Weekend Rodtrip to the Lake District
Weekend getaways are the perfect way to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, and there’s no better destination for a winter road trip than Nainital. I visited Nainital, located in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, a popular hill station known for its serene lakes, picturesque views, and cool climate.
I had something spectacular in store for me. The skies! The most beautiful skies in the month of December. I didn’t expect much because I lived in Nainital for about 5 years and somehow never saw such enthralling skies.
A spontaneous weekend road trip to one of the nearest hill stations from Delhi proved more satisfactory to my wanderer soul than a long-planned trip. There’s something about travelling light and just driving around till wherever feels right.
Delhi to Nainital
The journey from Delhi to Nainital takes around 6-7 hours by road. The route is well-connected and well-maintained, making it a comfortable drive.
As you travel from Delhi to Nainital, you’ll pass through the bustling towns of Hapur and Moradabad. The scenery gradually changes as you enter the foothills of the Himalayas, with lush green forests and terraced farms lining the road.
The first major stop on the way is the town of Kathgodam, which is the last major town before Nainital. We took a break here and grabbed a bite to eat before continuing on to the destination.
Location
Once you arrive, stunning views of the Himalayas and the Naini Lake will greet you. There are plenty of things to see and do in Nainital, such as boating on the lake, visiting the Zoo, or taking a cable car ride to the top of Snow View Point.
If you visit in December, you’ll see the town decorated with holiday lights and decorations. The weather is cool and crisp, making it the perfect time to explore the town and take in the beautiful scenery.
Make sure to pack warm clothes such as sweaters and jackets for December as the weather can be quite chilly. During the winter months, Nainital has the best clear blue skies with lots of sunshine and warmth. However, during the nights the temperature can drop significantly as the sun goes down.
Where to Stay in Nainital?
Here is a list of homestays/hotels in and around Nainital that you can consider for a perfect picturesque weekend:
- Hotel New Bharat: This budget hotel is located in Nainital and offers comfortable rooms with mountain views.
- Hotel HK Legacy: This heritage offers comfortable rooms with beautiful views of the surroundings.
- Neelesh Inn: This luxurious property offers well-furnished rooms with a view of the Bhimtal Lake, a restaurant that serves various types of cuisine, recreational activities and various other amenities.
- The Canadian Views: This budget hotel is located in Sattal and offers cosy rooms with views of the beautiful Sattal lake.
- Go Stops Mukteshwar: This is a hostel-style property in Mukteshwar where you can stay in with a large group of friends or family.
Please note that the prices and availability may vary depending on the season and the time you plan to visit. It’s always a good idea to check the reviews, ratings and prices online before booking.
Don’t want to Visit Nainital?
If you’re looking to avoid crowds in Nainital, there are several nearby places you can explore. Some popular options include:
- Bhimtal: A beautiful lake town located just 22 km from Nainital. It is known for its serene atmosphere and picturesque views.
- Sattal: A group of seven interconnected freshwater lakes located just 14 km from Nainital. It offers an opportunity for boating, fishing, and birdwatching.
- Naukuchiatal: A picturesque lake town located just 27 km from Nainital. It is known for its serene atmosphere and opportunities for paragliding.
- Mukteshwar: A small hill station located just 51 km from Nainital. It offers spectacular views of the Himalayas and is known for its temples and fruit orchards.
- Almora: A beautiful hill station located just 65 km from Nainital. It is known for its rich cultural heritage, temples, and handicrafts.
After a weekend of exploring the lake city, you’ll return to Delhi feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. A road trip to Nainital is the perfect way to escape the city and spend some quality time in nature.