Top 12 Places to Visit in Nainital & Nearby Lakes
The best places to visit in Nainital are the lake, the temples and viewpoints around it, and quieter lakes and hill villages within an hour's drive.
21 September 2026 · 2 min read · Best in Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec
The best places to visit in Nainital are the lake, the temples and viewpoints around it, and quieter lakes and hill villages within an hour's drive.
1. Naini Lake
The crescent lake at the heart of the town, with boating and a Mall Road walk.
2. Naina Devi Temple
A temple on the lake shore, busy during the Nanda Devi fair in September.
3. Snow View Point
A hilltop viewpoint reached by ropeway with Himalayan views on clear days.
4. Tiffin Top
A walk up to a viewpoint through a pine forest.
Trips in Nainital, all handled
See all5. Bhimtal
A larger, calmer lake about 22 km away, with a small island.
6. Sattal
A cluster of seven lakes in oak forest, popular with birdwatchers.
7. Naukuchiatal
A deep nine-cornered lake with quiet shores.
8. Kainchi Dham
An ashram on the Almora road, with crowds around its annual gathering.
9. Mukteshwar
A hill village with an old temple and orchards, about 50 km away.
10. Ramgarh
An orchard village with views, known as the fruit bowl of Kumaon.
11. Eco Cave Gardens
A small set of caves and gardens, good for children.
12. Jim Corbett National Park
One of India's best-known tiger reserves, about two hours away.
Best time to visit
March to June and September to December. Winters are cold, with occasional snow.
Avoid weekends in May and June when the town fills up.
Timings, permits, ticket rules and dates change from year to year, so confirm the current details before you travel.
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