Tourist places in Nainital, Nainital Travel Info
NAINITAL is a popular hill city located in the Kumaon region of the Indian state of Uttarakhand. Set around the scenic Naini Lake and surrounded by forested hills of the Lesser Himalayas, Nainital is one of North India’s most well-known hill destinations and serves as the administrative headquarters of Nainital district.
Nainital was developed during the British colonial period as a summer retreat and has retained much of its colonial charm through old buildings, churches, schools, and promenades. The city is named after the Naina Devi Temple, an important Hindu pilgrimage site located on the northern shore of the lake.
The city’s economy is largely driven by tourism, education, hospitality, and small-scale trade. Nainital is ideal for leisure travelers, families, honeymooners, students, and nature lovers seeking a pleasant climate, lake views, walking trails, and a relaxed hill-town atmosphere.
Nainital experiences a temperate mountain climate. Summers from March to June are pleasant, with temperatures ranging between 10°C and 25°C, making this the peak tourist season.
The monsoon season from July to September brings moderate to heavy rainfall, enhancing greenery but sometimes causing landslides. Winters from October to February are cold, with temperatures often dropping below 5°C and occasional snowfall.
The best time to visit Nainital is from March to June for comfortable weather, and from October to December for clear skies and fewer crowds.
Nainital does not have direct rail or air connectivity. The nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport, and the nearest railway station is Kathgodam, located about 35 kilometers away. From Kathgodam, Nainital is reached by road.
Local transportation within the city includes taxis, shared cabs, and walking, especially around Mall Road and the lake area. Road travel is the primary means of movement in and around the city.
Nainital serves as a convenient base for exploring nearby lakes, hill viewpoints, and forested areas of Kumaon. Several peaceful towns and nature spots lie within short driving distance.
Day trips often include visits to nearby lakes, hill towns, temples, and wildlife areas, offering a mix of relaxation and nature exploration.