3-Day Shoestring Budget Adventure in Nainital: Nature & Culinary Delights

Day 1: Explore the Lake

Nainital, India

7:30AM

Breakfast at Mohan's Das Cafe

Start your day with their famous samosas and a hot cup of chai for an energising breakfast while enjoying the view of Naini Lake.
Located near Mall Road.
INR150, 1 hour

9:00AM

Boat Ride on Naini Lake

Take a refreshing boat ride on Naini Lake, surrounded by lush green hills and the tranquil atmosphere.
Rent a paddle boat from the shore.
INR200, 1 hour

10:30AM

Stroll along Mall Road

Walk along the bustling Mall Road, with numerous shops and beautiful views of the lake, soaking in the local culture.
Easily accessible from the boat docking area.
Free, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at the Standard Restaurant

Enjoy a hearty meal of paneer butter masala and roti in this rustic eatery popular among locals.
Located near the Mall Road.
INR300, 1 hour

1:00PM

Visit Naina Devi Temple

Explore the famous temple dedicated to Goddess Naina Devi, tucked away in scenic surroundings, offering panoramic views.
Walk from the restaurant or take an auto-rickshaw.
Free, 1 hour

3:00PM

Tiffin Top Trek

Embark on a short trek to Tiffin Top (also known as Dorothy's Seat), a viewpoint that offers stunning vistas of Nainital.
The trail starts at Ayarpata, reachable by auto-rickshaw.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Mallital Restaurant

Savour local delights like aloo paratha and curd to wrap up your adventurous day.
A walk from Tiffin Top back to town.
INR250, 1 hour
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Day 2: Nature & Wildlife

Nainital, India

7:30AM

Breakfast at The Rice Bowl

Enjoy a fulfilling breakfast of poha and fresh fruit to fuel a day of adventure.
Located near the bus station.
INR120, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Nainital Zoo

Discover the flora and fauna of the region at Nainital Zoo, home to rare Himalayan species.
Take a shared auto-rickshaw from Mall Road.
INR50, 2 hours

11:30AM

Explore Snow View Point

Catch a cable car ride to Snow View Point for an awe-inspiring view of the snow-capped mountains.
The cable car station is a short auto-rickshaw ride from the zoo.
INR200, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at the Government Cottage

Relish a simple but tasty thali at this budget-friendly spot while enjoying the serene views of nature.
Located further down the road after Snow View Point.
INR250, 1 hour

2:30PM

Walk to Sattal

Take a scenic trek to the nearby Sattal, a cluster of lakes, perfect for a peaceful retreat.
Follow the trail markers leading from the restaurant.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Relax by the Lakes

Unwind by the banks of the Sattal lakes, birdwatching or simply soaking up the tranquility.
Easily accessible from the trek route.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at the Village Restaurant

Enjoy local fish curry and steamed rice, a delightful way to finish your day surrounded by nature.
Return to Nainital and walk to the restaurant.
INR350, 1 hour
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Day 3: Cultural Immersion

Nainital, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Chaat Bazaar

Start with a taste of local street food such as aloo tikki chaat for a vibrant breakfast experience.
Head to Chaat Bazaar near the lake.
INR100, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Governor's House

Explore the architectural beauty and surrounding gardens of the Governor's House, a testament to British influence.
Head to the nearby Governor's House on foot.
INR50, 1 hour

11:00AM

Shopping at Mall Road

Browse through local artisan shops and pick up souvenirs, from woollen clothes to handmade crafts.
Stroll back to Mall Road.
Free (shopping costs vary), 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Dilli Darbar

Satisfy your cravings with a delicious biryani and raita in this popular local diner.
Located on the Mall Road.
INR300, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Thandi Sadak

Enjoy a peaceful stroll along Thandi Sadak, a cool path away from the crowds, perfect for reflection.
Take a short walk from the restaurant.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Tea at Kafe 360

Savour a cup of local Darjeeling tea while enjoying panoramic views of Nainital from this charming cafe.
Walk back to the Mall to find the cafe.
INR150, 1 hour

6:00PM

Final Dinner at The Mall Cafe

Relish a variety of North Indian dishes, rounding off your Nainital experience with a communal feel.
Nestled on the Mall Road.
INR400, 1 hour
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