In the morning, explore the historic Lucknow Residency, which played a significant role in the Indian War of Independence in 1857. Take a guided tour of the museum to learn about the events that took place here. In the afternoon, visit the nearby Bara Imambara, a stunning example of Awadhi architecture, and marvel at the labyrinthine Bhool Bhulaiya maze. In the evening, head to Hazratganj, the shopping and entertainment hub of Lucknow, for some retail therapy and delicious street food.
Start your day by driving to the Moradabad Brass Market, which is famous for its handmade brass products. Spend the morning exploring the market's narrow alleys and bargaining for unique souvenirs. In the afternoon, drive to Nainital and check into your hotel. Spend the evening boating on the serene Naini Lake and watching the sunset over the hills.
Spend your morning exploring the high-altitude Nainital Zoo, which is home to rare species such as the Siberian Tiger, Himalayan Black Bear, and Snow Leopard. Don't miss the Red Panda exhibit, which is a crowd favorite. In the afternoon, visit the Naina Devi Temple, a sacred Hindu site located on the northern side of the lake. End your day with a stroll on the Mall Road and a hot cup of tea at a local cafe.
Take a day trip to the Mukteshwar Temple, a 350-year-old shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is located on a hilltop and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. On your way back to Nainital, stop at the Chauthi Jaali viewpoint, which offers a panoramic view of the valley. In the evening, enjoy a candle-lit dinner at a lakeside restaurant.
End your trip with a visit to Gurney House, the former residence of the famous hunter-conservationist Jim Corbett. The house has been converted into a museum and showcases Corbett's life and achievements. In the afternoon, explore the Governor's House, a British-era mansion that has now been converted into the Raj Bhawan. End your day by shopping for souvenirs at the Tibetan Market.
If you have more time, consider visiting the Kumaon region, which is known for its scenic beauty and adventure activities such as trekking and camping. You can also take a day trip to the nearby hill stations of Bhimtal and Ranikhet. To maximize your fun, plan your trip during the Nainital Winter Carnival, which takes place in December and features cultural events, sports competitions, and a food festival. Don't forget to try the local cuisine, especially the Kumaoni dishes such as Bhatt ki Churkani and Aloo ke Gutke. Enjoy your trip to Nainital!
Click here to find hotels and flights for your trip to Nainital