Nainital is a beautiful hill station located in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand. Known for its stunning natural beauty, serene lakes, and beautiful landscapes, Nainital is a popular destination among nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.
Here, we've put together a detailed 3-day itinerary for you if you're planning a trip to Nainital for the first time and want to check out all the must-see attractions and things to do.
This 3-day itinerary is designed to give you a taste of everything Nainital has to offer, from boating on the tranquil lakes to trekking in the lush green mountains. You will also get to explore the local culture and cuisine of the region and indulge in some shopping at the local bazaars. So, pack your bags and get ready for an exciting journey through the picturesque town of Nainital.
3-Day Nainital Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival and local sightseeing, which consist of exploring Nainital town and Naina Devi temple.
Day 2: An adventure trip to Nainital which includes adventure activities like zip-lining, rappelling, and rock climbing.
Day 3: A visit to Kilbury Bird Sanctuary, Sattal Lake and Mall road for shopping and earing.
Now, here's a brief of the itinerary. We hope you plan your Nainital trip this way and make it unforgettable. Let’s get started with Day 1.
Day 1: Arrival and Sightseeing
- Start your day by arriving in Nainital, and checking into your hotel.
- After breakfast, head out to explore the charming hill station.
- Visit the Naina Devi Temple, which is located by the Naini Lake, and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Nainital.
- Take a leisurely walk around the Naini Lake, and soak in the stunning views of the surrounding hills.
- Visit the Eco Cave Gardens, which is a popular natural park with six interconnected caves to explore.
- In the evening, visit the Tibetan Market for some shopping and delicious local street food.
Day 2: Adventure Activities
- After breakfast, head to the Bhimtal Adventure Park, located about 22 km from Nainital, for some adventure activities such as zip-lining, rappelling, and rock climbing.
- Visit the famous Tiffin Top, a hilltop viewpoint that offers panoramic views of the Himalayas and Nainital town.
- Visit the Snow View Point, which can be reached by a cable car ride, and offers stunning views of the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas.
- In the evening, head back to Nainital and enjoy a peaceful boat ride on the Naini Lake.
Day 3: Nature and Wildlife
- After breakfast, head to the Kilbury Bird Sanctuary, which is located about 12 km from Nainital, and is home to a variety of bird species.
- Visit the Nainital Zoo, which is located at an altitude of 2100 meters, and is home to a variety of animals such as snow leopard, Himalayan black bear, and Tibetan wolf.
- In the afternoon, visit the Sattal Lake, which is a group of seven interconnected freshwater lakes, and is a popular spot for picnics and birdwatching.
- In the evening, head back to Nainital and spend some time at the Mall Road, which is lined with shops, restaurants, and cafes, and offers a perfect place to unwind and relax.
Accommodation Options in Nainital
Resorts:
- The Naini Retreat by Leisure Hotels - Located on Ayarpatta Hill, this resort offers a serene atmosphere with stunning views of the lake.
- Shervani Hilltop Resort - Set amidst a lush green forest, this resort offers a tranquil and comfortable stay with great views of the valley.
- The Earl's Court by Leisure Hotels - Situated in the heart of Nainital, this resort offers a blend of old-world charm and modern amenities.
Hotels:
- Hotel Himalaya - Located on a hill overlooking the lake, this hotel offers spacious rooms with stunning views and modern amenities.
- Arif Castle Hotel - Situated close to the lake, this hotel offers comfortable rooms with lake views and easy access to local attractions.
- The Pavilion - This heritage hotel is located in the Mall area and offers comfortable rooms with traditional decor and modern amenities.
Home stays:
- Dervish Estate - This homestay offers a peaceful and secluded stay amidst nature, with comfortable rooms and home-cooked meals.
- Soulitude by the Riverside - Located on the banks of the Kalsa River, this homestay offers a rustic and charming stay with stunning views.
- Ayar Jungle Camp - Set amidst a dense forest, this homestay offers a unique experience of staying in tents with all basic amenities.
Hostels:
- The Hosteller Nainital - This hostel offers a comfortable stay with affordable dormitory and private rooms, located close to the lake.
- Bunk Stay - Situated in the heart of Nainital, this hostel offers clean and comfortable dormitory rooms with shared bathrooms.
- Zostel Nainital - Located near the Mall Road, this hostel offers comfortable dormitory rooms with modern amenities and a common lounge area.
Best Time to Visit Nainital
Being a hill station, Nainital has pleasant climate throughout the year. If you enjoy the summer months from March to June, Nainital’s weather is pleasant and the temperature ranges from 10°C to 27°C. This is the ideal time to enjoy outdoor activities like boating, trekking, and camping.
Monsoon season starts from July and lasts till September and brings in heavy rainfall, which may lead to landslides and roadblocks. However, this is also a great time to witness the lush greenery and enjoy the off-season discounts on hotels and activities.
Winter season, starting from December to February, is the time to witness snowfall and enjoy the scenic beauty of the place, but the temperature can drop to sub-zero levels.
How to Reach Nainital
By Air: The nearest airport to Nainital is Pantnagar airport, which is located at a distance of 68 km. There are regular flights from major cities of India to Pantnagar airport. From there, one can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Nainital.
By Rail: The nearest railway station to Nainital is Kathgodam railway station, which is located at a distance of 34 km. It is well-connected to major cities of India like Delhi, Lucknow, and Kolkata. From there, one can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Nainital.
By Road: Nainital is well-connected by road to major cities of North India. There are regular bus services from Delhi, Agra, Dehradun, Haridwar, and other nearby cities. One can also hire a taxi or drive their own car to reach Nainital.
Nainital Itinerary Tips:
- Plan your itinerary according to the season you are visiting Nainital in, and make sure to pack accordingly.
- Book your accommodation well in advance, especially during the peak season, to avoid any last-minute hassle.
- Carry comfortable shoes as Nainital has a lot of walking trails and steep slopes.
- Rent a scooty to explore in local.
- Indulge in some fun and adventure activities such as horse riding, boating at Naini Lake, shop at Tibetan market, flying fox activity, paragliding, etc.
- Don't forget to carry a light jacket or sweater, even during the summer season, as the temperature can drop in the evenings.
- Try the local cuisine of Nainital, which includes dishes like Bhatt ki Churkani, Aloo ke Gutke, and Bal Mithai.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, Nainital is a beautiful destination to explore in the lap of nature. The town offers an array of attractions that cater to the preferences of every type of traveler. The 3-day itinerary we have put together covers the most popular sights and activities in the region, providing a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and relaxation. With our suggested accommodation options, you can experience a comfortable stay in Nainital. So, pack your bags and get ready to indulge in the serenity of Nainital while enjoying the mesmerizing views of the Himalayas by booking Nainital tour packages.
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