Cheap thrills on a budget: A backpacker’s guide to Nainital

Hill stations have a vibe, you know? That cool air, the sound of chappals slapping against the cobbled road, and the smell of chai mixed with Maggi—uff, unbeatable. But when you’re a broke “awara” like me, finding the perfect hill station that doesn’t break the bank is a serious flex. That’s where Nainital comes in—affordable, chill, and full of chhoti-chhoti khushiyan. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly summer escape, this is it. Period.

Day 1: Chai, Parathas & Blessings

Start with a ₹20 chai and a million-dollar view

Bhai, morning scenes at Naini Lake are straight-up movie material. Grab a ₹20 chai from that uncle near the lake and just… sit. Watch the lake shimmer under the morning sun while uncles discuss politics and aunties flex their yoga poses. The sound of temple bells in the distance mixed with the occasional “Bhaiya, ek aur chai!”—feels like home, na?

Breakfast from a local dhaba

After chai, head to that small dhaba near Mall Road. The aloo parathas are thiccc and drowning in ghee—just how God intended. The uncle running the place will probably tell you a story about how the Britishers used to eat there (sure, bro). But the parathas are so good you’ll believe him. Bonus tip: Ask for extra achaar—it’s homemade and life-changing.

Pahadon par jaakar garma garam aloo parathe nahi khaye toh kya khaye

A free hike with a paisa-vasool view

Feeling adventurous? Trek up to Snow View Point. It’s free, and the view is proper dhamaka. Clouds so close you could high-five them. The climb will make you question your life choices, but once you see the view—chef’s kiss. On the way down, stop by Naina Devi Temple. The temple is one of the most revered Shakti Peeths in India and holds deep spiritual significance. According to legend, when Goddess Sati's body was cut into 51 parts, her eyes (naina) fell at this very spot, making it a powerful center of devotion. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Naina Devi, an incarnation of Maa Durga, and is perched right next to the serene Naini Lake.

Even if you’re not religious, just sit there for a bit—you’ll feel lighter (or maybe that’s just the hunger kicking in).

Seek Blessings at Naina Devi Temple.

Lunch that deserves a standing ovation

For lunch, hit up that tiny momo joint near Bhutia Market. The momos are next-level—juicy, spicy, and loaded with flavour. The aunty running the place makes her own chili sauce that will have you sweating and crying (but like, in a good way). Pro tip: order double. You’ll want more.

Shop till you drop (but on a budget)

Afternoons are for wandering through the Tibetan market. It’s full of cool stuff—woolen sweaters, cute earrings, and the kind of bags you’ll pretend you bought from Goa. Rule number one: Bargain like your life depends on it. Start at half price and act disinterested. You’ll walk away with a sweater you don’t need but will 100% flex on Instagram.

Buy hanging bells and prayer flags from Tibetan markets.

Evenings in Nainital = pure magic

As the sun sets, Nainital’s Mall Road starts buzzing. Soft lights, the sound of temple bells, and Bollywood bangers blasting from random shops—it’s a whole vibe. There’s this tiny bookstore tucked into a corner where you can pick up an old Ruskin Bond novel. Nothing screams ‘hill station’ more than reading Ruskin Bond with a view of the lake.

Dinner with a side of love

End the day at a cosy café near the lake—one of those charming old-school spots where time seems to slow down. Order their special Maggi and sit by the window. The owners, a warm-hearted couple who’ve been running the place since the 90s, will probably smile at you, and you’ll realise that some love stories actually do last. It’s the kind of place where the food is made with love, and you can taste it in every bite.

The nightlife of Nainital 

Day 2: Sunrise, ropeways & secret cafés

Sunrise at Tiffin Top

Waking up early is painful, I get it. But catching the sunrise at Tiffin Top? Totally worth it. The sky looks like it was painted by a moody artist—shades of orange, pink, and purple melting together. If you’re lucky, you’ll spot the peaks of the Himalayas in the distance, making you feel like you’re standing at the edge of the world.

Ride the ropeway to Snow View

Hiking isn’t your thing? No stress. Hop onto the Nainital Ropeway and get a bird’s-eye view of the entire valley. The ride is short but super scenic, and at the top, you can sip chai while pretending to be in a Bollywood movie.

Enjoy the view from snow view point

Brunch with a view

By now, you’ll be starving, so grab a hearty brunch at one of the hidden cafés near Bara Pathar. Find a rooftop café, order a strong coffee and a cheese omelet, and soak in the view. It’s chill, it’s quiet, and it’s the kind of place where you can sit for hours without realizing where the time went.

Paddle boat therapy at Sattal

Naini Lake is cool, but if you want fewer tourists and more peaceful vibes, head to Sattal. Rent a paddle boat and just drift for a while. The lake is surrounded by lush greenery, and the only sounds you’ll hear are birds chirping and the occasional paddle dipping into the water. It’s the definition of calm.

Visit the haunted Raj Bhavan

Feeling brave? Take a tour of the Raj Bhavan, a colonial-era mansion rumored to be haunted. The building itself is gorgeous, but the eerie silence inside might just give you chills. Whether you believe in ghosts or not, the history of this place is fascinating.

Explore the architecture of Raj Bhavan

End the trip with woodfired pizza

Before you leave Nainital, treat yourself to some legendary woodfired pizza at a lakeside café. Watching the sunset while biting into a gooey, cheesy slice? Best way to wrap up the trip.

So, if you’re craving a summer escape that won’t burn a hole in your pocket but will fill your heart (and stomach) to the brim, Nainital is the place to be. From chai-sipping by the lake to momo-fueled shopping sprees, misty treks to haunted mansions, every moment here is a mood. It’s that perfect mix of nostalgia, adventure, and budget-friendly magic. So pack light, bring your best bargaining skills, and let Nainital work its old-school charm on you. Trust me, you’ll leave with a full heart, a lighter wallet, and stories you’ll flex about for years.