# A Perfect Day Trip: Jim Corbett to Nainital—Where Wildlife Meets the Lakes
A journey from Jim Corbett National Park to Nainital, located in the picturesque state of Uttarakhand, provides an exceptional blend of wildlife and alpine appeal. This extensive guide will assist you in planning the ideal day trip between these two great destinations.
## Getting Started: The Journey Begins
The day begins early at Jim Corbett Resort. The region has various luxurious lodgings, ranging from the grandiose Taj Corbett Resort & Spa to the nature-immersive Namah Resort. These facilities strike the ideal blend between comfort and wilderness experiences, with spacious accommodations with mountain views, world-class amenities, and exceptional dining options.
## The Drive: Through the Heart of Kumaon.
The drive from Jim Corbett to Nainital is around 70 kilometres and takes about 3 hours. Taxi services on this route normally charge between ₹2,500 and ₹3,500 per day journey. It is recommended that you book through your resort’s travel department or with reputable operators such as Uttarakhand Tourism Development Board-approved vendors.
The drive itself is an adventure, travelling across the lower Himalayan range. As you ascend, you will see the terrain change from the subtropical forests of Corbett to the alpine splendour of Nainital. The road provides stunning views of deep valleys, terraced crops, and distant snow-covered peaks.
## Arriving in Nainital, The City of Lakes
As you reach Nainital, the famed lake city appears like a jewel in the Alps. This hill station, built during the British era, is at an elevation of 2,084 meters and wraps around the pear-shaped Naini Lake. The city’s colonial architecture, bustling Mall Road, and surrounding mountains provide a stunning environment that feels far apart from the wildlife refuge you left behind.
## Essential Sightseeing Locations
Your day in Nainital should start at the Naina Devi Temple, an important spiritual landmark that gives the city its name. From there, take the cable car to Snow View Point, where you may see panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Nanda Kot.
The Mall Road, which runs along the lake, invites a leisurely stroll. This bustling road is dotted with businesses selling local handicrafts, woollens, and the renowned Nainital candles. Tibetan Market is a must-see for one-of-a-kind souvenirs and traditional artefacts.
The Eco Cave Gardens are a fascinating attraction for anyone who loves nature. This network of interconnected caves provides a unique view into the region’s geology while being appropriate for all ages.
## Dinner with a View
Lunchtime in Nainital demands special attention, and the Lake View Restaurant at the Nainital Club delivers an unforgettable dining experience. It is perched above the lake and provides a mix of Indian, Chinese, and continental cuisine. The restaurant’s historical setting and spectacular views of Naini Lake make it ideal for a peaceful supper.
Sakley’s Restaurant on Mall Road serves authentic Kumaoni cuisine. Their traditional thalis and local delicacies provide a flavour of the region’s diverse culinary heritage.
## Evening at the Lake
Throughout the day, take a boat ride around Naini Lake. The dusk light casts magnificent reflections on the river, while the neighbouring mountains take on golden hues. Choose between paddle boats for a romantic encounter and larger boats for group excursions.
## Back to the Wild
The return travel to Jim Corbett should begin in the late afternoon to ensure you arrive before dark. This timing allows you to see the shifting colours of the Kumaon hills at sunset while arriving at your resort in time for supper.
Back at your Jim Corbett resort, you can relax with a spa treatment or a bonfire dinner, reflecting on a day spent in two very different but equally lovely places.
## Travel Tips:
To maximise your time in Nainital, start early, preferably by 7 AM. Bring warm clothes as temperatures can vary significantly between the two locations. Book your cab ahead of time, especially during peak season. Leave some buffer time in your schedule for unexpected weather changes. Carry motion sickness medication if sensitive to mountain roads.
– Keep your camera ready for breathtaking landscape photos.
This day tour seamlessly blends the wilderness charm of Jim Corbett with the colonial hill station attractiveness of Nainital, providing a thorough overview of Uttarakhand’s numerous attractions. Whether you’re a nature lover, a photography enthusiast, or simply looking for a remarkable mountain experience, this tour offers an outstanding combination of activities in a single day.
