If you think sitting by the lake or strolling along the Mall Road whilst munching on lip-smacking food is all you can do in Nainital. Then; let us debunk this myth for you.

This list is a delineation of the must-visit spots in Nainital, to explore more of this quaint yet buzzing hill station, pack your bags and visit.

Places Of Interest

Nainital Lake: The most famous and most obvious place to visit-when in Nainital- Naintal lake. It is also christened as Naini Lake, it is the life line of this place. There are many other lakes nearby like Sattal(as there are seven lakes in this area) Bhimtal (with small island in the middle of the lake)Naukuchiyatal(Lake with 9 corners) and Khurpatal(the hoof-shaped lake) all these places offer you tranquillity and solace.

Naina Peak: It is the highest peak and is locally known as Cheena or China Peak. It is at an average elevation of 2,615 meters above the sea level. This place renders a trail for trekkers and panoramic view of the city to its visitors.

Pt. G.B. Pant High Altitude Zoo: Reckoned as one of the most well-known zoos, this place was established in 1994. But was opened for public in 1995, it is a house of many endangered and rare species of animals and birds like, Himalayan Bear, Tibetan Wolf,Snow Leopard etc.

Eco Cave Gardens: Seven interconnected natural caves is a great place to have fun and relive childhood days or times while you play ‘Temple Run’. As you travel to this place youare accompanies with astonishing and surreal view.

Snow View: The most beautiful point to witness picturesque view of snow-capped Himalayas. It is situated at 2,270 meters above the sea level and also gives you a sneak view peak of Nanda Devi, Nanda Kot and Trishul. The place is though chargeable but commands your visit, you can visit it between 10a.m. to 5 p.m.

Land’s End: Mostly reached by trekkers; but if you reach here then your sight is fraught with virgin beauty of nature.

Kilbury Bird Sanctuary: It is at 2000 meters above the sea level in a village called Pangot. It is a home for over 240 varied species of birds, both migrated and resident.

How To Reach

Air
The nearest airport is situated 72 kms away from the city, at Pantnagar. Buses ply to Nainital at regular intervals along with the private taxi services.

Road
Those who love adventurous rides on hilly terrains can also experiment with the roads. Those hiring the private carriages from the plains, should check whether the driver is trained to drive on the hilly roads or not.

Rail
Nainital is not directly connected with rail routes. However, one can reach the hill station from two nearest railway stations, Haldwani and Kathgodam. The state government and several private carriages ferry between the stations and Nainital.

Best Time To Visit

March to June: This is the best period to visit the hill station. The rush in the town increases between May and June, as many people decide to move to the hills to get a respite from the heat of the plains. The cool temperature and the picturesque view of the lakes and open fields, soothes yours body and mind. September to October: The time marks the onset of Autumn in the region. During October, the city readies itself to welcome tourists from all the corners of the world, who come to participate in the Autumn Festival.