Family Friendly 3-Day Itinerary in Nainital

Day 1: Exploring Nainital

Start your trip by immersing yourself in the natural beauty of Nainital. In the morning, visit the Naini Lake, a picturesque lake surrounded by lush greenery. Enjoy a boat ride on the lake and take in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains. In the afternoon, head to Naina Devi Temple, located on the northern shore of the lake. This sacred temple is dedicated to Goddess Naina Devi and offers a serene atmosphere for prayers and reflection. In the evening, take a leisurely walk along the Mall Road, lined with shops and restaurants, and indulge in some local snacks and souvenirs.

• Naini Lake: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours
• Naina Devi Temple: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1 hour
• Mall Road: Estimated cost - Variable, Time spent - 2 hours

Restaurants

• A popular breakfast spot in Nainital is Sakley's The Restaurant & Pastry Shop, known for its delicious bakery items and cozy ambience. Average cost for a breakfast meal here is about Rs. 300 per person.
• For lunch, head to Nanak Restaurant, a family-friendly restaurant offering a wide range of Indian and Chinese dishes. Enjoy the serene views of the Naini Lake while relishing your meal. Average cost for a lunch meal here is about Rs. 500 per person.
• For dinner, try the Machan Restaurant, famous for its rooftop seating and panoramic views of the town. Feast on a variety of Indian, Chinese, and Continental cuisines. Average cost for a dinner meal here is about Rs. 800 per person.

Day 2: Adventure in Nainital

Get ready for some adventure-filled activities in Nainital. In the morning, visit the Snow View Point, accessible by a cable car ride. From the top, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks. Afterward, head to the Eco Cave Gardens, a natural park with interconnected caves and hanging gardens. Spend some time exploring the caves and enjoying the natural beauty. In the afternoon, visit the Himalayan View Point for panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Wrap up the day with a visit to the Tibetan Market, where you can shop for traditional handicrafts and souvenirs.

• Snow View Point: Estimated cost - INR 180 (cable car ride), Time spent - 2 hours
• Eco Cave Gardens: Estimated cost - INR 60, Time spent - 1.5 hours
• Himalayan View Point: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1 hour
• Tibetan Market: Estimated cost - Variable, Time spent - 1 hour

Day 3: Nature and Wildlife

Spend your last day in Nainital exploring its rich nature and wildlife. Start your morning by visiting the Pangot and Kilbury Bird Sanctuary, home to a variety of migratory and resident bird species. Enjoy bird watching and peaceful walks amidst nature. In the afternoon, head to the Nainital Zoo, housing a diverse range of Himalayan fauna including snow leopards, Himalayan black bears, and various bird species. Take a guided tour of the zoo and learn about the local wildlife. End your trip with a relaxing boat ride on Bhimtal Lake, a nearby lake known for its serene surroundings and tranquility.

• Pangot and Kilbury Bird Sanctuary: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours
• Nainital Zoo: Estimated cost - INR 50, Time spent - 2 hours
• Bhimtal Lake: Estimated cost - Variable, Time spent - 1.5 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique experience, consider visiting the Sattal Lake, a cluster of seven interconnected lakes known for its pristine beauty and tranquility. You can enjoy boating here and explore the lush surroundings. Another hidden gem is the Gurney House, the former residence of Jim Corbett, a renowned hunter and conservationist. It has now been converted into a museum showcasing his life and work. Both of these attractions are family-friendly and offer a glimpse into the rich history and natural heritage of the region.