Are you planning a trip to Nainital from Delhi but keeping a budget into the mind? There is no second thought that Nainital is a perfect place to take a break from the chaotic life. Spending time near a serene lake, charming hillside walks, scenic cafes, adventure spots and comfortable stays can make anyone’s day memorable. Without proper planning you might spend more than the budget you have decided, so here we have tried to cover everything for solo and group travellers that could help to plan a budget trip to Nainital from Delhi.
Affordable Travel Options from Delhi to Nainital
Transportation can be very expensive when it comes to travelling but there are several options available that can save you a penny by choosing the right mode of transport as per your convenience and requirements.
Delhi to Nainital Distance is around 300 kms and it takes about 8 to 9 hrs to reach there depending on the traffic, road, weather conditions and mode of travel you choose.
How to Reach Nainital from Delhi by Road?
By Car : One of the best ways to travel with a small group or up to 5 people comfortably is by car or cab. Hiring a cab might cost you around Rs 2700 and above for a one way trip depending on the type of car you choose such as Hatchback, Sedan and SUV. This is an ideal option for a group of 4 people or solo travellers to make their journey smooth and reliable.
By Bus: You can travel by a Uttarakhand Transport Corporation (UTC) that is a government running bus, take a private bus from Anand Vihar ISBT or book a bus service from online portals like RedBus, MakeMyTrip and Zingbus. Choose from Volvo or Non AC buses based on your budget. A Volvo bus ranges between Rs 740 to Rs 1499 and Non AC bus ranges between Rs 600 to Rs 800.
By Tempo Traveller: Tempo Traveller are boon for large groups who prefer to travel together. You can choose a traveller based on various requirements such as group size, budget and comfort. They come in different seating capacities ranging from 9 to 26 seater and also in premium variants, Maharaja Tempo Traveller 9 Seater to 20 seater and Urbania luxury van. It is up to you to choose as per your requirements.
By Train: There is no direct train that is connected to Nainital but you can take a train to Kathgodam railway station which is located 35 km from Nainital. From there, you can take a taxi or local bus to complete your journey. A train fare might cost you around Rs 115 to Rs 1320 depending on the class and type of train.
Note: These prices are just estimated based on the current market rates and these charges depend on season, demand and other factors so, do not make any decision based on the mentioned prices.
Is There Budget Hotel Options Available in Nainital?
Nainital offers hotels and stays for every kind of visitor, it offers many hotels and guest houses at various prices. You can choose from a range of guest houses, stays and budget hotels.
A decent hotel or stay might cost Rs 500 to Rs 1200 per night for one person. These prices fluctuate as per the season, demand and the location of the accommodation. It is suggested to take a stay at Tallital (North end of the Lake)and Mallital (South end of the Lake). Book in advance from the websites, OYO and Goibibo to get discount coupons.
Where to Find Authentic Kumaoni Cuisine in Nainital?
You can get the delicious food in Nainital from the street carts or local restaurants or dhabas that offer the best cuisine at reasonable prices. Some must-try authentic Kumaoni dishes are Aloo ke Gutke (Spicy Saute Potatoes), Bhatt Ki Churkani (Black Bean Curry), Ras (Mixed Pulse Curry) and Arsa (Sweet Dish made from Rice and Jaggery). You can try these cuisines from Mall road, Bhotia and tibetan market to get the original and authentic taste of the dishes.
What are Some Adventurous Low-Cost Activities to Try?
Nainital is famous for its wide range of adventure activities that visitors can try. Here are some low or free of cost activities you can enjoy.
Boating: Boating in Naini lake especially during the evening is a wonderful experience to have. Take a boat ride at Rs 150 to Rs 300 per person. These prices are charged on the basis of boat type like paddle or row boat, Number of round and hour session.
G B Pant High Altitude Zoo: High Altitude Zoo is an ideal option to visit with family. You will spot wildlife himalayan animals in the zoo such as snow leopards and Red pandas. Entry fees of the zoo is Rs 20 for children and Rs 50 for adults.
Hiking and Trekking: Hiking to tiffin top, Naini peak also known as china peak and snow view point can be an ideal way to make your trip remarkable. You can hike to these peaks or take a pony ride and cable way to reach there. A pony ride ranges between Rs 500 to Rs 700 for one way and cable way might cost you around Rs 300 for adults and Rs 200 for adults.
Note: Please confirm the prices before taking any decision based on the mentioned prices
What are Some Famous Tourist Places to Visit in Nainital?
Naina Devi Temple: Naina Devi Temple is one of 51 shakti peethas of Devi. It is the exact place where the eyes of the Goddess fell and hence, it is called Naina Devi. It is best to visit the temple early in the morning to get darshan smoothly.
Timings: 6:00 am to 10:00 pm
Duration: It takes 30 minutes to 1 hr to reach.
Thandi Sadak: Thandi sadak is a walkway parallel to mall road. This road is located opposite of the Naini lake. You can walk on this road in the evening and shop for souvenirs.
Duration: It takes 30 to 40 minutes to reach there from Naini lake.
Kilbury Bird Sanctuary: Kilbury bird sanctuary is a perfect place for bird and nature lovers. It is located around 12 km from Nainital. It is essential to carry binoculars to spot birds.
Timings: 06:00 Am to 05:00 pm
Duration: It takes 30 to 40 mins to reach there.
Jim Corbett National Park: Jim Corbett National is located around 63 km from Nainital. It is an ideal place for every type of tourist as it provides an opportunity for Jim Corbett Jungle Safari with a lot of adventure and fun. It is an ideal option for those who are planning to extend their trip to Nainital.
Timings: Morning Safari – 05:30 am to 07:00 am and Evening Safari – 02:50 pm to 05:00 pm
Duration: It takes 1 to 1.5 hrs to reach there.
Tibetan Market: Tibetan market is famous for their traditional handicrafts and authentic food. You can buy souvenirs like woolen clothes, Tibetan prayer flags, handmade jewellery and bags.
Timings: 10:00 am to 08:00 pm
Duration: It takes around 1 hr to reach the tibetan market.
Himalaya Darshan Point: Himalaya Darshan Point offers a view of the stunning peaks of Nanda Devi temple. It is an ideal place to spend some quality time with family and friends.
Timings: You can visit anytime during the day but it is best to start early in the morning to get plenty of time to spend there.
Duration: It takes 30 mins to 1 hrs to reach there but the timings depend on the speed of your trekking.
Suggested Read: Hill Station near Delhi within 300 kms
Conclusion
Nainital is a place where adventure and peace meet. Whether you are solo traveller or planning a budget tour with family, those were some best-picked methods, pre-booking, budget hotels and low cost activity with places that charges the bare minimum and or no cost at all. Group travellers can choose a trust-worthy Tempo Traveller Rental Delhi service for the smooth travel experience. Try low cost activities and timings of the tourist places so as not to miss any chance for adventure and fun.