Beyond the Lake: Three Distinct Homestays to Experience Nainital Differently

When most travelers think of Nainital, the first image that comes to mind is the shimmering Naini Lake lined with bustling cafes, colorful boats, and colonial-era charm. But the Nainital district has far more to offer beyond the crowded mall road and lakeside hotels. Hidden among pine forests and fruit orchards lie charming hill villages that redefine what it means to “stay in Nainital.”

Here’s how you can experience the essence of the region through three distinct homestays — Alinda House, Free Bird Cottage, and Panorama Villa — each offering its own version of peace, authenticity, and mountain comfort.

Day 1–2: The Nainital Core – Arrival & Exploration

Start your trip with the classics. Arrive in Nainital town and explore:

• Boating at Naini Lake

• Tiffin Top and Snow View Point for panoramic views of the Himalayas

• Naina Devi Temple and Mall Road for local culture and cuisine

After a night or two amid the liveliness of Nainital, it’s time to move beyond — to where the hills breathe slower, the stars shine brighter, and the air feels untouched.

Stop 1: Alinda House – Timeless Charm in Bhowali

Location: Bhowali, midway between Nainital and Bhimtal

Alinda House blends old-world colonial architecture with understated luxury. The homestay, surrounded by terraced gardens and pine woods, is perfect for travelers seeking quiet sophistication. Wooden floors, antique furniture, and wide verandahs create a calm, nostalgic atmosphere.

Why Stay Here:

• Easy access to both Nainital (25 minutes) and Bhimtal (15 minutes)

• Perfect for short breaks, reading retreats, and small family getaways

• Organic, home-cooked meals and a curated library

Travel Tip: Spend a day at Bhimtal’s less crowded lakeside cafes before returning to Alinda House for sunset tea on the porch.

Stop 2: Free Bird Cottage – Raw Beauty of Ramgarh

Location: Bohrakot, Ramgarh (1 hour from Nainital)

Perched between Talla and Malla Ramgarh, Free Bird Cottage by Kusumith Retreats sits quietly amidst oak, buransh, and kaafal trees. It’s a 2-room pet-friendly homestay where mornings are about birdsong and evenings end with bonfires under clear skies.

Why Stay Here:

• Immersive natural setting and forest walks right from the doorstep

• Ideal for small families or couples seeking privacy

• Authentic Kumaoni meals and warm local hospitality

Travel Tip: Visit Tagore Top in Ramgarh or drive to Gagar Ridge for a view that outshines any city skyline.

Stop 3: Panorama Villa – The Himalayan Canvas of Hartola, Mukteshwar

Location: Hartola, near Mukteshwar (2 hours from Nainital)

As the name suggests, Panorama Villa opens to a 180° view of the Himalayas — from Trishul to Nanda Devi. This signature Kusumith Retreats home combines elegance and wilderness. With large windows, open terraces, and vibrant sunsets, it’s designed to slow you down and reconnect you with nature.

Why Stay Here:

• Perfect last stop before heading back from the hills

• Trekking trails, village walks, and orchard visits nearby

• Ideal for groups or families — the villa offers spacious common areas and a dedicated hospitality team

Travel Tip: Spend your final night here watching the stars, then drive down via Sitla and Almora route for scenic views on your return journey.

A 5-Day Nainital Itinerary with a Twist

Day	Destination	Stay Recommendation	Highlights
1	Nainital	Local hotel/BnB	Naini Lake, Mall Road, Snow View
2	Naukuchiatal	Alinda House	Bhimtal, fruit orchards, colonial charm
3	Ramgarh	Free Bird Cottage	Forest walks, bonfire, local meals
4–5	Hartola–Mukteshwar	Panorama Villa	Himalayan views, nature trails, peace

Closing Thought

Nainital is no longer just a hill station; it’s a gateway to a network of soulful stays scattered across the Kumaon hills. Whether it’s the elegance of Alinda House, the calmness of Free Bird Cottage, or the grandeur of Panorama Villa, each homestay redefines the idea of mountain living — intimate, local, and deeply restorative.

🌿 Explore more: www.kusumithretreats.com

📍 Locations: Hartola (Mukteshwar) & Ramgarh

🐾 Pet-friendly stays | Private villas | Waterfall experiences in Kumaon