Known For : Shyamkhet Tea Gardens Ramgarh
Bhowali, nestled in the Kumaon hills of Uttarakhand, is famed for its rejuvenating climate and panoramic vistas of the Himalayas. Its orchards, known for their rich produce, particularly apples, enhance the town's charm.
Ideal Duration: 1-2 days
Stay Options: Homestays, budget hotels, and resorts.
Distance from Nainital: 12 km
Best Time: February to Apr, September to October
Known For : Rudradhari Falls and Caves Gwaldam Trek to Pinnath
Renowned as the "Switzerland of India," Kausani offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the Himalayan peaks. This quaint hill station is also the birthplace of famed Hindi poet Sumitranandan Pant.
Ideal Duration: 2-3 days
Stay Options: Resorts, guest houses, and budget hotels.
Distance from Nainital: 114 km
Best Time: April to June, September to December
Known For : Bhimtal Lake Aquarium Island Cafe Hanuman Garhi
Bhimtal is a serene town centered around a vast, beautiful lake, known for its captivating surroundings and a small island in the middle. The region is more peaceful and less crowded than its counterpart Nainital.
Ideal Duration: 1-2 days
Stay Options: Resorts, guest houses, and lakeside hotels.
Distance from Nainital: 20 km
Best Time: March to June, September to December
Known For : Sitla Chauli ki Jaali Mukteshwar Dham Temple
Mukteshwar, perched atop the Kumaon Hills, offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas and is home to the ancient Mukteshwar Temple. The town's orchards and coniferous forests make it a perfect retreat.
Ideal Duration: 2-3 days
Stay Options: Homestays, resorts, and mountain retreats.
Distance from Nainital: 46 km
Best Time: October to June
Known For : Seven Lakes Bhimtal Subhash Dhara
Sattal is a unique combination of seven freshwater lakes set amidst dense oak and pine woods. The tranquil environment and rich birdlife make it an oasis for nature lovers.
Ideal Duration: 1-2 days
Stay Options: Camps, guest houses, and lakeside resorts.
Distance from Nainital: 21 km
Best Time: April to June, September to December
Known For : Chaubatia Orchards Majhkhali Golf Course
Ranikhet meaning Queen's farm, is a hill station developed by the Britishers around ancient temples, undulating Himalayan hills and forests. It is popular for its views of the Nanda Devi Peak, trekking ranges, mountainous climbs, golf courses, orchards and temples.
Ideal Duration: 2-3 days
Stay Options: Resorts, guest houses, and colonial-style bungalows.
Distance from Nainital: 55 km
Best Time: Throughout the year
Known For : Zero Point Jageshwar Kasar Devi
Cradled in the wilderness of Himalayan ranges, the sprawling town of Almora shaped like a horse-shoe is a hill station that boasts of a pre-British heritage and an idyllic vibe. Its panoramic Himalayan views and local markets make it a must-visit.
Ideal Duration: 2-3 days
Stay Options: Heritage stays, guest houses, and resorts.
Distance from Nainital: 63 km
Best Time: Throughout the year
Known For : Panchachuli Glacier Nanda Devi Temple Narayan Ashram
Kumaon, with its breathtaking mountain landscapes and serene lakes, is a visual treat. This picturesque region also boasts of a vibrant cultural tapestry and heritage.
Ideal Duration: 4-5 days (for the entire region)
Stay Options: Resorts, traditional homestays, and guest houses.
Distance from Nainital: 48 km
Best Time: Throughout the year
Known For : Munsiyari Chandak Kafni Glacier Trek
Fondly called 'Little Kashmir', Pithoragarh offers sprawling valleys and snow-clad peaks. This beautiful town is also a gateway for many treks in the region.
Ideal Duration: 2-3 days
Stay Options: Budget hotels, guest houses, and resorts.
Distance from Nainital: 176 km
Best Time: April to June, October to December
Sitla, a hidden gem, is known for its rejuvenating ambiance and colonial charm. Away from the hustle-bustle, it offers a peaceful retreat amidst verdant landscapes.
Ideal Duration: 1-2 days
Stay Options: Heritage stays and boutique resorts.
Best Time to Visit: March to July, September to December.
Distance from Nainital: 48 km
Known For : Lake Naukuchiatal Boating, Naukuchiatal Bhimtal Lake
Nestled amidst the hills of Uttarakhand, Naukuchiatal is a picturesque town centered around a unique nine-cornered lake. The verdant surroundings and the pristine lake make it a serene getaway. It's a place where one can relax and immerse in nature's tranquility.
Ideal Duration: 1-2 days
Stay Options: Lakeside resorts, guesthouses.
Distance from Nainital: 19 km
Best Time: April to June, September to November
Known For : Orchards Nathuakhan Mukteshwar
Set amidst lush green orchards, Ramgarh, fondly called the 'Fruit Bowl of Kumaon', is an idyllic hamlet. The town offers a panoramic view of the snow-clad Himalayan peaks. A retreat for writers in the past, it continues to inspire art and poetry.
Ideal Duration: 2 days
Stay Options: Heritage villas, resorts.
Distance from Nainital: 32 km
Best Time: October to May
Amidst the undulating hills of Kumaon lies Nathuakhan, a village that captures the essence of rustic beauty. Characterized by terraced farms and traditional huts, it's a place where time seems to slow down. The tranquility and beauty make it perfect for rejuvenation.
Ideal Duration: 2 days
Stay Options: Homestays, guesthouses.
Best Time to Visit: March to June
Distance from Nainital: 40 km
Jalna offers a panoramic view of the majestic Himalayan peaks. Located amidst dense forests, it provides a serene and peaceful environment, a retreat for those seeking an escape from city life.
Ideal Duration: 2 days
Stay Options: Homestays, forest lodges.
Best Time to Visit: March to June
Distance from Nainital: 86 km
Home to the famous Kalika Temple, this village is surrounded by lush pine forests and offers an excellent view of the snow-clad peaks. The pleasant climate and spiritual aura make Kalika a unique destination.
Ideal Duration: 1-2 days
Stay Options: Guesthouses, lodges.
Best Time to Visit: March to June
Distance from Nainital: 62 km
A charming hamlet offering splendid views of the Himalayas, Majhkhali is also known for its temples. It's a place where the melodious chirping of birds and the cool breeze captivates every traveler.
Ideal Duration: 2 days
Stay Options: Resorts, guesthouses.
Best Time to Visit: March to June
Distance from Nainital: 67 km
A lesser-known gem, Manila offers breathtaking views of the Trishul and Nanda Devi peaks. It's a serene spot that promises fresh air, beautiful sceneries, and a break from the usual touristy spots.
Ideal Duration: 2-3 days
Stay Options: Homestays, guesthouses.
Best Time to Visit: March to June
Distance from Nainital: 101 km
Known For : Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary Bineshwar Temple Zero Point
Famous for the Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, this place offers panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks like Nanda Devi. Binsar is a paradise for nature lovers and bird watchers.
Ideal Duration: 2-3 days
Stay Options: Eco resorts, lodges.
Distance from Nainital: 93 km
Best Time: Throughout the year
Known For : Baijnath Bagnath Temple Kanda
Bageshwar, a place of religious and historical significance, is nestled between rivers and adorned with temples. The convergence of the rivers Gomti and Saryu is a notable sight here.
Ideal Duration: 2 days
Stay Options: Hotels, guesthouses.
Distance from Nainital: 132 km
Best Time: October to June
Known for its tea gardens, Berinag offers a picturesque view of the Himalayan peaks. The serene ambiance and mild weather conditions make it a favorite among travelers.
Ideal Duration: 2 days
Stay Options: Homestays, guesthouses.
Best Time to Visit: March to June
Distance from Nainital: 164 km
Gwaldam, situated between Kumaon and Garhwal hills, offers a panoramic view of the Himalayan peaks. It's a starting point for several treks, making it a favorite spot for adventure enthusiasts.
Ideal Duration: 2-3 days
Stay Options: Camps, lodges.
Best Time to Visit: May to June, September to November
Distance from Nainital: 153 km
Known For : Berinag Patal Bhubaneswar Temple Haat Kalika Temple
Home to a limestone cave temple, Patal Bhuvaneshwar is a mysterious and spiritual place. The cave's stalagmite formations are believed to represent gods and goddesses from Hindu mythology.
Ideal Duration: 1-2 days
Stay Options: Guesthouses, lodges.
Distance from Nainital: 170 km
Best Time: October to June
Perched on a hilltop, Didihat offers splendid views of the lush Pithoragarh Valley and the Himalayas. It's known for its fruit orchards, terraced farms, and rich flora and fauna.
Ideal Duration: 2 days
Stay Options: Hotels, guesthouses.
Best Time to Visit: March to June
Distance from Nainital: 209 km
Known For : Birthi falls Maheshwari Kund Panchachuli Peak
Often referred to as 'Little Kashmir', Munsiyari is the starting point of several treks. It offers spectacular views of the Panchachuli peaks and is a paradise for trekkers and nature lovers alike.
Ideal Duration: 3-4 days
Stay Options: Resorts, guesthouses.
Distance from Nainital: 258 km
Best Time: April to June, October to November