3-Day Nainital, Mukteshwar & Almora Nature and Culture Getaway from Lucknow

Day 1: Travel & Nainital Evening

Lucknow to Nainital, India on July 11, 2025

5:00AM

Train from Lucknow to Kathgodam

Depart early morning on Bagh Express (13019) or Ranikhet Express (15013); enjoy scenic views on this approximately 8-9 hour journey covering 340 km.
INR450 approx, 8h30m

2:00PM

Check-in at Nainital Hotel

Arrive and check-in at hotel in Nainital for rest and refreshment before evening activities.
Varies by hotel, 1h

4:00PM

Visit Naini Lake and Boating

Enjoy boating or paddling on Naini Lake, a serene spot surrounded by hills in the heart of Nainital.
INR100-200 per boat, 1h

5:15PM

Naina Devi Temple

Visit this revered temple dedicated to Goddess Naina Devi; soak in spiritual vibes and beautiful hill views.
Free, 45m

6:15PM

The Mall Road

Stroll along The Mall Road for shopping local handicrafts, snacks and sightseeing the lively market street.
Free to explore, 1h

7:30PM

Dinner at Machan Restaurant

Dine at Machan Restaurant offering local Kumaoni and North Indian cuisine with pleasant views of the lake area.
INR500 approx per person, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Mukteshwar & Almora

Nainital, Mukteshwar, Almora, India on July 12, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast at Sakley's Restaurant & Pastry Shop

Start your day with freshly baked bread, eggs and coffee at this popular eatery in Nainital.
INR250 per person, 45m

8:00AM

Travel from Nainital to Mukteshwar

Cab ride through scenic hilly roads covering 45-50 km in about 2 hours to reach Mukteshwar.
INR1500 approx, 2h

9:30AM

Mukteshwar Dham Temple

Explore this ancient temple famed for its hilltop panoramic views and spiritual importance.
Free, 30m

10:15AM

Chauli Ki Jali

Visit the cliff edge offering thrilling views and rock formations, a nature lover’s delight.
Free, 45m

11:15AM

Bhalugaad Waterfall

Take a short trek to this serene waterfall surrounded by forest – perfect for nature photography.
Free, 1h

12:15PM

Starscapes Observatory and Inspection Bungalow Viewpoint

Visit the observatory for stargazing insights and viewpoint for sweeping views of the Himalayas.
Free, 45m

1:00PM

Lunch at The Indian Coffee House Mukteshwar

Enjoy simple, home-style North Indian and South Indian dishes in a rustic setting.
INR300 per person, 45m

2:15PM

Travel from Mukteshwar to Almora

Head to Almora via cab covering 50 km in approximately 2 hours over scenic hills.
INR1500 approx, 2h

4:30PM

Check-in at Almora Hotel

Settle into your hotel in Almora and freshen up.
Varies, 30m

5:00PM

Visit Kasar Devi Temple

Explore this spiritual site known for its peaceful ambiance and stunning views.
Free, 1h

6:15PM

Bright End Corner (Sunset Point)

Watch a spectacular sunset over the Himalayas from this iconic vantage point.
Free, 45m

7:30PM

Dinner at Café Rudra’s Den

Relish a mix of Kumaoni and continental dishes in a cosy café with good ambiance.
INR600 approx per person, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Binsar & Return

Almora - Binsar - Kathgodam - Lucknow, India on July 13, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at your hotel to prepare for the day’s excursions.
Included in stay usually, 45m

8:00AM

Travel from Almora to Binsar

Drive 30 km by cab through forested hills to Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary.
INR800 approx, 1h

8:45AM

Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary

Explore trails with Himalayan flora and fauna; ideal for bird watchers and nature enthusiasts.
INR50 entry fee, 1h

9:45AM

Zero Point (Himalayan View)

Witness panoramic views of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks from this famous viewpoint.
Free, 30m

10:30AM

Bineshwar Mahadev Temple and Gairar Golu Devta Temple

Visit these important local temples known for their architecture and spiritual significance.
Free, 1h

11:30AM

Optional Visit: Mary Budden Estate

If time permits, explore this heritage estate known for its gardens and quiet charm.
Free, 30m

12:15PM

Lunch at Binsar

Have a packed or local simple lunch; options may be limited so plan accordingly.
INR300 approx, 45m

2:00PM

Travel back from Almora to Kathgodam

Take a cab for the roughly 90 km journey to Kathgodam railway station in about 3 hours.
INR1800 approx, 3h

7:00PM

Board Night Train from Kathgodam to Lucknow

Catch Ranikhet Express or Bagh Express night train for approximately 9-hour journey overnight.
INR450 approx, 9h
View Hotel Availability