On and around the lake
Boating on Naini Lake
Rowing boats with a boatman, paddle boats and yachts from the booths at Mallital and Tallital. Rates are fixed and posted at the booths; boating runs in daylight only.
Mall Road
The flat lakeside road between Mallital and Tallital, lined with shops, cafes and hotels. In season it is closed to vehicles in the evening.
Naina Devi Temple
The town's main temple, on the lake shore at Mallital beside The Flats, counted among the Shakti Peethas.
St John in the Wilderness
A stone church from 1844 in the forest above Mallital, one of the oldest buildings in town.
Thandi Sadak
A quiet, shaded road along the far side of the lake, closed to traffic, with views back across the water to Mall Road.
Viewpoints and walks
Snow View by ropeway
A short cable-car ride from Mallital to a hilltop at 2,270 m with telescopes, a small temple and Himalayan views. The ropeway usually runs from about 10 am to 4 pm; queues are long in season.
Tiffin Top (Dorothy's Seat)
A viewpoint at about 2,290 m on Ayarpatta hill, about 4 km from town, reached on foot or by pony through forest.
Lands End
A cliff-edge viewpoint beside Tiffin Top looking down on Khurpatal lake and the valleys below. Easy to combine with Tiffin Top.
Naina Peak (China Peak)
The highest point around Nainital at about 2,615 m, reached by a 5-6 km forest trail. Best views of the Himalayan range; start early and go with a guide if unsure of the path.
Good for families
High Altitude Zoo
The Pt G.B. Pant High Altitude Zoo on Sher ka Danda hill at 2,100 m, with Himalayan bears, leopards and pheasants. Closed on Mondays and national holidays; a shuttle runs from the bus station.
Eco Cave Gardens
A set of small connected caves named after animals, with hanging gardens and an evening musical fountain. Near Sukhatal in Mallital; usually open from morning to early evening.
Day trips
Kainchi Dham
The ashram and Hanuman temple of Neem Karoli Baba, about 18-20 km away on the Almora road. On busy weekends private vehicles are parked at Bhowali or Bhimtal and visitors go in by shuttle.
Bhimtal, Sattal and Naukuchiatal
Three quieter lakes 20-26 km away, easily combined in one loop with boating and forest walks.
Pangot and Kilbury
Forested ridge villages about 13-15 km away, known for birdwatching and Himalayan views.
Things to Do in Nainital: FAQs
What is Nainital famous for?
Naini Lake and its boating, Mall Road, the Naina Devi Temple, Himalayan viewpoints such as Snow View and Tiffin Top, and the nearby lakes and temples of the Kumaon hills.
Is the Snow View ropeway worth it?
Yes, on a clear day, mainly October to March. In peak season go early, as queues can be long, and note it may close for maintenance or bad weather.
Which day is Nainital Zoo closed?
Monday, as well as national holidays, Holi and Diwali.
