Overview: The Crown Jewel of Nainital’s Viewpoints
Perched atop the Sher-ka-danda Ridge at a dizzying altitude of 2,270 metres (7,450 feet), Snow View Point is the most spectacular vantage point in Nainital and one of the most photographed locations in the Kumaon Himalayas. As the name suggests, this iconic viewpoint offers a panoramic, unobstructed view of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks, including the majestic Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Nanda Kot.
Located just 2 kilometres from the heart of Nainital, Snow View Point is easily accessible via a scenic cable car ride from Mallital or a steep 15–30 minute walk from Mall Road. The ropeway car, with glass on all sides, provides an excellent view of nature and the city as you fly upwards.
Whether you are a nature lover, a photography enthusiast, a family on vacation, or a couple seeking a romantic escape, Snow View Point promises an experience that stays with you forever. From the snowy Himalayan peaks on one side to the helicopter view of Nainital city and Naini Lake on the other, this destination offers a visual feast that is simply unforgettable.
Key Information at a Glance
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Sher-ka-danda Ridge, Mallital, Nainital, Kumaon, Uttarakhand |
| Altitude | 2,270 m (7,450 ft) above sea level |
| Coordinates | Approx. 29.39°N, 79.45°E |
| Distance from Mall Road | 2 km |
| Distance from Delhi | ~300–310 km by road |
| Nearest Airport | Pantnagar Airport (~70 km) |
| Nearest Railway Station | Kathgodam (~34 km) |
| Best Time to Visit | October–April for clearest Himalayan views |
| Entry Fee | ₹150 (adult), ₹100 (child) |
| Ropeway Timings | 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM (all days of the week) |
| Ideal Duration | 30 minutes to 1 hour |
| Ropeway Fare | ₹300 (adult return), ₹200 (child return) |
History of Snow View Point
The Colonial Discovery
Snow View Point’s history is intertwined with the story of Nainital itself. The town was discovered by the British in 1841 when P. Barron, a sugar trader from Shahjahanpur, built the first European house, Pilgrim Lodge. The British developed the region into a charming hill station, and Snow View Point was established as a vantage point to enjoy the magnificent views of the snow-capped Himalayas.
A Royal Connection
The viewpoint has been a favourite among tourists and dignitaries for generations. The cable car service was introduced to make the viewpoint more accessible, and today, it remains one of the most visited attractions in Nainital.
Geography of Snow View Point
Location and Topography
Snow View Point is located on the Sher-ka-danda Ridge, north-north-east of the Nainital town centre. It is perched at an altitude of 2,270 metres (7,450 feet) above sea level. The viewpoint offers a 200-degree panoramic view of the surrounding landscape, with the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas on one side and the Nainital city and Naini Lake on the other.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Altitude | 2,270 m (7,450 ft) |
| Terrain | Hilltop ridge, steep slopes |
| Vegetation | Pine, deodar, and oak forests |
The Sher-ka-danda Ridge
The viewpoint is situated on the Sher-ka-danda Ridge, which translates to the “Lion’s Tail” ridge in the local language. This ridge offers one of the most strategic and scenic locations in the entire Nainital region.
Flora and Fauna of Snow View Point
Flora — A Botanical Paradise
The area surrounding Snow View Point is blessed with rich Himalayan vegetation:
- Pine, Deodar, and Oak trees — dominating the landscape
- Rhododendrons — vibrant blooms in spring
- Wildflowers — adding to the natural beauty of the region
Fauna — Wildlife and Birdwatching
The region around Snow View Point is home to a variety of Himalayan wildlife and bird species:
- Himalayan Monal — the colourful state bird of Uttarakhand
- Various pheasant species
- Langurs — commonly seen in the surrounding forests
- Himalayan birds — including eagles and other raptors
Religious Beliefs and Sacred Sites
Dev Mundi Temple
At the top of Snow View Point, there is a small temple dedicated to Dev Mundi, which holds deep religious significance for the locals. According to legend, this temple was once visited by Mahatma Gandhi, who marvelled at the tranquillity of the surroundings and meditated here during his visit to Nainital.
The Temple Complex
A small temple housing images of Rama, Sita, Lakshman, Hanuman, Durga, and Shiva is located on the peak. This temple adds a spiritual dimension to the visit, making Snow View Point not just a scenic spot but also a place of devotion.
Gadhan Kunkyop Ling Gompa
The Tibetan Monastery Gadhan Kunkyop Ling Gompa, belonging to the Gelukpa order, is situated near Snow View Point and is a must-visit spot. This monastery offers a peaceful retreat and a glimpse into the Tibetan Buddhist culture of the region.
How to Reach Snow View Point
By Air — Nearest Airports
| Airport | Distance | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Pantnagar Airport | ~70 km | Nearest airport; connected to Delhi |
| Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi | ~300 km | Major international hub |
From Pantnagar Airport:
- Hire a taxi to Nainital (approx. 2–3 hours)
- From Nainital, take the ropeway or taxi to Snow View Point
By Train — Nearest Railway Stations
| Station | Distance | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Kathgodam Railway Station | 34 km | Nearest station; well-connected to Delhi |
| Haldwani Railway Station | ~40 km | Alternative station |
From Kathgodam to Snow View Point:
- Hire a taxi to Nainital (approx. 1–1.5 hours)
- From Nainital, take the ropeway or taxi to Snow View Point
By Ropeway (Most Popular)
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Starting Point | Mallital (near Nainital Mall Road) |
| Duration | 5–10 minutes |
| Timings | 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM (all days) |
| Fare (Return) | ₹300 (adult), ₹200 (child) |
The ropeway car has glass on all sides, providing an excellent view of nature and the city as you fly upwards. A time limit of 1 hour is allotted at Snow View Point.
By Road (Alternative)
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Distance from Mall Road | 2 km |
| Access | Winding mountain road |
| Transport Options | Private taxi, shared jeep |
| Walking | Steep 15–30 minute walk from Mall Road |
Note: The final approach includes steps and uneven paths, and the viewpoint is not fully wheelchair-friendly.
Distance from Major Cities
| City | Distance to Nainital | Travel Time |
|---|---|---|
| Delhi | 300–310 km | 7–8 hours by road |
| Kathgodam | 34 km | 1–1.5 hours |
| Haldwani | ~40 km | 1.5–2 hours |
| Pantnagar | ~70 km | 2–3 hours |
| Ranikhet | ~60 km | 2–3 hours |
Weather and Best Time to Visit
Climate Overview
Nainital experiences a temperate highland climate, with pleasant summers and cold winters. Snow View Point, at 2,270 metres, is significantly cooler than the town below.
Seasonal Breakdown
| Season | Months | Temperature | Conditions | Suitability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Winter (Peak) | November–February | 0°C – 12°C | Snow, cold, clearest views | ⭐ Best |
| Spring | March–April | 8°C – 18°C | Pleasant, blooming flowers | ⭐ Good |
| Summer | May–June | 12°C – 25°C | Warm, clear skies | ⭐ Good |
| Monsoon | July–September | 15°C – 22°C | Heavy rainfall, cloudy views | ❌ Avoid |
| Autumn | October–November | 8°C – 18°C | Crisp air, clear views | ⭐ Best |
Best Time to Visit by Season
| Season | Months | Suitability | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Winter | November–February | ⭐ Best | Clearest Himalayan views, snow at the viewpoint |
| Autumn | October–November | ⭐ Best | Post-monsoon clarity, golden landscapes |
| Spring | March–April | ⭐ Good | Pleasant weather, blooming flowers |
| Summer | May–June | ⭐ Good | Warm, comfortable, clear skies |
| Monsoon | July–September | ❌ Avoid | Heavy rainfall, cloudy views, slippery paths |
Why Visit in Winter (November–February)
- Clearest views of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks
- Snowfall at the viewpoint, creating a magical winter wonderland
- Ideal for photography with crisp, clear skies
- Romantic ambiance for couples
Why Visit in Autumn (October–November)
- Post-monsoon clarity with crystal-clear views
- Comfortable temperatures
- Golden landscapes ideal for photography
Why Visit in Summer (May–June)
- Pleasant weather with clear skies
- Ideal for families and sightseeing
Why Avoid the Monsoon (July–September)
- Heavy rainfall and cloudy skies
- Slippery paths and reduced visibility
- Risk of landslides on mountain roads
Packing Guide
| Category | Items |
|---|---|
| Winter | Heavy woollens, thermal wear, insulated jacket, gloves, woollen cap |
| Summer | Light cotton clothes, light jacket for evenings |
| Essentials | Sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, power bank, camera |
| Documents | Valid ID proof (Aadhaar, Passport) |
| Seasonal | Raincoat (monsoon), warm layers (winter) |
Top Places to Visit Nearby
| Destination | Distance from Snow View Point | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Naini Lake | 2 km | Boating, sailing, lakeside walks |
| Naina Devi Temple | 2 km | Ancient Shakti Peeth, lake views |
| Mall Road | 2 km | Shopping, dining, colonial charm |
| Tiffin Top (Dorothy’s Seat) | 4 km | Panoramic views, short trek |
| China Peak (Naina Peak) | 4 km | Highest peak in Nainital at 2,615 m |
| Eco Cave Gardens | ~3 km | Natural rocky caves |
| Tibetan Monastery | Near Snow View Point | Gadhan Kunkyop Ling Gompa |
| Snowview Heritage Hotel | Near Snow View Point | Only place with a bar in Nainital |
Things to Do at Snow View Point
1. Witness the Panoramic Himalayan Views
The primary attraction at Snow View Point is the panoramic view of the snow-capped Himalayas. On clear days, you can see Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Nanda Kot peaks in all their glory. Early mornings and winter months offer the clearest views.
2. Ride the Ropeway
The cable car ride from Mallital to Snow View Point is an experience in itself. The glass-sided car offers stunning aerial views of Nainital city and Naini Lake as you ascend.
3. Visit Dev Mundi Temple
Pay your respects at the small temple dedicated to Dev Mundi, a site visited by Mahatma Gandhi. The temple complex also houses images of Rama, Sita, Lakshman, Hanuman, Durga, and Shiva.
4. Explore the Tibetan Monastery
Visit the Gadhan Kunkyop Ling Gompa, a Tibetan monastery of the Gelukpa order located near the viewpoint.
5. Photography
Snow View Point offers endless photography opportunities:
- Sunrise and sunset shots of the Himalayan peaks
- The ropeway car in action
- Nainital city and Naini Lake from above
- The Dev Mundi Temple and its surroundings
6. Enjoy the Amusement Park
At the top, you’ll find a kids’ amusement park with carnival stalls, making it a fun destination for families.
7. Souvenir Shopping
Explore the food, souvenir, and carnival stalls at the viewpoint.
8. Horse Riding
Horse riding is another attraction available at Snow View Point.
Accommodation Options
| Type | Location | Features | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hotels | Nainital town | Wide range from budget to luxury | ₹1,000 – ₹10,000+ |
| Guesthouses | Nainital | Basic amenities, comfortable stay | ₹500 – ₹2,000 |
| Snowview Heritage Hotel | Near Snow View Point | Only hotel with a bar in Nainital | ₹3,000 – ₹8,000+ |
| Homestays | Nainital | Authentic local experience | ₹800 – ₹2,500 |
Discover Uttarakhand Recommendation: For easy access to Snow View Point, stay in the Mallital area of Nainital, which is closest to the ropeway station. The Snowview Heritage Hotel offers a unique stay right near the viewpoint.
Local Cuisine — A Taste of Kumaon
Nainital offers a delightful blend of Kumaoni and North Indian cuisine.
Must-Try Kumaoni Dishes
| Dish | Description |
|---|---|
| Aloo Ke Gutke | Spiced fried potatoes, a Kumaoni speciality |
| Bhatt Ki Churkani | Black soybean curry |
| Chainsoo | Protein-rich black gram curry |
| Mandua Roti | Finger millet flatbread |
| Gahat Ki Dal | Horse gram lentil soup |
| Bal Mithai | Famous chocolate-like sweet from Kumaon |
| Singauri | Traditional Kumaoni sweet wrapped in leaf |
Where to Eat
- Mall Road — wide range of restaurants and cafes
- Local dhabas — authentic Kumaoni food
- Street food stalls — chaat, momos, and local snacks
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
General Questions
Q1: What is Snow View Point famous for?
Snow View Point is famous for its panoramic views of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks, including Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Nanda Kot. It is also known for the scenic cable car ride from Mallital and the historic Dev Mundi Temple.
Q2: What is the altitude of Snow View Point?
Snow View Point is situated at an altitude of approximately 2,270 metres (7,450 feet) above sea level.
Q3: What is the best time to visit Snow View Point?
The best time to visit is from October to April for the clearest Himalayan views. Early morning for sunrise and late afternoon for golden light are ideal. Winter months (November–February) offer the best snow views.
Q4: How can I reach Snow View Point from Nainital?
You can reach Snow View Point by:
- Ropeway: From Mallital (10:00 AM – 4:00 PM, ₹300 return)
- Road: Private taxi or shared jeep (2 km from Mall Road)
- Walking: Steep 15–30 minute walk from Mall Road
Q5: What is the entry fee for Snow View Point?
The entry fee is approximately ₹150 for adults and ₹100 for children. Ropeway charges are additional: ₹300 for adults and ₹200 for children (return).
Q6: What are the timings of the ropeway?
The ropeway operates from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM on all days of the week.
Q7: Is Snow View Point wheelchair accessible?
No, the final approach includes steps and uneven paths, making it not fully wheelchair-friendly.
Q8: What is the distance between Delhi and Snow View Point?
The distance from Delhi to Nainital is approximately 300–310 km by road. Snow View Point is an additional 2 km from Nainital town.
Q9: Is there a temple at Snow View Point?
Yes, there is a small temple dedicated to Dev Mundi at the viewpoint. The temple houses images of Rama, Sita, Lakshman, Hanuman, Durga, and Shiva.
Q10: What is the Dev Mundi Temple legend?
According to local legend, Mahatma Gandhi visited the temple and meditated here during his visit to Nainital.
Q11: Is there a Tibetan monastery near Snow View Point?
Yes, the Gadhan Kunkyop Ling Gompa, a Tibetan monastery of the Gelukpa order, is located near Snow View Point.
Q12: Can I see snow at Snow View Point?
Yes, during the winter months (November–February), you can see snow at the viewpoint. The nearby Himalayan peaks are covered in snow throughout the year.
Q13: Is Snow View Point crowded?
During peak season (summer and winter weekends), it can get very busy with long lines. Visiting early in the morning or during off-season can help avoid crowds.
Q14: What is the time limit at Snow View Point?
Visitors are allotted 1 hour at Snow View Point after reaching by ropeway.
Q15: Is there parking available near Snow View Point?
Parking is available in Nainital town. From there, you can take the ropeway or a taxi to the viewpoint.
Travel Logistics
Q16: How can I reach Snow View Point from Delhi?
You can reach Snow View Point by:
- Road: Drive from Delhi to Nainital (~300 km, 7–8 hours), then take the ropeway or taxi
- Train: Take a train to Kathgodam (34 km), then taxi to Nainital and ropeway to Snow View Point
- Air: Fly to Pantnagar (~70 km), then taxi to Nainital and ropeway to Snow View Point
Q17: What is the nearest railway station to Snow View Point?
The nearest railway station is Kathgodam Railway Station, approximately 34 km from Nainital.
Q18: What is the nearest airport to Snow View Point?
The nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport, approximately 70 km from Nainital.
Q19: What languages are spoken in Nainital?
The official language is Hindi. The regional language is Kumaoni. English is widely understood in tourist areas.
Q20: What should I pack for a visit to Snow View Point?
Pack comfortable walking shoes, layered clothing, sunscreen, a camera, and valid ID proof. For winters, bring warm clothes and a jacket. For the ropeway, carry cash for tickets.
Q21: How can I book a tour to Snow View Point and Nainital?
Tours can be booked through:
- Local tour operators in Nainital
- Discover Uttarakhand for customised travel packages
Why Choose Discover Uttarakhand for Your Nainital Journey?
At Discover Uttarakhand, we’ve been organising unforgettable Himalayan journeys since 1997. As a trusted local operator with deep knowledge of the Kumaon region and its hidden gems, we offer:
✅ Customised Nainital tour packages (2 to 5 days)
✅ Combined itineraries covering Snow View Point, Naini Lake, Eco Cave Gardens, and nearby attractions
✅ Comfortable transport with experienced hill drivers
✅ Verified accommodations in Nainital (budget to luxury)
✅ Local guides for temple visits and sightseeing
✅ 24/7 customer support throughout your journey
Recommended Nainital Packages
| Package | Duration | Starting Point | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nainital Explorer | 2 Nights / 3 Days | Kathgodam | Snow View Point, Naini Lake, Mall Road, Eco Cave Gardens |
| Nainital & Bhimtal | 3 Nights / 4 Days | Kathgodam | Nainital, Snow View Point, Bhimtal, Sattal |
| Kumaon Heritage Tour | 4 Nights / 5 Days | Delhi | Nainital, Almora, Kausani, Binsar |
| Nainital & Corbett | 5 Nights / 6 Days | Delhi | Nainital, Snow View Point, Jim Corbett National Park |
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