A 6-Day Family Friendly Tour of Nainital, Jim Corbett, Almora, Ranikhet, Mukteshwar, and Lansdowne
Sunday, December 24: Arrival in Nainital
Start your trip by arriving in Nainital, a beautiful hill station known for its stunning lakes. In the morning, take a peaceful boat ride on the iconic Naini Lake, surrounded by lush greenery and snow-capped mountains. Afterward, visit the Nainital Zoo, home to a variety of rare Himalayan animal species. In the evening, explore the vibrant Mall Road, lined with shops selling local handicrafts and delicious street food.
Naini Lake Boat Ride: ₹200 per person, 2 hours
Nainital Zoo: ₹100 per person, 2 hours
Mall Road: Free, 2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to the popular Cafe Chica where you can enjoy scrumptious omelettes, pancakes, and freshly brewed coffee. The average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
If you're looking for a delicious lunch option, visit Zooby's Kitchen, known for its wide range of Indian and Chinese dishes. Try their mouth-watering butter chicken or veg noodles. The average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
For a satisfying dinner, visit Giannis Pure Veg, a vegetarian restaurant offering a variety of North Indian and South Indian delicacies. Don't miss their paneer tikka and dosas. The average cost for a meal is about ₹250 per person.
Monday, December 25: Jim Corbett National Park Safari
Embark on an exciting safari adventure in Jim Corbett National Park, one of the oldest national parks in India. Start your morning with a thrilling Jeep safari to spot majestic Bengal tigers and other wildlife species. After the safari, visit the Corbett Museum to learn about the park's history and wildlife conservation efforts. In the evening, enjoy a bonfire and cultural performances at your accommodation.
Jeep Safari: ₹4,000 per Jeep (6 people), 4 hours
Corbett Museum: ₹100 per person, 1 hour
Bonfire and Cultural Performances: Included in accommodation
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Jim Corbett is The Safari Cafe, offering a variety of delicious options such as pancakes, omelettes, and freshly brewed coffee. The average cost for a breakfast meal is about ₹300 per person.
For a satisfying lunch, try The Riverside Restaurant, located near the river with stunning views. They serve a range of cuisines including Indian, Chinese, and Continental dishes. The average cost for a lunch meal is about ₹500 per person.
In the evening, head to The Corbett View Restaurant, known for its cozy ambiance and mouthwatering barbecue specialties. They also offer a selection of Indian and international dishes. The average cost for a dinner meal is about ₹800 per person.
Tuesday, December 26: Exploring Almora
Explore the scenic town of Almora, known for its panoramic Himalayan views and rich cultural heritage. Begin your day with a visit to the ancient Jageshwar Temple Complex, a cluster of beautifully carved temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. Afterward, take a leisurely walk through the charming streets of Almora, visiting local markets for traditional handicrafts and delicious Kumaoni cuisine. In the evening, witness the mesmerizing sunset from the Bright End Corner viewpoint.
Jageshwar Temple Complex: ₹50 per person, 2 hours
Exploring Almora Markets: Estimated cost based on purchases, 2 hours
Bright End Corner Viewpoint: Free, 1 hour
Restaurants
Café Chandi Mati: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Café Chandi Mati, where you can enjoy a variety of freshly baked pastries and sandwiches. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
Baba Cake House: For a satisfying lunch, head to Baba Cake House, a popular eatery known for its mouthwatering Indian and Chinese dishes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
Bella Restaurant: End your day with a delightful dinner at Bella Restaurant, offering a wide range of Continental and Indian cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Wednesday, December 27: Ranikhet Nature Exploration
Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Ranikhet, a serene hill station nestled in the Himalayas. Start your day with a visit to Chaubatia Gardens, known for its apple orchards and stunning views. Enjoy a picnic amidst beautiful surroundings and taste freshly plucked apples. In the afternoon, explore the picturesque Golf Course and interact with friendly locals. In the evening, relax at Majhkhali, a peaceful spot offering panoramic vistas of the Himalayan range.
Chaubatia Gardens: ₹50 per person, 2 hours
Ranikhet Golf Course: ₹200 per person (equipment rental extra), 2 hours
Majhkhali: Free, 1 hour
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Moti Mahal, a popular restaurant in Ranikhet. They offer a variety of breakfast options including traditional Indian dishes. The average cost for a meal is about Rs.150 per person.
For lunch, head to The Acorn, a cozy restaurant known for its delectable Indian and Chinese cuisine. Enjoy a hearty meal while taking in the scenic views of the surrounding landscape. The average cost for a meal is about Rs.300 per person.
Dine at Bliss Restaurant for dinner, a charming eatery offering a range of Indian and Continental dishes. Indulge in their specialties like the butter chicken or the grilled trout while enjoying the cozy ambiance. The average cost for a meal is about Rs.500 per person.
Thursday, December 28: Mukteshwar Adventure
Experience thrilling adventure activities in Mukteshwar, a picturesque hill station surrounded by fruit orchards and coniferous forests. Start your day with a trek to Mukteshwar Peak, offering panoramic views of the snow-capped Himalayas. Afterward, indulge in exciting ziplining and rappelling activities amidst the scenic beauty. In the evening, visit the charming Chauli Ki Jali, a cliffside viewpoint believed to have mystical powers.
Trek to Mukteshwar Peak: Free, 3 hours
Ziplining and Rappelling: ₹500 per person, 2 hours
Chauli Ki Jali: Free, 1 hour
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Mukteshwar is Café Choki-Dhara, known for its delicious pancakes and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, head to The Birdcage Restaurant which offers a variety of Indian and Continental dishes. They have a cozy ambiance and average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
In the evening, dine at the Mountain View Restaurant and enjoy the breathtaking views of the Himalayas while savoring their delectable North Indian and Chinese cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 600 INR per person.
Friday, December 29: Lansdowne Serenity
Explore the tranquil beauty of Lansdowne, a pristine hill station known for its panoramic views and colonial charm. Start your day with a visit to the picturesque Bhulla Lake and enjoy boating amidst serene surroundings. Afterward, explore the historic St. Mary's Church, followed by a leisurely walk along the tranquil Tip-in-Top viewpoint. In the evening, witness a mesmerizing sound and light show at the Garhwal Rifles Regimental War Memorial.
Bhulla Lake: ₹50 per person (boating extra), 2 hours
St. Mary's Church: Free, 1 hour
Tip-in-Top Viewpoint: Free, 1 hour
Sound and Light Show: ₹50 per person, 1 hour
Restaurants
Café de Mall: Enjoy a delightful breakfast at Café de Mall, known for its charming ambiance and delicious menu options. The average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
Lansdowne Delight: For lunch, head to Lansdowne Delight and savor the flavors of local cuisine in a cozy setting. The average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Cloud Nine: Indulge in a delectable dinner at Cloud Nine, a rooftop restaurant offering stunning views of the hills. The average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For a unique and off the beaten path experience, visit the Kainchi Dham ashram near Nainital, known for its spiritual significance and peaceful surroundings. In Almora, explore the Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, a pristine forest teeming with diverse flora and fauna. Don't miss the ancient Sun Temple in Ranikhet, offering tranquility and breathtaking views. In Mukteshwar, visit the Indian Veterinary Research Institute to learn about animal conservation. Finally, discover the serene beauty of Bhimtal Lake near Nainital, a less-crowded alternative to Naini Lake.