Overview of Mall Road in Nainital

Mall Road Nainital is one of the most visited streets in Uttarakhand’s bustling hill station, Nainital. Nainital showcases picturesque surroundings, a serene lake, and a vibrant atmosphere with various recreational activities. It is located at an elevation of nearly 2084 meters above sea level. The town is famed for its famous Nainital lake.

The Mall Road surrounding the lake is primarily known for its pleasant climate, serene views, rich history, and local culture. The Mall road, built by the Britishers, has been formally changed to Govind Ballabh Pant Marg. It runs parallel to the Naini Lake. It connects the two ends of the hill town Mallital and Tallital and is a primary tourist and commercial hub, especially among shopping lovers. 

Shops selling a wide range of souvenirs, handcrafts, woolen items, antiques, and jewelry can be found in abundance, becoming a great gift. The road has many eateries, bookstores, restaurants, Tibetan markets, cafes, and local food stalls. Mall Road also offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding hills for a morning or evening stroll. 

How to reach Mall Road in Nainital?

One can reach Mall Road in Nainital relatively easily as it is the central location in the town. 

By road- The most common and easy way to reach Nainital is by car. The distance is approximately 300 kilometers, which takes around 8 hours if you travel from Delhi. The nearest bus stand is the Tallital Bus stand. 

By train- You can also reach Nainital through the nearest railway station, Kathgodham. It is approximately 34 kilometers away. You can find regular trains from Delhi and other major cities. From there, you can hire a taxi to Nainital.

By air- The nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport. It is approximately 70 kilometers away. However, the airport has limited connectivity. 

When to visit?

Nainital has something to offer in every season. Therefore, the best time to visit depends largely on your preference. 

March to June- Summer is the peak time when the weather in Nainital is pleasant and perfect for outdoor activities. The temperature ranges from 15°C to 30°C. This is an ideal time for boating, trekking, and sightseeing. 

July to September- Monsoon means greenery and heavy rainfall. The town gets wet and more prone to landslides in the hilly terrain. Some outdoor activities are stopped during this time. 

October to November- Autumn is a beautiful time to visit Nainital as the monsoon retreats. This period is perfect for nature enthusiasts and those who prefer a quieter, less crowded experience.

December to February- Winter in Nainital gets quite cold. The temperature drops to sub-zero levels at night. During the day, temperatures range from 0°C to 15°C.You can experience snowfall in nearby areas and even enjoy activities like ice skating.

Where to stay along the Mall Road?

From luxury hotels, mid-range resorts, budget guesthouses, or even homestays, you’ll find various accommodation options that suit different budgets and preferences.  

However, staying on Mall Road in Nainital is convenient for accessing shopping, dining, and the main attractions. Tallital and Mallital also offer a range of hotels slightly away from the main road. 

Activities to do in Mall Road

Mall Road in Nainital is not just a shopping paradise for shopping lovers but a hub of activities. It has something for everyone. Some of the popular activities to enjoy on Mall Road are:

Shopping: You can buy things for your loved ones and explore a variety of shops selling local handicrafts, clothing, jewellery, antiques, and souvenirs.

Dining:  Flocal Kumaoni dishes to international fare; everything is here. Mall Road also offers a variety of street food that you should experience.

Boating on Nainital Lake: Mall Road provides easy access to the Nainital Lake.

Horse Riding:  A fun way to explore the area and its surroundings is through horse owners offering horseback rides along Mall Road.

Stroll and People-Watching: Take a leisurely walk along Mall Road and soak in the lively atmosphere.

Tibetan Market: You can shop for Tibetan and Himalayan handicrafts, clothing, and artefacts in the Tibetan Market.

Attend Local Events: During the tourist season, Mall Road often hosts cultural events, street performances, and fairs.

Photography: Mall Road and its surroundings offer fantastic opportunities for photography. Capture the scenic beauty, the bustling street life, and the views of Nainital Lake.

Visit Landmarks: While not on Mall Road, you can easily access nearby attractions such as Naina Devi Temple, the Nainital Zoo, and The Mallital and Tallital markets from Mall Road.

Nearby attractions

Among the plethora of activities that one can do in Nainital, here are some nearby attractions and activities. 

• Nainital Lake
• Naina Devi Temple
• Snow View Point
• Tiffin top Dorothy’s Seat
• Governor’s House
• Himalayan View Point
• Jim Corbett’s House
• Bhimtal
• Sattal
• Tibetan Market
• Khurpatal

Why is the Mall Road famous?

Nainital is one of the most popular hill stations in North India. One can experience windsurfing, canoeing, rich history, and, needless to mention, breathtaking views everywhere. It is a famous honeymoon destination for newlyweds as well as couples. It is a budget-friendly holiday spot, making it ideal for visiting. The items to shop for your home and gifting are limitless. 

Business landscape in Nainital 

Business is diverse in Nainital yet the major role is played by tourism. The town’s popularity as a tourist destination fuels a vibrant hospitality sector, encompassing hotels, restaurants, and various tourism-related services. Education is another significant contributor, with the presence of schools, colleges, and training institutions. Local businesses, including retail establishments and enterprises catering to both residents and visitors, contribute to the economic fabric. The real estate sector experiences activity due to the demand for both residential and commercial properties. Government initiatives and infrastructure projects also shape the business environment, and the region’s natural resources and agricultural activities further contribute to the varied economic landscape. 

Commercial Real Estate in Nainital

Office spaces -Nainital’s status as a sought-after tourist destination contributes to the demand for commercial spaces, particularly in areas catering to the hospitality industry and tourism-related services. The need for office spaces may arise not only from local businesses but also from organisations supporting the growing tourism sector. 

Rental property- These including shops and offices, are crucial for entrepreneurs and enterprises looking to establish a presence in this picturesque town.

Impact

The impact of commercial real estate development in Nainital is multi-faceted. It stimulates economic growth by creating employment opportunities, attracting investments, and fostering business activities. However, it also brings challenges such as potential environmental impacts, infrastructural demands, and the need for sustainable development to preserve the town’s natural beauty.