5-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary in Nanital, Uttarakhand

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Nainital, India

9:00AM

Breakfast at Diabetes Restaurant

Start your day with a hearty and affordable breakfast at Diabetes Restaurant, known for its wholesome sandwiches and fresh juices.
Walk from your accommodation if nearby.
INR 150, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Naini Lake

Stroll around the serene Naini Lake, enjoying the picturesque views while soaking in the tranquil atmosphere.
It's a short walk to the lake from the restaurant.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Mallital Restaurant

Head to Mallital Restaurant for a local favorite, the aloo paratha that is both filling and budget-friendly.
A quick walk along the lake from Naini Lake.
INR 100, 1 hour

1:00PM

Naina Devi Temple

Visit the revered Naina Devi Temple located right by the lake, an important spiritual site in Nainital.
5-minute walk from the restaurant.
Free, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore the Mall Road

Take some time to walk along Mall Road, where you can shop for local handicrafts and enjoy street vendors.
Stroll along the lakeside to the Mall Road section.
Free (shopping costs vary), 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Sharma Hotel & Restaurant

Savor a delicious local dish like Bhatt ki Chudkani at this casual yet popular spot.
5-minute walk from Mall Road.
INR 200, 1 hour
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Day 2: Nature and Views

Nainital, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Sonam’s Cafe

Fuel up with a tasty breakfast of pancakes and coffee, popular among backpackers.
Short walk from central area.
INR 150, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Snow View Point

Take a cable car (around INR 100) or trek to Snow View Point for incredible panoramic views of the Himalayas.
15-minute walk to the cable car station.
INR 200 (cable car), 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at New Bhojanalay

Enjoy a cheap and tasty Thali meal at New Bhojanalay, a favorite among locals.
Return using the cable car to the base.
INR 120, 1 hour

1:30PM

Tiffin Top (Dorothy's Seat)

Hike up to Tiffin Top for some exercise and remarkable views of the surroundings.
20-minute walk from New Bhojanalay.
Free, 3 hours

5:00PM

Enjoy Sunset at Naini Lake

Return to Naini Lake to witness the stunning hues of sunset, a magical end to the day.
Walk back towards the lake.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Naina Restaurant

Try delicious local cuisine at Naina Restaurant, known for its great service and ambiance.
Short walk from the lake area.
INR 180, 1 hour
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Day 3: Cultural Immersion

Nainital, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Himalayan Bean

Start your day at Himalayan Bean with a fulfilling breakfast of eggs and toast, paired with excellent coffee.
Walk over from your accommodation.
INR 200, 1 hour

9:00AM

Explore the Local Markets

Wander the local markets, discover unique souvenirs, and interact with friendly locals.
3-minute walk from the cafe.
Free (shopping costs vary), 2 hours

11:00AM

Visit the Eco Cave Gardens

Explore the Eco Cave Gardens for some rock climbing and to learn about local wildlife.
Local bus available from the market area.
INR 50, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Baker's Dozen

Enjoy freshly made sandwiches and pastries at this cozy bakery.
Short trek back to central Nainital.
INR 150, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Nainital Zoo

Take a local bus to the Nainital Zoo and enjoy observing various wildlife native to the area.
10-minute bus ride from the restaurant.
INR 50, 2 hours

4:00PM

Explore the Nainital Observatory

Visit the Nainital Observatory, India's oldest astronomical observatory that offers star-gazing opportunities.
Shared taxi or local bus from the Zoo.
INR 25, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Taste of Nainital

Indulge in a mix of Indian and Tibetan recipes to sample diverse flavors.
Head back towards Mallital area.
INR 200, 1 hour
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Day 4: Adventure Day

Nainital, India

7:30AM

Breakfast at Prakash Restaurant

Grab a filling plate of idli and sambar to start your adventure-packed day.
Walk or take a local bus if needed.
INR 100, 1 hour

9:00AM

Trekking to Mukteshwar

Start your trek towards Mukteshwar, a beautiful area about 51 km away known for its stunning views.
Bus from Nainital to Mukteshwar (approx. 2 hours ride).
INR 100, 4 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Mukteshwar

Enjoy a packed lunch or eat at a local eatery in Mukteshwar, savoring the mountain vibes.
Pack your own food or grab a quick bite from a local store.
INR 150, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Mukteshwar Temple

After lunch, visit the historic Mukteshwar Temple, famed for its architectural beauty and scenic backdrop.
Walk or hire a local guide.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Trek Back to Nainital

Make your way back to Nainital, cherishing the experience of the scenic nature along the route.
Reverse the trek to return.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Local Dhabha

Relax after your adventure with a hearty meal at a traditional dhaba, serving homemade style dishes.
You can find many dhabas along your way back.
INR 150, 1 hour
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Day 5: Relax and Reflect

Nainital, India

9:00AM

Breakfast at Dominos (takeaway)

Enjoy a stress-free morning with a quick breakfast from Dominos, opting for their economical breakfast combo.
5-minute walk from accommodation.
INR 200, 1 hour

10:00AM

Boating on Naini Lake

Rent a rowboat on Naini Lake to relax and take in the last views of this enchanting location.
Head to the boating area near Mall Road.
INR 300, 1 hour

12:00PM

Visit the Tibetan Market

Explore the Tibetan Market for unique souvenirs, handicrafts, and to taste traditional foods.
Short walk from the boating area.
Free (shopping costs vary), 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Moti Mahal

Opt for a satisfying plate of butter chicken, known for being both flavorful and budget-friendly.
5-minute walk from the market.
INR 250, 1 hour

3:00PM

Relax at Eco Garden

Spend your afternoon unwinding at the Eco Garden, surrounded by lush greenery.
Local bus or a 30-minute walk.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Aroma Restaurant

Wrap up your trip with an amazing dinner at Aroma Restaurant, known for its pizza specials and cozy atmosphere.
Return towards the central area by local transport.
INR 200, 1 hour
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