Nainital, also known as the “Queen of Hills,” is a picturesque hill station in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. You might be interested in learning how to spend two weeks in Uttarakhand as well. Nestled amidst the Kumaon Himalayas, Nainital is a popular destination for tourists seeking tranquillity, natural beauty, and a respite from the hustle and bustle of city life. In this 4-day itinerary for Nainital, I will guide you through the best places to visit and things to do in Nainital, ensuring you make the most of your time in this charming town.
Day 1: Arrival and Nainital Lake
Arrival in Nainital
Start your journey by arriving in Nainital, either by train or bus. The nearest railway station is Kathgodam, located about 34 km away. From Kathgodam, you can hire a taxi or take a shared cab to reach Nainital. Alternatively, you can also reach Nainital by bus from nearby cities like Delhi, Dehradun, and Haridwar. It is one of the best places to visit near Delhi for sure.
Check-in at your hotel
Once you arrive in Nainital, check in at your chosen hotel or guesthouse. There are plenty of accommodation options available, ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxurious resorts. Rest and freshen up before you begin your exploration of Nainital.
Naini Lake
After you’ve settled in, head out to explore the centrepiece of Nainital – the breathtaking Naini Lake. This pear-shaped, freshwater lake is surrounded by lush green hills and offers an enchanting view.
Enjoy a leisurely walk along Mall Road, which runs parallel to the lake, or take a boat ride on the serene waters to soak in the beauty of the surroundings. A visit to this lake should be part of your itinerary for Nainital.
Naina Devi Temple
End your first day in Nainital with a visit to the Naina Devi Temple, a revered Hindu shrine located on the northern bank of the lake. The temple is devoted to Naina Devi Goddess and offers a spiritual ambience, making it a perfect spot for some introspection and prayer. Never miss out on a visit to this place in your itinerary of Nainital.
Day 2: Sightseeing in Nainital
Tiffin Top
Begin your second day in Nainital with a visit to Tiffin Top, a popular viewpoint located atop Ayarpatta Hill. A short trek or a pony ride will take you to the summit, where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the town and the snow-capped Himalayan peaks. Pack a picnic breakfast to enjoy at the top, basking in the tranquillity and beauty of the surroundings. Most people have this place in their itinerary for Nainital.
Eco Cave Gardens
Next, head to the Eco Cave Gardens, an exciting spot for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. The gardens feature six natural caves, each offering a unique experience as you navigate through the narrow and winding passages. The Hanging Garden at the site is perfect for strolls and photography. This place should be part of the best itinerary for Nainital.
Snow View Point
After exploring the caves, make your way to Snow View Point, one of Nainital’s most popular attractions. Accessible by a cable car ride or a steep trek, the point offers mesmerizing views of the snow-clad Himalayas, including the majestic Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Nanda Kot peaks.
This is one of the best places to visit in Nainital. So, it should be part of the itinerary for Nainital.
Governor’s House (Raj Bhawan)
End your day of sightseeing with a visit to the Governor’s House or Raj Bhawan, a magnificent British-era building that now serves as the official residence of the Governor of Uttarakhand. The sprawling estate features impressive Gothic architecture, lush gardens, and a historical golf course. You will feel relaxed when you include this place in your itinerary for Nainital after a long day of strolling around.
Day 3: Excursions around Nainital
Pangot and Kilbury Bird Sanctuary
Start your third day with an excursion to Pangot and Kilbury Bird Sanctuary, located about 15 km from Nainital. This birdwatcher’s paradise is home to over 580 species of birds, including the Himalayan griffon, blue-winged minla, and white-throated laughing thrush. Enjoy a guided nature walk through the sanctuary to spot and photograph these beautiful birds in their natural habitat. A visit to this sanctuary should be part of your itinerary for Nainital.
Bhimtal Lake
Next, head to Bhimtal Lake, a serene and picturesque lake located about 22 km from Nainital. The lake is named after the legendary Bhima, one of the Pandava brothers from the Indian epic Mahabharata. Enjoy boating or kayaking on the calm waters, or simply relax by the lakeside and admire the stunning views. A visit to this place is a must to be part of your itinerary for Nainital.
Naukuchiatal
After exploring Bhimtal, proceed to Naukuchiatal, a quaint lake village situated about 26 km from Nainital. The lake is famous for its nine corners, which are believed to be auspicious and offer a glimpse into the mysteries of nature.
Indulge in activities like paragliding, rowing, or paddle boating to make the most of your visit to this picturesque destination. In your day 3 itinerary for Nainital, a visit to this lake village is important.
Sattal
End your day with a visit to Sattal, a cluster of seven interconnected freshwater lakes located about 23 km from Nainital. Surrounded by lush forests and rich in biodiversity, Sattal is an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Enjoy activities such as birdwatching, trekking, and camping, or simply unwind by the lakeside and take in the enchanting views.
Day 4: Last-minute shopping and departure
Tibetan Market
Begin your final day in Nainital with a visit to the bustling Tibetan Market, located along Mall Road. This lively market is perfect for picking up souvenirs and local handicrafts, such as handmade candles, woollen clothes, and wooden artefacts. Don’t forget to savour some delicious momos and thukpa at the numerous food stalls.
Bara Bazaar
Next, head to the Bara Bazaar, another popular shopping destination in Nainital. The market offers a variety of local products, including fresh fruits, aromatic spices, and colourful textiles. You can also find a range of organic and Ayurvedic products, making it an ideal spot for health-conscious shoppers. So, shopping enthusiasts should include this place in their itinerary for Nainital without fail.
Nainital Ropeway
Before departing, make a final stop at the Nainital Ropeway, an exciting cable car ride that offers stunning aerial views of the town and the surrounding mountains.
The ride takes you to Snow View Point, from where you can enjoy one last glimpse of the majestic Himalayas before bidding farewell to Nainital. Even though this is the last in your itinerary for Nainital, this is never the least.
Departure
After your memorable 4-day trip, it’s time to pack your bags and head back home. Board a taxi or a shared cab to reach the Kathgodam railway station or the nearest bus stop, and cherish the memories of your enchanting Nainital getaway.
Conclusion
This 4-day itinerary for Nainital offers a perfect blend of sightseeing, adventure, and relaxation, ensuring you make the most of your time in this charming hill station. From serene lakes and stunning viewpoints to bustling markets and thrilling excursions, Nainital has something for everyone. Embark on this unforgettable journey to the Queen of Hills and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Also read my post on 5-day Nainital itinerary.