Nainital is a Himalayan resort town in the Kumaon region of India’s Uttarakhand state, at an elevation of roughly 2,000m. Formerly a British hill station, it’s set around Nainital Lake, a popular boating site with Naina Devi Hindu Temple on its north shore. A cable car runs to Snow View observation point (at 2,270m), with vistas over the town and mountains including Nanda Devi, Uttarakhand’s highest peak.
1.Mukteshwar Temple attractions place to nainital

5 Places to Visit in and Around Mukteshwar Temple in Nainital
Mukteshwar is a quiet little town in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand, known for its serene beauty and the Mukteshwar Temple, with its statuesque structure of a perfect blend of Hindu and Shiva shrines. While being spiritually important, the landscape surrounding this temple is simply breathtaking, and each visitor enjoys both spirituality and nature in Mukteshwar, topped by adventure. Here are five best places to explore during your visit to Mukteshwar Temple:
- Mukteshwar Dham Temple
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Mukteshwar Temple is a shrine that tops the highest spot in Mukteshwar, one of the main attractions of this region. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this 350 years old temple is an important religious place for devotees across the globe. The temple stands at an altitude of nearly 2,312 meters. It provides a beautiful view of the Himalayan mountain ranges, which includes Nanda Devi – India’s second highest peak, among many others. The lush forests and beautiful orchards surrounding the temple add a touch of the spiritual encounter with wind sounds and rustling of leaves. Hiking to the temple along wooded paths makes visiting an element of adventure and serenity.
2. Chauli Ki Jali
Just a few meters away from the Mukteshwar Temple, Chauli Ki Jali is a place a nature lover and adventure seeker cannot afford to miss. This rocky cliff promises the fun of rock climbing and rappelling. Apart from adventure sports, the cliff offers sensational views of sprawling valleys below and snow-crested Himalayan ranges in the horizon. According to the local legend, this is a place consecrated, and the locals believe that women who come here to pray to the goddess for fertility are answered, and many have reportedly been blessed with children after praying at this site. The myth combined with natural beauty makes Chauli Ki Jali a place worth visiting.
- Mukteshwar Inspection Bungalow (PWD Guest House)
This old colonial bungalow is considered an Inspection Bungalow legendary in its historical significance and scenic view. Situated near the temple itself, it affords one of the finest panoramic views of the Himalayan range, especially at sunrise and sunset. This guest house has hosted many personalities in the past and still attracts them today. Old-world charm and lovely vistas make this a perfect visit, even if you’re just here to see this bungalow for its architecture and vistas. This place promises a quiet retreat.
4. Bhalu Gaad Waterfall
Located in the middle of a lot of natural beauty, the waterfall manages to win your heart with its lush tropical surroundings and enchanting melancholic mood that envelops it. The variegated beauty of the region defines its ripened beaches and one gorgeous waterfall- Bhalu Gaad Waterfall.
Adventure seekers and nature lovers seeking a mix of excitement and natural grandeur with a Mukteshwar tour can breathe easy at Bhalu Gaad Waterfall, 10 km from Mukteshwar Temple. This is one of the offbeat destinations through a short trek and riverside trails amid dense forest cover. Here is a waterfall plunging down from a height of 60 feet creating a beautiful pool below-perfect for a splash. The trail to the waterfall is surrounded by beautiful flora and has as much beauty in its journey as it does at the destination. A visit to Bhalu Gaad is excellent for the nature enthusiast and the photographer.
5. Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI)
For a curious mind interested in science, the Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI) offers a great experience. IVRI is one of the leading institutes in India for animal sciences research. Established in 1893, it is a really interesting place to visit with green surroundings and colonial architectural design and botanical gardens that lend a touch to the place. Visitors can take guided tours to explore all the exhibits at the museum on veterinary science and animal husbandry. It is an excellent stopover for a family and those interested in knowing more about the region’s heritage, particularly its scientific past.
More Travel Guidelines to Mukteshwar:
- Best Season to Visit: The best time to visit Mukteshwar is between March and June, and September to November. The weather at these times is nice and perfectly clear, and the views of the mountains surrounding the resort are fantastic.
- Accommodation: The options at Mukteshwar for accommodation vary from high-end resorts to budget-friendly homestays. Your trip will not lose its magic when you sleep in a place, which has a mountain view.
- Local Cuisine: Delve into the local taste of Kumaoni food, which is both healthy and delectable. Bhatt Ki Churkani, Aloo Ke Gutke, and Singori are must-haves.
- Adventure Activities: And then Mukteshwar is also a place for adventure enthusiasts as the normal activities in this place include trekking and camping and now paragliding.
While Mukteshwar is at a distance from Nainital, it stands as one of the most exciting places in terms of spirituality, natural beauty, and adventure. From visiting the sacred Mukteshwar Temple to checking out nearby attractions like Chauli Ki Jali and Bhalu Gaad Waterfall, this trip will create plenty of memories amidst much peace, scenic views, and an odd dose of adventure.
2. Snow View Point attractions place to nainital

5 Best Snow View Points in Nainital
Beautiful hill station in Uttarakhand, Nainital boasts the great lakes, lush greenery, and the snow-clad Himalayan ranges in the distance. One of the major tourist attractions in Nainital is the snow view points where people visit to witness the majestic beauty of the snow-clad peaks during winter or clear days all year round. These vistas offer views of the Himalayas that are sure to be once in a lifetime for visitors as they see nature at its best. Here are the five best snow views in and around Nainital:
1. Snow View Point (Main Snow View)
Perched at an altitude of approximately 2,270 meters, Snow View Point is one of the most popular and accessible places in Nainital for witnessing the snow-covered Himalayan ranges. On a clear day, the panoramic view of the peaks like Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Nanda Kot treats visitors. Still, the short cable car ride from Mallital makes it easily accessible and adds an element of adventure to the visit. Alternatively, one can also trek up to the viewpoint for an experience with more immersion. The place is very quiet with amazing and stunning views of giant mountains from a distance. This will surely be a memorable spot for nature enthusiasts and photographers. Below the viewpoint, there are a few small cafes and shops where you can sit back and enjoy a hot cup with a good view.
2. Kilbury and Pangot
Located at a distance of about 12 kilometers from Nainital, the Kilbury and Pangot region is an offbeat destination offering magnificent views of the snow and a peaceful retreat into nature. The area is famous for being a bird-watcher’s paradise but is also a wonderful place to view the distant snow-clad peaks of the Himalayas. Kilbury has an altitude of about 2,528 meters and falls within the Naina Devi Himalayan Bird Conservation Reserve, covered with thick oak and pine forests. Pangot is another small village, easily accessible from Kilbury, which like Kilbury has equally eye-catching views, though the location is beautiful for nature lovers who seek a secluded haven for snow-viewing. Compared to the main town, it is more secluded.
Lands End
This the true meaning of Lands End is at the edge of a high cliff with tremendous views of the Khurpatal Lake and in the distance, snow-clad mountains. It is approximately 4 kilometers from Nainital located at an altitude of 2,118 m and accessible through a short and moderately challenging trek. The viewpoint is among the best points to view the Himalayas, all the more so in the winter. There is a fantastic view of the valleys and dense forests around it. It can be termed as an ideal destination for those who like trekking and wish to keep off the main tourist areas.
3. China Peak (Naina Peak)
Naina Peak, also referred to as China Peak, stands at 2,615 meters. It is the highest peak in Nainital. It offers the most panoramic and awe-inspiring views of the snow-capped Himalayas. Major highlights include Nanda Devi and Trishul. The peak is approximately 6 kilometers from the town center. It can be reached through a sight-seeing trek that takes one through dense forests of rhododendron, pine, and cypress. On the way to Naina Peak, there are all chances of sighting wild animals and seeing the natural surrounding beauty. From the top, breathtaking panoramas open in every direction: Nainital town seen in its broadest expanse, the Naini Lake below, and snow-capped peaks in the distance. One of the highest and most isolated viewpoints for viewing snow even in the dead of winter when the peaks are buried deep in a thick layer of snow.
Best Time to Visit the Snow View Points:
- Winter Season (December to February): A season that is the favorite of all snow enthusiasts, as it lets see the larger Himalayan ranges clearly visible and Nainital itself may have snow.
- Early Summer (March to May): Scenic Views of Distant Snow Peaks on Clear Mornings, without chills of winter.
Travel Tips:
- Wear comfortable shoes since you have to trek to some of these locations.
- The best time for the clear snow view is early morning because by noon or afternoon, the cloud cover obscures the peaks.
- Bring warm clothing during winter as it can get quite biting, especially in places that are a high altitude.
In Nainital, the five places to view the snow offer the perfect combination of adventure, relaxation, and breathtaking views. For passionate nature lovers, photography buffs, and those just looking for an escape into the majesty of mountains, these viewpoints leave one amazed in awe.
3.Naina Peak attractions place to nainital

Best Experiences at Naina Peak, Nainital
Naina Peak, also called China Peak, is the highest altitude elevation in Nainital, standing at 2,615 meters. Naina Peak is very famous for the spectacular views of the Himalayan ranges and the charming landscape of Nainital. Naina Peak is a haven for the true nature lovers, trekkers, and photographers. Here are five fantastic experiences you can have during your visit to Naina Peak :
1. Trekking to Naina Peak
One of the most wonderful experiences while visiting Naina Peak is to trek through the lush forests which lead to the summit. The 6-kilometer trail from the heart of Nainital, even though moderately challenging, is very rewarding since you go on this trek through dense rhododendron, pine, and oak forests. The chirping of birds and rustling of leaves add to the peaceful ambiance, making this trek not just an adventure but a silent retreat into nature. The panoramic views of Nainital town and the glistening Naini Lake below become even more breathtaking as you climb up – offering an apt picture opportunity and for reflection purposes.
2. **Scenic View of the Himalayas
The top of the Naina Peak rewards one with some of the most breathtaking views in all of Nainital. The snow-covered Himalayan ranges are clearly visible from here with some of the highest peaks like Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Nanda Kot. White-capped mountains shimmering against the blue sky – nothing short of breat-taking on a clear day. The sheer grandeur of the Himalayas as seen from the Naina Peak would be one of the most unforgettable experiences for any visitor. It would be a ‘picture perfect’ place for the photographer and the nature lovers to capture the magnificence of mountains.
3. Sunrise and Sunset at Naina Peak
Watching the sun rise or set from Naina Peak is a kind of magic that you shouldn’t be missing out on. Golden and orange shades glaze the mountains under the gushing light of the early morning, making the environment totally serene and spiritual. Meanwhile, the sun rises warm over the Himalayan peaks as it gently wakes up the town of Nainital below it. Similarly, when sunset knocks in, the vibration of colors occurs in the sky, while in the fading light on snow-capped peaks, a surreal or dreamlike atmosphere is created. Whether you are an early bird or like watching the sunset during your trek, it will be witnessed from the Naina Peak, and you will come back home with memories for a lifetime.
4. Birding and Wildlife Encounters
Naina Peak is not just the panoramic scenery but also the haven for the birding and wildlife lovers who undertake the climb. The crest is laden thick with forests, that have made them a rich biodiversity habitat for all sorts of birds such as Himalayan Woodpeckers, Koklass Pheasants, and Hill Partridges. Nature lovers will especially relish the experience of seeing these birds in the natural habitats on this trek. Lucky trekkers could even catch some glimpses of small mammals like the barking deer and the mountain goats along the way. With the views of wildlife around, peaceful surroundings make a trek to Naina Peak a must for all nature lovers.
5. Picnic and Leisure Amidst Nature
For all who wish to just unwind and enjoy the serene beauty of the place, Naina Peak offers a perfect spot for a relaxing picnic. Open spaces atop the mountain perfect for spreading a blanket and having a meal while enjoying beautiful nature surrounding you. Fresh mountain air, wind sounds from rustling through the trees, and fantastic views make it an extremely peaceful experience. A perfect getaway in the hustle and bustle of busy city life for anyone visiting with friends, family, or even alone exists at Naina Peak. Reconnect with nature and take in the beauty that is surrounding you.
More Tips for Visiting Naina Peak
The Best Time to Visit: The best times to trek to Naina Peak are during the summer months from March to June and the post-monsoon months from September to November when one can have great weather and clear skies to unveil some fantastic vistas. During winter months, it does become challenging due to the presence of snow; however, the trek is an entirely different experience as the snow-clad trails and peaks create an altogether different scenario that is breathtakingly beautiful.
Comfortable trekking shoes, a water bottle, snacks, sunscreen, and a camera are a must. If visiting during winter, warm clothes must be carried as the higher altitudes can be quite chilly.
- Trekking Difficulty: Naina Peak has a modest level of difficulty about it; hence, both experienced and novice trekkers will find it a good and exciting trek to indulge in, if able-bodied.
- How to get there: The trek is from the Mallital region of Nainital, with the facility to trek on foot. If not that, a pony or horse can be hired from the town for an easier journey.
As one of the best experiences that Nainital has to offer, Naina Peak epitomizes adventure added to serenity and natural beauty. Whether trekking through the woods, capturing the panoramic view of the Himalayas, it all promises a memory that would last throughout one’s lifetime.
4.Hanuman Garhi Temple attractions place to nainital

5 Best Experiences at Hanuman Garhi Temple in Nainital. The temple of Hanuman Garhi is one of the most revered spiritual destinations in Nainital. With a height of almost 6,400 feet above sea level, this temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman and is well-known for its wonderful hill viewpoint and their landscape of Nainital. It is not only a place to seek blessings; there is an array of experiences associated with the temple, which means it can be a must-visit place for devotees, nature lovers, and people looking for their solace. Here are the five best experiences at Hanuman Garhi Temple:
1. Spiritual Serenity and Devotion
At the very core of Hanuman Garhi Temple lies the spiritual significance. This is a temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman-the great devotee of Lord Rama, which holds a special place in the hearts of devotees. Though the architecture here is simple, it is really profound at its best, especially the towering idol of Lord Hanuman that makes the attraction here. Devotees come here seeking blessings and peace and offer prayers and chant hymns in a serene atmosphere. The temple is a superb place for meditation and reflection, free from the noise and chaos of the entire daily scheme. Visited during aarti, or in morning or evening, it is supremely divine, filled with the air of devotion and reverence through chants and rituals.
2. Sunset Views Spectacular
The vantage point is a specialty of the Hanuman Garhi Temple because from this point, the brightening of the sunset over the Himalayan ranges is seen. There is a hilltop; the temple is located on this hilltop. Therefore, one can see the setting sun behind mountains with all sorts of golden hues on the sky and valleys. One of the most typical tourist attractions at Hanuman Garhi is the sunset view; a lot of visitors want to start their visit here in order to enjoy with the beauty of nature. With the peaceful surroundings and breathtaking colors of the setting sun, it’s close to a spiritual experience from which you can feel very close to nature and even to the divine forces.
3. Scenic Trekking Around the Temple
Adventure or nature enthusiasts, get to enjoy the best trekking options around Hanuman Garhi Temple. The temple is atop a hill, and through oak and pine forests, one experiences tremendous valley views along trails while climbing up to the shrine. The refreshing mountain air, rustling leaves, and chirping of birds while trekking from the base to the temple add up to the peaceful experience. However, for the more serious trekkers, the surrounding hills have trails that take you deep into the forests where you can discover all the beauty this region has to offer as well as panoramic views of Nainital.
- Visit of nearby Shitala Devi and Lila Sah Bapu Temples
Except the great tour around Hanuman Garhi, some other mighty temples, that are inside and around the hill, are the Shitala Devi temple and the Lila Sah Bapu temple. It’s located near Hanuman Garhi and gives yet another spiritual experience to the visitors. The two most popular shrines are Shitala Devi Temple-Goddess Shitala and Lila Sah Bapu Temple, which provide some peaceful surroundings and further exploration into the religious attractions of Nainital. Visiting these temples together with Hanuman Garhi adds a more inclusive spiritual excursion.
5. Relaxation and Picnicking in the Surrounding Gardens
The Hanuman Garhi Temple is surrounded by gardens which are well maintained and provide a great place for relaxation and picnicking. After visiting the temple, you can sit here and stroll around leisurely in this garden; you would really love the fresh air and the silent atmosphere around you. For families, it is an excellent place to wind up and enjoy a picnic near nature. Tranquil surroundings and panoramic views of the hills surrounding make it an ideal location to spend some quality time alone or with your loved ones. Just sit back relax and enjoy the peace of temple surroundings while very close to nature.
Background Information About Visiting Hanuman Garhi Temple
- Best Time to Visit: One can visit the temple at any time of the year, though for a serene view of Hanuman Garhi, it is best enjoyed during summer months between March and June since the weather is lovely. Winter months present a platform through which one can view the temple in a colder climate where at times, snowflakes decorate the scene in the distance.
- How to Reach: Hanuman Garhi Temple is approximately 3 kilometers from the city center of Nainital and is accessible by road. You can hire a taxi or take a local bus from Nainital to reach the temple. There’s also a short trek from the base, which adds to the experience.
Temple Timings: Usually, the temple remains open from 5:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM. The best time to come is during morning or evening prayer sessions.
Other attractions in the region include the remaining temples, Nainital offers tourists other attractions such as Naina Devi Temple, Naini Lake, and Snow View Point among other attractions that are all accessible within a very short distance from the Hanuman Garhi temple.
A must visit to this place in Nainital, Hanuman Garhi Temple provides the perfect blend of spirituality, nature, and adventure. It caters for all types of tourists – not just for the spiritual or pictorial aspirations, but for a little adventure as well.
5.Tiffin Top attractions place to nainital

5 Best Experiences at Tiffin Top (Dorothy’s Seat) in Nainital
Tiffin Top, popularly known as Dorothy’s Seat, is one of the most beautiful viewpoints in Nainital, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding hills, valleys, and the mighty Himalayan ranges. It has gained its popularity at an elevation of 2,292 meters as a favorite destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and photographers. Here are five best experiences to have at Tiffin Top, which makes it a spot to visit in Nainital.
1. Scenic Trek to Tiffin Top
The trek itself to Tiffin Top is an experience one cannot forget about when visiting Nainital. A 4-kilometer easy length trek starting in the heart of the town of Nainital passes through dense oak, deodar, and pine forests with scenic views all along. The trek lasts about 45 minutes to an hour depending on the walker’s pace, and the trail is surrounded with natural beauty so that for both novice and experienced trekkers, it is a pleasure walk. The stillness of the forest, the crisp mountain air, and sometimes chirping birds create an amicable atmosphere that asks people to reconnect with nature.
2. Scenic Panoramic Views of the Himalayas
The panoramic view of the Himalayan ranges makes Tiffin Top one attraction that should be seen. A clear day affords unobstructed views of some of the majestic snow-clad mountains, including Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Nanda Kot. It’s only awe-inspiring with towering mountains against a blue sky. Photographers and nature lovers converge at Tiffin Top to record these views, especially the sunrise and sunset, when the peaks glow golden. Whether or not you take photographs through your camera’s lens or just allow yourself to bask in this beauty, Tiffin Top is a view that you will never forget.
3. Picnic with Nature\
Tiffin Top was a popular picnic spot. It was a place of panoramic views where British families came to enjoy their “tiffin” (lunch). Today, it is still one of the favorite spots in which to picnic, either as a local or as a tourist. The wide-open spaces and tranquil surroundings make it an ideal place to spread a blanket, enjoy a meal, and relax amidst nature. Families, couples, and friends can spend a leisurely day at Tiffin Top soaking up the sun, enjoying the views, and having a quiet interlude from the bustle of town below.
4. Horse Riding Adventure
For those who might not want to trek up to Tiffin Top, there is an alternative in the form of horse riding, which is adventurous and enjoyable in many ways. You can hire a horse from the base of the hill and ride through the forested trails up to the top. The horse ride itself is an exciting experience, as it takes you through some very scenic routes with breathtaking views of Nainital. Riding a horse through misty hills and forested areas makes the journey as memorable as the destination. It is also a fun way for families, especially the children, to enjoy the grandeur of Tiffin Top without the tired pursuit of hiking.
5. Dorothy’s Seat – A Place of Legacy and Reflection
Tiffin Top is also known as Dorothy’s Seat, a memorial built in honor of Dorothy Kellet, an English artist who loved Nainital. After Dorothy’s death, her husband built this stone bench over which much of Tiffin Top focuses. This moves the marker onto site with a sense of history or story but also gives viewers a peaceful spot to sit, reflect and let thoughts come together amidst the breathtaking scenery. For people who appreciate history and stories behind places, Dorothy’s Seat will give an emotional and legacy-rich dimension to the experience. Visitors can sit here and deliberate over the tale of Dorothy while having the serenity that this place possesses.
More Tiffin Top Tourist Information
- Best Time to Visit: The best periods to visit Tiffin Top are between the months of March to June and the months of September to November when the climate is nicely pleasant, and the skies are clear for better views.
- Carry Essentials: If you are trekking, wear comfortable shoes, carry a water bottle, snacks, sunscreen, and a camera to capture beautiful views.
- Time Your Visit for Sunrise or Sunset: Most magical views can be seen by sun-up or sun down. The landscape will then be softly lit from the mild, warm sun, creating lovely photos.
- How to Get There: Tiffin Top is 4 km from Nainital town. The only available trek or hire a horse for the ride up to the viewpoint .
- Accommodations Nearby: Accommodation options near Mall Road abound in Nainital. Easy base yourself with it to visit Tiffin Top and the surrounding attractions.
Tiffin Top, with its exciting blend of adventure, scenic beauty, and peacefulness, is one of the best viewpoints in Nainital. Whether on a trek through the woods for the majestic Himalayas or just when someone enjoys a quiet, relaxed picnic, Tiffin Top promises an experience to everyone.