Naini Lake - Nainital, 

If you think of Nainital, the first picture that comes to mind is always Naini Lake. Sitting right in the middle of the town, surrounded by green hills and colorful houses, this crescent-shaped lake is the heart of the hill station. The water looks different at every hour of the day - sometimes shining like glass under the sun, sometimes calm and dreamy under the evening lights.

Locals believe the lake is sacred too. It is said to be one of the Shakti Peeths, where the eye of Goddess Sati fell, which is why the famous Naina Devi Temple stands on its northern side. Whether you come here for the legends, for the views, or just to take a boat ride, Naini Lake has a way of slowing you down and making you sit back to enjoy the moment.

Best Time to Visit:

• March–June (Peak Season): Pleasant weather (15°C–25°C), the best time for boating and sightseeing.
• September–November (Moderate Season): Clear skies and cooler evenings (10°C–20°C), perfect for peaceful walks and photography.
• December–February (Low Season): Chilly weather (0°C–10°C). The lake looks magical in the mist, though boating can be limited.

Distance from City Center: 

You don’t need a taxi or long drive - Naini Lake is the center of Nainital. It’s barely 500 meters from Mall Road, and you’ll find it right at the heart of all the action.

Timings & Entry Fee :

• Timings: Open all day, but boating runs from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
• Entry Fee: Free to visit, boating charges start around ₹150–₹250 depending on the boat type.

Things to Do at Naini Lake :

• Take a rowboat or paddleboat ride and enjoy the reflections of the hills.
• Walk along Mall Road with the lake on one side and shops on the other.
• Visit Naina Devi Temple and soak in the spiritual vibe.
• Enjoy evening snacks by the lakeside cafés (try hot momos or steaming maggi).
• Capture photographs of the lake lights at night, which look like stars on water.

Best 10 Places to Visit Near Naini Lake (within 50 km):

1- Snow View Point (2 km): Reachable by a cable car, this spot gives breathtaking views of the snow-clad Himalayan ranges.

2- Tiffin Top (4 km): Also known as Dorothy’s Seat, it’s a popular picnic spot and photography point with sweeping city views.

3- Naina Peak (6 km): The highest point in Nainital, perfect for trekking and bird’s-eye views of the lake.

4- Naina Devi Temple (500 m): Located right at the lake’s northern end, this temple is both spiritual and scenic.

5- Eco Cave Gardens (2 km): A fun place for families and kids with interconnected caves and musical fountains.

6- Bhimtal Lake (22 km): Bigger and calmer than Naini Lake, with a small island in the middle.

7- Sattal (27 km): A cluster of seven lakes surrounded by pine forests — ideal for nature lovers.

5- Khurpatal Lake (12 km): A lesser-known, peaceful lake perfect for angling and picnics.

9- Hanuman Garhi Temple (3 km): Famous for its sunset views and huge Hanuman statue.

10- Ghorakhal Temple & Army School (20 km): Known for the famous Golu Devta Temple, where devotees tie bells with wishes.