Here’s what all you can do in Nainital in this charming weather:
- Trek to Guano Hills -
A trip to the hills is incomplete without a trek. Located in Pangot, Guano Hills have some spectacular trekking trails. The hills are colored in greens of oaks, bamboos, and deodars. If you are lucky, you might even spot rare species like Black-Chinned Babbler and Grey Woodpecker. There is no entry fee for the trek. How cool is that!
- Hike to Tiffin’s Top -
It is true when they say great views often come after a climb. It is an easy hike of 4 km from Nainital and one can enjoy a pony ride to reach the place. A trek to Tiffin’s Top, also called Dorothy’s Seat, would give you a stunning 360-degree view of the Nainital town.
Horse ride starting price: INR 500/- (prices may vary)
- Participate in Namah Nainital -
Nainital in monsoon, then this is an event you should not miss. The marathon happens every year on the last Sunday of August. This monsoon mountain marathon is a combined endeavor of ‘Namah Nainital’ resort and an organization ‘Run to Live’. For adventure seekers, there is no better experience than a run on Nainital’s rugged terrain in a cloudy, foggy weather. The social cause is just an excuse for thrill seekers to be a part of something so exciting! To participate in the marathon, one can register online.
Registration Fee: INR 1000/-
- Take a tour of the Naini Lake -
Visiting the ‘Queen of Lakes’ definitely calls for this lake tour. The beauty of Nainital lies in the Naini Lake. Other than immersing in the unending beauty of the lake and its majestic surroundings, one can indulge in yachting, boating, and paddling here. The prices vary according to the choice of boat and duration.
- Ride the Aerial Ropeway to Snow View Point -
Want a view of the white-capped peaks of the Himalayas? As the name suggests, the Snow View Point offers some of the most dazzling sights of the sparkling snow capped peaks lighting up in brilliant colours because of the sun peeking from behind them. Keep your cameras handy and don’t forget to capture that moment. The ropeway timings are from 10 am to 4 pm. The entry is INR 150/- for adults and INR 100/- for children (age 3 to 12 years).
Ropeway Timings: 10 AM – 4 PM
Entry fee: INR 150/- (Adults) | INR 100/- (children aged 3-12).
- Eat at Chandni Chowk -
No, I am not literally transporting you back to the lanes of Delhi but you can still experience the same as you savour ‘gol gappas’ and chaat right there in Nainital. Located at the Mall Road, this restaurant has both veg and non-veg lip-smacking dishes.
Timings: 9 AM – 10:30 PM.
- Shop at Bhotia Market -
A trip is always incomplete without shopping, no matter what weather you’re visiting in. Do not forget to visit this Tibetan market and buy some hand knitted woolens. Junk jewelry collectors will find some exquisite pieces. Do make use of your bargaining skills. Also, treat yourself to some hot spicy momos and noodles in that cool weather.
Tips For Visiting Nainital In The Rainy Season -
- Do not forget to carry an umbrella or a raincoat
- Keep an extra pair of clothes just in case you get caught in the rains
- Wear comfortable footwear that covers your feet entirely
- Keep first aid supplies, especially mosquito repellents
- Carry bottled drinking water
- Keep salt to get rid of leeches
- Keep a constant check on the weather forecast of the area you’re visiting
- Carry plastic bags to keep electronics safe from moisture
- Rains may bring landslides in the hilly areas, especially in parts with poor road conditions. So, travel safe.