Nainital is one of Uttarakhand’s most scenic and breathtaking places. Situated at the foothills of the Kumaon range, with hilly areas peaked with fog, lush landscapes, and tranquil settings, Nainital is a top-tier destination. Also known as “The Lake City” it has a unique charm and vibe that has attracted many to explore its beautiful terrain. Have you been thinking about that solo trip that was long overdue? Or, are you checking for destinations online for an ideal vacation? Then a getaway to Nainital will do you well. Continue reading our article to know more Top Things to Experience in Nainital, the “Lake District of India.”
Feel a Whiff of Cool Breeze At Nainital Lake
What can we say about Nainital lake? Other than the fact that it’s gorgeous and gives a new reason to visit Nainital! Its lush mountains dotted with houses at different intervals surrounding the vastness of the green lake call for Insta-worthy pictures. Topping the aesthetics, the immeasurable tranquillity running through this place makes it ideal for people to unwind from the bustle of life. If thoughts about work or the future are meandering in your mind, just look up to the hills of Nainital lake. You will feel calmer and even more relaxed than before.
If you are not satisfied with the bird’s-eye view of this expanse, you can take a boat ride on the soothing waters of the Nainital lake for a closer view. And, it’s one of the top experiences in Nainital! A pretty interesting story surrounds this lake’s creation. Legend says that three sages dug up this area and brought water from the Mansarovar Lake in Tibet to fill it up. Since there was no source of water to quench their thirst after the pilgrimage, they decided to create what is now called Nainital lake. So, when you’re paddling on these calm waters, thank these sages (their names are Atri, Pulastiya and Pulha, by the way).
- Entry Fee: No entry fee
- Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM on all days
- Recommended Duration Of Visit: 1 ½ hours
Get Yourself A Souvenir From Mall Road
End your day with a bit of shopping from the bustling shops in Mall Road. Built during British rule, Mall Road runs adjacent to Nainital Lake. Shopping while overlooking a serene lake is a rarity and that’s why tourists have chosen Mall Road for all shopping activities. If you want to (we’re sure you do) take a piece of Nainital on your way back, the little shops hemmed along the sidewalks should be visited. With a vast collection of colourful clothes, handmade artefacts, and warm woollen, these little shops add a bit of vibrance and will never cease to exist. Shopping for souvenirs is ideally want to do with the last of the 3 days you spend in Nainital. Also, if all that shopping has got your tummy rumbling, feast in some inexpensive restaurants and snack stalls located along the broad streets of Mall Road.
- Entry Fee: No entry fee
- Timings: Shops are open depending on the season. Usually, they run from 9:00 am to 10:00 pm
- Recommended Duration Of Visit: 2 hours
Feel The Divine’s Majesty From Snow View Point
Located at a short distance of 2 km from Nainital lake, you have another one of Nainital’s most visited tourist attractions, Snow View Point. You can always take the road to reach this place, but the adventure lies only in taking an aerial ropeway from Mallital. A bird’s-eye view of the Himalayan ranges from an aerial ropeway may make you feel like Akshay Kumar hanging off a helicopter in Sooryavanshi! The experience becomes even more enriching during snowy winters. Only this time instead of a sea of green, you will see a sea of white showing you the frigid side of Nainital.
Upon reaching there, you will find a giant pair of binoculars installed for having a better look at the Himalayan range. And after you’ve had your fill of the mountain ranges, enjoy a hot cuppa masala chai and some light snacks served by its tea stalls. Nearby, there’s an amusement park which is a hit among kids and adults alike. Without sugarcoating anything, your experience in Nainital would be pointless if you miss on the Snow View Point!
- Entry Fee: No entry fee
- Timings: 10:30 AM to 5:00 PM (closed on Saturdays)
- Recommended Duration Of Visit: 1-2 hours
Enjoy The Serene View from Lover’s Point
If you’ve gotten addicted to Nainital’s lofty views, then add Lover’s Point to your list. Located just 5 km from the Nainital Bus Station, this scenic place will surely awaken the romantic Shakespeare in you. Couples (as the name suggests) come to embrace the view while they embrace each other, spending a few moments in the sea of greenery. For all our single folks out there, there’s no need to be disappointed as there’s the trekking experience to fall in love with! Perhaps, write a sonnet or two about this green expanse covering rocky mountains.
To get to upper elevations such as Tiffin Top, or Naina peak, you will need to hire a horse since vehicles are unable to handle the rocky road conditions
- Entry Fee: No entry fee
- Timings: 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Recommended Duration Of Visit: 1 hour
Adventure At Eco Cave Garden
Located just 1km from Mall Road and 3kms from the Nainital Bus Station, the Eco Cave Garden is located in the Sukhatal region, on the Kaladungi road. Each of the 6 interconnecting caves is named after animals present in the Himalayan wildlife. This is not your traditional garden where you stroll looking around with hands in your pocket. Each cave has wavering dimensions, so you’ll have to climb, or even sometimes crawl to get to the next one. Running along the cave walls, you will find your path lit by numerous petroleum lamps. This adds an even more sense of adventure and thrill while visiting the place.
- Entry Fee: Rs. 60 for adults, Rs. 25 for children.
- Timings: 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM on all days
- Recommended Duration Of Visit: 2 hrs
goSTOPS Nainital
Nainital being a top tier tourist location attracts many tourists throughout the year. Given this, Nainital is filled with plenty accommodation options in and around the city. However, if you are you are travelling solo or even with group of friends and looking for a cool and vibrant place, goSTOPS Nainital is an ideal choice. Located in a tranquil location with wonderful surroundings, goSTOPS Nainital makes for an excellent stay in the hills. Just a 10-minute walk from mall road and Naini lake and in proximity to some great attractions, it still manages to place itself in the quiet part of the town. With aesthetically designed interiors and scenic views from the outside, goSTOPS Nainital is a great choice for travellers looking for a lovely place to socialise.
Conclusion
If you have been pondering over what to do in Nainital, then we hope our guide has answered all your questions. Looking for fun accommodation with suitable amenities? Then stop by the colourful goSTOPS Nainital property. And the best part is, we are away from the bustle of the town, yet closer to popular attractions such as Naini Lake and Mall Road. By choosing our stay, you can be sure that vacationing in Nainital will be more enjoyable and convenient.
