Planning a Trip to Nainital, Uttarakhand from New Delhi for 7 Days and 6 Nights

Are you ready for an enchanting journey to the picturesque hill station of Nainital in Uttarakhand? Nestled amidst the Kumaon hills, Nainital is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. From serene lakes to majestic mountains, this destination offers a perfect blend of tranquility and excitement. So, pack your bags and get ready to embark on a memorable trip to Nainital!

Destination Highlights

• Sightseeing: Explore the breathtaking beauty of Nainital through its scenic viewpoints, lush gardens, and vibrant markets.
• Temple Visit: Seek blessings at the famous Naina Devi Temple and Kaichi Dham Temple, known for their spiritual significance.
• Relaxation: Indulge in leisurely walks around the Naini Lake, enjoy boating, or simply unwind amidst the serene surroundings.

Suggested Itinerary

Here's a suggested itinerary for your 7-day trip to Nainital, including some of the must-visit attractions:

Day 1:

• Explore the scenic beauty of Naini Lake in the morning.
• Visit the Naina Devi Temple, a popular pilgrimage site.
• In the evening, take a leisurely stroll along the vibrant Mall Road.

Day 2:

• Start your day with a visit to Tiffin Top, a viewpoint offering panoramic views of the Himalayas.
• Head to Snow View Point to witness the snow-capped peaks.
• Spend your evening exploring the Tibetan Market for unique souvenirs.

Day 3:

• Discover the fascinating Eco Cave Gardens, a network of interconnected caves.
• Visit the Nainital Zoo, home to a variety of Himalayan wildlife.
• Enjoy a relaxing evening at the Boat House Club, overlooking the Naini Lake.

Day 4:

• Explore the serene lakes of Bhimtal, known for their tranquility.
• Visit Naukuchiatal, a nine-cornered lake surrounded by lush greenery.
• Spend your evening at Sattal, a cluster of seven interconnected freshwater lakes.

Day 5:

• Head to Mukteshwar, a scenic hill station known for its panoramic views.
• Visit the Bhalu Gaad Waterfall, a hidden gem amidst the dense forests.
• Seek blessings at the Chandi Devi Temple, perched atop a hill.

Day 6:

• Explore Pangot, a paradise for birdwatchers, and spot a variety of exotic bird species.
• Visit the Kilbury Bird Sanctuary, known for its rich avian diversity.
• End your day with a visit to the High Altitude Zoo, home to endangered Himalayan species.

Day 7:

• Explore the local market for some last-minute shopping.
• Depart from Nainital with beautiful memories of your trip.

Realistic Time Management

To make the most of your trip, here's a detailed hourly schedule with estimated travel time:

• Day 1:

  • Morning: Naini Lake (2 hours)
  • Afternoon: Naina Devi Temple (1 hour)
  • Evening: Mall Road (2 hours)

• Day 2:

  • Morning: Tiffin Top (3 hours)
  • Afternoon: Snow View Point (2 hours)
  • Evening: Tibetan Market (2 hours)

• Day 3:

  • Morning: Eco Cave Gardens (2 hours)
  • Afternoon: Nainital Zoo (2 hours)
  • Evening: Boat House Club (2 hours)

• Day 4:

  • Morning: Bhimtal (3 hours)
  • Afternoon: Naukuchiatal (2 hours)
  • Evening: Sattal (2 hours)

• Day 5:

  • Morning: Mukteshwar (4 hours)
  • Afternoon: Bhalu Gaad Waterfall (2 hours)
  • Evening: Chandi Devi Temple (2 hours)

• Day 6:

  • Morning: Pangot (3 hours)
  • Afternoon: Kilbury Bird Sanctuary (2 hours)
  • Evening: High Altitude Zoo (2 hours)

• Day 7:

  • Morning: Local Market (2 hours)
  • Afternoon: Departure

Local Cuisine

While in Nainital, don't miss out on trying the famous local delicacies, such as:

• Bal Mithai
• Aloo ke Gutke
• Bhatt ki Churkani
• Arsa
• Gulgula

For a delightful dining experience, here are some highly-rated restaurants in Nainital:

• Boat House Club
• Machan Restaurant
• Embassy Restaurant

Accommodation Recommendations

Nainital offers a range of accommodation options to suit every budget. Here are some recommendations:

• Budget: Hotel Himalaya, Hotel Happy Home, Hotel New Bharat
• Mid-range: Hotel Arif Castle, Hotel Chevron Fairhavens, Hotel The Pavilion
• Luxury: The Naini Retreat, The Manu Maharani, Shervani Hilltop

How To Get There And Away

To reach Nainital from New Delhi, you can choose from the following transportation modes:

• By Bus: Take an overnight bus from New Delhi to Nainital, which takes approximately 8-9 hours.
• By Train: Board a train from New Delhi to Kathgodam, the nearest railway station to Nainital. From Kathgodam, take a taxi or bus to reach Nainital, which is around a 1-hour drive.
• By Air: The nearest airport to Nainital is Pantnagar Airport, which is well-connected to major cities in India. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Nainital, approximately a 2-hour drive.

Comprehensive Packing List

Here's a comprehensive packing list to ensure a comfortable trip:

• Clothing: Warm clothes, including jackets, sweaters, and thermals, as Nainital can get chilly.
• Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots for exploring the hilly terrain.
• Accessories: Sunglasses, sunscreen, hats, and umbrellas for protection against the sun.
• Medications: Carry any necessary medications and a basic first aid kit.
• Electronics: Camera, power bank, and chargers for capturing memories.
• Miscellaneous: Backpack, water bottle, snacks, and a travel guidebook.

Budget Consideration

a. The standard cost of living per person per day in Nainital is approximately INR 1500-2000, excluding accommodation.

b. Relevant costs from the suggested itinerary (excluding accommodation) include entry fees to attractions, transportation costs, and food expenses.

c. To save money, consider the following tips:

• Opt for local street food and eateries for budget-friendly meals.
• Use public transportation or shared taxis for commuting within Nainital.
• Plan your activities in advance to avail of any discounts or offers.

Language and Cultural Etiquette

To communicate effectively and respect the local culture in Nainital, keep the following suggestions in mind:

• Learn a few basic Hindi phrases to interact with the locals.
• Dress modestly while visiting temples or religious sites.
• Remove your shoes before entering temples or homes.
• Seek permission before taking photographs of locals.

Some Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

For a unique and personalized experience in Nainital, consider the following recommendations:

• Take a leisurely walk along the hidden trails of Pangot, surrounded by lush forests and breathtaking views.
• Visit the Gurney House, the former residence of Jim Corbett, and learn about his conservation efforts.
• Explore the lesser-known lakes of Sariyatal and Khurpatal for a peaceful and serene experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: When is the best time to visit Nainital? A: The best time to visit Nainital is during the summer months of March to June and the autumn months of September to November.

Q: Are there any adventure activities available in Nainital? A: Yes, Nainital offers a range of adventure activities such as trekking, boating, paragliding, and horse riding.

Q: Is it safe to travel to Nainital? A: Nainital is generally a safe destination for travelers. However, it is always advisable to take necessary precautions and be aware of your surroundings.

Conclusion

Nainital, with its breathtaking landscapes and serene surroundings, is a perfect destination for a rejuvenating getaway. From exploring the scenic viewpoints to seeking blessings at the temples, this hill station offers a plethora of experiences for every traveler. So, plan your trip, immerse yourself in the beauty of Nainital, and create memories that will last a lifetime!

Now, get inspired by these videos of Nainital:

• Nainital Travel Guide
• Boating in Nainital
• Nainital Food Tour