Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, Nainital is a quaint hill station located in the northern state of Uttarakhand in India. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in India, renowned for its natural beauty, serene lakes, and picturesque landscapes. If you are planning a trip to Nainital, here are some of the top tourist places you must visit.

10 Must-Visit Tourist Places in Nainital: A Guide to Exploring the Scenic Beauty of Uttarakhand




Naini Lake

Naini Lake is one of the most famous lakes in India and is the centerpiece of Nainital. The lake is surrounded by lush green hills and is a popular spot for boating and yachting. You can also take a walk along the lake's promenade and enjoy the scenic beauty.


Naina Devi Temple

Located on the northern shore of Naini Lake, the Naina Devi Temple is an ancient temple dedicated to the Hindu goddess Naina Devi. The temple is believed to be one of the 64 Shakti Peethas, and the presiding deity is said to fulfill the wishes of her devotees.


Tiffin Top

Tiffin Top, also known as Dorothy's Seat, is a popular viewpoint in Nainital. The viewpoint is named after Dorothy Kellet, an English artist who used to come here to paint. From here, you can enjoy panoramic views of the Himalayan range and the town of Nainital.


Eco Cave Gardens

Eco Cave Gardens is a network of interconnected caves and rock formations that have been developed as a tourist attraction. The caves have been designed to resemble the natural habitats of various animals like panthers, bats, and tigers. It is an ideal place to visit with kids as they will love exploring the caves and learning about the animals.


Snow View Point

Snow View Point is another popular viewpoint in Nainital. From here, you can enjoy stunning views of the snow-clad Himalayan peaks. You can reach the viewpoint by cable car, which adds to the excitement of the visit.


Nainital Zoo

The Nainital Zoo, also known as the Bharat Ratna Pt. Govind Ballabh Pant High Altitude Zoo, is a unique zoo located at an altitude of 2100 meters above sea level. The zoo is home to various high-altitude animals like the snow leopard, Tibetan wolf, and Himalayan black bear.


Hanuman Garhi

Hanuman Garhi is a temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, a Hindu deity. The temple is located on a hilltop and offers panoramic views of the town and the surrounding hills. It is an ideal place to watch the sunrise or sunset.


Bhimtal Lake

Bhimtal Lake is a serene lake located about 22 kilometers from Nainital. It is the largest lake in the Kumaon region and is surrounded by lush green hills. You can enjoy boating and fishing here or simply relax by the lake.


Raj Bhawan

Raj Bhawan is the official residence of the Governor of Uttarakhand. The building was built in 1899 and is a prime example of colonial architecture. The gardens surrounding the building are beautifully landscaped and offer stunning views of the town.


St. John's Church

St. John's Church is a historic church located in the town of Nainital. The church was built in 1844 and is one of the oldest churches in North India. The architecture of the church is a blend of Gothic and colonial styles.


In conclusion, Nainital is a paradise for nature lovers and offers a host of tourist places to explore. Whether you are looking to relax by the lake or explore the town's rich history and culture, Nainital has something for everyone.