Top 7 Offbeat Treks in Nainital for Nature Lovers
Playing peek-a-boo with the world from the mountainous region of Kumaon in Uttarakhand, Nainital isn’t just about lakes and hill stations, it is also a paradise for trekkers. Brimming with lush coniferous forests, rugged terrains, and scenic trails, Nainital can be the destination for those wishing to experience nature close up.
While the popular routes attract thousands of visitors every year, there are a handful of offbeat treks that serve as the perfect combination of adventure and tranquillity in nature’s lap. These lesser-known paths are ideal for those who wish to explore the hidden beauty of this region distant from the usual crowd. In this blog, take a look at these seven spectacular offbeat treks in Nainital that should be on your bucket list.
Bhimtal to Naukuchiatal Trek
This is a unique lakeside trail that connects two of the most beautiful lakes in the Nainital district. Spanning a distance of 8 kilometers, this trek offers a visual treat in the form of forested paths, lake views, and quaint villages. This makes it one of the few perfect treks in Nainital for those who wish to seek diversity in a single journey. One can choose to sit and relax at the Hidimba Parvat which lies in the first 5 km of this trek.
This is a moderately easy trek, making it suitable for beginner trekkers as well as for families. The highlight of this trek is reaching Naukuchiatal or the ‘lake with nine corners’, wherein one can unwind and soak in the beauty of nature.
Camel’s Back Trek
Taking its name from the unique rocky ‘camel’s hump’ like formation, this offbeat trek is the least crowded out of all the treks in Nainital. That’s because it has always remained a hidden gem.
Covering a distance of 4 to 5 kilometers, this trek is full of pine-covered slopes, rugged terrains, and scenic valleys. Being suitable for all levels of trekkers, this is an excellent opportunity for those who wish to combine their love for adventure and photography into one trek.
The highlight of the trek is reaching the hump-shaped rocky formation, wherein one can enjoy nature’s beauty in its raw form.
Guano Hills Trek
For those looking for an offbeat trek that leads to untouched wilderness, the Guano Hills trek should be the perfect choice. Located close to Pangot, these hills are best known for their dense forests of bamboo, deodar, and oak which host a variety of flora and fauna. Apart from being a nature lover’s dream, the trekking journey undertaken here can be a golden opportunity for bird-watching enthusiasts.
Covering a distance of 8 kilometers, this trek is of relatively easy level and is suitable for all age groups. As one walks through the hilly terrain, one can come across stunning viewpoints and hidden clearings that can offer moments of solace and self-introspection.
The untouched beauty of Guano Hills makes it one of the most underrated treks in Nainital especially for those who wish to take a moment or two away from the bustling touristy crowd.
Kunjkharak Trek
Starting from Kilbury and being one of the least explored treks in Nainital, this trek covers a distance of a whopping 36 kilometers. This makes it unsuitable for beginners. The trail takes trekkers through dense forests and rustic hilly villages, giving one a taste of the region’s untouched beauty.
The sense of isolation and the raw natural beauty that one gets to experience makes the Kunjkharak trek a hidden gem, providing an escape like no other.
Pangot and Kilbury Trek
This is a lesser-known trail wherein trekking offers splendid sightseeing of lush forests, the majestic Kumaon Himalayas, and abundant bird species. Located 13 kilometers away from Nainital, the trail enjoys the reputation of being a bird watcher’s delight.
The Pangot and Kilbury trek is ideal for beginners as it spreads throughout 6 to 7 kilometers and takes a couple of hours to complete. This trek is a perfect opportunity for those who enjoy peaceful walks surrounded by the soft chirping of birds and rustling of leaves in the lap of nature.
Apart from offering a feel-good experience, this is one of the few treks in Nainital that also brandishes stunning views of the surrounding Himalayan ranges.
Naina Peak or the China Peak Trek
Standing at an elevation of 2,615 meters, this is the highest point in Nainital. As a result, this trek is moderately challenging, thus, making it suitable for experienced trekkers mainly. Also known as the “Cheena” peak in the local tongue, the entire trail brims with thick forests of cypress, deodar, and rhododendron. To add to this, one can spot a variety of birds like the Himalayan griffons, and woodpeckers along the floral trail. As one ascends, the view of the snow-capped Kumaon Himalayan ranges and the sleepy town below becomes all the more spectacular.
Spread 6 to 7 kilometers from the main town, this trek generally takes more or less 3 to 4 hours in total. However, this largely depends on your pace. The summit rewards successful trekkers with breathtaking 360-degree views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
The sense of accomplishment one gets on reaching the top, combined with the scenic beauty, makes the Naina Peak trek out of all the other treks in Nainital, truly worthwhile.
Snow View Trek
Leading to the breathtaking views of the snow-clad peaks of Nanda Devi, Nanda Kot, and Trishul, this is a 3-kilometer trek that is pretty easy to complete. The trails take one through the rustic and enchanting forests of pine and spruce. In winter, the mountains are at their most majestic. This is the reason why tourists come flocking to such treks in Nainital during the winter season.
The panoramic view from the top, combined with the serene white snow, makes this trek emerge as the favorite spot of nature enthusiasts.
Conclusion
These seven spectacular offbeat treks in Nainital offer trekkers a wonderful opportunity to soak in nature’s beauty like never before. From challenging rugged trails to bird-watching experiences, each of these trails has its own charm. So, put on your trekking shoes and get set on a journey allowing yourself to connect with nature in a meaningful way.
