Nanital Family Friendly 3-Day Itinerary

Saturday, September 30: Exploring Nanital

Start your trip to Nanital by immersing yourself in the natural beauty of Naini Lake. In the morning, take a boat ride on the serene lake, surrounded by lush green hills. Afterward, visit Naina Devi Temple, located on the northern shore of the lake, and seek blessings for a memorable journey. In the afternoon, head to Snow View Point, accessible by a cable car ride, and enjoy breathtaking views of the Himalayas and the town below. As the evening sets in, take a leisurely walk on Mall Road, lined with shops, restaurants, and stunning views of the lake.

• Naini Lake: Cost: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Naina Devi Temple: Cost: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
• Snow View Point: Cost: INR 150 (cable car ride), Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Mall Road: Cost: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours

Restaurants

• For breakfast, head to Cafe Lake View. Enjoy a cozy ambience with stunning views of Naini Lake while enjoying a delicious breakfast spread. Average cost for a meal is about 250 INR per person.
• For lunch, try The Pavilion at The Manu Maharani. Indulge in a delectable buffet spread featuring a variety of cuisines. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
• For dinner, visit Machan Restaurant. Known for its rustic ambiance and mouth-watering North Indian cuisine, this restaurant is a must-visit. Average cost for a meal is about 600 INR per person.

Sunday, October 1: Exploring Nature

On the second day, immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Nanital. Start your morning by visiting Nainital Zoo, home to various Himalayan wildlife species like snow leopards and Himalayan black bears. Afterward, head to Eco Cave Gardens, a network of interconnected caves, perfect for exploring with your family. In the afternoon, take a short hike to Tiffin Top, also known as Dorothy's Seat, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the town. In the evening, visit the High Altitude Zoo, which houses endangered species like the Siberian tiger and Himalayan monal.

• Nainital Zoo: Cost: INR 50 (adults), INR 20 (children), Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Eco Cave Gardens: Cost: INR 50 (adults), INR 20 (children), Time spent: 1-2 hours
• Tiffin Top: Cost: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
• High Altitude Zoo: Cost: INR 50 (adults), INR 20 (children), Time spent: 1-2 hours

Monday, October 2: Adventure and Relaxation

On your last day in Nanital, experience adventure and relaxation. Start your morning by visiting Pangot, a small village known for its bird watching opportunities. Explore the forests and spot various species of birds in their natural habitat. In the afternoon, head to Bhimtal, a nearby town famous for its picturesque lake. Enjoy boating on the tranquil lake and visit Bhimtal Island for a peaceful getaway. In the evening, visit Hanuman Garhi, a temple complex dedicated to Lord Hanuman, and witness a beautiful sunset over the town.

• Pangot: Cost: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Bhimtal Lake: Cost: INR 150 (boating), Time spent: 1-2 hours
• Bhimtal Island: Cost: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
• Hanuman Garhi: Cost: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For off the beaten path experiences, consider visiting Sariyatal, a serene lake located around 5 km from Nanital, perfect for picnics and nature walks. Another hidden gem is the Kilbury Bird Sanctuary, known for its diverse bird species and panoramic views of the Himalayas. Locals also love exploring the G.B. Pant High Altitude Zoo, which offers a unique opportunity to observe Himalayan wildlife up close. These attractions provide a quieter and more immersive experience away from the bustling tourist spots.

Check hotel and flight prices for Nanital at KAYAK.