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Luxury Hotels in Nainital
The word “Nainital” is derived from two words—“Naini” meaning eyes and “Tal” meaning lake. According to Hindu mythology, Naini Lake is believed to be the naina (eye) of Sati, the wife of Lord Shiva, which fell to the earth as he carried her charred body across the sky into the mountains. The Maa Naina Devi Temple is built on the northern side of the lake in her honor.
Naini Lake is the main attraction of the town. Its panoramic beauty has been described by many world-famous writers and poets. The lake is divided into two sections—Mallital (northern part) and Tallital (southern part). The lake view can be enjoyed right from the balcony of the hotel in Nainital known as Nainital Willows.
The breathtaking view of this charming lake is surrounded by seven peaks, namely: Ayarpata, Deopata, Handi Bandi, Cheena Peak, Alma, Laria Kanta, and Sher-ka-Danda. At night, the lake delights tourists with its mesmerizing beauty.
Nainital Willows, a homestay in Nainital, is located on the hilltop known as Sher-ka-Danda.
Experience Nainital’s Scenic Wonders
Nainital
The kidney-shaped lake is one of the most famous lakes in the Kumaon region and is a top destination for tourists from across the country.
Saattal
Saattal (Seven Lakes) is a group of seven interlinked, mesmerizing freshwater lakes located in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand.
Naukuchiatal
Naukuchiatal is a nine-cornered lake and is the deepest lake in the greater Nainital area.
Khurpatal
Khurpatal Lake is one of the beautiful lakes that enhance the scenic landscape of Nainital.
Bhimtal Lake
Tourists from all over India visit to experience the peace of Nainital and Bhimtal Lake. A small, beautiful island in the middle of the lake adds to the excitement. Boat rides are available to take visitors to the island.
Sukhatal
Sukhatal was once a part of Naini Lake. It is now a dry lake and has been renamed “Sukhatal” because all its water was drained into Naini Lake.
Places to visit in Nainital
Naini Lake
Situated in the heart of the town, Naini Lake is the main attraction for tourists. The northern part of the lake is called Mallital, and the southern part is called Tallital. A bridge connects the two ends and is home to one of the only post offices in the world located on a bridge. Boating and yachting facilities are available at the lake, making it a lively and scenic spot.
Naina Devi Temple
Naini Devi Temple is a sacred Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Naini Devi. It is believed to have originally been built in the 15th century and is located at the northern end of Naini Lake. The temple was destroyed during the landslides of 1880 and later rebuilt. According to Hindu mythology, King Daksha conducted a great Yagna but did not invite his daughter Sati and her husband Lord Shiva. Humiliated, Sati immolated herself in the fire. A heartbroken Shiva carried her half-burnt body through the skies, and her body parts fell to earth. Nainital is believed to be one of the 64 Shaktipeeths, where Sati’s eyes fell, giving the lake its name “Nain-Tal” (Lake of the Eye).
Aerial Ropeway
The Aerial Ropeway is one of the prime attractions of Nainital. It starts from Mallital and connects to Snow View Point at an altitude of 2,270 metres. With a steep ascent and descent, the ropeway operates with two trolleys to ferry passengers. The one-way journey takes less than 3 minutes and offers a panoramic view of the lake while ascending and a bird’s-eye view of the Flats while descending.
Dorothy Seat (Tiffin Top)
Located 4 km from Nainital, Dorothy Seat was built in memory of an English painter, Dorothy Kellet, by her husband and admirers after she died in a plane crash. It is a popular picnic spot located on Tiffin Top, at an altitude of 2,292 metres, offering a fabulous view of the Himalayan ranges.
Eco Cave Park
Located about 1 km from Mallital in the Sukhatal area (also known as Mallital), on Kaladungi Road, Eco Cave Garden is a relatively new tourist attraction in Nainital. Maintained by the local administration, it features a network of interconnected rocky caves and hanging gardens. The park offers visitors a glimpse into the natural wilderness of the hill region, all within an easily accessible part of the town. You can drive up to the entrance, climb a short flight of steps carved into the hillside, and explore the cave world reminiscent of our prehistoric ancestors.
Governor’s House
Constructed in 1899 during British rule, the Governor’s House (Raj Bhavan) is a stunning structure built in Victorian Gothic style. It once served as the residence of the Governor of the North-Western Provinces and later the United Provinces. The Governor’s House features beautifully manicured gardens, a large swimming pool, and a golf course. Today, it is used as a guest house for the Governor of Uttarakhand.
Hanuman Garhi
Located 3.5 km from Nainital, at the southern end of Tallital, Hanuman Garhi is a popular temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman. It reflects the spiritual side of Nainital and is a serene place for worship and reflection.
Kilbury
Situated about 12 km from Nainital, Kilbury is a scenic picnic spot often visited by tourists. Surrounded by lush greenery, it offers a peaceful environment and is known for its beautiful sunset views.
Land’s End
Located near Tiffin Top, Land’s End provides a magnificent view of the waters of Khurpa Tal. Situated at an altitude of 2,120 metres, this point marks the end of the mountain road, where visitors can enjoy sweeping views of the plains, Khurpa Tal Lake, the surrounding village, and pine forests. It’s also an excellent spot for watching sunsets.
Mall Road
Constructed during British rule, Mall Road—officially known as Govind Ballabh Pant Marg—is the busiest area in Nainital. It runs parallel to Naini Lake and connects the two ends of the town, Mallital and Tallital. Mall Road is lined with hotels, restaurants, cafés, shopping centers, and travel agencies. It is a popular place for an evening stroll among tourists.
Naina (Cheena) Peak
Located about 6 km from Nainital, Naina Peak (also known as Cheena or China Peak) is the highest point in the town, standing at an altitude of 2,615 metres above sea level. It can be reached via a 2- to 3-hour walk or a scenic pony ride. Overlooking Naini Lake, this peak offers the most breathtaking views of the entire Nainital town and the surrounding hills.
Sailing Club
Nainital is home to the highest sailing club in the world—the Nainital Boat Club. The club organizes the annual yachting competition “Regatta”, usually held in the third week of June, attracting sailing enthusiasts from across the country.
Nainital Observatory
Naini Devi Temple is a sacred Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Naini Devi. It is believed to have originally been built in the 15th century and is located at the northern end of Naini Lake. The temple was destroyed during the landslides of 1880 and later rebuilt. According to Hindu mythology, King Daksha conducted a great Yagna but did not invite his daughter Sati and her husband Lord Shiva. Humiliated, Sati immolated herself in the fire. A heartbroken Shiva carried her half-burnt body through the skies, and her body parts fell to earth. Nainital is believed to be one of the 64 Shakti Peethas, where Sati’s eyes fell, giving the lake its name “Nain-Tal” (Lake of the Eye).
