3 Days in Nainital and Nearby: A Backpacker’s Guide to Lakes, Mountains, and Serenity

You’re in Delhi, stuck in traffic, when a friend texts: “Nainital this weekend?” Three days later, you’re trading honking cars for chirping birds, swapping smog for misty mountain air, and trading deadlines for serene lake views. Ready to dive into Nainital’s charm and explore its hidden gems? Let’s plan your perfect escape!

Day 1: Delhi to Nainital – Lakes, Views, and Mall Road Magic

6:00 AM – Hit the Road

• Bus Options: Overnight Volvo (₹800–1,200) from ISBT Kashmere Gate. Pro tip: Book upper berths for views.

• Car Option: Drive via NH9 (6–7 hours, 300 km).

12:00 PM – Check In & Refuel

• Stay: Zostel Nainital (₹600/night) or The Hosteller Nainital (₹800).

• Lunch: Warm up with ₹100 aloo paratha at Sakley’s Restaurant.

2:00 PM – Explore Naini Lake

• Boat Ride: Paddleboat (₹200/person) or shikara (₹400 for 4 people).

• Pro Tip: Visit during sunset for golden reflections on the water.

5:00 PM – Stroll on Mall Road

• Shop: Woolen socks (₹100), handmade candles (₹200), and local jams.

• Snack: Hot momos (₹50) at street stalls.

8:00 PM – Dinner at Embassy Restaurant

• Feast: ₹200 garlic chicken with butter naan.

Day 2: Snow View, Tiffin Top, and Nearby Gems

7:00 AM – Sunrise at Snow View Point

• How to Reach: Cable car (₹300 round-trip) or trek (1.5 km).

• Views: Panoramic sights of Nanda Devi and Trishul peaks.

9:00 AM – Breakfast at Café Chica

• Sip: ₹50 masala chai with pancakes (₹100).

11:00 AM – Trek to Tiffin Top (Dorothy’s Seat)

• Entry: ₹50. A 4-km trek with stunning views of Nainital.

• Pro Tip: Carry water and snacks—no shops en route.

2:00 PM – Lunch at Machan

• Try: ₹150 kumaoni thali with bhatt ki churkani (black bean curry).

4:00 PM – Visit Bhimtal & Sattal

• Bhimtal: A quieter lake with an island temple (30 mins from Nainital).

• Sattal: Seven interconnected lakes surrounded by forests (45 mins).

8:00 PM – Bonfire at Hostel

• Relax: Swap travel stories with fellow backpackers over chai.

Day 3: Hidden Gems & Farewell Feels

7:00 AM – Sunrise at Naina Devi Temple

• Spiritual Vibes: Seek blessings at this sacred temple by Naini Lake (free entry).

9:00 AM – Breakfast at Sonam’s Momos

• Try: ₹50 steamed momos with spicy chutney.

11:00 AM – Explore Eco Cave Gardens

• Entry: ₹100. Walk through natural caves and enjoy mini waterfalls.

2:00 PM – Lunch at Sher-e-Punjab

• Feast: ₹200 butter chicken with kulcha.

4:00 PM – Last-Minute Shopping

• Tibetan Market: Buy woolen shawls (₹300), prayer flags (₹100), and handmade jewelry.

6:00 PM – Return to Delhi

• Bus: Overnight Volvo (₹800–1,200).

Budget Breakdown (Per Person)

Backpacker Hacks for Nainital

1. Walk Everywhere: Nainital is compact—skip cabs and explore on foot.

2. Layer Up: Evenings can get chilly (5–10°C).

3. Avoid Weekends: Nainital gets crowded; weekdays are quieter.

FAQs

1. Is Nainital safe for solo travelers?

Absolutely! Locals are friendly, but avoid isolated areas at night.

2. Best time to visit?

March–June (spring blooms) and September–November (autumn colors).

3. Can I visit Bhimtal and Sattal in one day?

Yes! Hire a shared taxi (₹1,000 for 4 people).

4. What’s a must-try street food?

Aloo tikki (₹50) at Mall Road stalls and Bal Mithai 400₹/kg.

5. How to handle touts near Naini Lake?

Politely decline guided tours—most info is available online.

Final Tip: Let Nainital Surprise You

Beyond the lakes and mountains, Nainital thrills with hidden trails, cozy cafés, and sunsets that paint the sky pink. Talk to locals, try bal mithai (local sweet), and let the hills’ heartbeat guide you.

Three days here isn’t a trip—it’s a love letter to nature, peace, and freedom. Now, grab that backpack and go write yours!