Nainital is a popular hill station in Uttarakhand, built around a peaceful, kidney-shaped lake called Naini Lake. It sits at about 2,000 meters above sea level and is just 300 km from Delhi, making it an easy weekend getaway. The town attracts all types of travelers—families, couples, seniors, and solo tourists. With its old British-era buildings, scenic lake views, and cool weather (averaging 10°C–25°C most of the year), Nainital is a great break from city life. This guide gives you all the basic info, tips, and must-know facts to plan your trip without confusion.
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Why Visit Nainital?
Nainital is easy to reach, peaceful, and packed with simple activities for all age groups. You can go boating on Naini Lake, ride the ropeway to Snow View Point, shop on Mall Road, or visit old temples. The weather stays pleasant most of the year, between 10°C to 25°C. It’s close to Delhi (7–8 hours by road), making it perfect for short trips. The town also has good hotels, basic medical help, and walkable areas—great for families and senior citizens.
- Calm lake, green hills, and clean mountain air make Nainital a relaxing place to unwind.
- Boating on Naini Lake and the ropeway ride to Snow View Point are easy, low-cost, and fun for all ages.
- You can visit Nainital almost any time—summer, winter, even during holidays.
- Kids enjoy the zoo, Eco Cave Garden, and boat rides—plenty to keep them busy.
- It’s senior-friendly—no tough treks, good medical help nearby, and hotels close to main areas.
- Easy to plan from Delhi or nearby cities, with lots of hotel and food options for all budgets.
How to Reach Nainital
Nainital is about 300 km from Delhi and takes around 7–8 hours by road, making it a popular weekend drive. You can also take a train to Kathgodam, which is the nearest railway station just 35 km away. Regular taxis and shared jeeps are available from there and reach Nainital in about 1.5 hours. Pantnagar is the nearest airport (70 km), but flights are limited, so most travelers prefer trains or direct road travel for convenience.
By Road
- Distance from Delhi: Around 300 km
- Time Taken: 7 to 8 hours by car or Volvo bus
- The route is via NH9, passing through Hapur, Rampur, and Haldwani.
- Roads are mostly in good condition, except some hilly patches.
By Train
- Nearest Station: Kathgodam (35 km from Nainital)
- Trains like Ranikhet Express and Shatabdi run daily from Delhi.
- From Kathgodam, you can hire a taxi or shared cab to reach Nainital (approx 1.5 hours).
By Air
- Nearest Airport: Pantnagar (70 km away)
- Flights are limited and often expensive. Preferable only for urgent travel.
Tip: If you’re traveling with elderly people or kids, taking the train to Kathgodam and then a cab is the most convenient option.
Best Time to Visit Nainital
The best time to visit Nainital is from March to June and October to December. Summers are cool and pleasant, with temperatures between 15°C to 30°C—perfect for boating and sightseeing. October to December is colder (0°C to 15°C), ideal if you enjoy chilly weather or light snowfall. Monsoon months (July to September) bring heavy rain and landslides, so it’s better to avoid travel during that time. Winter and summer are the busiest and most enjoyable seasons.
Nainital in Summer (March–June)
- Temperature: 15°C to 30°C
- Perfect for sightseeing, boating, and outdoor activities.
- Best time for family trips and senior-friendly travel.
Nainital in Monsoon (July–September)
- Temperature: 10°C to 25°C
- Lesser crowds and lush greenery, but occasional landslides.
- Hotels offer good discounts, but not ideal for road travel.
Nainital in Winter (October–February)
- Temperature: 0°C to 15°C
- Ideal for snow seekers and honeymooners.
- Christmas and New Year are festive but crowded—book early.
Places to Visit in Nainital
Nainital has a mix of scenic spots and fun places for all age groups. Start with boating on Naini Lake and a visit to the Naina Devi Temple nearby. Take the ropeway to Snow View Point for mountain views, or walk up to Tiffin Top for a quieter experience. Mall Road is great for evening strolls, snacks, and shopping. Kids will enjoy the zoo and Eco Cave Garden. Most places are within 2–3 km from the lake area.
1. Naini Lake
- The heart of the town. Boating available from morning till evening.
- Options: Paddle boats, rowboats, and shared boats.
- Night view is peaceful with reflections of town lights.
2. Naina Devi Temple
- Located right beside the lake.
- Important pilgrimage spot with spiritual significance.
- Temple timings: 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM
3. Mall Road
- Stretches along the lake with shops, cafes, and hotels.
- Best place for street food and evening walks.
- Buy local candles, woollens, and souvenirs.
4. Snow View Point
- Offers panoramic views of the Himalayas.
- Reach via ropeway or short hike.
- Small amusement area for kids.
5. Tiffin Top (Dorothy’s Seat)
- Small trek or pony ride.
- Great views of the town and surrounding hills.
- Ideal for sunrise/sunset photos.
6. The Nainital Zoo
- Official name: Pt. G.B. Pant High Altitude Zoo
- Home to snow leopards, Himalayan bears, and pheasants.
- Open: 10 AM to 4:30 PM (Closed Mondays)
7. Eco Cave Gardens
- Fun and educational attraction.
- Six small caves representing various animals.
- Musical fountain show in the evening.
Where to Stay in Nainital
Nainital has hotels for every budget. If you’re looking for low-cost stays, places like Hotel Himalaya or The Pavilion start from ₹700 per night. For something more comfortable, mid-range hotels like Vikram Vintage Inn or The Earl’s Court charge around ₹3,000 to ₹6,000. If you want something fancy, The Naini Retreat or Shervani Hilltop offer luxury stays from ₹8,000 and above. During holidays and peak season, rooms fill fast, so it’s better to book early. Most hotels are near Mall Road or within 2–3 km.
Budget Options (₹1500–₹2500/night)
- Hotel Maharaja
- Hotel Cloud 7
- Classic The Mall
- KMVN Tourist Rest House (Govt. option)
Mid-Range (₹3000–₹6000/night)
- The Pavilion
- Vikram Vintage Inn
- Balrampur House (Heritage property)
Luxury Stays (₹8000–₹15,000/night)
- The Naini Retreat by Leisure Hotels
- Shervani Hilltop Nainital
- The Manu Maharani
Where to Eat in Nainital
Nainital has plenty of places to eat, from small street stalls to nice cafes. If you want to try local Kumaoni food, go for dishes like Aloo ke Gutke, Bhatt ki Churkani, and Bal Mithai. Around Mall Road and the Tibetan Market, you’ll find momos, gulgule, and other quick snacks. For a proper meal, Sakley’s, Machan, and Giannis Pure Veg are good options. If you want a quiet cafe, Café Chica serves continental food in a relaxed setting.
Must-Visit Eateries
- Sakley’s – Famous for its bakery and continental food.
- Zooby’s Kitchen – Rooftop cafe on Mall Road.
- Giannis Pure Veg – North Indian meals.
- Cafe LakeSide – Lake view with coffee and light snacks.
Local Delicacies to Try
- Aloo ke Gutke – Spicy fried potatoes
- Bhatt ki Churkani – Black bean curry
- Bal Mithai – Chocolate-coated khoya sweet
- Singauri – Sweet wrapped in a leaf
How to Commute Within Nainital
Getting around Nainital is easy because the town is small. You can walk around most places like Mall Road and the lake. Cycle rickshaws run between Tallital and Mallital and are cheap and good for short distances. For sightseeing, you can hire a taxi or shared cab. The ropeway takes you to Snow View Point and gives a nice view of the hills. Boating is also available on the lake. Cars are not allowed on Mall Road during busy hours.
- Walking – Best for short distances and exploring the lake area
- Cycle Rickshaws – Available around Mall Road
- Cabs – Private cabs or shared jeeps for local sightseeing
- Ropeway – For Snow View Point only, costs around ₹300 per person (two-way)
Travel Tips for Senior Citizens & Families
- Always check hotel reviews for accessibility—some locations require climbing.
- Book taxis in advance for full-day sightseeing to avoid local overcharges.
- Carry essential medicines and light woolens even in summer.
- Avoid monsoon travel with elders due to slippery terrain.
- Keep emergency numbers handy (hospital, hotel desk, local guide).
- Travel light; the town has sloped roads and staircases.
Nearby Attractions from Nainital
If you’re staying more than 3 days, explore nearby spots which are easily accessible.
- Bhimtal (22 km): Bigger lake with boating and cafes.
- Sattal (24 km): Seven lakes, kayaking, and birdwatching.
- Naukuchiatal (26 km): Lake with 9 corners, peaceful and quiet.
- Mukteshwar (50 km): Great for views and less commercial crowd.
- Ranikhet (56 km): Pine forests, golf course, and military charm.
Nainital Tour Itinerary from Delhi (3N/4D)
- Day 1: Drive from Delhi, check-in, evening Mall Road walk
- Day 2: Local sightseeing – Lake, Zoo, Ropeway, Temple
- Day 3: Day trip to Bhimtal and Naukuchiatal
- Day 4: Return to Delhi post breakfast
