temple complex also includes a Hanuman temple, a Shiva temple, and a Lakshmi temple.
Visit Jim Corbett National Park near Nainital
Jim Corbett National Park is located near Nainital and is one of the most popular national parks in India. It is named after Jim Corbett, a famous conservationist and naturalist who played a key role in the establishment of the park. Here are some of the things to do when visiting Jim Corbett National Park:
Wildlife Safari: The wildlife safari is one of the main attractions of Jim Corbett National Park. Visitors can take a jeep safari or an elephant safari and explore the park’s diverse flora and fauna, including tigers, leopards, elephants, deer, and birds.
Bird Watching: Jim Corbett National Park is a bird watcher’s paradise, with over 600 species of birds. Visitors can go on bird watching tours and spot a variety of birds, including the Himalayan Kingfisher, Pallas’s Fish Eagle, and the Great Hornbill.
Nature Walks: Jim Corbett National Park is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. Visitors can take nature walks and explore the park’s natural beauty while learning about the local ecosystems.
River Rafting: The Kosi River flows through the Jim Corbett National Park, and visitors can enjoy river rafting in its rapids. It is a thrilling adventure and a great way to enjoy the natural beauty of the park.
Visit Corbett Museum: The Corbett Museum is located in Kaladhungi, which is about 30 km from Jim Corbett National Park. It is dedicated to Jim Corbett’s life and work and showcases his achievements as a conservationist and hunter.
Jim Corbett National Park is open throughout the year, but the best time to visit is from November to June when the weather is pleasant, and wildlife sightings are more common. It is important to follow all safety guidelines and maintain proper etiquette while visiting the park to ensure the safety of the animals and the visitors.
Shopping in nainital
When it comes to shopping in Nainital, there are several options available for tourists. Here are some popular shopping destinations and items to buy in Nainital:
Mall Road: Mall Road is the main shopping area in Nainital. It is a pedestrian-only street lined with shops selling a wide variety of items such as clothes, handicrafts, wooden artifacts, and souvenirs.
Tibetan Market: This market is located near Mall Road and is known for its Tibetan handicrafts such as woolen shawls, prayer wheels, and thangkas.
Bara Bazaar: This is another popular shopping area in Nainital, known for its colorful bazaars selling a range of items such as jewelry, fabrics, spices, and street food.
Handicrafts Emporium: This government-run store offers a range of handicrafts and handloom products from Uttarakhand, including shawls, stoles, carpets, and wooden handicrafts.
When shopping in Nainital, some popular items to buy are woolen shawls, wooden artifacts, candles, tea, and spices. It is always advisable to bargain while shopping in the local markets to get the best prices.
