Often known as the Lake district of India, Nainital, nestled in the lap of the Kumaon range in Uttarakhand, was built in 1841, at a height of 2084 metres, as a British summer capital. The city derives its name from the eye-shaped lake in its centre (naini-tal; naini in Hindi meaning ‘eyes’) on the north shore of which is the holy Naina Devi temple. This bustling town offers panoramic views of the Himalayas all around and is a popular destination for families as well as honeymooners who are looking for a rejuvenating week of fresh, clean air and mesmerising and enchanting mountain views. If you are planning for Nainital itinerary, this post will help you.
Although summer months are the most popular, Nainital can be a pleasant experience throughout the year. From backpackers on a budget to couples looking for an exotic stay, Nainital offers a range of accommodations and eateries.
This is also a trekker’s paradise as most of the high-altitude view-points can be climbed on foot. However, if trekking is not your idea of a perfect getaway, you can easily tour the sites in a cab that can be hired at multiple points in the city.
Pantnagar is the closest domestic airport and is connected to Delhi and Mumbai through several flights. Indira Gandhi airport at Delhi is the closest international airport. Kathgodam railway station is the closest station at a distance of 34 kilometres from Nainital. There are several trains available from Delhi, Agra, Kolkata, Lucknow etc.
Nainital is also accessible by road- you can take a cab or bus from Delhi and reach Nainital in about 5 hours. This is why it is one of the best places to visit near Delhi.
Nainital Itinerary Snapshot
Day 1- Nainital City tour
Day 2- City tour continued
Day 3- Almora
Day 4- Ranikhet
Day 5- Jim Corbett National Park
Detailed 5-Day Nainital Itinerary
Day 1
Nainital City tour
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Once you reach Nainital, start your vacation at the Naina Devi Temple on the banks of Naini Lake. This is an 8th century temple believed to be one of the 51 Shakti Peeths holy to the Hindu culture. Mythology states that the eyes (naina) of Goddess Sati fell on this site after the Tandava of Lord Shiva and the site is a pilgrimage spot for many Hindus.
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The Naini Lake beside is the central attraction in the city and you can take a boat ride on it while enjoying the views of the Kumaon range surrounding it. The Governor’s House in Uttarakhand is located close to the lake and is a British colonial structure.
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Visit the Eco Cave Gardens nearby for a fun-filled crawl through various animal-shaped caves. This site is especially popular with children. Next on your list could be the Aurobindo Ashram and the Gurney House, the erstwhile home of Jim Corbett.
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You can then drive to Jeolikot, about 18 kms away, which is often called the gateway to Nainital to see the many-hued flowers and butterflies prolifically spread in the area.
Spend your evening at the Astronomical Observatory gazing up at the constellations in the clear sky. End your first day strolling through the Tibetan Market and Mall Road lined by many cafes.
Day 2
City Tour Continued
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Mallital, 5 minutes from the Naini Lake, is the other charming spot in the city. Take a ropeway ride from here to reach Snow View Point which provides extremely magnificent views of the mountain ranges all around.
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Tiffin Top, at a height of 7,520 feet is another popular viewing point. The place is named so because many tourists come here for picnic with packed tiffins!
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St. John Wilderness Church, located next to the High Court, is a fascinating structure and a must-visit. You can trek or drive up to Naina Peak, at a height of 2,615 metres, to see the rhododendron blooms lining the hill.
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Next visit the ashram of the famed Neem Karoli Baba. His popularity was so widespread that many luminaries across the world, including Steve Jobs, wanted to become his disciple.
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Khurpatal, a scenic lake, surrounded by pine and cedar trees and Land’s End, a cliff offering an adrenaline kick due to its treacherous viewpoint are the other popular sites in the city. Spend some time in the Himalayan Botanical Garden and the zoo with its many species of birds and animals.
Day 3
Almora
Almora is a quaint yet spectacular town in Uttarakhand, about a 2-hour drive from Nainital. Shaped like a horse-shoe, this town gives visitors grand views of the Himalayas from its Zero Point in the Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary.
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Jageshwar group of temples is a cluster of over 100 temples built between the 7th and 12th century and is a holy site to the Shaivism sect of Hindus. Katarmal Sun temple and the Kasar Devi temple are also worth a visit in the town.
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The Deer Park and Bright End Corner are the other popular attractions here. The latter is named after a Mr. Brighton and is the site for the Vivekananada Library and memorial.
Govind Vallabh Pant museum is an interesting site in the town that houses artefacts belonging to the Katyuri and Chand dynasty. It also displays many local handicrafts and paintings. Spend your night at one of the guest houses or homestays in the town to enjoy a chilly and silent sleep in the lap of the mighty mountains.
Day 4
Ranikhet
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Ranikhet is 46 km away from Almora and should take you about 2 hours to drive. This picturesque town is known for its orchards and sprawling golf course and you will not regret spending the day here, watching the snow-capped peaks from every angle. The Jhula Devi Temple in the town is often visited by pilgrims.
Legend has it that Queen Padmini of Kumaon spent a large amount of her time in this hilly nest and the place received its name after her palace as the Queen’s farm. Though this palace has left no trace of its existence, this enchanting town draws tourists for its excellent views of the sunrise and sunset.
Head to Chaubatia Gardens which is spread over 600 acres of land! Its a must for every nature lover where one can find several orchards filled with apricots, peaches, apples and so much more.
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On the road to Almora, you find this quaint town called Majkhali that is renowned for its natural beauty. The places hosts several picnic spots that is enjoyed by tourists coming here, not to mention an absolutely splendid view of the Himalayas.
You can return to Nainital at the end of the day or choose to stay overnight in this peaceful station. Here, my post on All You Need to Know About Ranikhet will help you for sure.
Day 5
Jim Corbett National Park
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The wildlife sanctuary needs very little introduction. Situated 65 kms from Nainital (a 2 hour drive), this is the most exciting way to end your trip. Established in 1936, the oldest national park of India is the home to the endangered Royal Bengal Tiger. The Park is divided into 5 zones: Bijrani, Dhikala, Jhirna, Domunda and Sonanandi with different entrance points. Take a safari and immerse yourself in the sightings of hundreds of species of flora and fauna.
Even though tiger glimpses are very rare, you can certainly come across Asiatic Black Bear, Sloth Bear, Walking Deer, Hog Deer, Sambar, Yellow-throated Marten, Otters and Ghariyal. The aqua fauna include: Golden Oriole, Pallas Fish Eagle, Indian Pitta, Tawny Fish Owl, Scarlet Minivet and more.
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The species of birds found here are the Great Pied or hornbill, Orange Breasted Green Pigeon, Hodgson’s Bushchat, White-Backed Vulture, and reptile like Ghariyal or Aligator, Mugger or Crocodiles.
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Definitely stop by the Corbett waterfall. You can also opt for an elephant ride for that ultimate jungle experience. Sit by the Kosi river or enjoy fishing in its catchment area. Visit the Sitabani temple, dedicated to Sita as it is believed that she resided in these terrains before her Agnipariksha.
You can drive back to Delhi from Jim Corbett itself or come back to Nainital and head towards your return journey from there.
If you are planning to trip Nainital, the details I shared might help you. But, if you are wondering why choose to visit this hill station as against other places, read on to learn more:
Why Choose to Trip Nainital?
Nainital, standing in the most attractive Kumaon region of the state of Uttarakhand, India, is a mesmerizing destination that captivates travellers due to its attractive beauty, huge mountains, lush forests and tranquil lakes. If you are wondering, why should choose to trip Nainital, you should know that this trip promises a rejuvenating experience that combines natural splendour with cultural richness. Here are compelling reasons why you should embark on a journey to this enchanting hill station:
1. Scenic Beauty
Nainital is renowned for its breathtaking natural vistas. The town is set around the emerald Naini Lake, which reflects the surrounding hills like a mirror. The panoramic views of the Himalayan range from various viewpoints such as Snow View Point, Tiffin Top, and Naina Peak are truly awe-inspiring, offering a visual treat for nature lovers and photographers alike. Irrespective of whether you spend 5 days or even a single day, you will be impressed by its scenic beauty.
You might like my post on Uttarakhand itinerary
2. Tranquil Lakes
Nainital is famously known as the ‘Lake District of India’ due to its numerous pristine lakes. Apart from the iconic Naini Lake, visitors can explore other enchanting lakes like Bhimtal, Sattal, Naukuchiatal, and Khurpatal. Boating in the serene waters of these lakes is a tranquil experience that allows you to immerse yourself in the peaceful ambience while enjoying the surrounding beauty. The panoramic views of the tranquil lakes will be breathtaking. You will be impressed to know about Nainital height in feet. Yes, it is 6837 feet.
3. Adventure Activities
For adventure enthusiasts, Nainital offers a plethora of thrilling activities. Trekking expeditions to places like Naina Peak, Cheena Peak, and Kilbury provide an opportunity to explore the region’s rich biodiversity while enjoying panoramic views of the Himalayas. Additionally, paragliding, zip-lining, and horse riding are popular activities that add an adrenaline rush to your Nainital itinerary.
4. Cultural Heritage
Nainital boasts a rich cultural heritage that is reflected in its colonial-era architecture, bustling markets, and vibrant festivals. Stroll through the Mall Road lined with shops selling local handicrafts, woollens, and souvenirs, or visit historic landmarks like St. John’s Church, Governor’s House, and Gurney House to delve into the town’s colonial past. Exploring culture is one of the best things to do in Nainital even when you look for places to visit in Nainital in 1 day.
5. Temples and Shrines
The town is dotted with ancient temples and shrines that hold religious significance and architectural beauty. The Naina Devi Temple, dedicated to Goddess Naina Devi, is a revered pilgrimage site situated beside the Naini Lake. Other notable temples like Hanuman Garhi, Mukteshwar Temple, and Kainchi Dham attract devotees and tourists alike with their spiritual ambience and stunning surroundings. You can turn your trip Nainital spiritual with these temples and shrines.
6. Gastronomic Delights
Indulge in the delectable flavours of Kumaoni cuisine during your trip to Nainital. From piping hot momos and steaming thukpa to traditional dishes like bhatt ki churkani and aloo ke gutke, the local eateries offer a tantalizing array of culinary delights that will leave your taste buds craving for more. Don’t forget to savour the famous Bal Mithai and Singhauri for a sweet conclusion to your gastronomic journey. When you have 5 days to spend in Nainital, you can try these dishes one per day for a delightful experience.
7. Wellness Retreat
Nainital’s serene environment and crisp mountain air make it an ideal destination for wellness retreats and rejuvenation. Unwind amidst nature’s embrace with yoga and meditation sessions conducted in tranquil settings or pamper yourself with holistic therapies and spa treatments offered at various resorts and wellness centres across the town. With a huge Nainital height in feet, you will get a serene experience when you participate in a wellness retreat.
8. Shopping Extravaganza
From intricately crafted wooden handicrafts and exquisite woollen shawls to aromatic candles and herbal products, Nainital offers a diverse range of shopping options for avid shoppers. Explore the bustling markets like Tibetan Market, Bara Bazaar, and Mallital Market to haggle for souvenirs and mementoes that capture the essence of your Nainital itinerary.
9. Romantic Getaway
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With its idyllic setting and romantic ambience, Nainital is a favoured destination for honeymooners and couples seeking a memorable getaway. Take a romantic boat ride on the shimmering Naini Lake, enjoy leisurely walks along the lakeside promenades, or cosy up by a bonfire under the starlit sky for intimate moments that create lasting memories. Even if the couple spend a single day in Nainital, they can find plenty of places to visit in Nainital in 1 day.
10. Accessibility
Conveniently located at a manageable distance from major cities like Delhi and Dehradun, Nainital is easily accessible by road and rail. The scenic drive through winding mountain roads offers a delightful journey, while the nearest railway station at Kathgodam ensures smooth connectivity for travellers arriving by train. This factor makes a trip Nainital enjoyable.
Also read my post on 4-day Nainital itinerary
Great places to visit near Delhi on Weekends
In conclusion, a trip to Nainital promises a delightful blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, adventure, and relaxation, making it a perfect destination for travellers of all ages and interests. Whether you seek adventure amidst the mountains, spiritual solace in ancient temples, or simply wish to unwind in the lap of nature, Nainital beckons with its timeless charm and allure. So, pack your bags and embark on an unforgettable journey to this enchanting hill station for an experience that will leave you spellbound.
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