Nainital, the charming Himalayan lake town, is a picture-postcard perfect hill-station and one of the most popular in Northern India. Commonly known as the ‘Lake District’, Nainital is nestled high up in the Kumaon Himalayas at an altitude of around 2,000 m above sea level. This beautiful town in surrounded by seven hills, popularly known as ‘Sapta-Shring’ – Ayarpata, Deopata, Handi-Bandi, Naina, Alma, Lariya-Kanta and Sher-Ka-Danda. The majestic mountains and the sparkling waters of the lake add an immense lot to the beauty of the town. The town is centred around the emerald mountain lake Naini, which on most days is dotted with colourful sailboats. According to mythology, the lake is believed to have been formed when the eyes of goddess “Sati” fell at this spot while her body was being carried by Lord Shiva after her death.

The summer capital of the United Provinces during the British era, the town has a strong colonial heritage with vibrant clusters of villas and bungalows. Homesick Britishers used to flock to this quaint town spread over a forested valley. It is also known for the revered Naina Devi temple, which stands on the edge of the lake. Nainital is not only a famous tourist destination but is also known for its prestigious educational institutions and schools, which have stood since the British era.

The Himalaya Museum
Visit this museum in Nainital to get an insight into the state of Uttarakhand. Established under the Department of History, Kumaun University in1987, the Himalayan Museum has been conserving the historical and cultural identity of Uttarakhand.

Kainchi Dham
On the Nainital to Almora Road, 9 km from Bhowali and 17 km from Nainital is the popular pilgrimage centre Kainchi Dham, a Hanuman Temple and ashram founded by the sage Neem Karoli Baba, in 1962. It is located between two hills that cut and cross each other to create the shape of a pair of scissors (scissors in Hindi is kainchi). The place gained more recognition owing to a visit by Apple founder Steve Jobs, and the founder and CEO of Facebook Mark Zuckerberg. There is a cave near the Kainchi temple, which is said to be the place where Baba Neem Karoli used to meditate and pray.

Naukuchiatal
Situated at a distance of just 25 km from Nainital, the crystal-clear Naukuchiatal lake with its nine corners is a captivating sight. Enjoy angling and bird watching, and also rowing, paddling and yachting.

Tiffin Top
A popular picnic spot in Nainital, Tiffin Top (also known as Dorothy's Seat) is located on Ayarpatta hill, and offers a panoramic view of the Nainital town and surrounding hills. A delight for photographers, many tourists also like to trek up to the place, which is just 4 km away from the town.

Snow View Point
One of the most beautiful spots in Nainital, the Snow View Point, located at 2,270 m above the sea level, offers stunning views of the snow-covered mountain peaks of the Great Himalayas. A large pair of binoculars is installed here to let visitors take a closer look at the peaks. Spend an hour or so to enjoy the views, as children can play in the amusement park. There are food and tea stalls here as well. The KMVN TRH Snow View guesthouse, which was once a Britisher's bungalow, is an excellent place to stay.
Naina Devi Temple
The sacred Naina Devi temple with Goddess Naina Devi as its presiding deity is located atop the Naina hill near the Naini Lake. One of the most revered temples in India, the two eyes of the Goddess represent divinity here. There are many myths and legends associated with the temple, which attracts devotees throughout the year. The Naina Peak, locally known as Cheena peak, is the highest point in Nainital.