Lying on the northern part of Naini Lake, the Naina Devi Temple, dedicated to local deity Naina Devi, is a popular spiritual stopover. The temple is one of the shaktipeethas (devotional shrines where severed body parts of Goddess Sati fell) and draws devotees from all over the region. The sanctum sanctorum houses three deities-- Goddess Kali on the left, Lord Ganesha on the right and two eyes representing Naina Devi in the centre. Legend has it that once Goddess Sati's father held a yajna (a holy fire ritual) and failed to invite his son-in-law, Lord Shiva. Angry at her father, Sati immolated herself in the yajna. After this, Lord Shiva carried her body on his shoulders and performed his dance of cosmic destruction, tandava. Fearing that this would destroy the world, Lord Vishnu severed Sati's body with his chakra. It is believed that her eyes fell at the spot where the temple now stands.

Since the temple lies on top of a hill, it offers sweeping vistas of the surrounding areas. It has a large courtyard with a sacred peepal tree on the left and idols of Lord Ganesha and Lord Hanuman on the right. The entrance of the temple is striking and boasts two lion statues. The temple is especially crowded during the celebrations of Nanda Ashtami.

Snow View Point offers sweeping and panoramic views of the city of Nainital. Lying at a height of 2,270 m, it gives a bird's eye view of the area and the majestic snow-clad Himalayas. It is said to be one of the best viewpoints in Nainital and visitors can see also Nanda Devi, Nanda Kot and Trishul peaks from here. To let visitors closely admire the enthralling view, a huge pair of binoculars has been installed at the point, which is well-connected with roads. Tourists can also reach via a cable car or a ropeway, and admire the picturesque views gliding by. Another attraction is a small temple that houses the idols of Lord Rama, Lord Lakshmana, Goddess Sita and Lord Hanuman.

Lying on the outskirts of Nainital, at an approximate height of 2,292 m, Dorothy Seat offers an effortlessly breathtaking view of the entire area, along with the surrounding hills. It is also known as Tiffin Top and is a popular picnic and photography spot. A beautiful spot surrounded by oak, deodar and cher trees, one can see the majestic Naina Devi peak from here.It is said that Tiffin Top got its name as locals used to trek to the top of the hill during the day to have lunch. Another local attraction is a memorial dedicated to an English artist, Dorothy Kellet, after whom the place has been named. Legend has it that Dorothy Kellet, the wife of an army officer, Col JP Kellet, drowned while she was travelling and was buried in the Red Sea in 1936. 

Lying on the outskirts of Nainital, Mukteshwar is a quaint hill town set amidst lush coniferous forests and sweet-smelling fruit orchards. Drenched in colonial charm, Mukteshwar is lined with British-style bungalows that boast red roofs, picket barriers and ancient wooden window frames. The entire area is doused with screaming silence and makes for an ideal natural retreat. Since it lies at a height of  7,500 ft above sea level, you can get splendid views of Nanda Devi, one of India's highest peaks, and the Himalayas, from here. Mukteshwar has been named after Lord Shiva, who is worshipped here as the one who offers moksha (salvation). The Mukteshwar Temple, dedicated to the lord, is the main attraction. Besides, tourists can also take a detour to the Indian Veterinary Research Institute campus, which was established in 1893. Another noteworthy site is the Renewable Park developed by the Energy and Resources Institute, which uses solar energy to meet its electricity needs.