Tourist places in Nainital are innumerable and they play a significant role in Nainital`s economy. This picturesque hill station is located in the Uttarakhand state of India. The different tourist places that attract visitors from various corner of the world are as follows:
Nainital Lake: Nainital Lake also called Naini Lake is situated in the heart of the city. Nainital got its name from this lake. It is an eye-shaped lake. The northern end of the lake is known as Mallital, while the southern one is called Tallital.
Naina Devi Temple- Naina Devi Temple is located on the northern shore of Naini lake and was reconstructed after being destroyed in the 1880 landslide. Nainital is believed to be one of the 64 Shaktipeeths, where one of the body parts of Goddess Sati fell, when Lord Shiva had carried her body. The eyes of the Goddess are assumed to have fallen in Nainital.
Naina Peak: Naina Peak provides the most breathtaking view of the hill station of Nainital. It is situated at a distance of about 6 km from the main town. It is the highest peak of the hill station. It is also known as the China Peak or Naini Peak.
Governor`s House: It was built in the year 1899 and designed in the Victorian Gothic domestic style by the architect F.W. Stevens. Presently, it is serving as the official guest house for the governor of Uttarakhand and for visiting state guests.
Dorothy`s Seat: Dorothy`s Seat is located on Ayarpatta hill. It provides a beautiful view of the neighbouring country side. It is also known as Tiffin Top.
Pt. G.B. Pant High Altitude Zoo: This zoo is one of the two high altitude zoos in India. It comprises of various high altitude endangered mammals like Siberian tiger, snow leopard, goat antelope-ghooral and serao etc.
Snow View Point: Snow View Point is located at an altitude of 2,270 m. It is one of the coldest regions in Nainital. From here one can enjoy spectacular views of the snowbound high Himalaya, including Nanda Devi, Trisul, and Nanda Kot.
Gurney House: Gurney House is located on Ayarpatta Hill. It is the former residence of Jim Corbett. Currently, it is serving as a private residence and is open to visitors as a museum of Corbett memorabilia.
Jim Corbett National Park: Jim Corbett National Park is the oldest national park in India. It contains 488 different species of plants and variety of animals. It is India`s first national park which comprises hills, Riverine belts, marshy depressions, grass lands and large lake. Dense moist deciduous forest consists of sal, haldu, pipal, rohini and mango trees.
St. John`s Church: St. John`s Church was built in 1844. The church is located on Mallital, the north end of the town. The Bishop of Calcutta, Daniel Wilson laid the foundation of the church in Nainital.
Eco Cave Gardens: Eco Cave Gardens comprise of six caves along with a musical fountain. This natural garden is situated just next to Kumaon University Campus.
Bhimtal Lake: Bhimtal Lake is situated 22 km from the city centre and is the biggest lake of Nainital. It is named after one of the Pandava brothers Bhima. It has an island within its precincts.
Nakuchia Lake: Nakuchia Lake is known for having nine corners. It is located 26 km from Nainital and 4 km from Bhimtal. Nakuchia Lake has managed to maintain its serenity till date.
Khurpa Tal: Khurpa Tal is surrounded by terraced fields, from which it presumably gets its name. This lake is situated about 10 km by road from Nainital at an altitude of 1,635 m.
Connectivity of Nainital
Nainital can be accessed by air, rail and road. The two closest airports are located at Pantnagar and New Delhi. The nearest railway station is situated at Kathgodham, at the foothills of the Kumaon hills. Travelling by road is also convenient. Travellers can avail bus service from New Delhi to Nainital, which include air-conditioned, non-air-conditioned, sleeper and Volvo buses.
