Introduction to Nainital
Hidden in the picturesque Kumaon hills of Uttarakhand, Nainital is a stunning hill station that guarantees an unforgettable retreat into nature’s lap. Nicknamed the “Lake District of India,” Nainital is renowned for its green lakes, foggy mountains, busy bazaars, colonial buildings, and a magical mix of peace and adventure. Situated at an elevation of approximately 2,000 meters (6,600 ft) above sea level, this quaint town has been a popular summer resort since British colonial days.
Nainital is named after the untouched Naini Lake, which constitutes the soul and nucleus of the town. It is said that one of the emerald green eyes of Goddess Sati fell on the earth after she self-immolated. This mythical history acquires a divine radiance for Nainital, and it becomes a place not just of natural beauty but of spiritual importance.
Besides its scenic lake, Nainital is a destination with a multitude of experiences in store for tourists — from hair-raising walks to panoramic view points, vibrant Tibetan bazaars, holiest of temples, peaceful boat rides, and cozy cafes brimming with delicious Kumaoni treats. If you’re a nature lover, a history buff, an adventure junkie, or a romantic soul, Nainital has something lovely to offer you.
is guidebook is your ultimate companion to exploring the best of Nainital — its premier sights, surrounding day excursions, thrill activities, shopping encounters, eating experiences, and so much more. Let us delve into the wonder that transforms Nainital into one of India’s dearest destinations.
Why Visit Nainital?
Nainital is something more than yet another pretty hill station — it is an experience that combines natural beauty with colonial heritage, spiritual tranquility with adventure-filled markets, and peace with activity. Here’s why Nainital deserves a high rank on your travel wish list:
1. Breathtaking Natural Beauty
The jewel lakes glimmering under the blue sky, the pine-clad hills and green valleys, and the refreshing mountain breeze make an idyllic setting for a peaceful sojourn. Nainital’s every nook has postcard-perfect vistas that invigorate your soul and inspire wonder.
2. Pleasant Climate Year-Round
In contrast to most Indian towns, Nainital boasts a pleasant climate for most of the year. Summer is pleasant and perfect for sightseeing, winter makes the town a white wonderland, and even the monsoon is romantic here, with misty landscapes and lesser crowd.
3. A Treasure Trove of Activities
Whether boating on Naini Lake, riding a cable car to Snow View Point, trekking to Tiffin Top, shopping for candles and woolens, or just relishing hot momos along the lake — Nainital has something for every kind of traveler.
4. Rich Cultural and Historical Legacy
The colonial-era buildings of the town, churches, and the iconic Governor’s House are living legacies of the British Raj. The cultural landscape of Nainital, influenced as much by Kumaoni heritage as by British, adds depths of interest to your trip.
5. Gateway to Kumaon Region
Nainital is also an ideal base for visiting other undiscovered treasures of the Kumaon area such as Bhimtal, Sattal, Naukuchiatal, Mukteshwar, Almora, and Ranikhet, each with their own piece of Himalayan magic.
Planning a tour to the picturesque hill station of Nainital?
One of the initial things to know is how to travel to Nainital comfortably and hassle-free.
Whether you are coming by air, train, or road, Nainital is well accessible from other North Indian metropolitan cities, especially Delhi.
Here’s a complete guide to help you plan your journey.
By Air: Nearest Airport to Nainital
The nearest airport to Nainital is Pantnagar Airport (PGH), which is approximately 70 kilometers away.
Flights:
Pantnagar Airport has direct flights from major cities like Delhi. Flight frequency is more during peak tourist seasons.
Travel to Nainital:
On reaching there, you may use a taxi or a private cab. By car, it is approximately 2 hours from Pantnagar to Nainital.
Tip:
Pantnagar is a small airport, so you may have to reserve your flights quite in advance, particularly during holidays.
By Train: Nearest Railway Station to Nainital
The closest railway station to Nainital is Kathgodam Railway Station, which is approximately 34 kilometers away.
Connectivity:
Kathgodam is well connected to the cities of Delhi, Lucknow, Dehradun, Kolkata, and Mumbai by daily and weekly trains.
Popular Trains:
Ranikhet Express (Delhi – Kathgodam)
Uttaranchal Sampark Kranti Express
Kathgodam Shatabdi Express
Travel to Nainital:
From Kathgodam, you should be able to find taxis, shared jeeps, or buses readily available that would take you to Nainital within 1–1.5 hours.
Pro Tip:
The train ride from Delhi to Kathgodam is highly scenic, particularly as you approach the hills.
By Road: Drive to Nainital
Nainital is very road-friendly, and most visitors like to drive themselves so that they can savor the scenic drive.
Distance from Major Cities:
Delhi to Nainital: ~300 km (approx. 6–7 hours)
Dehradun to Nainital: ~275 km
Lucknow to Nainital: ~400 km
Route from Delhi:
Delhi → Hapur → Moradabad → Rampur → Haldwani → Kathgodam → Nainital
Highway Details:
The roads are smooth and well-maintained, but the final 30–40 km of uphill drive needs to be driven carefully, particularly during monsoons and winters.
Bus Services:
Government buses (run by Uttarakhand Transport Corporation) provide daily services from Delhi (ISBT Anand Vihar) to Nainital.
Private Volvo buses operate night and day services as well.
Tip:
If you like comfort, take a Volvo semi-sleeper overnight bus from Delhi to arrive in Nainital early morning.
Best Way to Reach Nainital
For speed: Flight to Pantnagar and a taxi from there.
For scenery: Take the train to Kathgodam and drive up.
For a budget tour: Take a direct bus from Delhi.
There is a certain charm to each mode — pick according to your expense, comfort, and travel duration.
Local Transport in Nainital
Once you are in Nainital, you can simply traverse the town on:
Taxis (found at taxi stands)
Shared jeeps
Rickshaws (for short distances)
Walking (many major attractions are close by)
Note:
Personal car driving within Nainital town may be prohibitive at busy tourist times, particularly around Mall Road. Walking or using local transport is preferable whenever possible.
Best Time to Visit Nainital
Selecting the best time to tour Nainital can make your tour even more enchanting.
Situated amidst the Kumaon Hills of Uttarakhand, Nainital tourism presents various experiences across seasons — be it flowering landscapes, snow-covered adventures, or serene monsoon greens.
Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you choose the best time to visit Nainital depending on your interests.
Nainital in Summer (March to June)
Temperature: 10°C to 27°C
Why visit in summer?
Summer season is regarded as the best tourist season in Nainital.
Pleasant weather makes it ideal for sightseeing, boating on Naini Lake, and visiting close-by hill stations such as Bhimtal, Sattal, and Mukteshwar.
Blue skies present fine vistas of surrounding mountains.
Best time for outdoor activities such as trekking, horse riding, and ropeway rides.
Events:
Nainital Boat Festival (most likely in June)
Tip:
Make advance bookings for your hotels and transport as it becomes congested during school holidays and long weekends.
Nainital in Monsoon (July to September)
Temperature: 10°C to 20°C
Why visit in monsoon?
Nainital becomes a verdant green haven during the monsoon season.
The lakes and hills’ beauty is enhanced manifold by mist and raindrops’ formation of an illusionary setting.
It’s the off-season, so discounted hotel prices and fewer tourists await you.
Caution:
Prepare for sporadic landslides and transportation delays.
Always check weather updates before planning outdoor excursions.
Ideal for:
Romantic weekends, relaxing breaks, and photography enthusiasts.
Nainital in Autumn (October to November)
Temperature: 5°C to 15°C
Why visit in autumn?
Crisp weather, clear blue skies, and golden landscapes combine to make autumn a lovely time to travel to Nainital.
Ideal weather for temple visits, mall shopping on Mall Road, and sightseeing.
Fewer people than during the summer months, providing a quieter experience.
Tip:
Pack light woolens as nights begin to become cold.
Nainital in Winter (December to February)
Temperature: -2°C to 10°C
Why visit in winter?
If you wish to see snowfall, winter season is the most appropriate time to visit Nainital.
White-topped peaks and intermittent snow in the town create a fairy-tale setting.
Ideal for honeymooners and adventure-lovers who enjoy winter.
Events:
Winter Carnival (Dec.)
Tip:
Pack heavy woolens, gloves, and boots.
Roads can sometimes be slippery, so drive with care.
Top Attractions in Nainital
Nainital, another name being the “Lake District of India,” is full of charming attractions which fascinate travelers with their natural beauty, historical importance, and adventure opportunities.
If you’re organizing your itinerary, here’s a detailed guide to the best places in Nainital you just cannot afford to miss.
Naini Lake: The Heart of Nainital
The famous Naini Lake is the highlight of Nainital tourism. Lapped by green hills, this calm, crescent-shaped lake presents stunning vistas and serene atmosphere.
Things to do at Naini Lake:
Paddle boating, rowing, and yachting
Strolling along picturesque Thandi Sadak
Sunset scenes from the boat
Pro Tip:
Naina Devi Temple: A Spiritual Landmark
Located on the north bank of Naini Lake, the Naina Devi Temple is a religious Hindu temple honoring Goddess Naina Devi.
It is believed to be one of the 51 Shakti Peethas where the eye of Goddess Sati has fallen.
Highlights:
Serene, religious ambiance
Attractive traditional buildings
Vibrant celebrations at the Nanda Devi fair (September)
Tip:
Couple the temple visit with a peaceful walk along the lakeshore.
Snow View Point has one of the most beautiful wide-angle views of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks, namely Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Nanda Kot.
Snow View Point: Panoramic Himalayan Views
Snow View Point offers one of the finest panoramic vistas of the snow-clad Himalayan peaks such as Trishul, Nanda Kot, and Nanda Devi.
How to reach:
Ropeway (cable car) ride from Mallital.
Short walk or drive up the hill.
Activities:
Binocular vision of distant mountains.
Small cafes and souvenir shop.
Pro Tip:
View on a clear day for best viewing.
Tiffin Top (Dorothy’s Seat): Trekker’s Paradise
Dorothy’s Seat or Tiffin Top is one of the other favorite picnic spots and viewing sites on Ayarpatta Hill. It offers 360-degree exposure of the town of Nainital along with the landscape in general.
Activities:
Half-day moderate horse ride or trek from Mallital
Stunning sunset and sunrise photography
Picnic and recreation
Interesting Fact:
It was built in memory of an English artist, Dorothy Kellet.
The Mall Road: The Vibrant Heartbeat of Nainital
Side by side to Naini Lake coursing, The Mall Road is the busiest and most happening street of Nainital.
Things to enjoy at Mall Road:
Local shopping (handcrafted candles, woolens, souvenirs)
Trying local sweets and delicacies
Lakeside cafes and restaurants
Tip:
Evening walks here are magical when the streetlights reflect on the lake.
The Flatts: Leisure and Culture Hub
Located on on the periphery of the Naini Lake, The Flatts is a huge open space for leisure walks, cultural activities, and sporting activities.
Key Attractions:
Skating rinks and playgrounds
Local handicraft bazaars
The nearby ancient Mosque and Gurdwara
Pro Tip:
Come to witness colorful cultural festivities during local celebrations.
Eco Cave Gardens: An Adventure Spot for Families
The Eco Cave Gardens are an integrated network of caves and hanging gardens, and they provide the adventurous with insight into the lifestyles of wild animals.
Features:
Tiger Cave, Panther Cave, Bat Cave, etc.
Musical fountain show (in season)
Learning and fun experience for kids
Tip:
Wear comfortable shoes, as crawling and climbing are part of visiting the caves.
Governor’s House (Raj Bhawan): A Peek into Colonial Grandeur
The Raj Bhawan, constructed during the 19th century, was the summer palace of the British Governors of the United Provinces.
Now, it is an architectural wonder with gardens and a lovely golf course.
Highlights:
Victorian Gothic architecture
Directed tours within chosen zones
18-hole golf course (open to the public)
Tip:
Photography is permitted only in designated areas, so comply with the regulations.
Nainital Zoo: A Treat for Wildlife Enthusiasts
The Pt. G.B. Pant High Altitude Zoo is one of the few high-altitude zoos in India, located at 2,100 meters above sea level.
Snow Leopard
Himalayan Black Bear
Tibetan Wolf
Barking Deer
Features:
Educational conservation programs
Lush, clean environment
Stunning views of Nainital town
Pro Tip:
Visit early in the morning when animals are most active.
Nearby Excursions and Day Trips from Nainital
Nainital is not merely a place — it’s a gateway to some of Uttarakhand’s most breathtaking and serene hill towns and lakes. If you’re around for longer or want to venture out more beyond the town, there are some pretty nice day trips from Nainital that you can take.
Here are the best surrounding tours from Nainital you wouldn’t want to miss:
Bhimtal – The Tranquil Twin of Nainital
Distance from Nainital: 22 km (approx. 45 minutes by road)
Bhimtal is a peaceful and relatively less crowded option to Nainital, famous for its beautiful lake and natural environment.
Highlights:
Bhimtal Lake with an island aquarium
Sailing in peaceful surroundings
Butterfly Research Centre
Ancient Bhimeshwara Mahadev Temple
Why visit?
Ideal for a serene getaway, bird-watching, and laid-back boat cruises away from city traffic.
Sattal – The Hidden Lake Paradise
Distance from Nainital: 23 km (approx. 50 mins by road)
Sattal, which means “seven lakes,” is an assemblage of linked fresh water lakes framed by dense forests of oak and pine.
Top Attractions:
Kayaking and paddle boating
Migratory birdwatching
Nature trails and butterfly museum
Ideal for:
Nature enthusiasts, photographers, and outdoor enthusiasts seeking tranquility and natural scenery.
Naukuchiatal – The Lake of Nine Corners
Distance from Nainital: 26 km (approx. 1 hour by road)
Naukuchiatal is a picturesque hill resort known for its nine-cornered lake — the origin of the name.
What to do:
Paragliding and zip-lining
Kayaking and boating
Fishing and nature strolls
Enjoy lakeside cafés
Travel Tip:
Go in spring or early summer for optimal views and water sports.
Mukteshwar – For Panoramic Views and Peace
Distance from Nainital: 50 km (approx. 2 hours by road)
Situated at an altitude of 2,286 meters, Mukteshwar is a peaceful hill town with breathtaking views of the Himalayas and thick coniferous forests.
Top Attractions:
350-year-old Mukteshwar Dham Temple
Chauli Ki Jali (rock climbing & rappelling destination)
Sunrise and sunset spots
Why go?
Perfect for spiritual retreats, peace-seekers, and trekking enthusiasts.
Ranikhet – Queen’s Meadow
Distance from Nainital: 56 km (approx. 2 hours by road)
Ranikhet, meaning “Queen’s Meadow,” is a picturesque hill station renowned for its lush meadows, pine forests, and stunning views of the snow-covered Himalayas.
Things to See:
Jhula Devi Temple and Ram Mandir
Chaubatia Orchards
Ranikhet Golf Course
Kumaon Regimental Centre Museum
Best for:
A relaxing and scenic day tour with historical and natural interest.
Almora – Cultural Capital of Kumaon
Distance from Nainital: 63 km (approx. 2.5 hours by road)
Almora is a cultural town situated in a horseshoe-shaped ridge. It has traditional architecture, religious places, and scenic landscapes.
Must-visit Spots:
Bright End Corner (sunrise and sunset point)
Kasar Devi Temple (spiritual & magnetic energy zone)
Deer Park
Local bazaars for handicrafts and Kumaoni sweets
Tip:
Pair Almora with nearby Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary if you’re overnighting.
Adventure Activities in Nainital:
While Nainital is most famous for its picturesque lakes and colonial elegance, it’s also a great place for adventure lovers. From taking a ride above the lake on a ropeway to trekking through pine trees, there is no dearth of adventure in Nainital.
Here are the best adventure activities to do in Nainital:
Boating in Naini Lake – Glide Through Serenity
Boating is not just a thing to do in Nainital — it’s a must. Surrounded by hills so green, the green emerald waters of Naini Lake are a peaceful but pretty setting for a boat ride.
Types of boats available:
Rowboats
Paddle boats
Yachts (by Nainital Yacht Club for members or events)
Why it’s adventurous:
A peaceful but picturesque drive with panoramic views of the town
Perfect for sunrise and sunset photography
Perfect for couples, families, and single travelers as well
Pro Tip:
Go there early in the morning to escape the crowds and appreciate the peaceful atmosphere.
Trekking – Explore Nature on Foot
The wooded trails and picturesque peaks of Nainital are a trekker’s heaven for beginners as well as experienced trekkers.
Popular trekking routes:
Tiffin Top (Dorothy’s Seat) – Panoramic views and easy trek
Naina Peak (China Peak) – Highest peak in Nainital, moderate trek
Snow View to Camel’s Back Trail – Combination of nature and adventure
Why it’s adventurous:
Scenic views of the Himalayas
Experiences with local wildlife and vegetation
Soothing trails ideal for meditation and birdwatching
Pro Tip:
Wear proper hiking shoes and bring water/snacks, particularly on longer hikes.
Ropeway Ride – Soar Above the Hills
One of the thrill rides in Nainital is the Mallital to Snow View Point ropeway ride.
Highlights:
Scenic ride over Naini Lake and forests
Seamless access to Snow View Point (7,450 ft height)
Bird’s eye view of the town of Nainital
Why it’s adventurous:
Flying over the valley in a cable car provides a gentle adrenaline rush
Good ride for people of all ages
Great for aerial photography
Pro Tip:
Visit early morning or on weekdays to skip long queues.
Horse Riding – Ride the Hills Like Locals
Horse riding is an old as well as an exhilarating means of traversing the rolling tracks and viewpoints around Nainital.
Popular routes for horse riding:
From Mall Road to Tiffin Top
From Bara Pathar to Kilbury and Naina Peak
Along wooded tracks and ridge walks
Why it’s adventurous:
A distinctive means of traversing mountain tracks
Good for holidaymakers who wish to bypass hiking but still experience the outdoors
Involves dealing with local horse handlers (ghodawalas)
Pro Tip:
Negotiate charges in advance and select healthy, clean ho
Camping – Sleep Under the Stars
For those who want to actually relax and be one with nature, camping in and around Nainital is a rejuvenating respite.
Top camping spots:
Pangot (15 km from Nainital) – Birdwatching & forest camping
Mukteshwar (50 km away) – Snowscape & star-gazing
Bhimtal – Camping near lakes with bonfires
Why it’s adventurous:
Star-gazing, bonfires, & outdoor cooking
Trekking and nature walks around
Deep bonding with nature
Pro Tip:
Choose authorized camp operators that offer safety, cleanliness, and eco-friendly experiences.
Shopping in Nainital: A Guide to Local Markets
Apart from its peaceful lakes and foggy hills, Nainital provides a wonderful shopping experience with indigenous charm and cultural depth. Be it exclusive souvenirs, handcrafted goods, or local food items, shopping in Nainital is not only a soothing but also an enriching experience.
Here’s your complete guide to the best shopping spots and what to buy in Nainital:
The Mall Road – The Main Shopping Hub
The crowded Mall Road, which runs along the Naini Lake, is the commercial hub of Nainital.
What to find:
Woollens and shawls
Handmade soaps and candles
Native jewelry, scarves, and bags
Kumaoni pickles and snacks
Why visit?
Walk around the lakeside as you shop
Range of shops and cafés
Open until late evening
Pro Tip:
Evening shopping is common, but go early in the day to escape the crowds.
Tibetan Market – For Winter Wear and Bargains
Situated close to the Flats, the Tibetan Market stands for cheap woollens and accessories.
What to buy:
Woolen jackets, sweaters, mufflers
Fashion jewelry
Bags and footwear
Why visit?
Excellent place to shop on a budget
A lot of opportunities to negotiate
Run by local Tibetan communities
Tip:
Sharp your haggling skills — prices tend to be negotiable.
Bhotia Market – Local Woollens and Craft Items
Bhotia Market is another good place close to the Mall Road locality, particularly for woolen clothing locally made and traditional handloom products.
What to explore:
Bhotia shawls and blankets
Tradicional stoles and caps
Hand-knitted sweaters
Unique aspect:
Products here tend to be produced by local artisans and women’s cooperatives from surrounding villages.
Bara Bazaar (Mallital) – Local Life and Traditional Goods
Bara Bazaar, found in Mallital, provides you with a snapshot of Nainital’s daily life along with some great bargains.
Top picks:
Homemade squashes, jams, and juices (particularly fruit-based such as rhododendron)
Spices and herbs
Handmade candles
Books, wooden toys, and stationery of local origin
Why visit?
True atmosphere of a classic hill town bazaar
Good for utility and food shopping
Local Cuisine You Must Try in Nainital
Your Nainital tour isn’t complete without indulging in the rich and delicious Kumaoni food — an authentic food culture with deep origins in Uttarakhand’s hills. Famed for its simplicity, healthiness, and earthy taste, local cuisine in Nainital is a pleasure for vegetarians as well as non-vegetarians.
Here’s a guide to the must-eat foods and local food experiences in Nainital:
Aloo Ke Gutke – The Quintessential Kumaoni Snack
This is one of the most popular and easily found dishes in Nainital.
What is it?
Bengal potatoes boiled and fried with mustard seeds, dry red chilies, and home spices, typically served with chutney.
Why try it?
It’s spicy, crunchy, and flavorful — the perfect breakfast food or street food meal.
Where to eat:
Homestays including the traditional meal, neighborhood dhabas or Mall Road restaurants.
Bhatt Ki Churkani – Hearty Lentil Delight
A classic dish prepared with black soybeans (Bhatt dal), which is slowly cooked with spices and usually served over rice.
Taste profile:
Earthily nutty and richly satisfying.
Fun fact:
This is both rich in protein and special to Kumaon — you will not be able to find it readily anywhere else in India.
Kafuli – Healthy & Flavorful Green Curry
Kafuli is a rich gravy prepared from leafy vegetables such as spinach and fenugreek, simmered in a mixture of wheat or rice flour and buttermilk.
Why try it?
It’s healthy, comforting, and rooted deep in Kumaoni culture.
Pairs well with:
Hot steamed rice or mandua (millet) roti.
Baadi – The Comfort Food of the Hills
Prepared using buckwheat or mandua flour, Baadi is a popular traditional food that is rich in nutrients.
How it’s served:
Usually accompanied by ghee and a lentil curry or chutney.
Best for:
Visitors seeking a genuine local dish.
Chainsoo – Smoky Dal with a Twist
Chainsoo is made in readiness with roasted urad dal, which is grinded and fried along with garlic and local spices.
Flavor profile:
Nutty, smoky dal with an oily consistency.
Best enjoyed with:
Plain rice or chapatis.
Thechwani – Radish with a Spicy Kick
Prepared from crushed radish roots and potatoes, Thechwani is a pungent and sour dish usually served with roti or rice.
Why it’s special:
The radish is not cut but pounded and hence has a distinctive texture and pungent taste.
Singori – A Sweet Treat in Leaf Wraps
Singori is a conical sweet prepared from khoya (dried milk) and covered in a maalu leaf that imparts a unique flavour.
Taste:
Gently sweet, creamy, and fragrant.
Where to find:
Local confectioneries, particularly in Bara Bazaar or around the Naina Devi Temple.
Bal Mithai – Nainital’s Signature Sweet
This fudge of chocolate brown color prepared with khoya and topped with sugar balls is a popular dessert of Nainital and Almora.
Why try it?
It’s iconic, tasty, and a great souvenir to bring home.
Available at:
Regular sweet shops such as Mamu’s Naini Sweets or neighborhood mithai shops.
Rhododendron Juice – A Himalayan Specialty
Produced from the brilliant red blooms of the Buransh tree, this revitalizing juice is full of antioxidants and ideal after a trekking day.
When to drink:
Serve cold in spring or summer.
Where to find:
Local cafés, organic stores, or roadside stalls.
Where to Stay in Nainital: Best Accommodation Options for Every Budget
Finding the best hotel in Nainital can be a major wow factor to your overall holiday experience. Ranging from luxury hotels with a lake view, small boutique hotels, to budget adventure bases, Nainital offers something for every type of traveler.
Here is a complete list of the best places to stay in Nainital, categorized by comfort level and price:
Luxury Hotels in Nainital – Premium Comfort with Stunning Views
For those who like to indulge in high-end amenities, individualized service, and picturesque sites, luxury hotels at Nainital provide an ideal blend of heritage and sophistication.
Recommended Luxury Hotels:
1. The Naini Retreat by Leisure Hotels
Ancient palace of the Maharaja of Pilibhit
Overlooks Naini Lake
Spa, gourmet dining, and heritage furnishings
2. Shervani Hilltop
Situated in quiet hilltop of Mallital
Garden with lush greenery, modern facilities, and kid-friendly
3. The Manu Maharani
A popular 5-star hotel
Multi-cuisine restaurant, lake view rooms, and luxury hospitality
4. The Lake Resort (Bhimtal, nearby)
Ideal for luxury in the outdoors Surrounded by pine groves, perfect for peace and calm
What to Expect:
Forest-facing rooms or lake-facing rooms
Spas, health clubs, and restaurants
Personalized services and high-end amenities
Best for: Honeymooners, couples, luxury travelers, families
Mid-Range Hotels in Nainital – Comfort Without Breaking the Bank
Mid-range Nainital hotels are ideal for families and couples who desire both comfort and affordability. Mid-range hotels in Nainital offer clean rooms, decent service, and good locations close to tourist destinations.
Recommended Mid-Range Hotels:
1. Hotel Himalaya
Beautiful vistas of the lake
Provides a mini-golf course and colonial ambiance
2. Vikram Vintage Inn
Peaceful place in Mallital with large rooms
In-situ restaurant and contemporary amenities
3. Seasons Hotel and Resort
Child-friendly, with good lake views
Near Mall Road and Naini Lak
Classic The Mall
Situated on Mall Road, central to shopping and sightseeing
Clean, comfortable rooms and good food
What to Expect:
Wi-Fi, in-house restaurant, and simple amenities
Strategic points around the lake or markets
Value for money
Best suited for: Corporate visitors, comfort seekers, group travelers, and families
Budget Accommodation in Nainital – Affordable & Convenient Stays
On a shoestring budget? No problem! Budget in Nainital stays feature friendly guesthouses, simple lodges, and hostels for backpackers — several of which are within easy reach of the town center and lake.
Recommended Budget Options:
1. Hotel New Bharat
Clean, simple rooms with a beautiful lake view
Good value for the money
2. Hotel Channi Raja
Located on Mall Road, ideal for shopping & sightseeing
Good service for the price
3. Zostel Nainital (Backpacker Hostel)
Recommended for solo travelers and backpackers
Dorms and single rooms, communal areas to socialize with fellow travelers
4. Hotel Cloud 7
Budget hotel close to Tallital with good facilities
Favored by couples and young travelers
What to Expect:
Basic accommodation, hot water, and clean linen
Friendly service, occasionally lake or mountain vistas
Fewer amenities but very good affordability
Best for: Independent travelers, backpackers, students, short-term stays
Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors
First-time visitor to Nainital? Few travel tips are necessary to make your journey seamless, pleasant, and fruitful:
1. Pack Wisely
You will require warm wear from October to March. It is also cold at night during summer.
Bring comfortable walking shoes appropriate for hiking and sightseeing.
2. Book Accommodation in Advance
Nainital is a favorite hill resort, particularly during summer break and holidays. It is advisable to book your accommodations in advance for better rates and options.
3. Avoid Driving to Mall Road
Private cars are not permitted on Mall Road during rush hours. Take local rickshaws or walk to see the place.
