Explore Naukuchiatal & Bhimtal
Your Basecamp for Serene Lakes, Pine Trails, and Himalayan Adventures
The Ultimate Guide to Naukuchiatal: The Lake of Nine Corners
If Nainital is for the bustling tourist and Bhimtal is for the weekend day-tripper, Naukuchiatal is for the seeker of silence.
Nestled gracefully at an altitude of 1,220 meters in the lush Kumaon foothills, Naukuchiatal translates to the “Lake of Nine Corners.” Fed by perennial underwater springs, it holds the title of the deepest lake in the greater Nainital region (dropping to an impressive 175 feet).
But what truly sets this lake town apart isn’t its depth—it is the untouched, pine-scented serenity that wraps around it. Here, there are no noisy mall roads or commercial traffic jams. There is only the slow rhythm of village life, the call of the Himalayan Bulbul, and the pristine waters reflecting the sky.
Lakeside Activities
Dawn Kayaking on Naukuchiatal Lake: Famous for its nine corners, this lake is the deepest and quietest in the region. We highly recommend booking a dawn kayaking session when the mist is still rolling off the water..
Distance: ~10-15 minutes from the cottage.
Trails & Forest Walks (Pet-Friendly)
The Thapalia Mehra Gaon Pine Walk: Step out of the Dharchula House and immediately onto quiet, pine-scented village trails. This is a low-gradient, easy walk perfect for families and an absolute paradise if you are traveling with pets.
Hidden Waterfall Treks: For the more adventurous, the surrounding hills hold seasonal waterfalls and deeper forest treks. We can connect you with local guides who know the safest and most scenic routes.
Explore Local Dining & Cafe Hopping
While we pride ourselves on our authentic Kumaoni kitchen at Ethnic Trail, the nearby areas of Bhimtal and Naukuchiatal have a booming cafe culture. From artisanal coffee shops overlooking the valleys to lakeside pizzerias, there is plenty to explore for your afternoon cravings.
Naukuchiatal
“Escape the commercial chaos and step into the untouched beauty of the Kumaon hills. Nestled in the quiet enclave of Thapaliya Mehragaon, Ethnic Trail serves as your perfect heritage launchpad.
Start your mornings with meditative kayaking on the deep, nine-cornered Naukuchiatal Lake, spend your afternoons wandering through sun-dappled pine forests, and chase the thrill of paragliding high above the valleys. Whether you crave high-altitude adventure or a peaceful lakeside stroll, the region’s best-kept secrets are just minutes from our wooden doors.”
Lakeside Activities
Dawn Kayaking on Naukuchiatal Lake: Famous for its nine corners, this lake is the deepest and quietest in the region. We highly recommend booking a dawn kayaking session when the mist is still rolling off the water..
Boating at Bhimtal Lake: For a classic family outing, head to the larger Bhimtal Lake. Visit the island aquarium in the center, or enjoy a sunset stroll along the newly developed pathways.
Distance: ~10-15 minutes from the cottage.
Trails & Forest Walks (Pet-Friendly)
The Thapalia Mehra Gaon Pine Walk: Step out of the Dharchula House and immediately onto quiet, pine-scented village trails. This is a low-gradient, easy walk perfect for families and an absolute paradise if you are traveling with pets.
Hidden Waterfall Treks: For the more adventurous, the surrounding hills hold seasonal waterfalls and deeper forest treks. We can connect you with local guides who know the safest and most scenic routes.
Explore Local Dining & Cafe Hopping
While we pride ourselves on our authentic Kumaoni kitchen at Ethnic Trail, the nearby areas of Bhimtal and Naukuchiatal have a booming cafe culture. From artisanal coffee shops overlooking the valleys to lakeside pizzerias, there is plenty to explore for your afternoon cravings.
100+years Old Luxuries Villas
Bread / Cream / Frape—
Perfect place to Enjoy Weather
Bread / Cream / Frape—
How to Reach Naukuchiatal – Bhimtal
Getting to our wooden heritage retreat in Thapaliya Mehragaon is a seamless transition from city hustle to Himalayan peace. Here is your quick guide to reaching us.
- By Road: The Scenic Drive (Delhi to Naukuchiatal)
The drive from Delhi/NCR is one of the most picturesque road trips in North India, transitioning from highways to winding, pine-lined mountain roads.
- Distance & Time: ~300 km from Delhi (Approx. 6.5 to 7 hours).
- The Route: Delhi ➔ Moradabad ➔ Rampur ➔ Haldwani ➔ Bhimtal ➔ Thapaliya Mehragaon (Naukuchiatal).
- Local Navigation: Once you cross Bhimtal, navigate towards GD Goenka International School. Ethnic Trail is nestled in the quiet enclave of Saikhola, right near the school.
