Nainital 7-Day Itinerary

Friday December 22: Arrival in Nainital

Welcome to Nainital! Start your trip by checking into your hotel and taking some time to relax and settle in. In the afternoon, head to Naina Devi Temple, a popular Hindu pilgrimage site that offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and Naini Lake. In the evening, explore the Mall Road, lined with shops and restaurants, and enjoy a delicious dinner.

• Naina Devi Temple: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours
• Mall Road: Estimated cost - Varies, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Saturday December 23: Nainital Lake and Snow View Point

Start your morning with a boat ride on the picturesque Nainital Lake, surrounded by hills and lush greenery. Afterward, visit the Snow View Point, accessible by cable car, to enjoy panoramic views of the snow-capped Himalayas. In the afternoon, explore the High Altitude Zoo, home to various Himalayan species. End the day with a visit to the Tibetan Market for some souvenir shopping.

• Nainital Lake: Estimated cost - Boat ride: INR 220 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Snow View Point: Estimated cost - Cable car: INR 150 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• High Altitude Zoo: Estimated cost - INR 100 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Tibetan Market: Estimated cost - Varies, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Sunday December 24: Naina Peak and Eco Cave Gardens

Start your day with a visit to Naina Peak, the highest peak in Nainital, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and Naini Lake. Afterward, explore the Eco Cave Gardens, a network of interconnected caves and hanging gardens. In the evening, take a leisurely walk along Thandi Sadak, a scenic trail surrounded by nature.

• Naina Peak: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Eco Cave Gardens: Estimated cost - INR 60 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Thandi Sadak: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Monday December 25: Pangot Bird Sanctuary and Tiffin Top

Embark on a day trip to Pangot Bird Sanctuary, a paradise for birdwatchers, where you can spot a variety of exotic birds in their natural habitat. Afterward, head to Tiffin Top, a popular viewpoint that offers panoramic views of the Himalayas and Nainital town. Enjoy a picnic lunch and immerse yourself in the serene surroundings.

• Pangot Bird Sanctuary: Estimated cost - INR 250 per person (entry fee + guide), Time spent - 3-4 hours
• Tiffin Top: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Tuesday December 26: Bhimtal and Sattal

Explore the nearby lakes of Bhimtal and Sattal today. Start with Bhimtal, known for its pristine lake surrounded by lush greenery. Visit the Bhimtal Island Aquarium, situated on an island in the middle of the lake, showcasing a variety of aquatic species. Afterward, head to Sattal, a cluster of seven interconnected lakes, where you can enjoy boating and relax in the serene atmosphere.

• Bhimtal: Estimated cost - Varies, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Bhimtal Island Aquarium: Estimated cost - INR 60 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Sattal: Estimated cost - Varies, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Wednesday December 27: Mukteshwar Temple and Chauli Ki Jali

Head to Mukteshwar today and visit the Mukteshwar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, located atop a hill offering panoramic views of the Himalayas. Afterward, explore Chauli Ki Jali, a scenic viewpoint with unique rock formations, believed to have mystical powers. Take in the breathtaking views and enjoy some quiet time in nature.

• Mukteshwar Temple: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours
• Chauli Ki Jali: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Thursday December 28: Departure

On your last day in Nainital, spend some time exploring the local markets for souvenirs and handicrafts. Indulge in some local cuisine and take a leisurely stroll around the town, soaking in the beauty of Naini Lake and the surrounding hills. Bid farewell to Nainital and depart for your onward journey.

• Local Markets: Estimated cost - Varies, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Local Cuisine: Estimated cost - Varies, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For an off the beaten path experience, visit the Gurney House, the former residence of Jim Corbett, a renowned hunter and conservationist. Explore the beautifully preserved house and learn about his life and work. Another hidden gem is the Kilbury Bird Sanctuary, a peaceful haven for bird lovers, where you can spot a wide variety of avian species amidst lush forests and tranquil surroundings.

Check hotel and flight prices here.