Nestled high up in the Kumaon hills of Uttarakhand, Nainital is one of those destinations that never go out of style. With its emerald lakes, misty forests, and colonial-era charm, it’s no wonder Nainital has been a favorite weekend getaway for generations of travelers.
In this blog, we’ll explore the best places to visit in Nainital, where to find the most delicious local food, the ideal time to plan your trip, and how to reach Nainital from Haldwani.
📍 How Far is Nainital from Haldwani?
Nainital is about 40 km from Haldwani, and the drive takes around 1.5 to 2 hours. Whether you’re coming by train or bus, Haldwani is the main transit point. From there, you can hop into a taxi, shared jeep, or bus and enjoy the winding mountain roads that lead you straight to the lake city.
🌄 Must-Visit Places in Nainital
🛶 Naini Lake
Let’s start with the obvious—Naini Lake is the centerpiece of the town. Whether you’re boating at sunset or just sitting by the shore sipping chai, the views are always magical.
⛩️ Naina Devi Temple
Right at the northern end of the lake sits the Naina Devi Temple, dedicated to the goddess who gave the town its name. It’s a peaceful spot, perfect for a quiet moment amidst your sightseeing.
🚠 Snow View Point
For the best Himalayan views? Head to Snow View Point by cable car. On a clear day, you can see the majestic peaks of Nanda Devi, Trisul, and Nanda Kot.
🧺 Tiffin Top (Dorothy’s Seat)
Fancy a bit of trekking? Tiffin Top is a short hike (or horseback ride) with a big reward—breathtaking views of the hills and Nainital town.
🛍️ The Mall Road
Every hill station has its classic shopping street—and in Nainital, that’s Mall Road. Lined with cafés, sweet shops, and stores selling woollens and handicrafts, it’s the town’s buzzing artery.
🐾 Nainital Zoo
Animal lovers, don’t miss the Pt. G.B. Pant High Altitude Zoo! Spot rare species like the snow leopard and Himalayan bear at this scenic mountaintop zoo.
🦇 Eco Cave Gardens
A fun spot, especially for families, the Eco Cave Gardens feature interconnected natural caves and a musical fountain show in the evening.
🍴 Best Food Spots in Nainital
When in Nainital, you’ve got to try the food. Here’s where to head for the tastiest bites:
🍰 Sakley’s Restaurant & Pastry Shop
Serving great continental food and divine desserts. Don’t miss their chocolate truffle pastry!
🍲 Zooby’s Kitchen
A cozy place near Mall Road with a wide-ranging menu. Their Indian platters and sizzlers are crowd-pleasers.
🍛 Machan Restaurant
Craving North Indian food? Machan is the go-to spot. Think butter chicken, garlic naan, and more.
🥟 Sonam’s Momos
Hidden in the Tibetan Market, this local favorite dishes up the best momos in town.
🧂 Try a Kumaoni Thali!
For a taste of the region, order a Kumaoni thali with dishes like aloo ke gutke, bhat ki churkani, ras, and jholi. You’ll find these at places like Annapurna Restaurant.
📅 Best Time to Visit Nainital
Here’s when to plan your trip:
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March to June: Perfect weather (10°C – 25°C), ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
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September to November: Clear skies, post-monsoon greenery, fewer tourists.
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December to February: Snow lovers, this is your time. Carry warm clothes!
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July to August: Monsoon magic, but be cautious—landslides can affect travel.
✨ Final Thoughts
Nainital has something for everyone—from peaceful boat rides and scenic treks to delicious food and lively street markets. Whether you're heading there for a weekend escape or a longer stay, it promises a refreshing break from city chaos.
So, pack your bags, charge your camera, and get ready to fall in love with the hills!
📌 Quick Tips:
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🚕 Hire a cab from Haldwani for the most convenient travel.
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🧥 Carry layers, even in summer—mountain weather changes fast.
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📸 Wake up early for crowd-free photos of the lake and sunrise over the hills.
Have you been to Nainital? Share your favorite spots and food finds in the comments!
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