7-Day Kumaon Uttarakhand Itinerary: Dehradun to Kausani by Train and Road

Day 1: Arrival and Nainital

Nainital, India on June 28, 2025

7:10AM

Arrive at Kathgodam Station

Arrive via Dehradun–Kathgodam Express. Freshen up and arrange private cab/shared taxi for the onward journey to Nainital.
INR150-300, 0h30m

9:00AM

Transfer to Nainital

Private cab or shared taxi from Kathgodam to Nainital covering 35 km in approximately 1.5 hours. Enjoy scenic views en route.
INR500-700, 1h30m

10:30AM

Breakfast at Sakley’s Restaurant & Pastry Shop

Enjoy freshly baked goods and hearty breakfast options with views of Naini Lake. Open from 8 AM.
INR250-400, 1h

11:30AM

Boat Ride at Naini Lake

Experience a relaxing boat ride on the iconic Naini Lake, perfect for scenic photography and leisurely sightseeing. Operating hours typically 9 AM to 5 PM.
INR300, 1h

12:45PM

Visit Naina Devi Temple

Explore this serene lakeside Hindu temple offering beautiful views and spiritual ambiance.
Free, 0h30m

1:30PM

Lunch at Machan Restaurant

Savor delicious Kumaoni cuisine and North Indian dishes with views of the lake and hills.
INR400-600, 1h

2:45PM

Mall Road Stroll

Enjoy a leisurely walk along Mall Road, exploring shops, cafes, and local culture.
Free, 1h30m

5:00PM

Relax at Hotel

Check into your hotel and rest before dinner. Recommended hotels include The Naini Retreat or hotel with lake views.
Varies, 2h

7:30PM

Dinner at Zyka Restaurant

Enjoy a mix of Indian and Continental dishes in a cozy ambiance. Open till 10 PM.
INR400-700, 1h30m
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Day 2: Nainital Local Tour

Nainital, India on June 29, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Boat House Club

Start your day with breakfast at this historic club close to the lake offering scenic views.
INR300-500, 1h

9:30AM

Snow View Point by Ropeway

Take the ropeway to Snow View Point for panoramic views of the Himalayas and Nainital valley. Ropeway operates 9 AM to 5 PM.
INR200, 2h

12:00PM

Visit Tiffin Top and Nainital Zoo

Visit Tiffin Top for a light trek and viewpoints, then explore the nearby Nainital Zoo famous for snow leopards and bears.
INR50 (Zoological Park), 2h

2:00PM

Lunch at The Georgian Restaurant

Enjoy a combination of traditional and continental dishes in a heritage-style setting.
INR450-700, 1h

3:30PM

Explore Eco Cave Garden

Spend time exploring caves, hanging bridges, and nature trails suitable for families. Open 9:30 AM to 6 PM.
INR50, 1h

4:45PM

Visit Bhimtal and Sattal Lakes

Short drive (30 mins each) to nearby lakes for boating and scenic walks, ideal for photography and tranquility.
Boating INR150 per person, 2h

7:00PM

Dinner at Sakley’s Restaurant & Pastry Shop

Return to Nainital for dinner with fine dining options including desserts and sweets.
INR400-700, 1h30m
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Day 3: Nainital to Almora

Almora, India on June 30, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Enjoy a wholesome breakfast to prepare for the day's travel and sightseeing.
Included in stay or INR250-400, 1h

8:30AM

Drive to Almora

Travel approximately 65 km through scenic pine forests, reaching Almora in about 2.5 hours.
Cab fare approx INR1200-1500, 2h30m

11:00AM

Check-in and freshen up

Settle into your hotel or guesthouse for Almora, such as Kasar Theos or Hotel Alka.
Varies, 0h30m

11:45AM

Visit Chitai Golu Devta Temple

Explore this ancient temple dedicated to the God of justice, adorned with thousands of bells.
Free, 0h45m

12:30PM

Bright End Corner

Visit a popular viewpoint for mesmerizing panoramas of the Himalayas and sunset views.
Free, 0h45m

1:15PM

Lunch at The Pine Pavilion

Enjoy local Kumaoni and Indian dishes in a homely setting.
INR350-600, 1h

2:30PM

Explore Kasar Devi Temple

Visit this spiritual spot known for its serene vibe and reputed energy zone, a favorite among artists and seekers.
Free, 1h30m

4:00PM

Walk around Lala Bazaar

Stroll through the lively local market offering handicrafts, spices, and hill produce.
Free, 1h

7:30PM

Dinner at Chokhalao Restaurant

Taste authentic Kumaoni cuisine including dishes like bhatt ki churkani and local vegetables.
INR400-600, 1h
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Day 4: Binsar Nature

Binsar, India on July 1, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at Almora hotel

Early breakfast before travel to Binsar.
Included or INR250-400, 1h

8:30AM

Drive to Binsar

Drive about 30 km taking 1.5 hrs through scenic routes to reach your resort or forest lodge.
Cab fare approx INR800-1000, 1h30m

10:00AM

Check-in and settle at resort

Relax and enjoy nature at a resort like Binsar Himalayan Retreat or similar forest lodge.
Varies, 0h30m

10:45AM

Visit Zero Point

Hike or drive to this vantage point offering panoramic views of the Kumaon Himalayas including peaks like Nanda Devi.
Free, 1h30m

12:30PM

Lunch at resort restaurant

Refresh with local and Indian cuisine at your resort.
INR400-600, 1h

2:00PM

Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary Walk

Take guided nature walks exploring the rich flora and fauna, including deer, pheasants, and over 200 bird species.
INR50 entry plus guide fee INR200, 2h

5:00PM

Relax at resort

Unwind and enjoy the tranquil forest surroundings before dinner.
Free, 2h

7:30PM

Dinner at resort

Dinner featuring local Kumaoni specialities and seasonal vegetables.
INR400-700, 1h30m
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Day 5: Binsar to Kausani

Kausani, India on July 2, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at resort

Enjoy breakfast surrounded by nature before the drive to Kausani.
Included or INR250-400, 1h

8:30AM

Drive to Kausani with Baijnath Temple stop

Drive approx 80 km (~3 hours) with an optional stop at historic Baijnath Temple to admire its ancient architecture.
Taxi fare approx INR1500-1700, 3h

11:30AM

Check-in and freshen up

Check into your hotel or homestay in Kausani such as Kausani Alpine Heights or similar.
Varies, 0h30m

12:00PM

Lunch at local cafe

Taste fresh local Kumaoni dishes or simple Indian fare with mountain views.
INR350-600, 1h

1:30PM

Anasakti Ashram Visit

Explore Gandhi’s meditation site located on the ridges of Kausani, a place of peace and history.
Free, 1h

3:00PM

Relax or local market stroll

Free time to explore the local markets or relax at your accommodation.
Free, 2h

5:30PM

Sunset Viewing at Kausani

Witness the stunning sunset over Nanda Devi and the Himalayan range, a must-see highlight.
Free, 1h

7:00PM

Dinner at Traders’ Inn

Enjoy a hearty meal with good variety of North Indian cuisine and local flavors.
INR400-700, 1h30m
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Day 6: Kausani Exploration

Kausani, India on July 3, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at hotel

Wake up to a fresh breakfast with views of the surrounding hills and tea estates.
Included or INR250-400, 1h

9:30AM

Visit Kausani Tea Estate

Tour the verdant tea gardens, learn about tea production, and enjoy refreshing local tea.
Free/nominal fee, 2h

12:00PM

Lunch at Ratrani Hotel

Dine on authentic Kumaoni and Indian cuisine in a friendly setting.
INR350-600, 1h

1:30PM

Rudradhari Falls & Caves

Short trek to the scenic waterfalls and caves; a peaceful natural retreat with spiritual significance.
Free, 2h

4:00PM

Optional Short Hikes or Market Visit

Spend late afternoon exploring local trails or shopping for handicrafts and souvenirs in the market.
Free, 2h

7:30PM

Dinner at Couvent

Enjoy freshly prepared dishes with an emphasis on local flavors and fresh ingredients.
INR400-700, 1h30m
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Day 7: Return Journey

Kausani to Dehradun, India on July 4, 2025

7:00AM

Early Breakfast at hotel

Have an early breakfast to prepare for the long drive back.
Included or INR250-400, 1h

8:00AM

Drive from Kausani to Kathgodam

Set off for the 135 km drive taking approximately 5 to 6 hours. Plan for rest or refreshment stops en route.
Cab fare approx INR2500-3000, 5h30m

1:00PM

Lunch en route (e.g., at Nainital or local roadside dhaba)

Quick lunch stop for local and Indian cuisine to recharge before continuing journey.
INR200-400, 1h

7:45PM

Board Train from Kathgodam to Dehradun

Catch the Kathgodam–Dehradun Express departing at 7:45 PM to reach Dehradun early next morning.
INR250-400 (train ticket), 8h15m
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