Discovering Nainital with Family: A 4-Day Itinerary

• Day 1: Explore the Natural Beauty of Nainital
  3 hours and 45 minutes (64 km) from Pantnagar Airport

  Start your trip with a visit to Nainital Lake, which is surrounded by seven beautiful hills. Take a boat ride or walk along the lake and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding scenery. Next, head to Naina Devi Temple, a prominent Hindu pilgrimage site dedicated to Goddess Naina Devi. Afterward, visit the Snow View Point to get a panoramic view of the snow-capped Himalayas. End the day with a peaceful sunset view at Hanuman Garhi Temple.

• Day 2: Relaxing & Adventurous Getaway
  1 hour and 30 minutes (25 km) from Nainital

  Experience the chilly waterfalls, green valleys and scenic views. Trek to China Peak, Nainital's highest peak and enjoy an adventurous mountain climb. Visit the Eco Cave Gardens, a series of interconnected caves with hanging gardens, music, and lighting. Also, indulge in peaceful boating at Bhimtal Lake.

• Day 3: A Religious Expedition around Nainital
  2 hours and 15 minutes (45 km) from Nainital

  Start the day by visiting the Kainchi Dham Ashram, an ashram known for its tranquillity and meditation. Next, visit the Mukteshwar Temple, a 350-year-old temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Afterward, visit the Jageshwar Temple, a cluster of 124 magnificent, ancient stone temples.

• Day 4: Last day excursion around the town
  1 hour and 19 minutes (38 km) from Nainital

  On your last day in Nainital, pay a visit to Gurney House, the former residence of naturalist and hunter Jim Corbett. Then, enjoy a peaceful walk around the Mall Road which offers restaurants, cafes, shops and many attractions. Finally, head to the Kaladungi Dam to get a spectacular view of the hills and forested landscapes.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Nainital Lake (2 hours, Free Entry)
• Naina Devi Temple (1 hour, Free Entry)
• Snow View Point (1 hour, Entry fee - INR 50 per person)
• Hanuman Garhi Temple (1 hour, Free Entry)
• China Peak Trekking (3 hours, Entry fee - INR500 per person)
• Eco Cave Gardens (1 hour, Entry fee - INR75 per adult)
• Bhimtal Lake Boating (2 hours, Entry fee - INR 250 for two-seater paddleboat)
• Kainchi Dham Ashram (2 hours, Free Entry)
• Mukteshwar Temple (1 hour, Free Entry)
• Jageshwar Temple (2 hours, Entry fee - INR 25 per person)
• Gurney House (1 hour, Entry fee - INR 25 per person)
• Data entry for Mall Road (2 hours, Free Entry)
• Kaladungi Dam (1 hour, Free Entry)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 975 per person

Transportation

Public transport is easily available and cost-effective for moving within the city. However, self-driving and cab hired can make travelling much more convenient. From Pantnagar Airport, private taxis can cost between INR 1,500 to INR 2,500 depending on the vehicle type.

Useful Tips

For a more relaxing experience, spend an extra day at Nainital to explore more attractions appreciated by the family. Additionally, carry warm clothes, umbrellas or raincoats, and comfortable shoes are a must for this trip.

Airports

Nainital does not have any airports; the nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport (PGH), approximately 60 km away from Nainital. The airport serves as a base for chartered flights and daily flights from Delhi, Lucknow, and Chandigarh.