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7-Day Itinerary: Exploring Nainital in December 2023

Friday, December 22: Arrival and Naini Lake

Start your trip by arriving in Nainital and checking into your hotel. In the morning, take a scenic walk around Naini Lake, soaking in the tranquility and enjoying the fresh mountain air. In the afternoon, visit the Naina Devi Temple, located on the northern shore of the lake, and seek blessings. As the evening sets in, explore the Mall Road near the lake, known for its shops, restaurants, and beautiful views.

  • Naini Lake: Free, 2 hours
  • Naina Devi Temple: Free, 1 hour
  • Mall Road: Variable, 2-3 hours
Saturday, December 23: Snow View Point and Eco Cave Gardens

Start your day by visiting Snow View Point, which offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayas. Take a cable car ride to reach the viewpoint and enjoy the snow-capped peaks. In the afternoon, explore the Eco Cave Gardens, a network of interconnected caves and hanging gardens, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers. End the day with a boat ride on Naini Lake, witnessing the serene beauty of the surroundings.

  • Snow View Point: INR 200 (cable car), 2-3 hours
  • Eco Cave Gardens: INR 60, 1-2 hours
  • Boat Ride on Naini Lake: INR 200, 1 hour
Sunday, December 24: Nainital Zoo and Tiffin Top

Start your day by visiting the high-altitude Nainital Zoo, home to a variety of Himalayan wildlife including snow leopards, Siberian tigers, and Himalayan black bears. In the afternoon, hike up to Tiffin Top, also known as Dorothy's Seat, for stunning panoramic views of Nainital and the surrounding mountains. Spend the evening exploring Tibetan Market, known for its handicrafts, woolens, and local delicacies.

  • Nainital Zoo: INR 50, 2-3 hours
  • Tiffin Top: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Tibetan Market: Variable, 1-2 hours
Monday, December 25: Naina Peak and Cave Garden

Start your day by hiking to Naina Peak, the highest point in Nainital offering breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and the town below. In the afternoon, visit Cave Garden, a cluster of natural caves with various animal-shaped rocks, perfect for an adventurous exploration. Spend the evening at the Raj Bhavan, the Governor's House, admiring its architectural beauty and the well-maintained gardens.

  • Naina Peak: Free, 3-4 hours
  • Cave Garden: INR 60, 1-2 hours
  • Raj Bhavan: Free, 1-2 hours
Tuesday, December 26: Bhimtal and Sattal

Embark on a day trip to nearby lakeside towns of Bhimtal and Sattal. In the morning, visit Bhimtal Lake, known for its island with a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Enjoy boating and indulge in delicious local snacks. In the afternoon, head to Sattal, a cluster of seven interconnected lakes surrounded by lush greenery. Spend the day exploring the lakes, birdwatching, and enjoying the tranquility of nature.

  • Bhimtal Lake: Variable, 2-3 hours
  • Sattal: Free, 3-4 hours
Wednesday, December 27: Mukteshwar and Chauli Ki Jali

Take a day trip to Mukteshwar, a serene town known for its ancient Shiva temple and panoramic views of the Himalayas. In the morning, visit the Mukteshwar Temple and seek blessings. In the afternoon, explore Chauli Ki Jali, a cliffside viewpoint with a mythological significance. Enjoy the stunning views and, if you dare, try rock climbing or rappelling. Return to Nainital in the evening and relax at your hotel.

  • Mukteshwar Temple: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Chauli Ki Jali: Free, 1-2 hours
Thursday, December 28: Departure and Nainital Hidden Gems

Spend your last day in Nainital exploring the hidden gems and local favorites. Start with a visit to the Gurney House, the former residence of Jim Corbett, a renowned hunter turned conservationist. Explore the local markets, such as Mallital Bazaar and Tibetan Bazaar, for souvenirs and local delicacies. Before departing, take a peaceful walk along the serene Pangot Forest to immerse yourself in nature's beauty.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While in Nainital, don't miss the opportunity to visit Pangot, a small village located a short distance away. Pangot is a birdwatcher's paradise, with over 200 species of birds recorded in the region. Spend a day exploring the rich avian diversity and enjoy the tranquility of this offbeat destination.

Another hidden gem is Naukuchiatal, a picturesque lake located around 26 km from Nainital. Known for its nine corners (hence the name), Naukuchiatal offers a serene and peaceful atmosphere away from the crowds. Enjoy boating, nature walks, and breathtaking views of the surrounding hills.

Check Hotel and Flight Prices on Kayak

Before finalizing your travel plans, make sure to check hotel and flight prices on Kayak. They provide a comprehensive search platform to help you find the best deals and make your trip to Nainital even more memorable.

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