Nainital
A complete tourist and cultural guide
Nestled around a serene emerald lake in the Kumaon foothills of Uttarakhand, Nainital is a picturesque hill station that has captivated visitors for centuries. Known for its tranquil lake, lush forests, colonial-era architecture, and vibrant cultural scene, it offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, history, and spiritual calm that appeals to families, couples, and solo travelers alike.
Wiki Link: Nainital wiki page
Must-Visit Attractions in Nainital
Naini Lake
The iconic pear-shaped lake at the town’s center, perfect for serene boating and picturesque walks.
Naina Devi Temple
A sacred temple on the lake’s north shore, dedicated to Goddess Naina Devi and central to the town’s spirituality.
Mall Road
The vibrant lakeside promenade, bustling with shops, cafes, and a lively atmosphere.
Snow View Point
A spectacular vantage point reached by cable car, offering panoramic views of the Himalayan snow peaks.
Major Attractions Nearby Nainital
Nainital Zoo
A high-altitude zoo sheltering rare Himalayan fauna like the Snow Leopard and Siberian Tiger.
Tiffin Top
A popular hilltop picnic spot renowned for its breathtaking panoramic views of the town and mountains.
Jim Corbett National Park
India’s famed tiger reserve, located a short drive away, offering exciting jeep safaris and rich wildlife.
Mukteshwar
A tranquil town known for its ancient Shiva temple, fruit orchards, and stunning views of Nanda Devi peak.
Things to do in Nainital
Experience the serene, adventurous, and cultural essence of the lake district. From boating on placid waters to exploring ancient temples, Nainital offers a refreshing escape.
Boating & Yachting
Glide across the serene waters of Naini Lake surrounded by majestic, green hills.
Cable Car Ride
Soar on an aerial ropeway to Snow View Point for unforgettable Himalayan vistas.
Trekking & Nature Walks
Explore scenic trails leading to peaceful peaks and through dense oak forests.
Local Cuisine
Savor authentic Kumaoni flavors like Bhatt Ki Churkani, sweet Bal Mithai, and Singori.
The Performing Art of Nainital
Nainital and the surrounding Kumaon region are a vibrant hub for folk arts and traditions, deeply influenced by its Himalayan environment and spiritual heritage. The culture is a tapestry of ancient Hindu rituals, vibrant local festivals, and unique folk music and dance that tell stories of nature, gods, and daily life. The town’s connection with its indigenous roots continues to be a source of inspiration, preserving its unique cultural identity.
Kumaoni Folk Music
Jagars
Chhopati
The Kumaon region is a vibrant hub of folk music, where soulful melodies accompanied by the hurka and dhol tell stories of nature, love, and devotion. Traditional forms like Jagars (spiritual invocations), Chhopati (romantic duets), and ceremonial songs during festivals like Harela and Uttarayani reflect the cultural richness and spiritual essence of the Himalayas.
Choliya Dance
Jhumela & Chancheri
Bhotia Dance
Nainital and the Kumaon region celebrate vibrant folk dances rooted in Himalayan traditions. The Choliya Dance is a majestic martial performance featuring sword-wielding artists in traditional attire, often seen at weddings. Graceful folk dances like Jhumela and Chancheri are performed by women during harvest festivals like Harela and Phool Dei. The area also echoes with the rhythmic Bhotia dances, reflecting the rich cultural influences of the Indo-Tibetan borderlands.
City Vibes - Colonial Charm by the Lake
Nainital exudes a timeless charm, a legacy of its days as the summer capital of the United Provinces. The vibe is a relaxed blend of colonial nostalgia and natural serenity. The day begins with the mist rising off the lake, continues with the cheerful chaos of the Mall Road, and culminates in the peaceful silence of the hills under a starlit sky. It’s a place for reflection, romance, and reconnecting with nature.
Heritage of Nainital
Nainital’s heritage is a blend of colonial history and Kumaoni culture. The town is dotted with historic buildings like the Governor’s House (Raj Bhawan), St. John’s Church, and old cottages that speak of its colonial past. This seamlessly integrates with the ancient temples and local traditions of the Kumaon region.
Cuisine of Nainital
Nainital is a delight for food lovers, offering a mix of North Indian classics, Tibetan influences, and authentic Kumaoni dishes.
Aloo Ke Gutke
A spiced Kumaoni potato dish sautéed with local jakhiya seeds, often enjoyed with puri or roti.
Bhatt Ki Churkani
A hearty black soybean curry, slow-cooked with regional spices for a rich, comforting flavor.
Ras
A traditional sweet delicacy made from lentils, jaggery, and coconut, typically served during festive celebrations.
Bal Mithai & Singori
Bal Mithai is a fudgy brown sweet rolled in sugar balls; Singori is khoya-coconut delight wrapped in aromatic Malu leaf.
Shopping in Nainital
Shopping in Nainital is about taking home a piece of its lakeside charm and Kumaoni craftsmanship. From warm woolens to local delicacies, the markets are a shopper’s delight.
Beeswax & Scented Candles
Handcrafted aromatic candles in diverse shapes and scents, a classic Mall Road keepsake.
Kumaoni Handicrafts
Exquisite wooden decor, brass items, and handloom woolens including pashmina and angora textiles.
Local Jams & Preserves
Homemade Himalayan fruit jams crafted from fresh apricots, plums, and strawberries.
Aipan Art
Sacred Kumaoni folk art featuring ritual geometric patterns on paper and cloth for decorative use.
Tourist's Handbook
The best time to visit Nainital is from March to June, when the weather is pleasantly cool and ideal for boating, sightseeing, and outdoor activities. The months of October and November also offer clear skies, stunning Himalayan views, and perfect conditions for trekking. Winter (December to February) transforms the town into a snowy wonderland, appealing to those who enjoy the cold and occasional snowfall. It is advisable to avoid the heavy monsoon season (July-September) due to landslides and disrupted travel plans.
- Mind the Mountain Roads – Nainital's steep, narrow roads can be challenging; drive carefully, especially during fog, rain, or after dark.
- Beware of Overcharging – Confirm prices for horse rides, boat trips, and taxis in advance to avoid inflated tourist rates.
- Stay Cautious Near Water – While boating in Naini Lake, always wear a life jacket and avoid leaning over or standing in the boat.
- Respect Nature & Wildlife – During treks or zoo visits, maintain a safe distance from animals and avoid littering in fragile ecosystems.
- Carry Warm Clothing – Weather changes abruptly in the hills; keep layers handy to avoid catching a chill, even in summer.
Navigating Nainital involves a mix of walking and local transport, with the compact Mall Road area being best explored on foot. For uphill attractions like Snow View Point or Naina Devi Temple, shared taxis or the aerial ropeway are convenient options. Auto-rickshaws and hired cabs are ideal for visiting nearby sites such as Nainital Zoo or Pangot. For a unique perspective, enjoy a traditional rowboat or paddleboat ride on Naini Lake to soak in the serene Himalayan views.
Overpriced Boat Rides – Negotiate boat fees firmly before boarding or book through your hotel to avoid inflated rates.
Fake Guide Approaches – Decline unlicensed guides; opt for certified guides or verified tour operators.
Overcharging for Horses/Ponies – Agree on horse-ride prices clearly upfront to prevent last-minute price hikes.
Fake "Premium Viewpoint" Entry – Access to natural viewpoints like Snow View is standard; avoid paying "special entry" scams.
Pressure Sales at souvenir shops – Politely avoid pushy shopkeepers; buy handicrafts from government emporiums for fair pricing.
Explore Uttarakhand
Nainital Blogs
Uttarakhand Nature Guide
Places to visit in Nainital
India’s most popular hill station
India’s scenic mountain escapes
Recommended articles
Nainital’s Must-Do Checklist.
Beyond the Lake: Nainital’s Hidden Gems.
A Traveler’s Guide to Nainital’s Lakes & Mountains.
Your Essential Nainital to Jim Corbett Guide.