3-Day Comprehensive Travel Itinerary for Nainital: Explore Hill Station Charm and Scenic Beauty

Day 1: Lake and Mall Road

Nainital, India on May 6, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Cafe Chica

Enjoy a fresh breakfast at Cafe Chica, known for its delicious coffee and continental breakfast options, opening at 8am to start your day right.
INR250, 1h0m

9:00am

Boat Ride on Nainital Lake

Take a boat ride on the serene Naini Lake, offering scenic views of the surrounding hills and the town's silhouette, open from 8am to 6pm.
INR150, 1h0m

10:30am

Mall Road Walk and Shopping

Stroll along Mall Road, exploring local shops, handicrafts, and enjoying street food. A great way to experience local culture and pick souvenirs.
Free, 2h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Sakley's Restaurant & Pastry Shop

Savor lunch at Sakley's, famous for its vintage charm and delectable North Indian as well as Tibetan cuisines, open 10am to 10pm.
INR400, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit Nainital Tibetan Market

Browse through the market for Tibetan handicrafts, woollens, and spices, which opens till evening and offers a colorful cultural experience.
Free, 1h30m

4:00pm

Visit Governor's House (Raj Bhavan) Viewpoint

Enjoy the magnificent views of the lake and surrounding hills from the Raj Bhavan viewpoint, ideal for photography and a quiet afternoon walk.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at The Far Pavilion

Dine at The Far Pavilion, located inside the Ayar Jungle Resort, offering excellent Indian and continental dishes with a scenic ambiance.
INR700, 1h30m

Day 2: Hilltop Views and Wildlife

Nainital, India on May 7, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Nalder’s Bar and Restaurant

Start your day with hearty breakfast options in a cozy mountain setting, opening from 7:30am to 11am.
INR300, 1h0m

9:00am

Cable Car Ride to Snow View Point

Take the cable car to Snow View Point for panoramic views of the Himalayas and snow-capped peaks, cable car operates from 9am to 5pm.
INR200, 1h0m

10:30am

Visit Nainital Zoo

Explore the famous Nainital Zoo, home to endangered species like the snow leopard and Tibetan wolves, open from 9am to 5pm.
INR50, 2h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Chaar Dukaan Restaurant

Enjoy local Kumaoni delicacies and Indian dishes at this charming restaurant near Mall Road, open till 9pm.
INR350, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit Tiffin Top (Dorothy’s Seat)

A short hike to this viewpoint offers stunning views of the valley and Naini Lake, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
Free, 2h0m

5:00pm

Tea and Snacks at Kunga Restaurant & Cafe

Relax with a cup of tea and enjoy some momos or snacks at Kunga Cafe, open till late evening.
INR200, 1h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Machan Restaurant

End the day with dinner at Machan Restaurant, offering a mix of Indian, Chinese, and continental dishes in a pleasant setting.
INR600, 1h30m

Day 3: Nature Trails and Departure

Nainital, India on May 8, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at The Colonial Chef

Begin early with a fresh and wholesome breakfast at The Colonial Chef, which opens at 7am, popular for its fusion dishes.
INR280, 1h0m

8:30am

Explore Eco Cave Gardens

Visit the Eco Cave Gardens to explore interconnected rocky caves and hanging gardens, a fun experience for kids and adults, open from 9am to 6pm.
INR50, 1h30m

10:30am

Visit High Altitude Zoo and Gurney House from Eco Cave Gardens

A short walk to explore more nature and historic sites like Gurney House, home of Jim Corbett, open between 9am and 5pm.
INR100, 2h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Glacier Restaurant

Savor a relaxing lunch at Glacier Restaurant with views overlooking the lake, serving Indian and Chinese cuisine, open till 9pm.
INR400, 1h0m

2:30pm

Stroll around the Lake and prepare for Departure

Take a final leisurely stroll around Naini Lake and relax before your onward journey.
Free, 1h0m