Waterfalls in Nainital: Explore The 7 Captivating Cascades in the Lake District of India

When you look at the waterfalls in Nainital, it feels like the liquid marvel is directly coming down from the heavens and resting in the warm embrace of Earth. The glistening pearls of water rest on the big boulders while the mist formed on the flowing rivers creates an ethereal atmosphere. Nainital is a splendid location in the Himalayan Kumaon region and is home to some of the most beautiful lakes in the country. The atmosphere is peaceful with dense trees and a cool breeze.

Waterfalls in Nainital are loved immensely by the tourist crowd. They are completely natural and the melodic whispers of these waters, coupled with the excited chirping of the birds is the only thing you need to relax and rejuvenate. 

If you are planning your Nainital trip in the near future, book your accommodation at Hotels in Nainital for a memorable stay experience. 

And then set out to see these 7 waterfalls in the gorgeous town…

Also Read: VISIT THESE 10 ENIGMATIC WATERFALLS IN COIMBATORE ON YOUR NEXT TRIP TO THE CITY

The Best Waterfalls in Nainital

These are the most liked waterfalls in Nainital and we suggest that you include these wonders in your itinerary without fail. 

1 – Corbett Falls

Corbett Falls is one of the best waterfalls in Nainital and most of the tourists who visit the place will definitely check this out before leaving. This is present within the confines of a dense jungle so most of the visitors prefer to have a guide along with them. If you are visiting the Jim Corbett National Park, you can ask the authorities or managing groups there to take you down to Corbett Falls. You are most likely to find some of the rarest birds or exotic flora and plants on your way to the falls. You are not allowed to enter the waters or linger there for long owing to the fact that you are literally in the middle of the forest! People travelling by car must park their vehicle at a distance and trek for a short time to reach the falls. This is a good place to go on short walks or plan a picnic for an hour. 

Distance from Nainital: 39 km
Timings: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM

2 – Rudhradhari Waterfalls

Accessing Rudhradhari waterfalls in Nainital is a little challenging but the place is definitely worth your efforts. You will have to park your vehicles aside and go on a 2 km trek through dense pine forests. Then you will reach the waterfalls that are present amidst thick greenery. There is a Shiva and Vishnu temple and a few caves that you can explore in the region. It is believed that Lord Shiva often meditates in these caves and even Lord Vishnu has a spiritual connection with the caves. That is why this place is called Rudhradhari, which is a combination of the names of Lord Shiva and Vishnu – Rudhra and Hari. People who come here sit down and spend some quaint time with their company or meditate for a short time while focussing on the rhythmic hum of the cascading falls. 

Distance from Nainital: 123 km
Timings: Open 24 Hours; It is not advised to come here after 7 PM.

3 – Bhalu Gaad Waterfalls

Bhalu Gaad is one of the most unique waterfalls in Nainital. You ask why? Depending upon the speed of the water, you can witness a horseshoe-style flow or plunge-style drop down from a height. The word ‘Bhalu’ means bear. The place gets its name because a large number of bear sightings are seen in this part of the forest near Nainital. You will have to walk for a short distance to see the falls and it is good to plan some serene time here. It feels like you have been cut off from the rest of the world and are happily basking in the glory of nature. However, strictly avoid being in this place past 5:00 PM and if you spot a bear, take photographs without flash. 

Distance from Nainital: 40km
Timings: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM

4 – Dhokane Waterfalls

Not many know about the Dhokane waterfalls in Nainital. This is one of the most mesmerising places in the region. If you are coming by road and passing Almora, then you are sure to see this waterfall on National Highway 109. It comes down from a height and creates dense mist at the bottom where it meets the waterbody. Also, it has no crowd most of the time and afternoons you will find no one lingering there. No one will stop you from taking a dip but owing to the speed of the water, it is advised to not step in. If you have enough time on your hands, after exploring the waterfall, go for a walk in the neighbouring Dhokaney village. You can also buy some local honey and snacks from the Ninglat village. Keep your eyes open for the delicious Himalayan pickles that you will find here! 

Distance from Nainital: 48 km
Timings: 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM

5 – Woodland waterfalls

Nature lovers will definitely enjoy visiting the Woodland waterfalls in Nainital. This is a stream that cascades down at full force when the water overflows from the Sariyatal Lake. This fall was once unknown to the world but the authorities of the National Forest Department did a lot of hard work and made the spot more accessible. They cut down the wild twigs and planted more deodar and bamboo plants. There are several animal sculptures around the waterfall and ample space where you can sit and enjoy watching the water. You will have to climb a few steps initially to reach the foot of the falls and there you can plan a good picnic along with your kids. 

Distance from Nainital: 8.6 km
Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:45 PM

6 – Freaky waterfalls

The Freaky waterfalls in Nainital are present amidst the lush green forests and come down from an impressive height of 4500 feet above sea level. When you will see this waterfall, stay assured that you will be completely awe-struck by its charismatic beauty! The journey to reach the falls is absolutely stunning. You will find a path lined with alluring trees, pines, exotic flowers and wild bushes. Once you reach the spot, you can enjoy the best panoramic view of the surrounding valley. You can feel that fresh air brush your face and relax while sitting in the lap of nature. If you are craving some silence and me time, then this is where you should be heading. The avian lovers should look out for the migratory birds and cute native variants that are frequent visitors to these falls. If you are planning to see Jim Corbett National Park and opting for a tourist package, look out for the ones that also include Freaky Waterfalls and the previously discussed Corbett Falls. Both of these require intense hiking so it would be better to go with a group and a guide. 

Distance from Nainital: 22.7 km
Timings: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM

7 – Barati Rau Waterfalls

If you have time after visiting Corbett Falls, then we urge you to travel for 5 more kilometres to reach the Barati Rau Waterfalls. This is a hidden gem so you won’t find a large group near the falls. You can have it all for yourselves. It is in the Chunakhan village which is roughly 45 km from Nainital. It will take you about 2 hours to reach the spot. After a 2 km casual trek, you will reach the mesmerising place where misty white water lands into a turquoise pool. A canopy of trees covers the water body and it is beautiful to see rays of sunrise escape from the gaps and shine like glittering gold on the surface of the water. Chunakhan is a community-based village where people have slightly different lifestyles. The ecotourism project associated with the Barati Rau waterfalls gives these local people employment. Anything you buy from the souvenir shops here will add up to their profits. So, consider taking a walk in the village after exploring the waterfall. 

Distance from Nainital: 45.7 km
Timings: 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM

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How to Reach Nainital?

Nainital is one of the most sought-after tourist destinations in North India. If you are in the mood for quaint hills and rolling valleys, then Nainital must be your go-to destination. It is also a very easily accessible hill station that you can reach by flights, trains or buses. 

By Air 

People who want to explore the waterfalls in Nainital can reach the hill station by air. The nearest domestic airport is the Pantnagar Airport which is about 70 km away from Nainital. You will easily find a cab, and taxi facilities or you can even catch a bus and reach Nainital town centre within 2 hours. Another option would be to land at Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi and take a cab or overnight bus to Nainital. This will be a 7-hour journey. 

By Rail

The nearest railway station to Nainital is the Kathgodam railway station. It is about 41 km away. You will reach Nainital in about an hour if you take a bus or cab from the station. Seeing how Kathgodam is one of the main railway stations in the Kumaon region, it receives trains from Lucknow, Kolkata, New Delhi, and Mathura. People travelling from other parts of the country can make a pitstop at any of these stations and catch a train to Kathgodam. Two trains run from New Delhi to Kathgodam daily. 

By Road

If you are in the mood for a road trip, the route from New Delhi to Nainital is one of the most scenic ones in the country. You will be awe-struck by the beauty of nature. The ones who are coming from South India will eventually join the National Highway 87 that connects Nainital to Rudrapur and Rampur. The trip from New Delhi to Nainital is lined with dense olive-colored trees on either side of the road and the 7-hour drive is relatively easy compared to other hill stations in the region. 

Apart from these lovely waterfalls in Nainital, there are several other places that you can see in the place. In winter, the snow viewpoint will offer you the most alluring views of the valley. The Tiffin top point is equally good. You can enjoy some boating time on the Nainital Lake and go on nature walks amidst the dense pine forests. The shopaholics will enjoy buying some goods from the Mall Road, Tibetan and Bhotia markets. Also, seek blessings from the Maa Naina Devi Temple before you decide to end your trip. Sorted, isn’t it?!

This blog will help you with itinerary planning: NAINITAL TOUR ITINERARY: A 7-DAY ADVENTURE IN THE SERENE HILL STATION

The waterfalls in Nainital are one of the main attractions of the region. With the backdrop of dense hilly forests, and views of breathtaking valleys, it becomes all the more beautiful. On your next trip to Nainital, do not miss out on exploring these lovely water bodies that seem like they are cascading down from the pristine skies.