Start your trip to Nainital by arriving at the Pantnagar Airport. From there, hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the city. Check-in at your chosen hotel and freshen up. Enjoy a traditional Indian breakfast consisting of puri bhaji and masala chai at a local restaurant.
Nainital Lake: Spend the morning exploring the picturesque Nainital Lake, also known as the Naini Lake. Take a boat ride and soak in the serene atmosphere. Estimated cost: INR 150 per person. Estimated time spent: 2 hours.
Naina Devi Temple: After the lake visit, head to the Naina Devi Temple, located on the northern shore of the Nainital Lake. Seek blessings at this ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Naina Devi. Estimated cost: No entry fee. Estimated time spent: 1 hour.
Mall Road: In the evening, stroll along the Mall Road, the main street of Nainital. Enjoy shopping for souvenirs, local handicrafts, and woolen garments. Explore the various restaurants and taste the famous momos and freshly baked cookies. Estimated cost: Depends on personal expenses. Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours.
Restaurants
Head to "Café Je-AN" for a delightful breakfast of freshly baked pastries and a variety of sandwiches. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
For a satisfying lunch, dine at "Machan Restaurant" and indulge in their mouthwatering thali platters. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
Experience a gourmet dinner at "The Corner" where you can enjoy a selection of international cuisines and delectable desserts. Average cost for a meal is about $30 per person.
Sunday, October 1: Nature's Delights
Begin your day with a delicious breakfast at your hotel. Today, you will explore the natural beauty of Nainital and its surroundings.
Tiffin Top: After breakfast, make your way to Tiffin Top, also known as Dorothy's Seat. Enjoy a scenic hike to this viewpoint, offering panoramic views of the Himalayas and Nainital town. Estimated cost: INR 100 per person. Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours.
Snow View Point: Next, visit the Snow View Point via a cable car ride. Marvel at the breathtaking vistas of snow-clad peaks, including Nanda Devi and Trishul. Estimated cost: INR 250 per person (including cable car ride). Estimated time spent: 2 hours.
Pangot Village: In the afternoon, take a short drive to Pangot Village, a birdwatcher's paradise. Explore the rich biodiversity of the region and spot various species of birds. Enjoy a packed picnic lunch amidst nature. Estimated cost: No entry fee. Estimated time spent: 3-4 hours.
Restaurants
For a delicious breakfast while exploring Nainital's natural beauty, head to Café Chica. They serve a variety of freshly baked goods and organic coffee. The average cost for a breakfast here is about INR 300 per person.
For a satisfying lunch, visit Sakley's Restaurant & Pastry Shop. They offer a range of cuisines from Indian to Italian and have a cozy atmosphere with beautiful views. The average cost for a lunch here is about INR 800 per person.
To end your day with a memorable dinner experience, dine at Machan Restaurant. Nestled in the heart of Nainital, this restaurant offers a fusion of Indian and Continental cuisine. The average cost for a dinner here is about INR 1000 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For off the beaten path experiences, visit the Land's End viewpoint for breathtaking sunset views and a peaceful atmosphere. Another local favorite is Sattal, a cluster of seven freshwater lakes, perfect for nature lovers and bird enthusiasts. Spend a day exploring the lakes and indulging in birdwatching. Don't forget to try the famous local delicacy, Bal Mithai, a chocolate-like fudge-like sweet, and pick up handmade candles from the local shops as souvenirs.
Before finalizing your travel plans, be sure to check hotel and flight prices on KAYAK to find the best deals for your trip to Nainital.