Drive to Nainital (approx 7–8h by private car, ~300 km) or take a morning train to Kathgodam then 1–1.5h drive to Nainital. Leaving early avoids traffic and gives you afternoon in Nainital.
INR6000 (approx taxi, one-way) or INR500-1200 (train + local taxi), 7h0m
Check into your hotel and have lunch at Sakley’s (multi-cuisine, good views) or Machan for local & North Indian dishes; both are popular and typically open 12:00–10:00pm.
Take a 30–45 minute row/paddle boat on Naini Lake (popular and scenic) then stroll Mall Road for shops and viewpoints; boating generally runs roughly 7:00am–6:00pm but seasonal times vary.
Short visit to the hilltop Naina Devi Temple overlooking the lake; temple hours are typically early morning to evening (~6:00am–8:00pm) — beautiful at sunset.
Take the ropeway up to Snow View (ropeway typically runs ~9:00am–5:00pm; first car earlier in peak season) for panoramic views of the Himalayas and Nainital valley.
Explore the Eco Cave Gardens (generally 9:00am–6:00pm) for short caves and terraced gardens, then hike to Tiffin Top (Dorothy's Seat) — an easy 30–45 min walk with great viewpoints.
If you prefer wildlife, visit the high-altitude zoo (usually open ~9:30am–4:30pm) that houses Himalayan species; otherwise relax by the lake or explore lesser-known viewpoints.
Dine at Zooby's for continental/Indian comfort food or Sakley’s rooftop for a more upscale dinner; check for seasonal hours (usually open until 10:00–11:00pm).
Drive early to Chopta (approx 7–9 hours depending on route & traffic; ~200–260 km). Early start gives time to settle and short walks in Chopta before nightfall.
INR6000 (taxi or shared vehicle, approximate), 8h0m
Do an easy 1–2 hour walk through Chopta meadows (alpine meadows famous for wildflowers and views of Trishul/Nanda Ghunti); this helps acclimatise for next-day trek.
Simple pre-trek breakfast (porridge/eggs/tea) served early so you can begin the trek in cool morning weather; kitchens typically open early for trekkers.
Begin the 3–3.5 km uphill trek to Tungnath temple (moderate trail); expect ~1.5–2 hours depending on fitness and stops. The temple generally opens by 6:00am but exact times vary seasonally.
From Tungnath, continue ~1.2–1.7 km to Chandrashila summit (steeper, ~45–75 min) for sunrise/360° views of Nanda Devi, Trishul and Greater Himalaya; be prepared for cold and wind.
Begin the long drive back to Delhi (expect 9–11 hours depending on traffic and route). Alternatively, overnight at Rudraprayag/Rishikesh if you prefer splitting the return.
Stop for dinner or a light meal on the highway (Rishikesh/Dehradun or highway dhaba) depending on timing; many highway restaurants operate late but check availability on route.