Best Time to Visit Nainital:

Nainital welcomes visitors year-round, each season offering a distinct charm:

• March to June (Summer): Escape the scorching summer heat in the plains and experience pleasant weather in Nainital, perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C

• September to November (Monsoon): Witness lush greenery and cascading waterfalls as the monsoon brings life to the hills.  Enjoy budget-friendly travel deals and fewer crowds. However, be prepared for occasional showers and potential landslides on mountain roads. Temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C.

• December to February (Winter):  Transform Nainital into your winter wonderland! Experience chilly temperatures (down to 5°C) and occasional snowfall, creating a mesmerizing landscape. While some outdoor activities might be limited, cozy evenings by a fireplace and scenic winter views offer a unique charm.

How to Reach Nainital:

Nainital is easily accessible by road, air, and train, allowing you to choose the most convenient option based on your preferences:

• By Road: Nainital boasts well-maintained roads connecting it to major cities in North India. Enjoy a scenic road trip with breathtaking views of the Himalayas or opt for the comfort and flexibility of a car rental arranged by Vrindavan Packages. The journey from Delhi takes approximately 6-7 hours.

• By Air: Pantnagar Airport (85 km away) is the nearest airport to Nainital. Vrindavan Packages can assist you with reliable taxi connections to reach Nainital upon arrival. While flight options might be limited, this can be a time-saving option for travelers coming from faraway destinations.

• By Train: Kathgodam Railway Station (34 km away) is the nearest railway station. Enjoy the comfort and convenience of train travel and avail comfortable taxi services arranged by Vrindavan Packages to reach Nainital. This is a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers and those seeking a scenic journey through the foothills.

10 Amazing Things to Do in Nainital Tour:

Nainital offers a plethora of experiences beyond sightseeing. Here are 10 amazing things to do to enrich your Nainital tour:

• Boating on Naini Lake: Experience the serenity of the lake with a scenic pedal boat or row boat ride. Glide across the crystal-clear waters, soak in the panoramic views, and create lasting memories.

• Horse Riding: Explore the surrounding hills on horseback, enjoying a unique perspective of the landscape.  Trot through charming villages, witness cascading waterfalls, and experience the thrill of riding amidst the Himalayas.

• Shopping in Tibetan Market: Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture with a shopping spree at the Tibetan Market.  Haggle for unique souvenirs like woolen shawls, handcrafted jewelry, and colorful garments. Take home a piece of Nainital's cultural heritage.

• Trekking: Embark on invigorating treks to Naina Peak or Tiffin Top, rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayas, Naini Lake, and the town below. Hike through verdant forests, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and experience the thrill of reaching the summit.

• Paragliding (Subject to weather conditions): For the adventurous souls, soar above the majestic Naini Lake and experience the exhilaration of paragliding. Witness the beauty of Nainital from a bird's-eye view and create an unforgettable memory. (Please note: Paragliding is an adventure activity and may not be operational year-round or during unfavorable weather conditions.)

• Cable Car Ride: Take the exhilarating ropeway ride to Naina Peak for panoramic vistas. Enjoy a comfortable cable car journey, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayas, forests, and the town below.

• Bird Watching: Spot a variety of Himalayan birds amidst the lush greenery surrounding Nainital.  Listen to the melodious calls, witness vibrant colors, and capture the beauty of these feathered creatures. Carry binoculars for an enhanced bird watching experience.

• Nature Walks: Explore the serene trails surrounding Nainital, breathing in the fresh mountain air.  Walk amidst verdant forests, discover hidden waterfalls, and experience the tranquility of the Himalayas.

• Camping (Subject to permissions): Experience the magic of camping under the starlit sky near Bhimtal Lake. Imagine crackling campfires, stories shared under a blanket of stars, and waking up to the sounds of nature. (Please note: Camping may require obtaining permissions from local authorities.)

• Attend a Cultural Show: Immerse yourself in the vibrant cultural heritage of Uttarakhand with a captivating performance. Witness traditional dances, folk music, and theatrical presentations that showcase the rich traditions of the region.

Packing and Travel Tips:

• Pack comfortable walking shoes for exploring the hills, light woolens depending on the season (summers are pleasant, winters can be chilly), and rain gear (monsoon season can bring occasional showers).

• Carry sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and a light jacket to protect yourself from the sun, especially during the summer months.

• Don't forget your camera with extra batteries and a memory card to capture the mesmerizing beauty of Nainital, from the panoramic vistas to the unique wildlife and vibrant markets.

• Local currency (cash) is recommended for smaller purchases in remote areas and for street vendors. ATMs are available in Nainital town, but carrying some cash ensures a smooth experience.

• Be mindful of the environment and avoid littering. Respect the local culture and traditions. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.

• Familiarize yourself with local transportation options. Rickshaws and taxis are readily available for exploring the town and nearby destinations. Vrindavan Packages can also help you arrange car rentals for a more customized itinerary.

• While bargaining is expected at the Tibetan Market, be respectful and courteous with vendors.

• Nainital offers a variety of accommodation options, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxurious hotels. Vrindavan Packages can assist you in finding the perfect accommodation that caters to your preferences and budget.

• Book your Nainital tour package with Vrindavan Packages well in advance, especially during peak seasons (summer and winter) to avoid disappointment and secure the best deals.

Best Places to Enjoy Street Shopping in Nainital:

Nainital isn't just about breathtaking scenery; it's a shopper's paradise! Explore these vibrant street markets and shops to discover unique souvenirs and local treasures:

• Tibetan Market: As mentioned earlier, this bustling market overflows with colorful stalls selling Tibetan handicrafts, woolen shawls, clothing, jewelry, decorative items, and souvenirs. Be prepared to bargain and find treasures that reflect the cultural heritage of the region.

• The Mall Road: This pedestrian-only zone is lined with shops catering to various tastes. Find everything from clothing stores and book shops to cafes and restaurants. Look out for local handicrafts, jams, and pickles - perfect  mementos of your Nainital trip.

• Bara Bazaar: Located near the bus stand, this bazaar offers a more local shopping experience. Find everyday items, fresh produce, spices, and clothing at affordable prices.

• Ghora Bazaar (Horse Market): While the horse trade is no longer active, this market offers a variety of shops selling sportswear, shoes, and trekking gear.

Destinations to Explore near Nainital (Detailed Description):

Nainital's charm extends beyond its borders. Explore these captivating destinations for a well-rounded experience in the Kumaon Hills:

• Bhimtal (17 km): Escape the crowds and discover the serenity of Bhimtal, a smaller lake town offering picturesque landscapes, boating options on Bhimtal Lake, an aquarium showcasing colorful fish species, and Victoria Peak, which offers panoramic views.

• Mukteshwar (22 km):  Embark on a scenic journey to Mukteshwar, a hill station renowned for its tranquility, breathtaking views of the Himalayas, and the revered Mukteshwar Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Enjoy scenic walks amidst fruit orchards, witness the beauty of sunrise and sunset, and partake in adventure activities like ziplining.

Sattal (13 km): Explore a cluster of seven interconnected lakes, each offering a unique charm. Enjoy boating, fishing, and nature walks amidst the serene surroundings of Sattal.  Witness diverse birdlife, try your hand at kayaking, or simply relax and soak in the beauty of nature.