If you’ve ever wished to take in the sheer beauty of one of India’s most beloved hill stations all at once, than these hot spots we've shortlisted for you are the best places to catch a bird’s eye view of the magnificent city of lakes. From the lush green cover to the mighty hills and glistening lakes, catch the best views here:

1. Snow View Point

One of the city’s most visited tourist spot for witnessing the glorious Himalayas from Nainital, this place also offers visitors an excellent view of the snow capped mountains like Nanda Devi, Trishul and Nanda Kot. Though well connected by road, we’d suggest you opt for an adventurous aerial ropeway ride from Mallital for the ultimate experience.

2. Naina Peak

Picture Credits: Sanjay Upadhyay

This one is a major highlight of the city which also happens to be one of Nainital’s highest peaks too. Located at an altitude of 2611 meters above sea level, this fantastic peak instantly soothes the mind and soul with the stunning view of the snow covered Bandar Punch in West to Api and Nari peaks of Nepal in the East. The Naini Lake looks beautiful from atop this peak.

3. Tiffin Top

This is Nainital’s popular picnic-spot located at a height of 2290 meters atop the Ayarpatta Hill. The name tiffin means packed food, so people often pack their food and settle here for a while to savour a 360 degree view of Nainital and spend some quality time with friends and family amidst crisp, fresh air and magnificent views of the town below.

4. Guano Hills (Pangot)

Often called an explorer’s paradise, Guano Hills remains untouched and often unexplored by most visitors. Located at an altitude of 1985 meters, this place is perfect for those long treks that lend you an undiluted and unobstructed view of all the natural richness that Nainital has been blessed with. From amazing views of the country to the richness of flora & fauna inhabiting the hills, see it all here!

5. Suspension Bridge

Picture Credits: Ashutosh Deshpande

This one has become a tourist spot of sorts. An old suspension bridge flanked by green hills on both the sides, it lays over the Kosi river and offers a majestic view of Nainital’s rich floral habitation. It’s nothing special than that but for city dwellers this might just be a welcoming sight!

6. Kilbury

Picture Credits: Aashish & Suhasini Photography

At a distance of just about 12 kms from Nainital, lies Kilbury that makes for a perfect weekend picnic spot for locals and visitors alike. Hailed for its copious display of flora and fauna, this is also a must visit for bird watching. One can also look forward to getting a panoramic view of the Himalayas along with a view of Tarai and Bhabhar.

7. Himalayan View Point

On the way to Kilbury and about 5 kms away from Nainital, nestled at a height of 2300 MT, lies the Himalaya View Point. It's a beautiful spot to spend some quality time away from the city in peace and solitude, as you gaze at the majestic Himalayan ranges, the bustling green valley and the view of the hills and lower forested ridges from here.

8. Aryabhatta Research Institute of Observational Sciences (ARIES)

Picture Credits: Mr. Traveller

Sitting atop the Manora Peak and almost 9 kms away from Nainital lies ARIES, a paradise for the lovers of star gazing! An astronomical observatory with some of the world’s most advanced telescopes, visitors can get access to the observatory with prior permission, and also experience the pleasure of viewing celestial objects through the telescope if the night is clear.

9. Nainital Ropeway

Picture Credits: mnu Kr

Nainital Ropeway is one of the main attractions of the city as hundreds of tourists use the cable cars daily. At a height of 2270 meters, this ropeway connects Snow-View Point with Mallital and it takes only 3 minutes to make the the aerial journey that gives you a glimpse of the entire hill station. This one is ought to be on your list!

10. Pt. GB Pant High Altitude Zoo

Picture Credits: anand singh

Possibly the only zoo in the Uttarakhand area, this zoo is home to numerous endangered species. Situated at a height of 2100 meters, it makes for a favourable home for many animals and birds. The great height also promises some great views to its visitors. From wonderful birds and animals, to the glorious hills, there’s much to look forward to here!

So go check out these places ASAP!

Explorer In The Hills