Introduction
Nestled in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, Nainital is a picturesque hill station that boasts a charming landscape of lakes, lush greenery, and mist-covered mountains. If you’re planning a quick, serene escape from the hustle and bustle of Delhi, a 3-day trip to Nainital can be perfect. Here’s a detailed itinerary, including transport, accommodation, food, and tips to make your trip seamless.

Day 1: Arrival in Nainital – Exploring the Town

Morning: Delhi to Pantnagar (By Air) & Transfer to Nainital

• Flight from Delhi to Pantnagar: Start your journey early by catching a morning flight from Delhi to Pantnagar. This is the nearest airport, about 65 km from Nainital. The flight typically takes around 1 hour.
• Transport from Pantnagar to Nainital: On landing at Pantnagar, hire a pre-booked taxi or arrange for a hotel transfer. The scenic drive to Nainital takes about 2 hours.
  • Approx Cost: ₹2,500 – ₹3,000 for a private taxi.

Afternoon: Check-in and Lunch

• Hotel Check-in: Book your stay at a cozy hotel with a lake view. Some recommended options:
  • The Naini Retreat (Luxury) – A heritage property offering scenic views and upscale amenities.
  • Hotel Himalaya (Mid-range) – Comfortable rooms with easy access to major attractions.
  • Hotel Anamika (Budget) – Simple and affordable with great service.
• Lunch: Head to Sakley’s Restaurant & Pastry Shop, a popular spot for continental and Indian food. Try their pizzas, pasta, and mouthwatering pastries.
  • Approx Cost: ₹600-₹800 per person.

Evening: Nainital Lake and Mall Road

• Nainital Lake: Spend your evening relaxing at the famous Naini Lake. You can take a serene boat ride on the lake surrounded by majestic mountains.
  • Boating Cost: ₹150-₹300 depending on the boat type.
• Stroll along Mall Road: After your boat ride, take a leisurely walk along Mall Road. Explore local shops for souvenirs, handmade candles, woolen clothes, and more.
• Dinner: For dinner, visit Chandni Chowk Restaurant, offering authentic North Indian cuisine with a casual dining ambiance.
  • Approx Cost: ₹500-₹700 per person.

Day 2: Sightseeing in Nainital

Morning: Explore the Famous Viewpoints

• Breakfast: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel or at Simz Café for some pancakes, sandwiches, and coffee.
  • Approx Cost: ₹300-₹500 per person.
• Naina Devi Temple: Begin your day by visiting the sacred Naina Devi Temple located on the northern shore of Naini Lake. It’s an important religious site for Hindus and offers a peaceful vibe.
• Snow View Point: After the temple, take a cable car or trek up to Snow View Point, which offers breathtaking views of the snow-clad Himalayas. The cable car ride is a thrilling experience.
  • Cost of Cable Car: ₹300 per person (round trip).

Afternoon: Visit Eco Cave Gardens & Tiffin Top

• Lunch: Head back to Mall Road for a quick lunch at Zooby’s Kitchen, offering both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes with a great ambiance.
  • Approx Cost: ₹400-₹600 per person.
• Eco Cave Gardens: Post-lunch, visit the Eco Cave Gardens, which is a series of interconnected rocky caves and hanging gardens. It’s a fun place, especially for families and nature lovers.
  • Entry Fee: ₹60 per person.
• Tiffin Top (Dorothy’s Seat): In the late afternoon, hike or ride a horse to Tiffin Top, another popular viewpoint that offers panoramic views of Nainital and the surrounding Kumaon hills.
  • Horse Ride Cost: ₹500-₹800 per person (both ways).

Evening: Sunset at Nainital Zoo

• High Altitude Zoo: Spend your evening at the Nainital Zoo, which is home to species like snow leopards, Himalayan black bears, and Bengal tigers. The zoo is located on a hilltop and offers a beautiful sunset view.
  • Entry Fee: ₹100 per person.
• Dinner: End your day with a relaxed dinner at Machan Restaurant. Try their local Kumaoni dishes like Bhatt ki Churkani and Aloo ke Gutke, along with North Indian delicacies.
  • Approx Cost: ₹600-₹900 per person.

Day 3: Exploring Offbeat Nainital & Departure

Morning: Pangot Bird Sanctuary

• Breakfast: Have breakfast at the hotel and prepare for a short excursion to Pangot, a birdwatcher’s paradise, just 15 km from Nainital. The sanctuary is home to over 300 species of birds including the Himalayan griffon, lammergeier, and blue-winged minla.
  • Transport: Book a taxi for the half-day excursion.
  • Taxi Cost: ₹1,500-₹2,000 for the round trip.

Afternoon: Return to Nainital & Visit Local Markets

• Lunch: On your return from Pangot, have lunch at Giannis Pure Veg Restaurant, a well-known spot for delicious North Indian vegetarian food.
  • Approx Cost: ₹500-₹700 per person.
• Shopping at Tibetan Market: Spend some time shopping at the Tibetan Market, located near the Naini Lake. You can buy woolens, handicrafts, scarves, and junk jewelry as souvenirs.

Evening: Departure from Nainital

• Final Sunset: Before leaving, stop at Hanuman Garhi Temple to catch a magnificent sunset. The temple, dedicated to Lord Hanuman, offers spectacular views of the setting sun against the hilly landscape.
• Return to Pantnagar: Post sunset, head back to Pantnagar airport for your evening flight back to Delhi.
• Flight Back to Delhi: The flight from Pantnagar to Delhi will be a short and convenient conclusion to your trip.

Estimated Budget for a 3-Day Trip to Nainital (Per Person)

A trip to Nainital is a perfect way to rejuvenate yourself amidst the mountains. With its serene lakes, breathtaking views, and cozy atmosphere, Nainital offers the ideal combination of adventure and relaxation. Whether you’re boating on the Naini Lake, walking along Mall Road, or enjoying a sunrise view from Snow View Point, Nainital will leave you with unforgettable memories.