15 Hidden Places in Nainital for Peaceful Escape

There can truly be few people who have not heard of one of the most popular hill destinations; Nainital, also dubbed as ‘Lake City’, sits beside a live lake and is framed by beautiful mountains. But, aside from its well-known places to see, Nainital has a couple of unexplored gems that provide you with the same peaceful yet hidden experience.

As a traveller who loves to explore hidden places in Nainital, or someone looking for a serene experience away from the major tourist attractions, these hidden gems of Nainital offer exactly that! We will let you in a bit more with this article, from some hidden gems of Uttarakhand, discovering their history as well and the mystery that makes them so special.

A Glimpse into Nainital’s History and Significance

Nainital, a hill station located in the Kumaon region of Indian state Uttarakhand was founded around 1841 by P. Barron a British sugar trader. The town was named after the sacred emerald, green lake Naini Lake, to which it draws the water for its needs. Amid the colonial rule, Nainital loomed as a favoured summer dwelling point for the British on account of its tranquil weather and scenic grandeur. Now well known for its natural charm, the town also provides a glimpse into history with some remnants of colonial architecture as well as churches and age-old temples.

Why Nainital is Famous: Beyond the Usual Tourist Spots

Nainital is not only known for its lakes, but it has a historical importance because of both natural beauty and district headquarters. The town is a tourist hot spot for the cool climate, mountains view and access to folds of treks and likewise wildlife sanctuary. Though Naini lake and Mall road are tourist spots in Nainital, there is much more in the list of Nainital famous places. But very few numbers of visitors know about the hidden places in Nainital.

1. Cave Garden: A Walk Through Nature’s Labyrinth

One of the most interesting places to explore in Nainital is the Eco Cave Garden. This place, situated near the Sukhatal area and is essentially a set of connected caves; this one has relevance given that it doubles as hanging gardens. The caves here called tiger, panther and bat are a perfect destination for family outings that guarantees both enjoyment as well as knowledge. The beauty of nature and its light adventurous feel may let us term it as one of the top places in Nainital for kids & adults.

2. Thandi Sadak: The Road Less Traveled

Thandi Sadak is one of the offbeat places near Nainital. As its name suggests, this road is very cool and cold all across the day. It has the tallest deodar and oak trees on either side,. As you walk along the Thandi Sadak, witness some of the most amazing views from Naini Lake and surrounding hills which place it in a hidden gems in Uttarakhand.

3. St. John in the Wilderness: A Step Back in Time

St. John in the Wilderness – One of the must Visit places in Nainital for All Those Who Love History And Architecture One of the older structures in Nainital, this church dates back to 1844. Surrounded by Deodar forests, this provides an ideal place to spend some time in peace and tranquility. The gothic structure and graveyard outside the church keeps it surrounded with a feeling of mystery hence marking this as one of the hidden places in Nainital.

4. Pangot and Kilbury Bird Sanctuary: A Paradise for Bird Lovers

A picturesque hamlet located approximately 15 kilometers from Nainital, the Pangot and Kilbury Sanctuary is nothing less than a paradise for bird watchers. The area hosts over 580 bird species including the Himalayan griffon, lammergeier, and blue-winged minla and a hidden places in Nainital. The sanctuary is covered with dense oak, pine forests and rhododendron offering picturesque serenity. Pangot is not just one of the places to visit near Nainital but is also one of the best places to see in Nainital for nature lovers.

5. Ghorakhal Golu Devta Temple: A Spiritual Retreat

Golu Devta Ghorakhal Temple is a sacred shrine located near Bhowali, which affirms the faith in one of local deities of Uttarakhand —Goridhari or Gorildev. The temple has the distinction of having many thousands and thousands of bells big and tiny which are tied by devotees after their wishes fulfilled. The temple holds cultural importance in this region, and one has a beautiful view of the surrounding hills from here. It’s definitely one of the hidden places in Uttarakhand and you must not skip visiting this place.

6. Bhimtal: A Serene Lake Experience

The famous thing in Nainital is Lakes and another hidden places in Nainital is mere 22 kilometers away from Nainital is Bhimtal offers a more quieter lake which happens to be bigger than the one in Kathgodam. Bhimtal Lake is also ecstasy as an island in the middle of this lake increases its beauty and makes it more enjoyable to either go for boating or just a simply chill by water end. Without any doubt, Bhimtal is one of the best places near Nainital away from crowds.

7. Naukuchiatal: The Lake of Nine Corners

Naukuchiatal is also close to Nainital, it serves as a quieter version of the busy tourists’ spot and its nine-corners lake offers the thick forests around Naukushiatal soothe all nerves tired from modern city life. It is the largest and deepest of all the Nainital lakes, also you can paddle boat in this lake along with some amazing bird watching.

The place is so peaceful and soothing, making it one of the unexplored places near Bhimtal to spend some quiet time alone. This place is Gem for seekers of hidden places in Nainital.

8. Sattal: A Cluster of Seven Lakes

One of the hidden places in Nainital is Sattal (right pronunciation is Saat-Taal) meaning seven lakes, are 7 interconnected freshwater and more importantly perennial lakes in the Lower Himalayan range near Bhimtal. This is a paradise of biodiversity showcasing beautiful birds. These lakes are surrounded by thick woods and here you can spot various flora and fauna of the region Sattal is one of the places to visit around Nainital that offers a tranquil retreat amidst nature.

9. Kainchi Dham: A Spiritual Haven

Kainchi Dham is a sacred hill stations near Nainital and temple complex located around 17 km from Nainital. Named after a Hindu saint “Neem Karoli Baba”. In the middle of hills, inside a valley The Ashram had sacred importance for many and hidden places in Nainital. Kainchi Dham has attracted so many celebrities in search of peace and some inspiration, Including Steve Jobs & Mark Zuckerberg. A haven for seekers, it is one of the hidden places to visit in Uttarakhand.

10. Tiffin Top or Dorothy’s Seat: A Panoramic Viewpoint

Tiffin Top, which is also known as Dorothy’s Seat due to a memorial of an English artist GBU sisters on the same hill was called Tiffn top because Britishers used it in early days for having lunch at this point and thus its name tiffin. A simple trek lands you in this area, through the dense forests of deodar and oak. This place is well suited for photography buffs who want to have beautiful pics of Nainital. It is definitely top 10 places to visit in Nainital with family with family for sure.

11. Kakrighat: A Riverside Retreat

Kakrighat: Located off the road to Almora, Kakrighat is a peaceful riverside place; ideal for leisure getaway and an unexplored places in Uttarakhand. The area is famous for its old temple identified with God Shiva. The quiet environment along with the murmur of the stream makes Kakrighat one of the offbeat places near Nainital.

12. Mukteshwar: The Land of Temples and Views

Mukteshwar, situated just 50 km from Nainital on a hilly area. It’s a truly hidden places in Nainital for pilgrims. Mukteshwar, which is known for the Mukteshwar Dham Temple and its picturesque view of Himalayan ranges. Mukteshwar also offers a plethora of adventure activities like rock climbing and rappelling. The natural beauty and the calmness of this place makes it one of the best places to see in Nainital.

13. Ramgarh: The Fruit Bowl of Kumaon

Ramgarh, the ‘Fruit Bowl of Kumaon’ with a good many orchards laden wiht apples apricots and peaches. Perched at a distance of 25kms from Nainital, the small town boasts views over snow-capped peaks in Himalayas. Located in the Almora district of Uttarakhand, this quiet and very quaint village is one of the underrated places in Uttarakhand which offers you peace at its best and deserve it place in hidden places in Nainital.

14. Sariyatal Lake: A Scenic Picnic Spot

Sariyatal Lake is a small lake which is located just few kilometers away from Nainital. It is surrounded by greenery and the calm environment make this a nice spot for picnics. Named as one of the places to see near Nainital, Sarayitaal Lake is a perfect weekend gateway from your mundane and busy life.

Nature enthusiasts, newlyweds, and honeymooners will all adore this place. Sariyatal is also regularly consulted by scientists and researchers. It is a beautiful botanical garden with a huge variety of herbs and this place make it place in the list of hidden places in Nainital

15. Khurpatal: A Hidden Lake

Khurpatal Lake is hidden gem and nestled amidst dense forests and not as popular among tourists, which makes it an excellent place for people wanting to soak in some solitude. Khurpatal is one of the hidden places in Nainital where you can experience absolute tranquility.

Local legend holds that Khurpatal is the home of the demon Khurpa Bhairav, who used to torment the area. The lake is supposed to possess mysterious properties; in calm weather it is serene, but in thunderstorms it turns raging. The people in the village tell tales of the lake’s association with old curses and blessings that have influenced the fate of those who dared to approach too closely

How to Reach Nainital

By Air: Pantnagar Airport, about 70 km away is the closest airport to Nainital.

By Rail: The nearest railhead is Kathgodam which lies at a distance of 35 km from this beautiful town. Kathgodam is well-connected to major cities like Delhi, Lucknow, and Kolkata. From the railway station, you can take a taxi or a bus to Nainital.

Travel by Road: Nainital is about 292 km away from Delhi by road and you can drive there too. It’s well connected to most of the cities in Northern India. Buses From Delhi, Dehradun and Nearby Places-accessible by regular bus services.

Accommodation in Nainital

This place offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget hotels to luxury resorts.

• Budget: Hotel Himalaya, Hotel Krishna
• Mid-Range: The Naini Retreat, Shervani Hilltop
• Luxury: The Manu Maharani, Nainital Palace

Best Time to Visit Nainital

NAINITAL WEATHER

Nainital is best visited from the months of March to June when the climate remains cold and visits can be made.

Monsoon season: July to September the rainfall is heavy, but this time as makes the surrounding green and beautiful.

October-February (Winter): If you are a snow lover, this is the time when you can enjoy.

Conclusion

One moment, you stumble upon a busy tourist location: the next — an abandoned serene picnic spot. Whether it be the calm lakes or ancient temples, there is something for everyone in Nainital. Whether you are simply checking for hidden places in Nainital to roam or famous places to visit in Nainital and nearby, do make the most of your stay. Thus, pack your bags and let the unexplored vicinity explore you back…dig deeper to breathe-right in air of Nainital….

Tips- Don’t forget to pack your leisure wear with your other essential items. Leisurewear is comfortable and cozy. You can take sweat shirt with matching cargo or joggers, which has multiple utility pockets and comfortable while traveling.

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