Nainital, Ranikhet, Kausani & Corbett

Overview

Seven days through the Kumaon hills, at a slower pace than the short circuit. After Nainital and its lakes, the tour stays overnight in Ranikhet — the "Queen's Field" at 1,829 metres — then continues to Kausani for the 12th-century Baijnath Temple, the tea plantation, Anasakti Ashram where Mahatma Gandhi stayed, and sunrise over the Katyur Valley. It finishes with a night at Jim Corbett National Park.

Day-by-day Itinerary

1. 1

   Delhi – Nainital

   On arrival at Delhi airport or railway station, proceed directly to Nainital by road. On arrival, check into the hotel. After refreshing yourself, set out on a sightseeing tour beginning with boating on the famous Naini Lake (at your own cost) and a visit to the holy Naina Devi Temple. Then visit tourist spots such as Tiffin Top, Naina Peak, Cave Garden, Bara Pathar, Lover's Point and Lands End (sightseeing covered as time permits). In the evening, enjoy shopping on the Mall Road. Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.

2. 2

   Nainital Lake Tour

   After breakfast, drive out for a tour of the Nainital lakes. Naini Lake is famous for boating (a half-hour ride). Bhimtal, about 25 kilometres from Nainital, is the largest lake on the tour. Sattal, also about 25 kilometres away, is — as its name suggests — a group of seven interconnected lakes. Naukuchiatal, about 30 kilometres from Nainital, is the nine-cornered lake. Drive back to the hotel. Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.

3. 3

   Nainital – Ranikhet (57 km · 2 hrs)

   Morning drive to Ranikhet. On arrival, check in at the hotel. Later visit the local sights: Haidakhan Babaji Temple (4 km), Chaubatia Gardens (10 km), Bhalu Dam (3 km), Jhula Devi Temple (7 km), Mankameshwar Temple, Kalika Temple (5 km), Tarikhet Village (8 km) and Majhkhali (13 km). Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel. Ranikhet reflects the very best of the Himalayas: lush green forests, majestic mountain peaks, exotic plant life and attractive wildlife. According to popular belief, this spot won the heart of Rani Padmini, queen of Raja Sudhardev, who chose it as her abode — since when it has been known as Ranikhet, literally "Queen's Field". At an altitude of 1,829 metres above sea level, the invigorating mountain breeze, the singing of birds and the panoramic view of the Himalayas leave the onlooker spellbound. During the rains, flowers sprout everywhere in rainbow colours, branches stoop with ripened fruit, and sunlight peeping through the mist and clouds lends an enchanting effect across Ranikhet. As winter comes, softly falling snowflakes cover the environs in sheets of pure whiteness.

4. 4

   Ranikhet – Kausani (80 km · 2½ hrs)

   After breakfast, depart for Kausani. In the afternoon visit Baijnath Temple, where you will see many ancient idols and may come across mahseer fish in the river waters. At the end of your visit, take your time to watch the setting sun. Also visit Anasakti Ashram, where Mahatma Gandhi stayed for a few days. Dinner and overnight stay at Kausani.

5. 5

   Kausani Sightseeing

   After breakfast, wake to the wide expanse of the famous Katyur Valley to experience the Kausani sunrise. Visit the 12th-century Baijnath Temple (if missed on the arrival day) and the Kausani tea plantation. Also visit Anasakti Ashram, where Mahatma Gandhi stayed for a few days. Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.

6. 6

   Kausani – Jim Corbett (200 km · 6 hrs)

   After breakfast, drive to Corbett. The park was named after Jim Corbett, the legendary hunter-naturalist turned author and photographer who spent most of his life in this area and helped set up the park. On arrival, transfer to the hotel and check in. Evening free for sightseeing covering Garjia Temple and Corbett Falls. Dinner and overnight stay in Corbett.

7. 7

   Jim Corbett – Delhi (290 km · 8 hrs)

   After breakfast, check out from the hotel and drive to Delhi for your onward destination.

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