Many of our guests like to see Nainital but sleep somewhere quieter. From Mukteshwar it’s an easy day trip, roughly two hours each way. (For the route itself, see Nainital to Mukteshwar: distance and route.)
A good plan
- 8 AM: leave after an early breakfast.
- 9:30 AM: stop at Bhimtal for a boat ride to the island café in the middle of the lake.
- 11 AM: on to Nainital: boating on Naini Lake and the Naina Devi temple on its northern shore.
- 1 PM: lunch on the Mall Road.
- 2:30 PM: the cable car to Snow View if the queue is short, or a walk along the lake.
- 4 PM: start back, so you do the hill roads in daylight.
Tips
- Weekends and holidays in Nainital mean heavy traffic and limited parking; a weekday is far easier.
- On busy days, park at the edge of town and walk or take a shared taxi in.
- Carry a light jacket: the lake gets breezy.
Prefer not to drive?
Book our Nainital & Bhimtal day trip with a cab and a driver who knows where to stop and park.
Why stay in Mukteshwar?
You get the lakes by day and the forest, stars and quiet by night, plus the pool and space that Nainital’s hotels rarely have. See Mukteshwar or Nainital: where to stay, and our stays.
What else to see if you have time
- Tiffin Top: a viewpoint above Nainital, reached on foot or pony from the town.
- Naukuchiatal: a quieter lake near Bhimtal, said to have nine corners.
- Sattal: a cluster of small lakes in the forest, good for birdwatching.
- Kainchi Dham: on the way back via Bhowali. See our Kainchi Dham guide.
Eating in Nainital
The Mall Road has everything from Tibetan momos to old-fashioned bakeries. Eat early to avoid the lunchtime rush, and carry water for the drive back.
Frequently asked
How far is Nainital from Mukteshwar?
About two hours by road, depending on traffic.
Can you see Nainital and Bhimtal in one day?
Yes. Start early, see Bhimtal in the morning and Nainital through the afternoon.
Is it better to stay in Nainital or Mukteshwar?
Stay in Mukteshwar for quiet, space and views; visit Nainital for a day.