Nainital Weekend Trip: A Serene Escape in the Hills -..

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Weekend Trip to Nainital: A Serene Escape in the Hills

2 Days

Transportation
Bus, Car, Traveler
Accomodation
3 Stars Hotels
Maximum Altitude
5,416 metres
Departure from
Haldwani
Best season
Feb, Mar, Apr & May
Tour type
Eco-Tour, Hiking
Meals
All meals during the trek
Language
English, Hindi
Fitness level
Easy to Moderate
Group Size
2-15

Overview

Nainital, nestled in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, is a charming hill station known for its scenic lakes, lush hills, and pleasant weather. A perfect weekend getaway from nearby cities like Delhi, it offers a blend of nature, adventure, and tranquility. This 2-day itinerary covers all the highlights of Nainital, allowing you to relax and explore its beauty in a short span.

Trip Highlights

Enjoy a peaceful boat ride on the stunning Naini Lake, surrounded by hills and offering scenic views.
Take the cable car/ropeway to Snow View Point and witness breathtaking vistas of the Himalayan peaks.
Stroll along the lively Mall Road, filled with local shops, eateries, and vibrant markets for souvenirs.
Seek blessings at the famous Naina Devi Temple, located by the lake and dedicated to Goddess Naina Devi.
Discover rare Himalayan species such as snow leopards and Himalayan black bears at the High Altitude Zoo.
Visit the majestic Raj Bhawan, known for its stunning British-era architecture and beautiful gardens.

Tour Itinerary

Day 1 :

Arrival and Exploring Nainital

Morning: Arrival in Nainital

Reach Nainital by road from Delhi (approx. 6-7 hours drive) or nearby towns.
Check-in to your hotel and freshen up.
Head out for a breakfast at a local café or your hotel.
Mid-Morning: Naini Lake and Mall Road

Begin your day with a boat ride on the famous Naini Lake, enjoying the serene surroundings and stunning views of the hills.
After the boat ride, take a stroll along the bustling Mall Road, where you can shop for souvenirs, woolens, and local handicrafts.
Afternoon: Visit Naina Devi Temple and Snow View Point

Visit the Naina Devi Temple, located on the northern shore of Naini Lake. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Naina Devi and offers a peaceful ambiance for prayers.
Afterward, take the cable car/ropeway to Snow View Point for a breathtaking panoramic view of the Himalayan peaks and the town of Nainital.
Lunch:

Enjoy a relaxing lunch at one of the local restaurants near Mall Road. You can try some local Kumaoni dishes like Aloo ke Gutke or stick to traditional Indian cuisine.
Evening: Tiffin Top and Thandi Sadak Walk

Head to Tiffin Top (Dorothy’s Seat), a short hike or pony ride away. It’s a popular viewpoint offering magnificent views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
Later, take a peaceful walk along the picturesque Thandi Sadak, a quiet lane running parallel to Naini Lake. It’s a great spot for photography and reflection.
Dinner:

Return to Mall Road for dinner at one of Nainital’s popular restaurants or cafés, offering both Indian and continental options.
Overnight stay at your hotel.

Day 2 :

Local Sightseeing and Departure

Morning: Visit Eco Cave Gardens

After breakfast, head to Eco Cave Gardens, a unique network of interconnected caves and hanging gardens that offer a fun adventure for families and kids. The caves are designed to resemble natural habitats of animals like tigers, leopards, and panthers.
Mid-Morning: Nainital Zoo

Visit the High Altitude Zoo, home to rare Himalayan species such as snow leopards, Himalayan black bears, and barking deer. It’s a must-visit for animal lovers and offers beautiful views of the surrounding area.
Afternoon: Explore Raj Bhawan (Governor’s House)

Explore the beautiful Raj Bhawan, also known as Governor’s House, a British-era building with stunning architecture. The well-maintained gardens and the historic feel make it an interesting stop.
Have lunch at a local restaurant before wrapping up your trip.
Optional Visit: Hanuman Garhi

If time permits, visit Hanuman Garhi Temple, located about 3 km from Nainital. This hilltop temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman offers breathtaking sunset views and is a peaceful place to spend some time.
Evening: Departure

Head back to your hotel to collect your luggage and check out.
Begin your journey back home with pleasant memories of a relaxing weekend in Nainital.

Costs

The Cost Includes

The Cost Excludes

Map

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the best time to visit Nainital?

The best time to visit Nainital is from March to June and September to November, when the weather is pleasant for sightseeing. Avoid the monsoon months (July-August) due to heavy rains and possible landslides.

How much time is sufficient to explore Nainital?

A 2-day/1-night weekend trip is enough to explore the main attractions in Nainital, such as Naini Lake, Mall Road, Naina Devi Temple, Tiffin Top, and Snow View Point.

Is Nainital a good place for families?

Yes, Nainital is a family-friendly destination with many attractions like boating on Naini Lake, visits to the zoo, and fun activities at Eco Cave Gardens, making it ideal for travelers of all ages.

What should I pack for a weekend trip to Nainital?

Comfortable walking shoes for sightseeing.
Light woolens for the evenings, as it can get cool even in summer.
Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for sunny afternoons.
Rain gear (umbrella or raincoat) if visiting during the monsoon season.

What are the must-do activities in Nainital?

Boating on Naini Lake.
Taking a ropeway ride to Snow View Point.
Exploring the local markets on Mall Road.
Visiting the Naina Devi Temple and Nainital Zoo.
Enjoying the peaceful surroundings of Tiffin Top and Thandi Sadak.

Are there any adventure activities in Nainital?

Yes, Nainital offers some adventure activities like trekking to Tiffin Top, paragliding in nearby locations, and boating on the lake. You can also visit the Eco Cave Gardens for a bit of adventure.