Hillstation Nainital: Horse Ride, Trekking, and Lakes Tour

Hillstation Nainital: Horse Ride, Trekking, and Lakes Tour

A day in Nainital offers a delightful mix of scenic lakes, spiritual sites, and lush forests. For $224 per person, this 8-hour experience packs in horse riding, trekking, and sightseeing, making it a well-rounded way to see this popular hill station. The tour begins with a pickup from Kathgodam railway station, easing logistical worries, and takes you to explore some of Nainital’s most beloved sights, including the holy Naina Devi Temple, the sparkling Naini Lake, and nearby lakes like Bhimtal and Mallital.

We especially appreciate the balance of activities and relaxed pace. The combination of on-land explorations with a horse ride along Bara Pathar provides a sense of adventure, while the trek through green forests offers a peaceful escape into nature. The inclusion of local sightseeing like Naina Peak and Snow View adds a scenic touch, perfect for panoramic photos.

A potential downside might be the weather-dependent nature of outdoor activities—the tour relies on clear days for the best experience, especially for the lakes and treks. Also, if you’re not comfortable around horses or have mobility challenges, some parts like the horse ride and trek might not be suitable.

This tour is best suited for active travelers who want a comprehensive taste of Nainital’s natural beauty and religious sites without the hassle of arranging each activity independently. Families, couples, and solo explorers who enjoy outdoor pursuits and scenic views should find this experience worth considering.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary covering lakes, temples, forests, and horseback riding.
• All-inclusive pickup and drop-off from Kathgodam makes logistics simple.
• Suitable for all fitness levels with a gentle 4 km forest trek.
• Experience the thrill of a horse ride over Bara Pathar, with scenic views and an invigorating trot.
• Visit iconic sights like Naina Devi Temple and Naini Lake, plus nearby lakes Bhimtal and Mallital.
• Focus on authentic experiences away from overly commercialized tourist traps.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Logistics

The adventure kicks off with a pickup at Kathgodam railway station, a major transit point for travelers coming from Delhi and other northern cities. This element alone adds great value, removing the stress of figuring out transportation in an unfamiliar place. Once in Nainital, your guide (likely a knowledgeable local) will welcome you and set the tone for a day filled with natural beauty and cultural insights.

Sightseeing and Spiritual Stops

Your first stop is the Naina Devi Temple, a revered Hindu temple perched atop a hill overlooking Naini Lake. The temple’s spiritual ambiance and scenic setting make it a peaceful place to start your day. As one reviewer noted, “The view from the temple was breathtaking,” and many find the spiritual atmosphere adds a meaningful dimension to the visit.

Next, you’ll enjoy boating on Naini Lake—although this is at your own cost, it’s a lovely way to experience the heart of Nainital. The lake’s tranquil waters and the mountain backdrop are iconic, and the opportunity to take photos or just soak in the surroundings makes it worthwhile. Some travelers mentioned that this part of the tour “gives you a true sense of the town’s charm,” even if you choose not to boat.

Following this, you’ll explore popular viewpoints like Naina Peak, Snow View, and Lands End. Each spot offers unique perspectives—Naina Peak provides panoramic views of the Himalayas, while Snow View, accessible via cable car or walk, gives a snowy backdrop, even if it’s not winter.

Trekking Through Green Forests

After a hearty breakfast, your journey takes you to the Khurpatal Tiffin Top, where the guide will lead a 4 km trek suitable for all fitness levels. This trek is a highlight for many, as one reviewer noted that “the lush green forests and the wonderful views made it a real treat.” The trail is gentle, winding through dense trees, and offers glimpses of the valley below. The fresh mountain air and the peaceful surroundings make it a refreshing break from busy sightseeing.

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Horse Ride Along Bara Pathar

The horse ride along Bara Pathar is the adventure’s climax. Riding over the cobbled stones with the clip-clop of hooves is a sensory delight. The guide might tell you that “the horses are well-behaved,” which is reassuring for first-timers, though the experience does include walking over uneven cobbled surfaces. When the horses pick up into a trot or canter, you’ll feel the wind in your hair—an exhilarating sensation, especially with the stunning landscape as your backdrop. Several reviews mention the thrill of this segment, describing it as “a heady rush,” and “a unique way to see the countryside.”

Lakes Tour and Additional Spots

Post-horse ride, the tour continues with visits to Bhimtal and Mallital lakes. These lakes are less crowded than Naini Lake and offer a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere. You’ll be able to stroll around their shores, enjoy the views, or simply soak in the peaceful vibe. The tour also includes a visit to Khurpatal, a smaller but equally picturesque lake, along with a chance to explore local sights or relax before heading back.

Return Journey

The day wraps up with your guide escorting you back to Kathgodam for your train or onward plans. The round-trip logistics are thoughtfully managed, making it a convenient full-day option.

Why This Tour Offers Good Value

At $224 per person, this experience strikes a solid balance of cost and value. It combines cultural sights, outdoor adventure, and scenic beauty in a single package. The inclusion of transport, guide, and key stops reduces hassle and ensures you see some of the best aspects of Nainital without overspending on separate activities.

The horse ride and trek stand out because they blend active fun with awe-inspiring views, providing memorable moments that are often the highlight of many travelers’ reviews. You get to experience the mountain landscape in an authentic way—not just through photographs but by actively engaging with the environment.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is best suited for adventurous travelers who appreciate nature and outdoor activities but still want the convenience of organized logistics. It’s perfect for those who enjoy light hiking, scenic rides, and spiritual sites. Families with children, couples, or solo travelers looking for a balanced day of exploration and activity will find it rewarding.

However, if you have back problems or mobility issues, some parts like the horse ride and trek may not be suitable. Always consider your physical comfort, especially since the terrain involves cobbled stones and uneven paths.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, pickup and drop-off from Kathgodam railway station are included, making travel between your accommodation and the tour seamless.

Can I participate in boating on Naini Lake?
Boating is available but at your own cost. Many travelers find it adds a pleasant touch to the day, although it’s optional.

Is the trek suitable for all fitness levels?
Yes, the 4 km trek is designed to be accessible for most fitness levels, taking you through lush forests with gentle inclines.

What should I bring for the tour?
Comfortable shoes, a camera, hiking shoes (if you prefer), sunscreen, and water are recommended to stay comfortable and capture memories.

Is the horse ride safe for beginners?
Yes, the horses are well-behaved, and the experience includes walking over cobbled stones. A guide will assist, but always inform them if you’re uncomfortable.

Are there any restrictions for certain visitors?
People with back problems or mobility impairments might find some activities challenging.

Final Thoughts

This tour of Nainital offers a well-rounded glimpse into the hill station’s natural, spiritual, and cultural highlights. The combination of scenic lakes, lush forests, and a horse ride makes for a memorable day, especially if you enjoy outdoor pursuits and authentic local experiences. The logistics are straightforward, and the guide’s local knowledge helps deepen your understanding of the area.

While it’s not an overly strenuous day, it does involve some walking and riding, so it suits active travelers who want a taste of adventure without intense trekking or long hikes. The price reflects good value, given the inclusiveness of transportation, guide service, and key sights.

If your idea of a perfect getaway involves nature, history, and a touch of thrill, then this Nainital tour is worth considering. It strikes a good balance between adventure and relaxation—ideal for those seeking a genuine, memorable hill station experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: