If you are wondering what gave Nainital its name? Well, it’s Naina Devi Temple. Nested right on the banks of Naina Lake, it has become a living legend in its true sense. The temple is the beating heart of the town’s culture and, of course, a real spiritual magnet in every sense!
If you are looking to visit Naina Devi Temple, there is perhaps some information that would prove to be handy.
Naina Devi Temple – An overview
Wonder what makes the Naina Devi Temple so popular and a mystic magnet for the spiritual seekers? Well, it has been revered as one of the Shakti Peethas. The temple traces its history back to the mythical ages of the Puranas.
However, the current structure seems to have been reconstructed by the local devotees in 1883. It is believed that the original temple was destroyed during the massive landslide in 1880. The temple is situated at the northern end of Nainital Lake and is surrounded by the beautiful Shivalik range of the Himalayas.
Mythological & Historical Significance
The Naina Devi temple or the legend of Naina Devi is related to the Rudra Tandava of Bhagwan Shiva. When Sati immolated herself in the Tajna of her father Daksha, Shiva carried her burning body across the cosmos. It is said that Bhagwan Narayana cut the body into pieces to bring Shiva out of the grief.
The body disintegrated, and the parts fell in several regions across India. Naina Devi is said to be standing at the place where her eyes fell.
Though the original temple is ancient, the present structure was rebuilt in 1883 by locals after a tragic landslide wiped it out. Since then, it has stood tall, protecting, blessing, and watching over the town. The temple finds a mention during the Kushan period.
Architectural highlights
The Naina Devi temple has a unique and impressive architecture. Of course, it does not have a palatial size or grandeur, but offers a majestic appearance, ambiance, and design.
The entrance to the temple has a large Banyan tree. The tree is wrapped in red and yellow threads. These threads represent wishes and prayers. The Garbha Griha of the temple has two eyes representing Naina Devi. You would also find the Vigrahas of Ganesha and Kali on either side.
The temple’s red and golden shikhara (spire) and lively prayer flags fluttering in the breeze add to its spiritual vibrance.
Location and accessibility
The Naina Devi Temple is located on the northern bank of Naina Lake. You will find it located at the centre of Nainital town. It is around 22 km from Bhimtal. The distance from our Chirping Hill Resort to the temple is 18 km. You can reach here under 40 minutes along the Bhowali – Bhimtal road.
Direction map from Chirping Hill Resort to Naina Devi Temple.
Distance from nearby cities
- Kathgodam: ~35 km (about 1.5 hours by road)
Direction map to the temple from Kathgodam
- Haldwani: ~40 km (around one and a half hours journey)
Direction map to the temple from Haldwani
- Delhi: ~300 km (7-8 hours by car or overnight train)
Direction map from Delhi to the temple
How to reach the temple?
The city of Nainital is a world-renowned tourist destination. It is well connected by road, air, and railways.
- By air – The nearby airport is Pantnagar. It is located at around 70 km from Nainital. You can get several cabs and buses from here to Nainital.
Direction map from Pantnagar to Naina Devi Temple
- By railways – Kathgodam railway station is the nearest station to the temple. It is also well connected to major cities like Delhi, Lucknow, and Kolkata. From Kathgodam, which is around 35 km away, you can take a bus or a cab to the temple.
- By road – Nainital is well connected by road. Buses and taxis are frequent from Delhi, Dehradun, and nearby hill towns.
If you take a bus, finding the temple from Nainital city should not be a concern. Once in Nainital, the temple is just a short walk from the Mall Road, located next to the Naina Devi Jetty. You can’t miss it—just follow the sounds of temple bells and the scent of incense!
Best time to visit
You can visit the Naina Devi Temple throughout the year, across seasons. However, the vibes you would get across every season would be entirely different.
- Summer (March to June): Perfect weather. Ideal for lake activities + temple visit.
- Monsoon (July to September): Lush surroundings, fewer crowds, but occasional rain.
- Winter (October to February): Misty and magical. Carry warm clothes—Nainital gets chilly!
Visiting the temple during the festivals and special occasions would further make it a valuable experience.
- Nanda Ashtami (August-September): Grand annual fair held at the temple. Devotees gather in huge numbers; folk music, rituals, and cultural processions take over the town.
- Navratri: Special aartis and vibrant celebrations over nine nights of devotion.
Things to Do & Experiences
Well, there are several ways that you can experience spirituality and other attractions is Nainital.
Spiritual activities
- Attend the morning and evening aartis—spiritually moving, especially with lake views.
- Offer red chunari (veil), bangles, prasad, and diyas to the goddess.
- Walk around the temple courtyard and ring the large brass temple bell—each chime is a call to the divine.
Meditation & Spiritual Moments
- Sit by the temple steps facing the lake. Meditate or simply breathe—it’s deeply calming.
- Write down your wish on red paper and tie it to the wish tree (optional, but part of local belief).
Nearby sightseeing
- Naini Lake boating: Steps away!
- Tiffin Top, Snow View Point & Eco Cave Gardens—perfect half-day trips nearby.
Travel tips
It is important to follow a few special tips for a smooth experience of the temple and its surroundings.
Dress Code:
Modest attire is recommended.
Shoes must be removed before entering. Leave them at the designated racks.
Best Visiting Hours:
Temple Timings: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM (Aarti at sunrise and sunset)
Avoid peak noon hours during summer—it can get crowded.
Facilities:
Shops outside the temple sell puja items, prasad, and souvenirs.
Clean restrooms are available nearby along the lakefront.
Photography is allowed outside, but avoid clicking pictures inside the sanctum.
Nearby attractions
Apart from the Naina Devi temple, the town also offers you access to several attractions and options nearby.
Where to stay?
Nainital offers several affordable accommodation options that include luxury resorts to homestays. You can choose the best options that suit your group size and the preferences you may have.
At Chirping Hill Resort, you can be assured of a centralised location that caters to practically every attraction around. We also offer you diverse accommodation options such as home stays, nature’s nest, and farm stay.
Bhimtal & Sattal:
Just a short drive from Nainital. Ideal for boating, picnics, and birdwatching.
Directions to Sattal from the temple
Direction map to Bhimtal from the temple
Other Temples:
- Hanuman Garhi Temple: Scenic views and a huge Hanuman idol.
Direction map to Hanuman Garhi from the Naina Devi temple
- Kainchi Dham Ashram: Founded by Neem Karoli Baba, attracts spiritual seekers worldwide.
Direction map to Kainchi Dham from the temple
Leisure & Adventure:
- Boating on Naini Lake
- Cable car to Snow View Point
- Mall Road strolls, cafes, and shopping
Conclusion
A visit to Naina Devi Temple is more than a tick on your travel list—it’s a soul-stirring experience that blends mythology, serenity, and stunning natural beauty.
As the goddess watches over Nainital with her divine eyes, you too will feel watched over, welcomed, and wonderfully at peace.
So next time you visit Nainital, don’t just stop for selfies by the lake—walk up the temple steps, listen to the bells, and look into the eyes of the divine.
While you visit Nainital and nearby areas, make Chirping Hill Resort your home. We assure a wide range of accommodation options that suit your budget and specific needs.