A “Charms of Uttarakhand” tour, combining the hill station of Nainital and the wildlife of Jim Corbett National Park, is a popular and diverse travel experience. It offers a perfect blend of serene natural beauty and thrilling adventure.
Here is a comprehensive guide to what you can expect from such a tour.
Most tour packages are designed for a duration of 4 to 6 days, providing ample time to explore both destinations. The tour often begins with a scenic drive from Delhi to Nainital.
- Day 1: Delhi to Nainital
- Start your journey from Delhi and drive to Nainital, a 7-8 hour journey.
- Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and relax.
- In the evening, you can take a leisurely walk along the Mall Road and enjoy a boat ride on the beautiful Naini Lake.
- Overnight stay in Nainital.
- Day 2: Nainital Sightseeing
- After breakfast, embark on a full-day sightseeing tour of Nainital.
- Visit popular spots like Naina Devi Temple, Eco Cave Gardens, and Snow View Point, which you can reach by a ropeway ride for a panoramic view of the Himalayas.
- Explore other nearby lakes like Bhimtal, Sattal, and Naukuchiatal, each with its unique charm.
- Enjoy the evening at your leisure, perhaps for some local shopping or a stroll.
- Overnight stay in Nainital.
- Day 3: Nainital to Jim Corbett National Park
- After breakfast, check out from the hotel and drive to Jim Corbett National Park.
- The journey takes about 2-3 hours.
- Upon arrival, check in to your wildlife resort and relax.
- In the evening, you can explore the area around your resort or visit the Garjiya Devi Temple, located on a large rock in the Kosi River.
- Overnight stay at the resort.
- Day 4: Jim Corbett Jungle Safari
- Wake up early for an exciting jungle safari in one of the park’s zones (like Dhikala, Bijrani, or Jhirna).
- This is your chance to spot a variety of wildlife, including the majestic Bengal Tiger, elephants, deer, and numerous bird species.
- Return to the resort for breakfast.
- You can spend the rest of the day relaxing or opt for another activity like a visit to the Corbett Museum or Corbett Falls.
- Overnight stay at the resort.
- Day 5: Departure from Jim Corbett to Delhi
- After breakfast, check out from the resort.
- Drive back to Delhi for your onward journey, carrying with you memories of your trip.
Key Attractions and Activities
- Nainital:
- Naini Lake: The heart of the town, perfect for boating, and a serene walk along its banks.
- Mall Road: A bustling street lined with shops, hotels, and restaurants.
- Naina Devi Temple: A revered temple located on the northern shore of Naini Lake.
- Snow View Point: Offers a stunning view of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks.
- Eco Cave Gardens: A series of interconnected rocky caves, a fun adventure for all ages.
- Jim Corbett National Park:
- Jungle Safari: The highlight of the trip, you can choose between a jeep or canter safari to explore the different zones of the park.
- Corbett Museum: The former home of the legendary hunter and conservationist, Jim Corbett, now a museum.
- Corbett Falls: A scenic waterfall surrounded by lush forests, a great spot for a picnic.
- Garjiya Devi Temple: A sacred temple situated on a large rock amidst the Kosi River.
Best Time to Visit
- Peak Season (March to June and October to February): This is the most popular time to visit. The weather is pleasant in Nainital, and the chances of spotting wildlife in Corbett are high as animals come to water sources.
- Monsoon Season (July to September): The monsoon season brings heavy rainfall to the region, which can lead to road closures and make it difficult to enjoy outdoor activities. Some parts of Jim Corbett National Park also close during this time. However, this is the off-season, so you can find great discounts on hotels and resorts.
- Winter Season (October to February): The weather is chilly, especially in the mornings and evenings, but the clear skies offer breathtaking views of the snow-capped mountains. This is an excellent time for bird watching in Corbett.
