Nainital: You Will Now Have to Pay Entry Fee to Visit These Eco-Tourism Sites
Nainital, one of Uttarakhand’s most cherished hill stations, has long been a magnet for nature lovers, trekkers, and weekend travellers. But if you’re planning a trip in 2025, here’s something new you need to know — visitors will now have to pay an entry fee to access several eco-tourism spots in and around Nainital.
This move, introduced by the Uttarakhand Forest Department, is aimed at promoting sustainable tourism while also generating revenue to preserve the fragile ecosystem of the region. The decision, which came into effect this year, applies to a list of popular nature sites under the eco-tourism category.
Why the Entry Fee?
With the rising footfall each year, many of Nainital’s natural reserves have been facing the pressure of over-tourism, littering, and human interference. According to forest officials, the money collected through these entry fees will be used for:
- Conservation and maintenance of forest trails
- Waste management and cleanliness drives
- Installation of signages and rest areas for trekkers
- Employment of local guides and forest guards
- Enhancing safety measures for wildlife and tourists
Eco-Tourism Sites Now Charging Entry Fees in 2025
Here are some of the top destinations where entry fees have been implemented:
Kilbury Bird Sanctuary
Known as a birdwatcher’s paradise, Kilbury is home to over 580 species of birds. It now has an entry fee of ₹100 for Indian tourists and ₹250 for foreign nationals. A portion of this fee goes towards bird conservation efforts.
Snow View Point Forest Trail
Accessed via a scenic cable car ride, the Snow View trail is now being regulated with a small entry charge to manage crowd levels and maintain the hiking route.
Tiffin Top (Dorothy’s Seat) via Ayarpatta
Popular for its panoramic views and quiet charm, this short hike now comes with a fee of ₹50 per person to help reduce littering and crowding at the summit.
Naina Peak (China Peak)
The highest point in Nainital, the Naina Peak trail is now part of the eco-tourism circuit and has a controlled entry gate with charges to ensure that the natural habitat remains undisturbed.
Interesting Additions in 2025
- QR Code-Based Entry: Visitors can now pay the entry fee via UPI or scan a QR code at checkpoints — eliminating the need for long queues.
- Eco-Tourism Mobile App: A new app launched by the Forest Department offers maps, information about flora and fauna, emergency contact numbers, and real-time weather updates for all ecotourism sites.
- Green Volunteers: Local youth are being trained as “Green Guides” who assist tourists and spread awareness about eco-friendly practices.
- Waste Return Reward: Some forest zones are now offering small rewards or discounts on future entries if visitors return with a bag of collected litter.
Final Thoughts
While it may feel inconvenient to pay for what was once free, this initiative is a step in the right direction. Nainital’s natural beauty needs to be preserved for future generations, and responsible tourism is the only way forward. So, if you’re heading to this Himalayan gem in 2025, pack your eco-sensitivity along with your camera and trekking shoes — and embrace the change.
After all, preserving paradise comes at a price — a small one for us, but a big one for nature.