Nainital, also known as the “Lake District of India,” is a picturesque hill station in the magical state of Uttarakhand in the Kumaon region. With its shimmering lakes, misty mountain tops, and lush forest cover, Nainital is a perfect destination for anyone seeking to escape city life's monotony. The town's beauty is so captivating that it feels like it has been plucked straight out of a storybook. But while the town of Nainital is a favourite weekend destination among tourists, there is so much more to explore in the surrounding areas. So, if you are planning a tour around this scenic region, why not venture a little further and discover the hidden places to see around Nainital?
From adrenaline-pumping treks and peaceful lakes to lush forests and serene temples, there is no dearth of places of interest near Nainital. Whether you are a nature lover, an adventure seeker, or just someone looking to unwind, the places to visit near Nainital will leave you with nothing but a heart full of memories and a camera full of Instagram-worthy pictures. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore the wonders that await just beyond this charming hill station. Here are ten things you must look for in Nainital tour packages to explore beyond the usual.
Places to Visit Near Nainital
- Visit to the Scenic Bhimtal
- Trek to Naina Peak (China Peak)
- Explore the Seven Lakes of Sattal
- Head to Naukuchiatal for Water Sports
- Discover the Heritage of Mukteshwar
- Spend a Spiritual Day at Kainchi Dham
- Explore the Wilderness at Pangot
- Seek Solitude at Ranikhet
- Visit the Ancient Temples of Jageshwar
- Take a Jungle Safari in Jim Corbett National Park
Visit to the Scenic Bhimtal
Just a short drive from Nainital is the quaint town of Bhimtal, which is a comparatively quieter and less commercialised sightseeing destination than Nainital, offering serene views and a relaxed atmosphere. One of the prime reasons tourists frequent this scenic location is the stunning Bhimtal Lake, which is even larger than the Naini Lake. What makes this quaint town one of the best places to visit near Nainital is the small island in the middle of the lake, which hosts an aquarium that is worth every penny. To enjoy this scenic location at its best, take a boat ride on the lake to enjoy the peaceful surroundings or simply stroll along the banks to soak in the calmness of the area.
Trek to Naina Peak (China Peak)
For adventure enthusiasts who love a good hike on their trip, the trek to the Naina Peak is an absolute must. Though the trek to the Naina Peak starts in Nainital, it takes you through picturesque landscapes and offers jaw-dropping views of the surrounding area. The trek is quite challenging, but the views you get to see at the end are worth every step. Once you reach the peak, you will be greeted by panoramic views of the Nainital Valley, the majestic snow-capped mountains and the shimmering Naini Lake. On a clear day, you can even catch a glimpse of Naina Devi, the second-highest mountain peak in India. This tourist attraction near Nainital is also a perfect spot for photography enthusiasts and those looking to connect with nature.
Explore the Seven Lakes of Sattal
Located around 25 km away, Sattal is another tourist spot near Nainital, a hidden gem that often flies under the radar of tourists. The name “Sattal” literally means “seven lakes,” and true to its name, the tourist spot is a cluster of seven lakes surrounded by thick oak and pine forests. At Sattal, you will notice a wide variety of birds and butterflies, making this region their home. To make the most of this tourist attraction near Nainital, you can go boating, kayaking, or simply enjoy a peaceful day by the lake.
Head to Naukuchiatal for Water Sports
On your trip, if you are looking for more action, you must head to Naukuchiatal, located just 26 km from Nainital. The name of the place literally means “lake of nine corners.” The lake is most frequented by tourists due to its serene beauty and adventure activities. Apart from its natural charm, this off-beat place to see near Nainital is known for activities such as paragliding, paddling and kayaking, making it one of the ideal spots for water sports. For those who prefer quieter pursuits at Naukuchiatal, the lake also offers boating and birdwatching opportunities.
Discover the Heritage of Mukteshwar
Situated about 50 km from Nainital, Mukteshwar is another scenic attraction near Nainital that offers a mix of history, culture, and adventure. Named after the Mukteshwar Dham, an ancient Shiva Temple told to be about 350 years old, this place is steeped in history and spirituality. The temple is perched atop a hill, offering panoramic views of the majestic Himalayan mountain range. Apart from visiting the temple, you can also indulge in adventure activities like rock climbing, trekking, and rappelling.
Spend a Spiritual Day at Kainchi Dham
For those looking for a spiritual escape, visiting Kainchi Dham is a must-visit. Located around 17 km, Kainchi Dham is one of the tourist places near Nainital, which is a small ashram and temple complex that gained immense popularity after Apple founder Steve Jobs and Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg visited it for spiritual guidance. The dham was established by the renowned Neen Karoli Baba which has now become famous among people to seek blessings his blessing and learn from his teachings.
Explore the Wilderness at Pangot
If you are a nature lover and enjoy birdwatching, you can head to Pangot, around 15 km from Nainital. Pangot is a small village nestled in the hills and is one of the beautiful must-visit places near Nainital, where you can witness the rich variety of flora and fauna. Over 250 bird species are told to nest in this location, including the Himalayan Griffon, blue-winged minla, and khalij pheasant. Apart from birdwatching, you can even spend time amidst nature as the place is surrounded by dense forest, offering you plenty of trekking and nature walk opportunities.
Seek Solitude at Ranikhet
If you are in the mood for a scenic drive, Ranikhet is another place near Nainital for visiting, located at a distance of 60 km. This charming attraction near Nainital is often referred to as the “Queen’s Meadow” and is popular for its dense pine forests, lush greenery, and panoramic views of the snow-capped Himalayan mountain range. Ranikhet is less crowded than Nainital, making it an ideal destination for those seeking solitude and unwinding amidst nature’s bounty. During your visit, you can explore the ancient Jhula Devi Temple or simply take a stroll through the town’s peaceful surroundings.
Visit the Ancient Temples of Jageshwar
If spirituality and history intrigue you, then a visit to the ancient temples of Jageshwar is a must. Located around 100 km from Nainital, Jageshwar is home to a complex of over 100 stone temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temples at Jageshwar are believed to be many centuries old and are known for their intricate carvings and architectural beauty. Jageshwar is one of the religious places for Hindus to visit near Nainital and a great place to explore for those interested in spirituality, history, and architecture.
Take a Jungle Safari in Jim Corbett National Park
For wildlife enthusiasts, visiting the iconic Jim Corbett National Park is a must. Located around 70 away from Nanital, this national park is India’s oldest national park and is famous for its dense population of Bengal tigers. The national park is also home to a wide variety of animal species, including elephants, deer, leopards, and numerous species of migratory birds. You can take a jungle safari through the park and try your luck at spotting some of these majestic animals in their natural habitat. The tourist spot near Nainital offers both jeep and elephant safaris, each promising an exciting adventure through the wild. Whether you are a wildlife lover or just looking for an adventurous day out, the Jim Corbett National Park is sure to leave you with endless memories.
In conclusion, the things to do in Nainital may be the star of the show, but the areas surrounding it hold just as much charm and adventure. From pristine lakes and spiritual retreats to wildlife safaris and adrenaline-pumping treks, the region around Nanital offers a diverse range of experiences for every kind of traveller. So, if you are thinking about booking a trip to Uttarakhand already, make sure to explore beyond the town and add these to your tour itinerary. Whether you are looking for peace, adventure, or the best of both worlds, the places to see near Nainital have something special waiting for you.
Ready to explore? Book your Uttarakhand tour package today with Veena World and embark on a journey filled with unforgettable memories.
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