Nestled in the heart of the Kumaon Hills, Nainital Lake is one of the most iconic tourist places in Uttarakhand. Also known as Naini Lake, this beautiful freshwater lake is surrounded by lush green hills, colonial-style cottages, and bustling streets. Whether you’re a nature lover, adventure seeker, or peace chaser – Nainital Lake has a little magic for everyone. 💫
🧳 Planning a trip to Nainital? You’re in for breathtaking views, boating adventures, scenic hikes, street shopping, and more. This guide covers full details of Nainital Lake tourist places of Uttarakhand, so let’s get paddling! 🚣
🕰️ Historical Significance of Nainital Lake
The lake holds both mythological and colonial importance. According to Hindu legends, Naini Lake is one of the 64 Shakti Peeths. It is believed that the eye (Nain) of Goddess Sati fell here, giving rise to the sacred Naina Devi Temple nearby.
During the British Raj, Nainital became a popular summer retreat for colonial officers, and its serene lake became the centerpiece of a blossoming hill station.
🗺️ Where is Nainital Lake Located?
📍 Location: Nainital District, Uttarakhand
🧭 Altitude: 2,084 meters above sea level
🌐 Coordinates: 29.3920° N, 79.4542° E
It lies in a natural valley, surrounded by seven scenic hills: Naina, Deopatha, Ayarpatta, Handi Bandi, Alma, Lariya Kanta, and Sher Ka Danda.
🚤 Boating at Nainital Lake – A Must-Do!
Boating is the top tourist activity in Nainital, and rightly so! Gliding over the calm, green waters while soaking in views of forested hills and the bustling Mall Road is pure joy.
🛶 Types of Boats Available:
- Row Boats – With boatmen navigating, these are great for families.
- Paddle Boats – For the energetic ones who want to row themselves!
- Yachts – Managed by the Nainital Yacht Club, they add a royal touch.
⏰ Boating Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
💸 Boating Charges: ₹150–₹300 (varies by boat type and duration)
📆 Best Time to Visit Nainital Lake
- 🌸 March to June: Spring/summer – perfect weather, blooming flowers 🌼
- 🍁 September to November: Clear skies and post-monsoon freshness
- ❄️ December to February: Snowy charm, but boating may be limited
Avoid peak monsoon (July–August), as heavy rains can hamper outdoor activities.
🛕 Naina Devi Temple – Sacred by the Lake
Right on the northern banks of Naini Lake stands the revered Naina Devi Temple, dedicated to Goddess Naina Devi. This temple is believed to be the exact spot where her eye fell.
🌺 It’s not just a spiritual site, but also offers beautiful views of the lake below. The annual Nanda Devi Fair is a major cultural celebration here.
🛍️ The Mall Road – Shop, Eat, Repeat!
Stretching along the lake, Mall Road is a lively area buzzing with:
- 🧤 Woolen clothes & shawls
- 🕯️ Handmade candles
- 🍜 Street food & cafés
- 📷 Insta-worthy views
Pro tip: Try local food like Bhutta, Momos, and Bal Mithai. 😋
🏞️ Tiffin Top (Dorothy’s Seat)
Want a panoramic view of the lake and town? Trek or ride a pony to Tiffin Top. It’s about 4 km from Nainital Lake and offers spectacular sunrise/sunset views.
🌄 It was built in memory of painter Dorothy Kellet and is a favorite spot for photographers and nature lovers.
🌨️ Snow View Point – Ropeway Thrill + Himalayan Views
Take the aerial ropeway from Mallital to Snow View Point, perched at 2270 meters. On clear days, you can spot:
- 🏔️ Nanda Devi
- 🏔️ Trisul
- 🏔️ Nanda Kot
Add some thrill with telescope views, souvenir shopping, and hot coffee in the chilly breeze.
🦇 Eco Cave Gardens – Fun for Families
Located just 1.5 km from the lake, these caves offer an adventurous exploration of interconnected tunnels and rocky paths.
🌿 It’s an educational spot that shows how animals like tigers and bats lived in the wild. Don’t miss the musical fountain show in the evening!
🐾 Nainital Zoo (Pt. G.B. Pant High Altitude Zoo)
A rare high-altitude zoo, it houses exotic Himalayan animals such as:
- 🐆 Snow leopards
- 🐻 Himalayan black bears
- 🐅 Bengal tigers
- 🦅 Cheer pheasants
It’s a hit with kids and animal lovers. The zoo is closed on Mondays.
📸 Things to Do Around Nainital Lake
Besides boating and sightseeing, Nainital Lake is ideal for:
- 🌅 Sunrise & Sunset Watching – Capture golden hour reflections
- 🚶♀️ Lakeside Walks – The perfect morning or evening stroll
- 🧘 Yoga & Meditation – Find peace by the calm waters
- 📸 Photography – Whether it’s birds, boats, or mountains, there’s magic everywhere!
☕ Best Cafés & Local Eateries by the Lake
After exploring, rest at a cozy café or restaurant by the lake. Popular choices:
- 🍴 Sakley’s The Mountain Café
- 🍕 Zooby’s Kitchen
- 🍰 Café Chica
- 🥞 Giannis Pure Veg
Try their wood-fired pizzas, pancakes, and hot chocolate for the full hill-station vibe.
📌 How to Reach Nainital Lake
🚗 By Road:
- From Delhi – ~300 km (7–8 hours via NH109)
- Regular buses available from ISBT Anand Vihar
🚂 By Train:
- Nearest station: Kathgodam Railway Station (35 km)
- Cabs and buses easily available to Nainital
✈️ By Air:
- Nearest Airport: Pantnagar Airport (70 km)
- Limited flights, mostly from Delhi
🧳 Travel Tips for Visiting Nainital Lake
- 🧥 Carry warm clothes (even in summer, evenings can get chilly)
- 🧴 Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and moisturizer – mountain sun is strong!
- 📶 Phone networks work fine in town; patchy in high points
- 🌿 Respect nature – no littering near the lake or forest areas
- 🛑 Avoid peak weekends to beat the crowd
🧭 Nearby Attractions to Explore
If you have more time, explore other nearby tourist places in Uttarakhand:
- 🏞️ Bhimtal Lake – 22 km away, quieter and larger
- 🌸 Sattal (Seven Lakes) – Bird watchers’ paradise
- 🕉️ Mukteshwar Temple – Scenic drive and ancient charm
- 🐟 Naukuchiatal – Lake with 9 corners and water sports
✅ Conclusion
So there you have it – a complete guide to Nainital Lake tourist places of Uttarakhand! Whether you’re gazing at the shimmering waters, shopping your heart out, or simply breathing in the crisp Himalayan air, Nainital is a destination that lingers in your heart forever. 💖
From the sacred Naina Devi Temple to the fun of boating, and the adventure of ropeway rides to the calm of sunset views, every corner here whispers peace and joy.
✨ Pack your bags, and let Nainital Lake work its charm on you!
❓ FAQs – Nainital Lake Travel Guide
1. Is boating available all year round at Nainital Lake?
Boating is available almost year-round, but it may be restricted during heavy monsoon rains (July–August) or in extreme winters.
2. What is the entry fee for Nainital Lake?
There is no entry fee for the lake itself, but boating charges range from ₹150 to ₹300 depending on boat type.
3. Are pets allowed at Nainital Lake?
Pets are not allowed on boats, but you can walk them along the lakeside, provided you clean up after them.
4. Can I do photography during boating?
Absolutely! Photography is encouraged. The best shots come around golden hours – early morning or before sunset. 📸
5. Are there any hotels near Nainital Lake?
Yes, from luxury resorts to budget guesthouses, there are plenty of hotels near Nainital Lake. Some even offer lake-view rooms for a magical stay.