Nainital Ranikhet Almora Kausani Munsiyari Tour

On arrival, meet our representative/driver at Dehradun airport and transfer to the hotel. Upon arrival, check into the hotel after freshening up, and head straight to the famous Naini Lake, a picturesque freshwater body surrounded by hills. Spend some time soaking in the tranquil views, or opt for a relaxing boating session on the lake. Later, take a stroll along Mall Road, Nainital’s vibrant promenade, lined with shops, cafés, and local eateries. Overnight stay.

Experience:

Food: Nainital offers a delightful mix of street food and cozy cafés. For a true local taste:

• Tibetan specialties: Try freshly steamed momos, thukpa (noodle soup), and tingmo at Chandni Chowk Momo Point or Sakley’s Restaurant, both favorites among locals.
• Cafés with a view: Stop at Zooby’s Café or Sher-e-Punjab Bakery for freshly baked pastries, cakes, and local desserts while enjoying a view of Naini Lake.
• Street eats: Don’t miss roasted corn, spicy chaat, samosas, and local sweets sold by vendors along the lake promenade and Mall Road.

Shopping: Mall Road and the nearby Tibetan Market are perfect for picking up local treasures:

• Handicrafts & Souvenirs: Intricately carved wooden artifacts, traditional jewelry, and Tibetan-themed décor.
• Woollens & Garments: Soft scarves, sweaters, gloves, and caps, handcrafted by local artisans.
• Traditional & Gourmet Items: Herbal teas, jams, spices, pickles, and home-ground flours that reflect Kumaoni flavors.
• Unique Finds: Tibetan paintings, singing bowls, prayer flags, and eco-friendly gifts that make perfect mementos.

Activities:

• Enjoy an evening boating session at Naini Lake; the golden sunset over the hills makes it a magical experience.
• Take a leisurely Mall Road stroll, discovering hidden cafés, street performers, and local vendors—perfect for photography or casual people-watching.
• Pause at a lakeside café for a cup of local tea or coffee, soaking in the serene ambiance of Nainital as evening falls.

After breakfast, start your day with a visit to Naini Devi Temple by the beautiful Naini Lake for spiritual vibes and scenic views. Then, head to Hanuman Garhi, a hilltop temple with panoramic views of the town. Next, explore the Cave Garden, a charming spot with natural caves and landscaped gardens, perfect for a leisurely walk. 

Later proceed for the Lake Tour of Bhimtal, Sattal & Naukuchiatal. Start at Bhimtal, with its calm waters and a small island—enjoy a boat ride or relax by the shore. Then visit Naukuchiatal, the lake with nine corners, perfect for both adventure and relaxation. If time allows, stop at Sattal, a group of seven lakes surrounded by forests, great for birdwatching and photography. End the day by returning to Nainital, refreshed by the peaceful lakes and beautiful scenery. Overnight stay.

Food: Nainital is great for food lovers, especially traditional Kumaoni dishes. Try Bhatt ki Churkani (black gram with rice) and the local sweet Bal Mithai. For snacks, enjoy momos, chowmein, and local tea at cafés on Mall Road. Evening walks by the lake are perfect with roasted corn, jalebi, or pakoras.

Shopping: For souvenirs and handicrafts, visit Bara Bazaar and Mall Road. Pick up woollens (sweaters, mufflers, socks), wooden carvings, Kumaoni jewelry, and scented candles. You can also find embroidered fabrics, pickles, spices, and unique handcrafted items in small artisan shops.

Activities: Adventure and relaxation blend perfectly in Nainital. Take the cable car to Snow View Point, where the stunning panorama of the Himalayas and the town below will leave you mesmerized. At Tiffin Top, enjoy a scenic horse ride or a short trek while breathing in the crisp mountain air. Photography enthusiasts will find countless spots for sunrise or sunset captures, and boating in Naini Lake adds a tranquil experience to the day.

After breakfast, start your journey from Nainital and visit Kainchi Dham, the peaceful ashram of Neem Karoli Baba. Continue to Almora to seek blessings at the ancient Nanda Devi Temple. Next, explore the 9th-century Katarmal Sun Temple with its beautiful stone carvings and hill views. Visit Kasar Devi Temple, a serene spot popular among mystics and travellers. Finally, arrive in Ranikhet, a quiet hill station with colonial charm and pine forests. End your day at Ranijheel, a scenic lake ideal for a walk or paddle boating.

Experiences: 

Food:

Street-Style Snacks in Ranikhet

• Samosa & Bread Pakora – Found at tea stalls in Gandhi Chowk and Mall Road.
• Aloo Tikki Chaat – Crisp patties with chutneys and curd in local markets.
• Momos & Maggi – Popular at stalls near Sadar Bazar and Ranijheel.
• Bhutta (Roasted Corn) – Evening favorite with salt & lemon.

Best Snack Spots

• Mayur Restaurant (Main Market) – Samosa, pakoras & Kumaoni bites.
• Prem Restaurant (Gandhi Chowk) – Famous for parathas, samosas & chai.
• Tea Stalls on Mall Road – Maggi, pakoras & tea with local chatter.
• Chevron Rosemount Café – Cozy stop for cakes, bakes & coffee.
• Singodi – A conical sweet wrapped in Malu leaf, made with khoya and coconut.
• Small local restaurants in Ranikhet serve thalis with these specialties—perfect for an authentic meal.

Shopping:

Ranikhet and Kausani offer quiet markets with unique finds:

• Woollens & Handloom – Pick up authentic handwoven shawls, stoles, and mufflers directly from local cooperatives.
• Organic Products – Herbal teas grown in Kausani, wild honey, and apricot oil for skin care.
• Wooden Handicrafts & Copperware – Intricately carved boxes, utensils, and décor items.
• Traditional Kumaoni Products – Locally produced pulses, pickles, spices, and fruit preserves.
• Shopping here not only gives you souvenirs but also supports village artisans and farmers.

Evening walk trail:

Start your walk near Ranikhet Cantonment, where old British-era bungalows and pine avenues set a nostalgic tone. Continue through winding lanes lined with deodars and rhododendrons, listening to bird calls and soaking in mountain views. As the sun sets, head towards Ranijheel, a calm lake surrounded by greenery. Enjoy the quiet atmosphere, try paddle boating, or simply sit by the water as the lights reflect in the stillness of the lake—a perfect way to unwind after a day of travel and exploration.

Activities:

• Boating at Ranijheel – A gentle paddle across the lake surrounded by pine forests.
• Nature Trails in Ranikhet – Short hikes around Jhula Devi Temple or Chaubatia orchards, offering fruit gardens and sweeping views.
• Photography – Capture snow-capped Himalayan peaks like Nanda Devi and Trishul at sunrise or sunset.
• Stargazing – With clear skies and minimal pollution, Ranikhet offers a magical night sky view.

Start your day at Jhoola Devi Temple, a hilltop shrine with stunning views of the Kumaon hills. Then visit the Kumaon Regimental Museum to see military history, artifacts, and gallantry awards. Continue to Haidakhan Babaji Temple, a peaceful ancient temple surrounded by forests. In the afternoon, relax at the Ranikhet Golf Course, set amid green meadows and mountains. Travel to Kausani, known as the “Switzerland of India,” and enjoy the Himalayan views. End your day with a walk through the Kausani Tea Estate, observing the tea-making process and the serene surroundings.

Experiences: 

Food:

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel in Ranikhet, sampling local Kumaoni flavors like Poha, Aloo ke Gutke (spiced potato dish), and freshly made bread with local jams. During sightseeing, stop at small local eateries near Jhoola Devi Temple or Haidakhan Babaji Temple to savor traditional Kumaoni snacks, such as Singodi (rice flour dumplings filled with sweetened coconut) and Bal Mithai, a sweet made from roasted khoya and coated with sugar balls. In Kausani, enjoy a cozy lunch or evening snack with a view of the Himalayas—opt for Kafuli, the region’s signature green leafy curry, paired with steamed rice, and wash it down with locally brewed herbal Tea from the Tea estate.

Shopping:

Kausani and Ranikhet offer charming local markets and small artisanal shops. Pick up handwoven woollens like shawls, mufflers, and caps crafted by Kumaoni artisans. Explore handicrafts and souvenirs such as wooden carvings, traditional jewellery, and bamboo artifacts. From the tea estate, purchase premium Tea leaves and Aromatic Herbs and Spices as souvenirs. These make perfect gifts and are authentic representations of Kumaon’s rich culture.

Activities:

• Nature walks & photography: Stroll through the verdant tea estate and Ranikhet’s meadows while capturing panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks like Trishul, Nanda Devi, and Panchachuli.

• Sunset views: Enjoy the magical Himalayan sunset from the Kausani viewpoint, a perfect opportunity for quiet reflection or photography.

Start your day at Anashakti Ashram, a peaceful retreat linked to Mahatma Gandhi. Then, visit the Shawl Factory to see the craftsmanship of Kausani’s woollen shawls. Next, explore the Pant Museum, dedicated to the famous Hindi poet Sumitranandan Pant. Continue to the Baijnath Temple, known for its beautiful stone carvings and Himalayan backdrop. End the day by watching the sunset from the Kausani viewpoint and enjoy a relaxed evening stroll in the local market. 

Additional Experience:

Food:

Pine Cottage Café – A cozy place near the estate offering local as well as Indian dinner options.

Estate-side Tea Kiosks – Small stalls serving local tea, pakoras, and Maggi with unbeatable sunset views.

Try freshly brewed Kausani Herbal Tea (rhododendron, lemongrass, tulsi, ginger).Classic Masala Chai with mountain spices. Fresh Coffee (locally ground).

Shopping:

• Woollen Treasures: Handwoven shawls, stoles, and blankets crafted by local women’s cooperatives.
• Organic Produce: Locally grown herbal teas, rhododendron squash, honey, and fruit preserves.
• Crafts & Copperware: Traditional brass and copper utensils, wooden carvings, and locally made souvenirs that reflect Kumaoni artistry.
• Spices & Herbs: Authentic mountain turmeric, cardamom, and wild herbs unique to this region.

Evening Walk Trail:

• Begin from Kausani Tea Estate and wander amidst fragrant tea bushes as the sun lowers.
• Stroll further to the Kausani Viewpoint, one of the best vantage points in Kumaon, and watch as the mighty Himalayan peaks glow pink and orange at sunset. The calm and unhurried pace of this walk makes it an unforgettable end to the day.

Activities:

• Panoramic Photography: Capture the majestic view of peaks like Trisul, Nanda Devi, and Panchachuli from the Kausani viewpoint.
• Cultural Interaction: Visit the Shawl Factory and interact with weavers to learn about age-old weaving techniques and the intricacies of producing Kausani woollen shawls.
• Nature Walks: Take a calm stroll around the Anashakti Ashram and Baijnath Temple, enjoying the serene Himalayan atmosphere, birdsong, and cool mountain air.
• Sunset Experience: End the day by witnessing the sun setting behind the Himalayan range, painting the sky with hues of orange and pink—a truly unforgettable moment.

Begin your day with a scenic drive from Kausani towards Munsiyari, surrounded by lush valleys and towering Himalayan peaks. En route, stop at Birahi Falls, a serene waterfall tucked amidst dense forests, perfect for photography and a short nature walk. Continue your journey towards Munsiyari, a tranquil hill station known for its panoramic views of the Panchachuli Peaks. In the evening, reach the viewpoint to witness the sunset painting the peaks in a fiery red glow, a truly magical experience.

Experience:

Food: For  Evening Snacks – Gahat Dal Pakoras with Herbal Tea. 

For dinner – Chainsoo Bhat, Ras bhat.

You can also try Momo & Thukpa or Siddu.

Shopping:

• Browse local markets in Munsiyari for hand-knitted woollens like mufflers, caps, and shawls.
• Pick up wooden handicrafts, traditional jewelry, and decorative items made by local artisans.
• Explore organic and natural products, such as local honey, aromatic herbs, herbal teas, and handmade soaps.
• Purchase souvenirs with Kumaoni motifs, perfect reminders of your Himalayan journey.

Activities:

• Nature walks & short treks around Birahi Falls and nearby forest trails.
• Photography and bird-watching along mountain trails and riverbanks.
• Sunset viewing at the Munsiyari viewpoint, capturing the red glow on the Himalayan peaks.
• Village exploration: interact with locals, see traditional Kumaoni homes, and witness rural life in the mountains.
• Optional river-side relaxation or meditation amidst the serene alpine environment.

Evening walk trail:

Start Point – Munsiyari Main Market – Riverside Trail – Sunset Viewpoint – Local Tea Shop.

Begin your walk at the bustling main market, where you can shop for local crafts and fresh produce. Stroll along the peaceful riverside trail, taking in the crisp mountain air and panoramic views. Reach the viewpoint in time to watch the sun paint the Panchachuli peaks in fiery red, then unwind at a local tea shop with a warm cup of herbal tea or coffee, reflecting on the day’s experiences.

Begin your day with a visit to the Nanda Devi Temple, a sacred shrine set amidst the stunning Himalayan backdrop, offering panoramic views and a serene spiritual experience. From there, make your way to Kalamuni Top, where you can enjoy sweeping vistas of snow-capped peaks and the surrounding valleys. Explore the Tribal Heritage Museum, which showcases the rich culture, traditions, and lifestyles of the local communities of Kumaon. In the afternoon, take a stroll through the local market, soaking in the sights, sounds, and aromas of Munsiyari. Conclude your day with a relaxed evening amid the tranquil mountain environment.

Experiences:

Food:

Munsiyari offers a mix of traditional Kumaoni flavors and traveler-friendly options throughout the day. For breakfast, you can enjoy a hearty Kumaoni meal like Kafuli (green leafy curry) with steamed rice or Mandua (ragi) roti, or lighter choices like stuffed parathas with local curd, along with Masala Chai and snacks like Aloo ke Gutke or Singori (sweet khoya wrapped in leaves).

For lunch, try local specialties such as Bhatt ki Churkani (black soybean curry) with rice or rotis, seasonal vegetables, and Gahat (Kulthi) soup, or quick options like Momos with Spicy Chutney, rice with dal and sautéed vegetables, or café-style sandwiches and fried rice.

Dinner offers a comforting Kumaoni thali with dal, steamed rice, seasonal vegetables, and homemade curd, finished with Bal Mithai or another local sweet. Travelers preferring continental flavors can enjoy Pasta, Grilled vegetables, or Soups, paired with hot chocolate or herbal Tea to relax after a day of exploring.

Shopping:

The Munsiyari market is rich with local crafts and products:

• Handicrafts & Souvenirs: Bamboo and wooden artifacts, small figurines, and decorative items.
• Woollens: Hand-knitted woolen sweaters, caps, scarves, and socks made by local artisans.
• Local Produce: Natural honey, jams, pickles, dried herbs, and aromatic spices.
• Traditional Ornaments: Silver jewelry and tribal accessories reflecting local culture.

Activities:

• Photography: Capture panoramic views of Nanda Devi, Panchachuli, and surrounding peaks.
• Cultural Immersion: Visit the Tribal Heritage Museum and interact with locals to understand their customs and lifestyle.
• Nature Walks: Short walks in alpine meadows or riverside paths, ideal for spotting local flora and fauna.
• Relaxation: Simply sit back amidst nature, meditate, or read while enjoying the crisp mountain air.
• Optional Mini-Treks: If time permits, explore nearby trails to villages or small waterfalls around Munsiyari.

Evening Walk Trail:

• Start Point: Main Market of Munsiyari
• Route: Winding through local streets → Riverside path → Sunset viewpoint near the edge of town
• Highlights: Interact with locals, admire traditional homes, shop for souvenirs, enjoy mountain vistas, and end with a serene sunset overlooking the Himalayas.

After a hearty breakfast, start your scenic drive back to Kathgodam. Upon arrival, your tour will end with never-ending memories.