11 places to visit in Nainital during family vacation

Nainital is located in the Kumaon foothills of the outer Himalayas at an altitude of 6,837 feet above sea level and prominently sits around a mango-shaped lake. Rightfully known as the “Lake District of India”, Nainital is the finest gem in the Uttarakhand region. Bestowed with scenic splendor and a variety of flora and fauna, Nainital is one of the most popular hill stations in Uttarakhand.

But, why exactly is Nainital considered one of the best places to visit in Uttarakhand? Known to have something for everyone, this little town treats tourists and travelers alike. People who wish to enjoy a hill station and seek peace can find plenty of places to visit in Nainital. Tourist Places in Nainital are bustling with tourists from all around the world, and then there are places in Nainital that are famous amongst peace seekers.

No matter what kind of traveler you are, here is a list of best places to visit in Nainital that you wouldn’t want to miss when in Nainital: -

1. Mall Road

The best way to get acclimatized to Nainital is to take a walk down the famous Mall Road, one of Nainital’s best places. Lined with a number of shops, Mall Road of Nainital has its own touristy charm. You can shop for wooden handiworks, handmade candles, and many other house decorating items. However, Mall Road isn’t only about shopping. The lake flowing beside the Mall Road and the sight of mighty mountains watching over you while you take a stroll at the Mall Road can be one of the most calming experiences. There’s a reason why this is one of Nainital’s famous places.

2. Tibetan Market

Just a couple of minutes’ walk away from Mall Road, Tibetan Market is a hoarders’ heaven. Surrounded by shops selling Tibetan souvenirs, Tibetan Market is amongst the most popular places in Nainital. Apart from shopping for apparel, if you wish to taste some Tibetan delicacies, you can order a bowl of Thukpa at China Town. The market is one of the best places in Nainital that you must visit during a family holiday.

3. Naina Devi Temple

When you are done with the Tibetan Market, one famous tourist point of Nainital that you cannot miss is Naina Devi Temple which is situated right next to the Tibetan Market. This holy shrine is home to the two netras, literally meaning two eyes, representing Goddess Naina Devi. Legend has it that when Lord Shiva was bringing the incinerated body of Goddess Sati, her eyes fell here. Regarded as one of 51 Shakti Peeths, Naina Devi Temple holds the utmost significance for its devotees. Even if you are not religious, or simply an atheist, this temple can offer an astonishing sight of mountains and an expanse of Malli Tal surrounding it. Naina Devi Temple, one of Nainital’s famous places, is an attraction that should not be missed.

4. Naina Peak

When you wish to witness the most real and rawest form of Nainital, you choose Naina Peak. From here, you can see the entire Nainital and the Nainital Lake, which, from this point, does look like a mango. You can hire a cab from Mall Road to Naina Peak or you can trek till here. Although it is one of Nainital’s famous places, Naina Peak isn’t that crowded. You can sit here for a while, enjoying the cool breeze caressing your face. Yep, it’s as pleasant as it sounds.

5. Gurney House

Nainital isn’t just about lakes and hills, or natural beauty, the historical significance of this place is worth exploring. Gurney House can be a place of interest for people wanting to delve deeper into the past and finding relics wherever they go - the history buffs. One of the most interesting places in Nainital, Gurney House, which is open to tourists, was the residence of hunter-conservationist and writer Jim Corbett. Built-in 1881, Gurney House is Located near Nainital Lake. The place is well-maintained and exudes an old-world charm that’s perfect for those who seek all things historical.

6. Snow View Point

This is one of the best places in Nainital to get a glimpse of snow-capped Himalayas; a haven for the trekkers and trotters. An uphill walk to Snow View Point can be a rewarding experience with an astonishing view of the snow-clad summit of Himalayas. If you are not up for trekking, you can reach Snow View Point by cable car which is an exhilarating experience in itself. Usually, cable car or ropeway is the way to reach but a trek to this place can be much more gratifying.

7. High-altitude Zoo

A zoo is and will always be the best place to hang out for a family. When you have kids with you, the High-altitude Zoo can be the perfect spot. For kids, this place can be a fun experience with tigers, bears, red panda, and a varied species of birds to look at. In fact, the variety of animals here makes the High-altitude Zoo one of the best places to visit in Nainital. High-altitude Zoo also has many animal enclosures uphill so it might not be an apt option for elderlies. Kids, for sure, will have a gala time here!

8. Malli Tal

Malli Tal can be a perfect escape when you are looking for some peaceful time; one of the most underrated places to visit near Nainital Lake. Just sit by the Lake and let the fresh cold air make you forget everything else. Nothing could be more therapeutic than just sitting quietly, watching the beauty of the vast lake around you while enjoying the tranquillity all around. For many, Malli Tal is one of the best places to visit in Nainital. Go here early morning or late night when the touristy bustle is the least. You’ll fall in love with the serenity!

9. Bhimtal

You can’t talk of Nainital without mentioning Bhimtal, period. Counted among the best places to visit near Nainital, Bhimtal is best known for the variety of water activities such as kayaking, aqua zorbing, and boating. It is one of the most frequented tourist places near Nainital that can be explored in just one day. So, if you are visiting Nainital, you can hire a cab to Bhimtal. A one-day trip is good enough to experience Bhimtal to the fullest.

10. Raj Bhavan or Governor’s House

One of the best places to visit in Nainital, Raj Bhavan, or Governor’s House is the summer residence of the Governor of Uttarakhand.  Best known for its English architecture, Raj Bhavan is prominently sitting amidst a vast spread of greenery. It can be one of the perfect places to visit in Nainital for a newlywed couple as the garden area of Raj Bhavan has Deodar and Oak trees, turning the garden into a perfect backdrop for picture-perfect moments. The guides are available at the entrance and they will tell you everything about Raj Bhavan, something that history enthusiasts are sure to find interesting.

11. Kilbury

Straight out of Ruskin Bond’s books, Kilbury is amongst the most famous tourist places near Nainital. Although it is known to be a picnic spot, the slightly isolated Kilbury is a haven for trekkers and peace seekers as well. The beautiful deodars combined with the misty aura - Kilbury is straight-up magical! The air feels fresher and even the surroundings feel more serene here.

As a hill station and a holiday destination, Nainital has something for everyone. There are a lot of places to visit in Nainital that are marked by narrow uphill alleyways. Walk around to your heart’s content and explore as much as your wanderlust desires on a Nainital tour package!