Exploring the Natural Beauty of Delhi, Jim Corbett, and Nainital
Saturday, December 23: Arrival and Exploration in Delhi
Start your trip by arriving in Delhi via train from Kolkata in the morning. Since you don't want to stay in Delhi, you can store your luggage at the train station and explore some iconic attractions. In the morning, visit Humayun's Tomb, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its beautiful Mughal architecture and serene gardens. In the afternoon, explore the Qutub Minar complex, home to the tallest minaret in India. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll through Lodhi Garden, a peaceful park dotted with historical tombs.
For breakfast, head to The Blue Door Cafe, a charming eatery known for its delicious eggs benedict and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For lunch, try out Karim's, a legendary restaurant serving mouthwatering Mughlai cuisine. Their flavorful kebabs and biryanis are a must-try. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
For dinner, indulge in the culinary delights of Indian Accent, a fine dining restaurant renowned for its modern Indian cuisine with innovative twists. Be prepared to be amazed by their exquisite dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 2000 INR per person.
Sunday, December 24: Wildlife Adventure in Jim Corbett National Park
On this day, embark on an exciting journey from Delhi to Jim Corbett National Park, famous for its rich wildlife and majestic Bengal tigers. Start your morning with an early breakfast before departing for Jim Corbett, which is approximately a 5-hour drive from Delhi. After reaching Jim Corbett, check-in to your wildlife resort and freshen up. In the afternoon, enjoy a thrilling jeep safari through the national park, where you can spot various wildlife species and immerse yourself in nature's tranquility. In the evening, unwind at your resort and indulge in some delicious local cuisine.
Travel from Delhi to Jim Corbett: INR 2,000 per person (estimated cost), 5 hours
Jeep Safari: INR 3,000 per vehicle (estimated cost), 3-4 hours
Start your morning at Cafe Delhi with their delicious breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
For lunch, head to The Lantern Restaurant and enjoy their mouthwatering Indian cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
End your day with a delightful dinner at The Riverview Restaurant, offering a scenic view of the river. Average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Monday, December 25: Exploring Nature in Nainital
Wake up in the lap of nature and get ready for a picturesque drive to Nainital, a charming hill station nestled amidst the Kumaon foothills of the Himalayas. After a scenic 3-hour drive, reach Nainital and check into your hotel. In the morning, visit Naini Lake, a tranquil freshwater lake where you can enjoy boating and soak in the serene atmosphere. In the afternoon, explore Mall Road, a vibrant shopping street filled with local handicrafts, souvenirs, and delicious street food. As the evening approaches, head to Tiffin Top, a popular viewpoint offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and Nainital town.
Travel from Jim Corbett to Nainital: INR 1,500 per person (estimated cost), 3 hours
Naini Lake: INR 200 (estimated cost for boating), 2-3 hours
Mall Road: Free (shopping and food costs vary), 3-4 hours
Tiffin Top: INR 100 (estimated cost for ropeway), 1-2 hours
JJ's Café: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at JJ's Café, known for its mouthwatering omelettes and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
Zooby's Kitchen: For a satisfying lunch, head to Zooby's Kitchen, a popular restaurant offering a variety of cuisines including Indian, Chinese, and Italian. Don't miss their Chicken Biryani and Tandoori Platter. Average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.
Chandni Chowk: Indulge in a traditional North Indian dinner at Chandni Chowk, a famous food street in Old Delhi. Try their mouthwatering street food like Dahi Bhalle, Chole Bhature, and Parathas. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
Tuesday, December 26: Last Day of Adventure and Return Journey
On the final day, make the most of your time in Nainital before catching the Duronto train from Delhi in the evening. Start your morning by visiting Naina Devi Temple, a popular Hindu pilgrimage site offering stunning views of the entire Nainital region. In the afternoon, venture to Snow View Point, reachable by a cable car ride, where you can witness the breathtaking snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas. In the evening, bid farewell to Nainital and travel back to Delhi to catch your train to Kolkata.
Naina Devi Temple: Free, 2-3 hours
Snow View Point: INR 250 (estimated cost for cable car ride), 1-2 hours
Travel from Nainital to Delhi: INR 1,500 per person (estimated cost), 6 hours
A popular breakfast spot in Nainital is Zooby's Kitchen, known for its delicious homemade pancakes and omelettes. The average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
For lunch, head to Machan Restaurant located in the heart of Nainital. This restaurant offers a variety of cuisines including Indian, Chinese, and Continental dishes. The average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at The Pavilion Restaurant, known for its cozy ambiance and mouthwatering Indian delicacies. The average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For nature lovers seeking off the beaten path experiences, consider exploring the lesser-known Pangot and Kilbury Bird Sanctuary near Nainital. This sanctuary is a haven for bird enthusiasts, offering the opportunity to spot a wide variety of colorful birds amidst a serene forested landscape. Nature walks, hikes, and bird watching excursions can be arranged in the sanctuary, providing an immersive experience in the lap of nature. Additionally, Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, located a few hours away from Jim Corbett, is another hidden gem where you can witness diverse flora and fauna while enjoying panoramic views of the Himalayas.