July 15, 2024
Nestled in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, Nainital is a charming hill station celebrated for its breathtaking landscapes, tranquil lakes, and historical allure. This idyllic retreat is a sought-after haven for travelers yearning to escape the oppressive heat and bustle of urban life. Beyond its well-known attractions, Nainital harbors numerous hidden treasures waiting to be explored. These lesser-known spots offer an immersive experience, revealing the area’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Here is a carefully curated list of the top 6 offbeat places in Nainital that should be on your bucket list, all conveniently accessible when you stay at The Willow Way Homestay.
1. Tiffin Top
Tiffin Top, perched on Ayarpatta Hill, provides a stunning panorama of Nainital and the neighboring Kumaon hills. This vantage point is a treasure trove for nature lovers and photographers, who will be enthralled by its tranquil charm. From this elevated spot, visitors can savour a bird’s-eye view of Nainital and the scenic Kumaon hills. For those seeking adventure, Tiffin Top also offers opportunities for rock climbing, adding a thrilling dimension to the visit.
The Willow Way provides easy access to Tiffin Top, allowing guests to embark on a morning hike and enjoy a picnic lunch on Dorothy’s Seat. Conveniently situated on the same mountain as Tiffin Top, our homestay’s proximity means you can spend more time enjoying the view and less time traveling. The starting point for the Tiffin Top hike is just a 5-minute walk away from The Willow Way, making it an ideal base for your adventure.
Location: Ayarpatta, Nainital, Naina Range, Uttarakhand 263002
Travel Distance: 500 m from The Willow Way
Travel Time: 5 minutes
Best Time to Visit: March to June and September to December
2. GB Pant High Altitude Zoo
The Pt. Govind Ballabh Pant High Altitude Zoo, more commonly referred to as the Nainital Zoo, stands out as a unique attraction nestled in the Kumaon region. Established in 1984 and opening its gates to the public in 1995, this zoo is perched atop Sher Ka Danda hill at an elevation of 2,100 meters. Covering an area of 4.6 hectares, it holds the distinction of being the sole high-altitude zoo in North India. This sanctuary is home to a variety of endangered Himalayan wildlife, including the majestic Royal Bengal tiger, Tibetan wolves, sambar, leopard cat, and Himalayan bear. Additionally, the zoo is renowned for its impressive assortment of high-altitude bird species.
Guests at The Willow Way can enjoy a leisurely morning at the zoo, returning to the homestay for a relaxing afternoon. Our staff can pack a delightful picnic for you to enjoy at the zoo, making your visit even more enjoyable.
Location: Tallital, Nainital, Uttarakhand 263002
Travel Distance: 4 Km from The Willow Way
Travel Time: 15 minutes
Best Time to Visit: March to December
3. Naina Peak
Naina Peak, also known as China Peak or Cheena Peak, soars to an impressive height of 2,615 meters above sea level, offering breathtaking vistas of the Nainital Valley and the vast Kumaon region. This destination is a haven for trekking aficionados, presenting an array of challenging, scenic trails. As hikers make their way up, they find themselves enveloped in a lush forest, thick with cypress, oak, and pine trees, and punctuated by the vibrant pink and red blossoms of Rhododendrons or Buransh.
For guests staying at The Willow Way, we can arrange guided trekking tours to Naina Peak, ensuring a safe and memorable hike. After an exhilarating trek, return to the comfort of your cosy room at The Willow Way, where you can unwind and share your adventure stories during High Tea.
Location: Naina Range, Uttarakhand
Travel Distance: 6 Km from The Willow Way
Travel Time: 19 minutes
Best Time to Visit: March to June and October to December
4. Snow View Point
Snow View Point, standing at an altitude of 2,270 meters, offers a panoramic view of the mighty Himalayas, draped in a blanket of milky-white snow. From here, you can see all three significant peaks: Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Nanda Kot. A massive pair of binoculars lets you look closer at the Himalayan range and its magical peaks. There’s also a small temple with images of Lord Rama, Goddess Sita, Lord Lakshman, Lord Hanuman, Lord Shiva, and Goddess Durga.
Staying at The Willow Way Homestay, you can enjoy an early morning trip to Snow View Point, avoiding the crowds and basking in the serene morning light. The Willow Way’s convenient location means you’re just a short drive away, allowing you to make the most of your day with minimal travel time.
Location: Mallital, Nainital, Uttarakhand 263001
Travel Distance: 3.4 Km from The Willow Way
Travel Time: 15 minutes
Best Time to Visit: March to June and September to December
5. Raj Bhawan – Governor’s House Nainital
Raj Bhawan, often referred to as the Governor’s House, is a striking historical edifice that mirrors the grandeur of a Scottish castle, emblematic of British colonial heritage. Constructed in 1897, this Gothic-style mansion encompasses 113 rooms that once accommodated British dignitaries. Set amid sprawling gardens adorned with deodar and oak trees, the estate covers an expansive 205 acres. It includes a 45-acre golf course, a swimming pool, and offers stunning panoramic views. Guests visiting Raj Bhawan can enjoy insightful guided tours, explore the vintage golf course, and marvel at the spectacular vistas of Nainital.
Guests of The Willow Way can enjoy a guided tour arranged by our hosts, ensuring a rich historical experience at Raj Bhawan. After exploring this majestic site, you can retreat to the homestay’s comfortable and serene environment, perfect for relaxation. Guests can easily walk from The Willow Way to Raj Bhawan, enjoying a scenic walk through the mountains, lush with greenery and opportunities to spot wildlife. Alternatively, our hosts can arrange for paid cabs for your convenience.
Location: Amghari, Nainital, Naina Range, Uttarakhand 263002
Travel Distance: 2.1 Km from The Willow Way
Travel Time: 8 minutes
Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year
6. Sarita Tal
Sarita Tal, earlier known as Sariyatal, is a charming and scenic offbeat place near Nainital. This artificial lake was constructed as a tourist spot and is surrounded by lush hills and varied flora, making it a nature lover’s paradise. The main attraction here is the small but picturesque, emerald-green lake that offers a serene environment away from the city’s hustle and bustle. Sarita Tal is an ideal place for solitude seekers, nature lovers, and photographers. Visitors can enjoy numerous activities here, including paddle boating and various water sports. Nearby is the Himalayan Botanical Garden, a research center with a rich collection of rare plants and flowers and a Butterfly Museum, adding to the site’s appeal.
The Willow Way offers easy access to Sariyatal, allowing guests to enjoy a day trip filled with nature walks and botanical explorations. Our hosts can provide packed lunches and arrange for transportation, ensuring a hassle-free and delightful experience.
Location: Smanora Range, Uttarakhand 263002
Travel Distance: 6.9 Km from The Willow Way
Travel Time: 18 minutes
Best Time to Visit: March to June and September to December
Stay at The Willow Way and Explore Offbeat Nainital
Staying at The Willow Way Homestay provides you with the perfect base to explore these offbeat places in Nainital. Centrally located with easy access to proper roads and cabs, The Willow Way offers a peaceful retreat after your day of adventures. Our cosy and comfortable rooms – Naina and Deodar, provide beautiful views of the forest, making your stay even more delightful.
At The Willow Way, we can also arrange paid pick-up and drop services from Delhi, Kathgodam Station, Pantnagar Airport, and local cabs for visiting nearby attractions. This convenience allows you to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of Nainital without worrying about transportation.
Tick Off Items from Your Bucket List
Nainital, with its blend of natural beauty and cultural richness, offers an array of experiences for every traveller. Whether it’s soaking in the panoramic views from Snow View Point, exploring the diverse wildlife at the GB Pant High Altitude Zoo, or trekking through the dense forests to Tiffin Top and Naina Peak, there’s something for everyone. Staying at The Willow Way not only ensures a comfortable stay but also places you at the heart of these incredible experiences. So, pack your bags, check into The Willow Way, and start ticking off items from your Nainital bucket list!
Book your stay at The Willow Way today and embark on an unforgettable journey through the hidden gems of Nainital.
