Unforgettable week in Nainital

Sunday December 24: Arrival in Nainital

Welcome to Nainital! Begin your trip by exploring the Naina Devi Temple in the morning. This sacred Hindu temple offers stunning views of the city and the beautiful Naini Lake. In the afternoon, take a peaceful boat ride on the Naini Lake, surrounded by lush green hills. As the evening approaches, enjoy a leisurely walk along the Mall Road, the bustling heart of Nainital, known for its shops and local delicacies.

• Naina Devi Temple: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1 hour
• Naini Lake boat ride: Estimated cost - INR 150 per person, Time spent - 2 hours
• Mall Road: Estimated cost - Variable, Time spent - 2 hours

Restaurants

• Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Café Lakeside, located on Mall Road. This cozy café offers a variety of options including omelettes, pancakes, and freshly baked bread. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
• For lunch, head to Machan Restaurant, a popular spot near Mall Road. Indulge in their mouthwatering Indian and Chinese dishes, along with a wide range of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. Average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.
• Wrap up your day with a delightful dinner at Zooby's Kitchen, situated near Naini Lake. This restaurant serves delicious Continental, Indian, and Chinese cuisine, along with stunning views of the lake. Average cost for a meal is about ₹600 per person.

Monday December 25: Exploring Nainital's Nature

Start your day with a visit to the Snow View Point, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks. In the afternoon, head to the Eco Cave Gardens, a natural park with interconnected caves to explore. As the evening sets in, take a peaceful walk around the beautiful Naini Lake, experiencing the tranquility of nature.

• Snow View Point: Estimated cost - INR 100 per person, Time spent - 1.5 hours
• Eco Cave Gardens: Estimated cost - INR 60 per person, Time spent - 2 hours
• Naini Lake walk: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1 hour

Tuesday December 26: Adventure in Nainital

Get ready for some adventure! Start your day with a thrilling cable car ride to the Tiffin Top, also known as Dorothy's Seat. Enjoy panoramic views of the town and surrounding mountains. In the afternoon, head to the High Altitude Zoo, home to a variety of Himalayan wildlife species. End your day with a boat ride to the serene Bhimtal Lake, located just 22 kilometers from Nainital.

• Tiffin Top (Dorothy's Seat): Estimated cost - INR 200 per person, Time spent - 2 hours
• High Altitude Zoo: Estimated cost - INR 50 per person, Time spent - 2 hours
• Bhimtal Lake: Estimated cost - INR 200 per person, Time spent - 2 hours

Wednesday December 27: Discovering Nainital's History

Today, explore the historical side of Nainital. Begin your day with a visit to the Governor's House, a majestic mansion surrounded by beautiful gardens. In the afternoon, head to the Nainital Observatory, established in 1955, and learn about astronomical research. As the evening approaches, visit the Gurney House, the former residence of Jim Corbett, renowned hunter and conservationist.

• Governor's House: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1.5 hours
• Nainital Observatory: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1.5 hours
• Gurney House: Estimated cost - INR 50 per person, Time spent - 1 hour

Thursday December 28: Lakes and Caves

Explore some of the lesser-known gems of Nainital. Start your day with a visit to the Sariyatal Lake, a serene and less crowded lake offering beautiful views. In the afternoon, head to the Pangot and Kilbury Bird Sanctuary, known for its diverse bird species. As the evening sets in, visit the Cave Garden, a unique park with interconnected caves and sculptures.

• Sariyatal Lake: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours
• Pangot and Kilbury Bird Sanctuary: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours
• Cave Garden: Estimated cost - INR 60 per person, Time spent - 1.5 hours

Friday December 29: Mountain Views and Adventure Sports

Experience the thrill of adventure sports combined with stunning mountain views. Start your day with a visit to the Himalayan Darshan Point, offering panoramic views of the snow-capped Himalayas. In the afternoon, indulge in exciting activities like paragliding or rappelling at Naukuchiatal, a beautiful lake surrounded by hills. As the evening approaches, enjoy a bonfire and stargazing session.

• Himalayan Darshan Point: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours
• Naukuchiatal adventure sports: Estimated cost - Varies depending on activities, Time spent - 3 hours
• Bonfire and stargazing: Estimated cost - Variable, Time spent - 2 hours

Saturday December 30: Relaxation and Shopping

On your last day in Nainital, take some time to relax and indulge in shopping. Start your day with a visit to the Nainital Tibetan Market, known for its unique handicrafts and souvenirs. In the afternoon, pamper yourself with a rejuvenating spa session at one of the renowned wellness centers in Nainital. As the evening sets in, enjoy a delicious dinner at one of the local restaurants before bidding farewell to Nainital.

• Nainital Tibetan Market: Estimated cost - Variable, Time spent - 2 hours
• Spa session: Estimated cost - Variable, Time spent - 2 hours
• Dinner at a local restaurant: Estimated cost - Variable, Time spent - 2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Nainital, don't miss the opportunity to visit the Nainital Lake View Point, a lesser-known viewpoint offering a stunning panoramic view of the entire Naini Lake. Another hidden gem is the Aerial Ropeway, which takes you on a scenic ride to the Snow View Point. Locals often recommend trying the local delicacies like Bal Mithai (a sweet treat) and Bhatt Ki Churkani (a traditional dish) in the local markets.