Whether it is at night when the boundary is marked by innumerable lights or during the day when boating is at its peak, the eye-shaped Naini Lake is just fascinating. Use our travel guide to learn about the top tourist destinations, must-see sights, and best places to visit in Nainital for sightseeing. Anyone who is lost can be found by simply listening to the bells at Naina Devi Temple. From here, most visitors start their exploration of this formerly British-controlled city.
If everything goes according to plan, people in Ranikhet would be seen systematically setting up land for terrace farming. One does not see such human effort on a daily basis. According to legend, Goddess Sati’s eyes fell where Naini Lake now stands when Lord Shiva was carrying her body and weeping; the goddess, who represents Shakti, is revered in the temple located on the lake’s northern shore. There are many more common myths to hear once the schedule for the Nainital tour is determined. This is only one of them.
Let’s discover the Top 10 Well-Known Locations in Nainital That You Must See.
- Lake Naini
The centre of the town lies the well-known Naini Lake, which is the lifeblood of Nainital.
For a unique relaxing experience, visitors can take a leisurely stroll around the lake or utilise the boating facilities. The lake is a natural water reservoir that is important to Nainital tourism and is the lifeblood of the hill city.
- The Temple of Naina Devi
One of India’s 51 Shakti Peethas, the Naina Devi Temple is a well-known pilgrimage site that is situated on one side of the picturesque Naini Lake. Because it is situated on the shores of the lake, it is also a beautiful tourist attraction. Tradition has it that Goddess Sati’s eyes fell at this spot when Lord Vishnu divided her body into 51 separate parts.
Actually, the mythology serves as the inspiration for the namesake of the entire town, the lake, and the Naini shrine. Beloved as one of the nation’s holiest sites, the Naina Devi temple bestows blessings to devotees from all over the globe. The town is surrounded by the Shivalik Himalayan range.
- The Eco-Cave Garden
A cluster of naturally occurring rocky caves that have been turned into a garden is called the Eco Cave Garden. The reason for the rise in popularity of this attraction is its closeness to Mall Road, which is another name for Nainital city. Situated in the Mallital area on Kaladungi Road, the garden is looked for by Nainital Tourism. The garden features a magnificent view of six animal-shaped caverns. For children, it’s an amazing experience to interact up close and personal with a variety of animals in their natural habitat.
- The Tiffin Top
A beautiful gem in Nainital’s crown is the Tiffin Top, also referred to as Dorothy’s Seat. This popular site offers a breathtaking 360-degree view of nearby Kumaon mountains and Nainital from a high altitude.
At 2290 metres above sea level, this hilltop is a photographer’s paradise and a wonderful location for a picnic with the family. The name “Tiffin Top” originated when people started coming to this hilltop with their lunch boxes and tiffins for a family picnic.
One of the most well-liked tourist destinations in Nainital is the Tiffin Top, which is situated atop the Ayarpatta hills that encircle the city. It’s a multi-tiered hilltop that draws many tourists. Professional photographers are available.
- Saint John in the Wilderness.
Bishop Daniel Wilson of Calcutta (now Kolkata) laid the foundation stone for this church in 1844, and it is named for him. According to tradition, Bishop Wilson was obliged to stay in an unfinished cottage on the edge of the surrounding forest due to illness during his visit. As a result, the church was named St. John in the Wilderness Church since the bishop had to spend a significant amount of time in the forest wilderness. Jim Corbett, the famous hunter and naturalist, was a faithful member of this chapel and would visit it for prayers.
- Bhotia Market.
The Tibetan market in Nainital, also known as the Bhotia market, is a renowned shopping location. It is one of the most popular street markets in town, and it is located close to the city centre. There is a wide variety of winter gear available, as well as delicious Tibetan cuisine.
Thukpa and momos are two delicious treats to look forward to. Shawls, sweaters, mufflers, backpacks, and other souvenirs are widely available at the Bhotia market. The dealers charge a premium for the item, so perfect your negotiating skills before heading to the store to obtain the best offer.
- China Peak / Naina Peak
Naina Peak is one of the most popular tourist sites in Nainital, particularly among trekkers. The summit is 9.4 kilometres from the city and is connected by a motorable road for a short distance. Approximately 6 kilometers of the entire stretch must be climbed, affording magnificent views of Kumaon nature and fauna.
The entire route is covered in a dense forest of cypress, oak, and pine trees, with rhododendrons providing a pop of pink and red. The journey takes you along trails that border Jim Corbett National Park on one side and provide a breathtaking view of Nainital’s natural beauty on the other.
- Governor’s House.
Raj Bhavan was built by the British to serve as the governor’s home in the North West Province. The governor’s official residence is currently Raj Bhavan. It is also utilised by state visitors who travel to Nainital. It features a magnificent garden, golf courses, and a swimming pool. Other attractions in the complex are Jhandi Dhar Modi Heights and Munshi Heights. The Governor’s House comprises 113 rooms and was created in the style of Buckingham Palace.
- Gurney House
In the 1800s, Jim Corbett, a famed British hunter, tracker, and naturalist, spent his summers at Nainital’s Gurney House. The Dalmia family now owns the gurney house, which serves as a heritage site. The Gurney House is a mansion located in the lovely greenery of Nainital, about a ten-minute uphill walk from Mall Road. It was built in 1880 for Jim Corbett, who liked to come to the area during the summers.
- Bhalu Gaad Waterfall.
Bhalu Gaad Waterfalls offers a nature trail as well as bird watching opportunities. Bhalu Gaad is a hidden gem in Mukteshwar, around 40 kilometres from Nainital, and is suitable for day treks. The rainbow waterfall was named for the rainbow that can be seen at the bottom of the Bhalu Gaad waterfall. One of the most beautiful waterfalls in the Nainital area, with a wonderful ambiance and refreshing water.
So, is Nainital worth visiting? I would suggest that Nainital is a must-see location. The picturesque setting is an excellent respite from India’s bustling metropolis. Nainital is a famous tourist destination because of its lovely climate throughout the year. The picturesque location provides a revitalising opportunity to take a step back, relax, and take in India’s natural splendour.
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