Mahindra Homestays have prepared this special seven day itinerary, which can be tailored to suit your requirements. Instead of sharing your experience with a large group of tourists you will be able to enjoy your own private tour using local drivers and staying with Indian families in their beautiful homestays. Enjoy their warm hospitality and delicious home cooked cuisine as they share local highlights that you won’t find in any guidebook.  This itinerary combines fantastic value with responsible tourism.

Day One: Delhi
On your arrival in Delhi you will be transferred to the Darshan Homestay where you will enjoy the warm hospitality of your hosts Col. Mohinder Walia and his wife, Sonia Walia in their sun-lit home. Suggested activities for the day include discovering the Indian art of Henna application, participating in an Indian cooking class or shopping in the local art and craft shops.

Day Two: Delhi
Spend your second day in Delhi exploring and discovering some of its most famous sites. Visit the Lotus Temple, Qutub Minar, Ladhi Garden and the Red Fort. Your own private driver will be available all day to take you to the sites you choose to visit.

Day Three: Agra
Travel from Delhi to Agra, home to India’s most iconic landmark the Taj Mahal. Make sure you also visit the Agra Fort and Itmad-ud-Daula’s Tomb. Once again your own personal driver will accompany you around the city. Spend the night at the delightful Garden Villa, where you can enjoy tea in their lovingly maintained garden.

Day Four: Corbett
Arriving in Corbett you will be welcomed by Bunny and Amu in their sprawling farm bordering the Corbett National Park. Wheat, sugarcane, litchis, mangoes and a variety of other fruits and plants flourish around The Homestead and you can enjoy t0day relaxing by the pool, enjoying the spa or getting involved with the activities on the farm.

Day Five: Corbett
Take a trip to the Jim Corbett National Park, a favourite getaway for explorers and wildlife lovers. The park houses many endangered species such as tigers, chital and sambar. Explore the landscape on a jeep or elephant safari and keep your camera ready with stunning panoramic views of the Shivalik and the Himalayas.

Day Six: Corbett
Spend the day exploring, take a bullock cart ride or cycle around the 150 acres farm. Fishing enthusiasts can take a short trip to a nearby river. A popular sport with the family, you will have plenty of records to try and break.

Day Seven: Delhi
Return you back to Delhi for your flight back home.

Your north India tour includes:
Six nights accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis, with your choice of a delicious home cooked Indian meal at either lunch or dinner time daily. A private driver will be available for all ground transfers which includes airport pick up and drop off, inner city travel and sight seeing throughout the day. You will also be able to enjoy complimentary internet access, laundry services and tea or coffee anytime during the day as part of the package.

The total package price for this itinerary is from £680 / 47,770 INR / $1,040 USD and can be customised to suit your needs and any specific accomodation requirements you have. If you would like to create your own bespoke itinerary contact our travel experts who will be happy to assist you.

India Sojourn – North India Tour Telephone Reservation Assistance:
Open from Monday through Saturday from 09.00 – 17.00 (GMT).

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1. Follow the Light
Thangasseri is a quiet seaside village which is home to many historically invaluable remnants. Here, one can find the remains of an intriguing Portuguese fort and many churches that were built in the 18 century. Also located in Thangasseri is the Thangasseri Lighthouse. The lighthouse stands at a height of almost 150 feet and offers lovely vistas of the surrounding area.

2. Divine Landscapes
Less than 30 kilometers from Kollam is the important pilgrim center at Sasthamkotta. The town’s Sastha Temple is an ancient temple, which draws people in large numbers. The other reason people find their way towards this hidden gem is because of the natural beauty surrounding it. Here you will find Kerala’s largest freshwater lake, embraced by hills on three sides. The town is connected to Kollam by frequent buses but a more convenient option is hiring a private taxi which can be easily arranged by one’s homestay hosts.

3. Picnic at the Palaruvi
Approximately 75 kilometers from Kollam are the Palaruvi Falls. The majestic falls cascade from a height of over 300 feet. Splashing around in the river is safe and fun for the entire family. The lush woods, surrounding the waterfalls, are a great place to host a picnic. Taking a homemade picnic freshly prepared at your homestay will be a great idea and the homestay owners would be happy to pack you a feast. Undertaking a trek through the woods is a great way to explore the area and to work up an appetite.

4. Holy Holiday
Mayyanad is the most popular tourist destination around Kollam. Just 10 kilometers from the city, Mayyanad is famous for its nine temples and the Sree Sankaracharya shrine. The Subramanya Temple is the most revered holy destination of Mayyanad.

5. Family fun
The hub of recreational activities in Kollam is a charming village in Ashramam. Here, one can enjoy many activities offered by the village like its small adventure park, a quaint boat club and a special children’s park. A lot of locals are seen here enjoying the weekends with their family and spending some down time while the kids are happily distracted by the parks.

6. The laidback Backwaters
Almost one-third of Kollam is covered by Lake Ashtamudi, which is named after its eight channels. The lake is known as the doorway to the backwaters. The 16 kilometer long lake is Kerala’s second largest lake and a great alternative to the more congested Lake Vembanad. Other than enjoying cruises and houseboat stays on the Ashtamundi one can also take a four-hour trip to the Munroe island village through Kollam’s canals.

7. Take the scenic way
The most fascinating and unique experience that Kerala has to offer is a cruise on the backwaters. And from Kollam you can take a rare and luxurious cruise to reach the bigger town of Alleppey. This cruise lasts for about eight hours and is the longest cruise you can take on the backwaters.

8. Dig in
Kerala is known as God’s own country and perhaps its most divine offering is its food. The dishes are at their best when they are made at home with the love and care of a typical Keralite family. The homestays in Kerala ensure you enjoy a culinary experience that no hotel or restaurant could ever match. The recipes, which your homestay hosts would be happy to share with you, are perhaps the best souvenirs to take home.

If you want to discover the real Kollam we really recommend you consider a homestay, where the hosts will be able to help you out with things to do to make the most of your visit.

Mahindra Homestays features a number of properties in other areas of Kerala including in Alleppey, Cochin, Kottayam, Kumarakom, Munnar, Palakkad, Thekkady, Trivandrum, Varkala and Wayanad

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Entries were very varied, showing the sheer scope of activities you can participate in and enjoy during your travels in India. From trekking through the countryside, meditating from a beautiful view point to relaxing on the beach or enjoying the mouthwatering local cuisine it just shows that there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Thank you everyone for entering. Below are the three images we have shortlisted. Please vote now for your favourite.

1. Trekking by Abhivishwanadula

2. Chai by Thibaut Pening

3. Meditation by Rahul

Votes close Friday 5 March 2010.

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1. Make room for mushrooms
Solan is known as India’s “mushroom city.” This isn’t because of gross commercialization or questionable forms of recreation. The town simply produces some of the juiciest and freshest mushrooms you will ever taste. So do taste them.

2. A toast!
Just 11 kilometers from Solan is an old brewery called “Mohan Meakin’s Brewery.” It was opened way back in 1855 and since then it has been producing a number of alcohol-based beverages and brands that are extremely popular in the region. A great way to experience the local flavor.

3. Shrines of Solan
In Solan you will find plenty of charming and serene temples. Whether or not you choose to bow your head, the temples are worth visiting for their cultural importance. The most revered amongst Solan’s many houses of worship are The Shoolini Mata temple and the Jatoli Shiv temple. The latter is dedicated to Lord Shiva and his followers flock from all over the state to offer their tributes. Also to be visited is the Yungdrung Monastery, a Tibetan “gumpa” which exudes serenity and calm.

4. Art, Architecture and Arki
Arki Fort is a major attraction for tourists based in Solan and Simla. The Fort is embellished with murals that are done in the typical Pahari style. The Fort is a haven for art lovers and history buffs. A short drive from Arki is the Kuthar Fort, parts of which are up to 800 years old. The expansive Fort, houses fresh-water springs and samples of architectural marvel.

5. The playground of Maharajahs
Cheil is one of the most frequently visited places from Solan. It served as the summer capital for Maharaja Bhupinder Singh who built the world’s highest cricket pitch here where many famous teams were invited to play. Once, a game was organized where both teams were dressed as women and the Maharaja himself donned a nun’s habit. The playful Maharaja also built a small temple in honour of the sage who attained nirvana in Cheil. Today, the palace has been converted into a resort for tourists.

6. Silver lining without the clouds
The sleepy town of Barog attracts a number of tourists who have heard of its splendid natural beauty. The town is enveloped by pine trees and offers spellbinding vistas of the Churdhar Peak, also known as “Mountain of the Silver Bangle.” Its remote location makes it a peaceful weekend retreat and not just a day tour from Solan.

7. Old world, charmed
Kufri is arguably the most known tourist destination near Solan. Colonial influence can still be seen in this hillstation, which seems to have been suspended in time. There are plenty of cobbled streets, peculiar shops, and countless orchards to explore. A great place to see an era, long gone.

8. Walking through History
Another wonderful day trip from Solan is to Kasauli. The small district is home to St. Patrick’s Church, which was built in 1847. The grand Church is highly recommended for people who appreciate architecture and history. In the Church you will find wooden interiors, murals and much more that depict the life of Jesus. Christ. A wonderful place for inner-reflection and peace. A short distance from the church you will also find four ancient cemeteries dedicated to officials and soldiers of the British Raj.

9. Living like royalty
Nalagarh is a historically important site, where the Gurkha Wars were fought in the 19th Century. Today, it attracts tourists who are drawn by the reputation of the Nalgarh Fort and Palace. They are beautiful examples of Mughal architecture, which have recently undergone extensive makeovers and now serve as resorts.

Find out more about Himachal Pradesh and look for a homestay.

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1. Jai ho!
Simla is filled with countless important and revered temples. But Shri Sankat Mochan is the only famous temple complex in Simla. It is filled with many smaller temples which are dedicated to a number of Hindu Gods. If you’re lucky, you might even be invited to join a wedding and see the traditional ceremonies being performed.

2. Monkey around
Arguably the most popular temple in Simla is a Hanuman temple called Jakhoo. Located on Jakhoo Hill, which is two kilometers away from Simla and is the hillstation’s highest peak. The temple naturally offers some of the most wonderful vistas of the town below and of the majestic, snow-clad Himalayas. At the temple you’ll also find countless mischievous but harmless monkeys who will happily take food from your hands.

3. Meet the Mall
Simla’s Mall Road is where everyone hangs out to just walk around, shop for souvenirs and indulge in some people watching. The Mall also has a number of good restaurants, cafes, and bars. If you’re in the mood you can catch a Bollywood masala flick, then catch a show at The Gaiety Theatre.

4. At the door of The Christ
The Mall’s Ridge Road is an important rendezvous for people. But it’s also where you will find the 2nd oldest Church in North India. Simply called Christ Church, it has a majestic aura and fascinating architecture. Beautiful stained glass windows embellish the interiors of the Church and it attracts people of various faiths and religions.

5. Join the celebrations
Almost all year round, tourists can observe and even participate in Simla’s simple but enchanting festivals, which are filled with feasts, music and dance. Some of the important festivals are Lavi, The Summer Festival, Rohru, Halog and The Winter Sports Festival.

6. A lesson in history
The Shimla State Museum opened back in 1974 with the mission to preserve the state’s cultural and historical wealth for future generations. Here, visitors can see many important artifacts such as miniature Pahari paintings, sculptures, traditional costumes, and jewelry.

7. Go away for the day
If one wishes to go on day trips outside of Simla, then there are plenty of good options available. Amongst them, Cheil is favoured by a lot of people. It was the summer capital of Maharajas and has the world’s highest cricket pitch. But for golf-lovers the ideal location is the famous Naldehra Golf Club, in Naldehra. Another favorite spot for sports lovers is Kufri. This is the capital of winter sports in India and even has a small zoo, which is home to many indigenous animals.

8. Be a Sport
For those who love sports, the place to be is Annandale. The place is less than four kilometers from The Ridge and is known as the playground of Simla. It stands at a height of over 6,000 feet above sea level from where you can enjoy panoramic sights of the region and join a game of cricket, polo or frisbee.

9. Hold the fort
Arki isn’t very near Simla but it’s a site historically-rich, which must be visited by people who can spare the time. About 50 kilometers away from Simla in Arki you can find an 18th century fort, which is a one of its kind monument in the region.

Take a look at our Simla homestay

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Yet there are more things to do and see in Thekkady.

Here we bring you six suggestions to help you make the most of this peaceful and picturesque city.

1. Find sanctuary in Periyar

Undoubtedly the most fascinating thing in Thekkady is the Periyar wildlife sanctuary and clearly you must visit it. This is a sprawling place and a favourite of photographers due to its unique landscape. It’s truly unlike any other sanctuary you will find in the world. The best way to navigate the sanctuary is by boat, and you can even rent bamboo rafts to explore it. Meandering across the sanctuary’s lake you’ll be in the company of large huge herds of elephants. Camping is allowed inside the sanctuary and is a great way to spend a night.

2. Witness divine beauty

One of the most famous temples near Thekkady is the Mangla Devi temple. The ancient temple is nestled between thick forests and is perched at an altitude of over 1,300 meters. The temple is a great example of ancient and traditional Keralite architecture. However, people are only allowed to visit the temple during an important local festival. Other than paying respects at the Mangla Devi temple one can also enjoy the breathtaking surroundings. The location of the area allows you to enjoy stunning views of the majestic ghats as well as of the unending plains of the neighbouring state. Prior permission to visit the area is also required – ask your homestay host to help you arrange this, they’ll be happy to assist.

3. Stock up on spicy souvenirs

Kumily is a small plantation town. It’s located on Periyar’s outskirts. You can visit it and enjoy some downtime, as well as take advantage of the fact that this is an important spice trade centre. Another great place to purchase spices and fresh coffee is Murikkady, just five kilometers from Thekkady and a place where the air is filled with the enchanting aroma of fresh spices.

4. Have a picturesque picnic

A short drive from Kumily is Pandikuzhi, a picture-perfect town valued for its sleepy ambiance as well as peaceful picnic spots. It’s a haven for trekkers and its pristine, natural beauty is almost guaranteed to bring out the photographer in you.

5. Experience some Ayurveda

The state is famous for its signature Kerala Massage. But due to the deluge in tourism, a number of unreliable massage centers have also sprung up, making it difficult for the visitor to filter out and find the genuine ones. To avoid having a distasteful encounter we suggest you take the advice of your homestay owner, and that also applies when choosing tours, tour guides and taxi drivers. Staying in a homestay is the best way to ensure that you aren’t mislead by people for money. Homestay owners are on your side, providing reliable and honest advice; they will direct you to a genuine massage centre.

6. Book a family feast

Kerala, much like the other states of India, has its own regional and signature flavor.  To enjoy the local cuisine you must skip the hotels and their homogenous menus. The true flavor of Kerala lies in the homes. The dishes served in homestays are unforgettably delicious and the seafood is incomparable. The homes will serve you one divine dish after the other and even provide cooking lessons to those interested.

Take a look at Mahindra Homestays’ Thekkady homestays and book online.

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These Ajmer things to do will leave you feeling compelled to return to this hallowed city.

1. Make a wish

There are many things about Ajmer that keeps people coming back. But the premier landmark of the city is the hallowed Dargah Sharif, tomb of Saint Muinnudin Chisti. People of all kinds, from different parts of the world, come together at the Saint’s shrine to offer their respects and ask for his blessings. The shrine is particularly crowded on Fridays and during the annual festival of Urs.

2. See the ‘Kingdom of God’

A lesser-known but absolutely divine contribution to the Ajmer offering is Soni ji ki Nasiyan, also known as Nasiyan ji mandir. This complex houses a mesmerizing gold-plated creation which is an attempt to recreate the “Kingdom of God” conceived in the Jain fables. The intricate work and detailing in this “Golden City” are simply astonishing.

3. Head for the hills

The Taragarh Fort is one of the oldest forts in India and sits atop the Aravali range. The imposing fort offers an enchanting view of the city below and makes for a peaceful sunset point. Besides the landscape, the fort is also an attraction because it homes Miran Saheb ki Dargah, the final resting place of Miran Saheb, drawing followers in large numbers.

4. Laze by the lake

Ajmer’s Anasāgar Lake is a popular spot. The languid lake is frequented in the evenings by locals and visitors alike, who can be seen enjoying an evening stroll and munching on the local street food.

5. Push off to Pushkar

Just up the road from Ajmer is the place famous for its annual fair and bohemian spirit, Pushkar. The 11 kms distance can be covered in just 30 minutes by car. One can opt for an overnight stay or just go there for a few hours to visit the Brahma temple, saunter through the streets and feast on mouthwatering vegetarian dishes served in its trendy cafes.

6. Rummage in the shops

Although big brand names can be seen sporadically around the city, the real steals are vibrant curios sold on street corners and in makeshift shops. From ornaments for your home to gorgeous costume jewelry, there’s a plethora of inexpensive products, which can be yours without any real bargaining.

7. Walk the alleys

As you maneuver your way through Ajmer’s bustling and spirited alleys you’ll come across hidden gems that aren’t found in most travel brochures. Between a kulfi-seller’s stall and a bangle-makers shop will be a music school resonating with the sounds of the sitar.

8. See fine Islamic architecture

As you walk through the alleys next to the Dargah Sharif, you’ll find your way to Dhai din ka Jhopra. It is believed that the monument was originally a Hindu university, which was demolished once the Mughal came to power. And, in just two and a half days (dhai din) it was replaced by the Mughals with the creation that stands here today. The monument is one of the few places in Ajmer, where one can see architecture with Mughal influence.

Practical information
There is no airport in Ajmer, but it is extremely well-connected by trains and highways to all major cities. The nearest airport is in Jaipur.

With the exception of Tarahgarh Fort, most tourist destinations are located close to one another. Being well-informed about the distances helps when using auto-rickshaws or taxis.

Tourists should avoid visiting the Dargah Sharif on Fridays and Sundays. Beware of pickpockets, touts and con artists. Cover your head before entering the shrine.

If possible, leave your mobile phones and bags in your homestay, because they are not allowed inside many places.

Traveling to Ajmer between late March and July is extremely ill-advised as the summers are harsh and unforgiving.

Ajmer is 138 kms from Jaipur, 392 kms from Delhi and 233 kms from Bikaner.

Udaipur is a 5-hour drive away.

Take a look at our Ajmer homestays.

Front page image: Creative Commons

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1. See Sim’s Park

Sim’s Park sits in a deep ravine. By navigating its meandering paths you can reach the park’s higher peaks. Its most wondrous offering is its wealth of shola trees and the other innumerable varieties, sporadically planted all over. In full bloom, this randomness creates a vibrant and unreal effect. The park is also famous for affording great views to many of Coonoor’s popular tourist spots such as Lamb’s Rock, Dolphin’s Nose and Lady Canning’s Seat.

2. Take the toy train

Nilgiri’s famous toy train is one of the most popular Coonoor things to do. The charming train started operating over a century ago and, considering the terrain of the region, it is rightfully considered an engineering marvel. The blue-cream train oozes old world charm with delightful wooden coaches and large windows that provide enchanting views. It’s called a toy train because it’s so slow that you can high-five the children outside as it moves. It stops every hour and so you can easily hop in and out for a short photo session. A ride on the usually crowded train should be considered a rare experience rather than treated as a functional mode of transport.

3. Bird watching and listening

Coonoor’s calm and quiet is not just appreciated by peace-seeking tourists but also exotic birds. Here, you can find many songbirds such as nightingales, babblers, larks and robins, who serenade you with their mesmerizing harmonies.

4. Pick the fruits

Coonoor’s Pomological Station is a feast for those interested in horticulture. Many varieties of fruits are grown here for research purposes. Here, one can also purchase fresh apples, plums, apricots and much more. Freshly made fruit jams are produced on a small scale and are delicious gifts for those back home.

5. Tour the silk station

A visit to the Silk Rearing Station is a great way to learn the intricacies of Sericulture. On special request you can get a complete tour of the process and see how the famous Indian silk is made. However, do note that the process involves boiling silkworms alive, so it may not be for everyone.

6. Enjoy the falls

The Law Falls are located 7 kilometers from Coonoor and make for a lovely picnic spot. The divine Falls drop from a height of almost 200 feet and what adds to the charm of the area is that it is enveloped by majestic Shola trees.

7. Get some fantastic views

A short drive from Coonoor is a destination called Lamb’s Rock. The tourist spot is a favourite of visitors because it offers divine views of Coimbatore. Just a little further away from Lamb’s Rock is Dolphin’s Nose. The viewpoint is quite simply named after a massive rock, which resembles the face of a Dolphin.

8. Share a point of view

Lady Canning’s Seat is just 9 kilometers from Coonoor. It is so named because the wife of Viceroy Canning loved to sit and marvel at the vista. Here you can find a small residence, which you can explore or just use to rest for a bit. From this destination you can soak-up the enchanting views of the endless tea estates that surround you as well as gaze at the plains

9. Drive to Droog

To reach the Droog, one has to drive 15 kilometers from Coonoor and then take on a 3 kilometer long trek. The Droog serves as a popular picnic spot but it also has great historical significance. The destination once served as an outpost for the great Tipu Sultan. It stands proud at an elevation of 6,000 feet and due to its location it offers incomparable views of the surrounding plains.

10. Day trip to Masinagudi

Masinagudi is a great place to see elephants languidly strolling by, sharing the roads with cars, pedestrians and trucks. The destination is less than 20 kms from Coonoor and the drive is infested with hairpin turns. Trekking is the best way to explore Masinagudi’s beautiful vistas. There are innumerable charming makeshift snack stalls, which serve as great places to take a break and dig into the local delicacies.

Some of our Coonoor homestays are currently on offer.  Take a look at the great choice we have here and book online today.

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Here are ten reasons why it’s much loved by them, as well as the numerous ex-pats, adrenaline junkies and families that climb up to its cool altitude.

These are our Manali Things To Do.

1. Enjoy the rapid action
Manali isn’t all about languid rest and replenishment. Plenty of adventure sports are available here for thrill-seekers. One such activity is white water rafting. During summers, you can arrange a ride down the rocky rapids of River Beas for the thrill of a lifetime.

2. Sledge and ski Rohtang Pass
This is the most popular day tour from Manali. It’s a snow-clad region where hundreds of people can be seen having snowball fights, making snowmen, sledding and more. It’s also a lot of fun to watch the tourists trying to ski for the first time and falling on their faces. A little mean but fun nonetheless.

3. Feel the wind beneath wings
On your way to Rohtang Pass, you’ll come across lots of people enjoying paragliding. You can be one of them by arranging a paragliding experience with the professionals who work there. The ride doesn’t often last long, but is fun and gives you a beautiful bird’s eye view of Manali’s lush landscape.

4. Rest and relax
Manali’s hot water springs are essentially made of hot sulphur water, which helps relax your muscles and are believed to cure many skin diseases. A dip in your personal chamber isn’t going to cost a lot. So bring your bathing suits.

5. Bow your head
The Hidimba temple is one of the most revered religious spots in Manali for Hindus. It is dedicated to Hidimba Mata, one of the most influential female characters in the Mahabharata. Other than this important temple, plenty of beautiful monasteries are speckled all over Manali. If you plan your trip to coincide with the festival of Dussehra, you might catch the famous Kullu Dusshera – a great parade of deities – at its best.

6. Play dress up
At most tourist spots you will have the chance to dress up in traditional folk attire and get a photo. The clothes can be rented for a small amount and the photograph is often handed to you within minutes.

7. Go rock climbing
The temptation of taking on the mighty Himalayas attracts a lot of rock climbing enthusiasts to the area. But for those who want to enjoy a light-hearted version of the adventure sport, there are plenty of companies who will take good care of you with something for beginners.

8. See the glaciers of Solang Valley
The famed Solang Valley is a great place near Manali from where you can see beautiful glaciers and snow-clad mountains. You can reach its ski point using the ski lift. Even if you don’t ski, the journey will afford you unforgettable vistas of the region.

9. Soak up the Old Town atmosphere
If you’re looking to hang out with the elite crowd of Manali and not the usual tourists, then Old Manali is where you should head to. Other than the very best cafes, bars and restaurants in Manali, you might even notice a celebrity or two. The eating and drinking places are filled mostly with ex-pats and retired or semi-retired actors, who call this area of Manali home.

10. Finish with a toast
The state of Himachal Pradesh is most famous for its red, juicy apples. And naturally, the apple juice and cider produced here is unmatched by any other brand or place. But for those who prefer their drinks with a bit of a kick, Lugdi and Chhang are the perfect options. These are locally produced alcoholic drinks and have a pretty robust flavor.

We offer a truly amazing homestay experience in Himachal Pradesh – find out more about our Spiti rural homestays.

Front page image credit:  Virdi

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1. Lake lovers
Nainital’s most popular feature are its numerous lakes, making boating a popular pastime. You can opt for a paddle boat, where you do all the work, or a languid ride on a row boat, operated by the boat’s owner. For those skilled at sailing, sailboats are easily available for rent as well. You can hire any of these options for as long as you want. Bargain over the price – it’s common.

2. The height of beauty
As you enjoy the panoramic vistas of the city below, the Naini Cable Car takes you up to Tiffin Top, a beautiful viewpoint located 7,500 ft above sea level. The popular tourist spot offers enchanting vistas of the Himalayan range. Be sure to grab a cup of hot chai and some steaming pakoras from one of the food stalls before you leave.

3. Hello Himalayas
There’s a viewpoint is located between Nainital and the town of Kilbury. It’s proudly perched at an impressive height of 2300 meters and offers wonderful views of the majestic Himalayas. It is one of the lesser known viewpoints around Nainital. It’s worth seeking out, away from the crowds and chatter.

4. A walk to remember
The best place to enjoy a trek or walk in Nainital is Thandi Sadak or Cold Street. It’s a lovely spot to find solitude and has a romantic ambiance. Your walk will be lined by tall, lush pines, deodars and oaks. During summer and fall, your walk will be set to the sweet sound of chirping birds and the gentle breeze rustling through the leaves.

5. Test of the terrain
Naina Peak is the highest peak in Nainital and obviously provides unmatched vistas to those who can take on the intense journey. Even the most skilled hikers find the journey daunting but the company of cheery rhododendrons, soaring deodars and lush cypresses is a welcome distraction. If you have persevering feet, then the peak rewards you with a magnificent bird’s eye view of Nainital, the Himalayas and the Terai region. Given the right season you can enjoy a 360 degree view of snow-cloaked Himalayas.

6. In the company of fish
Bhimtal has long been one of the most popular day trips from Nainital. A 22 kilometer long journey will take you to this small but popular island. Nainital’s authorities recently replaced Bhimtal’s overcrowded restaurant with an enchanting aquarium, which houses a variety of fish from all over the world such as South Africa, Mexico and China.

7. Let’s celebrate
All year round, vibrant festivals can be observed in Nainital. Whether or not you understand their historic and religious importance, they’re always fun to participate in. Most of the festivals are all about building community spirit and are filled music, dance and colours, as well as delicious local specialties.

8. Putting green
Gold has arrived in Nainital. The 9-hole course is fun, simple to master and can be enjoyed by people of all ages. It’s a great way to bond with the family while honing your putting skills.

9. Horsing around
An interesting way to explore Nainital is on horseback. If you can’t ride well, the horse’s owner will accompany you. Pony rides are available for children.

10. Shopping
In Nainital you’ll find inexpensive, locally produced, and usually handmade merchandise. It is very popular for its unique and interesting candles. From a glittering Christmas tree to a jolly Buddha with a wick sticking out of his head, you’ll find lots of choice when it comes to souvenirs.

11. A day away
Nainital is surrounded by lakes that are getaways in their own right. One of such places is Sat-tal, which literally means “seven lakes.” It is one of the places around Nainital that have not been overwhelmed by commercialization and crowds. The other option is called Naukuchiyatal. This is a small and beautiful lake which has nau (nine) corners. It is just four kilometers from BhimTal and enveloped by lush green hills. The perfect place to be with yourself and your thoughts.

Inspired? Take a look at our Nainital homestays and book yourself a break.

We have more things to do in India articles.

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