Exploring the Top Tourist Places to Visit Near Nainital Within 50 km
Published: 27 Jan 2026
I’m so glad you are ready to discover beautiful places around Nainital that are perfect for short trips or day escapes. Nainital itself is a charming hill station, but the region around it feels like a treasure chest of lakes, forests, viewpoints, and cultural spots. In this guide, I’ve hand-picked places to visit near Nainktal within about 50 km, making them ideal for one-day adventures or quick picnics without the hassle of long drives. Whether you are a nature lover, a history buff, or someone just looking for peace and quiet, there’s something here for you. Let’s dive right in and plan some scenic outings.
Table of Contents
Also Read: Places to visit Near Nainital Within 100 Km
Places to visit in One Day Trips From Nainital
Whenever I plan a day trip from Nainital, I look for spots that are close, calm, and full of charm. These places are ideal when you want to relax by nature, enjoy fresh air, and explore without changing your main stay. Think picnic spots, quiet lakes, fruit orchards, and gentle forest vibes.
Khurpatal
Distance From City: ~12 km from Nainital
Total Travel: ~30 minutes by road
Hidden away just outside the busy roads of Nainital, Khurpatal feels like a calm mountain secret waiting to be explored. This emerald lake is tucked among lush forests and hills, giving off mellow vibes that remind me why peaceful spots matter so much on a trip. The water here is clear, and the setting feels quiet even during the busy season.
What I really love about Khurpatal is how it feels like a little escape just minutes from the town center. You’ll see local families here on weekend afternoons, picnicking or enjoying the soft breeze off the water. It’s a great place to sit back, slow down, and soak in the mountain views away from the louder tourist circuits.
Highlights
- Crystal clear Khurpatal Lake
- Peaceful forest surroundings
- Great for sunset photos
- Minimal crowds
Things to Do
- Take a slow walk around the lake
- Find a picnic spot with lake views
- Click nature and mountain photos
- Enjoy a quiet tea or snack by the water
Suggested Trip Plan
- Morning start from Nainital
- Walk around the lake + picnic
- Short forest stroll
- Return to Nainital before sunset
My Travel Notes & Best Time
- Best in spring and autumn for clear skies
- Morning is quieter than afternoon
- Bring snacks — few eateries near the lake
Bhowali
Distance From City: ~13 km from Nainital
Total Travel: ~25–30 minutes by road
Bhowali is a quiet hill town that feels like the gateway to the Kumaon hills. I find its gentle hill roads and fruit orchards comforting — and perfect for those moments when you want to slow your pace. The town itself acts as a junction to places like Bhimtal and Sattal, but it has its own peaceful charm that makes it worth a quick visit on its own.
Walking through Bhowali feels like stepping into a postcard full of greenery and distant hills. You’ll see apples, plums and apricots for sale when they’re in season, and small local shops that make great stops for snacks or fruit juice. It’s a nice warm-up spot for longer drives ahead or just a tranquil, easy start to your day.
Highlights
- Scenic hill town atmosphere
- Fruit orchards and markets
- Gateway to nearby lakes
Things to Do
- Walk around local fruit markets
- Sip fresh fruit juice
- Photo stops with hill views
Suggested Trip Plan
- Quick stroll through town
- Fruit shopping or snack break
- Head next to Bhimtal or Sattal
My Travel Notes & Best Time
- Best in summer and autumn for orchard fruit
- Little parking available at market spots
- Pair with another nearby lake visit
Sattal
Distance From City: ~24 km from Nainital
Total Travel: ~50–60 minutes by road
I will call Sattal a nature lover’s playground. It’s not just one lake — it’s a group of seven interconnected freshwater lakes, each with its own calm charm. The air feels cool and fresh here, and the forest around the lakes makes every step feel like a deeper dive into nature.
Because the lakes are hugged by thick woods, Sattal is a favourite for birdwatchers and people who just want a long nap by the water with the sound of leaves overhead. If you enjoy slow, quiet afternoons, this is a gem you’ll want to linger at longer than planned.
Highlights
- Seven beautiful freshwater lakes
- Dense forest surrounds
- Amazing birdwatching
- Calm and peaceful vibes
Things to Do
- Walk between lakes
- Spot birds and wildlife
- Kayak or paddle if available
Suggested Trip Plan
- Start early to catch bird activity
- Walk along lakes one by one
- Picnic by a lakeside clearing
My Travel Notes & Best Time
- Best in spring to early autumn
- Mosquito repellent helpful after rain
- Wear comfortable walk shoes
Nature & Scenic Picnic Spots Near Nainital
These destinations are perfect when you want fresh mountain air, calm waters, and space to relax. I treat them like chairlift moments — chances to breathe wide, see far, and let the hills work their magic on your mood.
Naukuchiatal
Distance From City: ~26 km from Nainital
Total Travel: ~1 hour by road
If you love lakes and quiet afternoons, Naukuchiatal is a place I recommend for its rich blue water and peaceful shoreline. Named the “lake of nine corners,” it’s one of the deepest lakes in the region, so the water has a beautiful depth and colour that looks lovely in photos.
There’s a gentle rhythm here — boats glide slowly across the water, birds circle above, and the hills seem to stand watch quietly from all sides. This lost-in-nature feeling is something I treasure whenever I visit.
Highlights
- Deep fresh water lake
- Unhurried lakeside atmosphere
- Best sunset views
Things to Do
- Boating on the lake
- Slow lakeside walks
- Photography
Suggested Trip Plan
- Morning drive and lakeside walk
- Lunch at a local café
- Sunset before heading back
My Travel Notes & Best Time
- Perfect October–March and April–June
- Wear warm layers in winter
- Try early morning for best light
Mukteshwar
Distance From City: ~48 km from Nainital
Total Travel: ~1 hr 45 min by road
I save Mukteshwar for when you want panoramic mountain views and crisp air that feels like fresh inspiration. Nestled high on a ridge, this quiet hill town gives you sweeping views of the Himalayas that make every hour feel wide and bright.
Beyond the views, the orchards here are lovely in season, and the scene around old temples and cliff viewpoints make it easy to stay awhile just watching the light change over distant peaks.
Highlights
- Himalayan panoramas
- Apple orchards
- Scenic cliff viewpoints
Things to Do
- Walk orchard lanes
- Photo stops at viewpoints
Suggested Trip Plan
- Early departure for sunrise hills
- Short forest walk
- Tea with mountain views
My Travel Notes & Best Time
- Best October–March and April–June
- Cold in winter — warm clothes needed
- Roads are scenic but twisty — drive carefully
Bhimtal
Distance From City: ~24 km from Nainital
Total Travel: ~45 minutes by road
Bhimtal is one of my favourite lakes near Nainital because it’s big and calm, yet not as crowded as the main lake in town. It’s actually the second-largest lake in the region, and it even has a small island in the centre with a little aquarium that feels fun and relaxing.
The atmosphere here is kind and gentle — the water moves slowly, the hills reflect softly in the surface, and the lakefront has space to stroll and sip chai as you watch boats glide by.
Highlights
- Large scenic lake
- Island with small aquarium
- Quiet lakefront paths
Things to Do
- Ride a paddle boat
- Walk the lakeshore
- Grab a lakeside snack
Suggested Trip Plan
- Morning lakeside stroll
- Boating on the lake
- Early dinner with lake views
My Travel Notes & Best Time
- Great all year except heavy monsoon
- Early morning is peaceful
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking
Wildlife Sanctuaries & Forest Spots
Nature feels alive around Nainital, and some places nearby offer forest walks, birds, and that chance to see wildlife or sheer greenery up close.
Ranikhet
Distance From City: ~58 km from Nainital
Total Travel: ~2 hr by road
This cantonment town is so green and calm, that I sometimes wonder why more people don’t stay here longer. The pine forests and meadows feel like a gentle hug, and the views here are beautiful any time of year.
Highlights
- Pine forests and open meadows
- Quiet picnic spots
- Hill views
Things to Do
- Forest walks
- Visit gardens and temples
- Take scenic photos
Suggested Trip Plan
- Departure early morning
- Forest walk + picnic
- Return at sunset
My Travel Notes & Best Time
- Best Mar–Jun and Oct–Dec
- Cooler than lower elevations
- Roads are well-maintained
Bhumiyadhar View Point
Distance From City: ~13 km from Nainital
Total Travel: ~30 minutes by road
Right on the edge of lush hills, this viewpoint feels like a secret perch where you get a wide look over valleys and forests. To me, it always feels like a great spot for a quick stop during a nature drive.
Highlights
- Wide scenic lookout
- Valley and forest views
Things to Do
- Enjoy views
- Take photos
- Short nature walks
Suggested Trip Plan
- Morning scenic drive
- Viewpoint stop
- Head to next forest spot
My Travel Notes & Best Time
- Great in clear weather
- Sunrises look lovely here
Kilbury and Pangot Wildlife & Bird Sanctuary
Distance From City: ~11–15 km from Nainital
Total Travel: ~30–40 minutes by road
This area feels like a breathing piece of forest right near town. Tall oak, pine and rhododendron trees make walks here feel cool and calm, and you’ll often spot colourful birds flitting about. It’s a real treat for bird lovers and photographers.
Highlights
- Dense forest pathways
- Many bird species
- Quiet and shaded surroundings
Things to Do
- Birdwatching
- Forest walks
- Photography sessions
Suggested Trip Plan
- Early morning birdwatch
- Slow forest walk
- Coffee at Pangot village
My Travel Notes & Best Time
- Best sunrise to late morning for birds
- Binoculars help a lot
Historical & Cultural Landmarks
History and culture add extra layers to a trip, and these places near Nainital give you more than just scenic views — they tell stories too.
Lion View Caves
Distance From City: Within Nainital town / local hillside caves
Total Travel: ~10–20 minutes depending on exact cave spot
These natural caves are part of the Eco Cave Gardens area in Nainital hill slopes. They’re playful spots to explore, offering a cool escape from the sun and a fun look at shaped rock tunnels and small animal-themed cave designs.
Highlights
- Natural cave tunnels
- Close-to-town exploration
Things to Do
- Walk through cave paths
- Combine with nearby viewpoints
Suggested Trip Plan
- Start mid-morning
- Cave walk + nearby point
- Lunch in town
My Travel Notes & Best Time
- Great all year
- Comfortable shoes helpful
Jim Corbett Museum
Distance From City: ~34 km from Nainital area (Kaladhungi route)
Total Travel: ~1 hr by road
This isn’t a wildlife safari, but a heritage stop that tells the story of Jim Corbett, one of India’s most famous conservationists. The museum is the old home of Corbett, and inside you’ll find books, photos, artifacts, and stories that paint a picture of his life and love for the jungle.
Highlights
- Jim Corbett’s personal artifacts
- History of early wildlife conservation
Things to Do
- Walk through museum rooms
- Read about Corbett’s life
- Pair with a nearby safari or forest area
Suggested Trip Plan
- Explore museum in morning
- Lunch in Kaladhungi
- Return to Nainital
My Travel Notes & Best Time
- Best in cooler months for road travel
- Great with children who love nature history
Suggested Itineraries For Places to Visit Near Nainital
Whether you have just one day or a relaxed long weekend, I like to plan my days so I don’t rush — and I always leave room for food stops and views along the way too. Here are a few trip plans that blend scenic views, nature walks, and local culture near Nainital.
One-Day Lakes & Forest Trip From Nainital
- Start: Early morning from Nainital
- Stops: Khurpatal → Bhowali breakfast → Sattal lakes → Back to Nainital
- Why I love it: You begin with a peaceful lake, enjoy fresh fruit at Bhowali, and then spend the golden hours wandering among forests and lakes.
One Day Nature & Himalayan Views Trip From Nainital
- Start: Sunrise in Nainital
- Stops: Naukuchiatal boating → Lunch with lake views → Mukteshwar viewpoint → Return to Nainital
- Why I love it: This mix of deep lake water and panoramic mountain views feels like a complete hill-station day — calm, wide, and green.
What to Eat Near Nainital
The food around Nainital is a lovely blend of local Kumaoni flavours and popular snacks that warm your heart after hikes or lake walks. From street bites to comfort meals, these are the dishes I will recommend trying when you’re here:
Aloo ke Gutke
This spicy potato dish is a hill-station favourite. Simple yet full of flavour, it’s made with boiled potatoes tossed with mustard oil, chillies, and local spices. I will grab a plate after a morning walk — it’s filling and feels like the hills in every bite.
Bhatt ki Churkani
A hearty black soybean curry cooked gently with aromatic spices. It’s warm, comforting and perfect on cool evenings in the hills. Locals usually serve it with rice or steamed chapatis.
Bal Mithai
This famous sweet from the Kumaon region is a must-try. Think roasted milk fudge coated with tiny sugar balls — a dessert many travellers buy as a souvenir too. It’s sugary and rich in flavour.
Singori
A delicate, sweet treat made from khoya and wrapped in fragrant “maalu” leaves. It’s a unique local dessert that feels special with a cup of hot tea on a cool evening.
Momos & Thukpa
Influenced by Tibetan cuisine, these are found at many roadside stalls and cafes in the area. Steaming hot momos and noodle soup (thukpa) are pure comfort while you explore the chilly hills.
Where to Stay Near Nainital
Finding the right place to stay makes your trip even more memorable. I’ve picked a mix of well-rated hotels and resorts — from cozy lakeside stays to forest hideaways — so you can pick what suits your style and budget.
Luxury & Comfortable Choices
- Namah Nainital, a member of Radisson Individuals Retreats – Elegant rooms and excellent service, perfect for couples or families wanting comfort near Mallital.
- The Naini Retreat, Nainital – A classic resort with calm garden spaces and great food options.
- Shervani Hilltop Nainital – Large property with beautiful terrace views over the hills.
Mid-Range & Value Stays
- Swiss Hotel and Spa Nainital – Great balance of price and comfort with a spa to unwind after a day of sightseeing.
- The Earl’s Court, Nainital – Comfortable rooms close to town highlights.
- Seasons Hotels By Xperience – Classic mid-range hotel near Mall Road.
Budget & Boutique Options
- DLS Hotels Emerald – Highly rated boutique stay with cosy rooms and great service.
- The Imperial Green – Friendly budget option near the main mall area.
- Hotel Royal Heritage – Hotel in Nainital – Affordable and well located for easy sightseeing.
Nature & Village Escapes
- The Cocoon Camps & Nature Resorts, Pangot, Nainital – Forest-side resort ideal for nature lovers and birdwatchers.
- The Acorn Cottage Birding Lodge Pangot – Simple yet delightful stay immersed in birdwatching territory.
- Castle Glamp – A glamping-style spot for a unique stay near the hills.
- Cygnett Resort Mountain Breeze – Nainital & Mudras Grove Resort – Best family resort in Nainital – Great family-friendly resorts with broad green spaces.
Conclusion
Exploring the places near Nainital within a short drive feels like uncovering beautiful layers of nature, culture, and flavour. From serene lakes and forest trails to spicy local dishes and comfortable stays, each stop has a charm that makes your trip feel complete. I hope this guide helps you plan a trip that feels easy, joyful, and deeply connected to the Kumaon hills — with memories you’ll want to revisit again soon.
FAQs About Places to Visit Near Nainital Within 100 Km
Here is the list of FAQs:
Some of the best places within 100 km of Nainital include Bhimtal, Sattal, Naukuchiatal, Mukteshwar, Pangot, Ranikhet, and Kaladhungi. I suggest mixing lakes, forest areas, and hill viewpoints so the trip feels balanced and relaxed rather than rushed.
Yes, 2–3 days is enough if you plan smartly. I like grouping nearby spots together — for example, Bhimtal, Sattal, and Naukuchiatal in one loop, and Mukteshwar or Pangot on a separate day. This keeps travel time short and sightseeing enjoyable.
If nature and views are your priority, I recommend Mukteshwar for Himalayan panoramas, Pangot and Kilbury for forests and birdlife, and Khurpatal or Sattal for peaceful lakes. These places offer fresh air, greenery, and calm spaces that feel far from busy towns.
Yes, many nearby destinations are family-friendly. Places like Bhimtal, Naukuchiatal, Khurpatal, and even Mukteshwar have easy walks, open spaces, and relaxed sightseeing. I will suggest avoiding long drives in one day when traveling with kids.
I find March to June ideal for pleasant weather and clear roads, while October to December is great for crisp air and mountain views. Monsoon months bring greenery but require careful planning due to slippery roads and occasional landslides.
Yes, all major tourist places within 100 km of Nainital are connected by well-maintained mountain roads. I prefer hiring a local taxi or self-driving, as it gives flexibility for photo stops, food breaks, and short detours to viewpoints.
For travelers who enjoy quieter locations, I recommend Pangot, Khurpatal, Bhumiyadhar View Point, and Ramgarh. These places feel less crowded and are perfect for slow travel, nature walks, and peaceful stays away from busy tourist centers.
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- Be Respectful
- Stay Relevant
- Stay Positive
- True Feedback
- Encourage Discussion
- Avoid Spamming
- No Fake News
- Don't Copy-Paste
- No Personal Attacks
