Nainital in Winter: December and January Trip Guide
Also called Nainital in December · Nainital in January · नैनीताल सर्दी
Nainital in winter is cold and mostly clear, with days of about 8°-13°C and nights near or below freezing. Snow falls on a few days in most winters between late December and February, most often in January, and first on Naina Peak and Snow View. The lake stays open for boating, and Christmas to New Year is very crowded.
| Day temperature | About 8° to 13°C |
|---|---|
| Night temperature | Near or below freezing |
| Snow chance | Late Dec - Feb, most likely January |
| Snow first at | Naina Peak, Snow View, Tiffin Top |
| Lake | Does not freeze; boating on clear days |
| Busiest dates | 24 Dec - 1 Jan |
Winter strips Nainital back to its best. The summer crowds are gone (until Christmas), the lake is still and dark under clear skies, and on a good morning the snow peaks of the Kumaon Himalaya line up beyond Snow View. If you are lucky, a night of snow turns the town white.
What is the weather in Nainital in December and January?
Days are about 8°-13°C and nights near or below freezing; January is the coldest month. Skies are mostly clear, with occasional fog and a few rainy or snowy spells when western disturbances pass over the hills.
Does it snow in Nainital?
In most winters, yes, on a few days between late December and February, and most often in January. The amount varies a lot: some years bring heavy falls on the town, others only a dusting on the higher points. Naina Peak (China Peak), Snow View and Tiffin Top get snow first and hold it longest. Read our full guide to Nainital snowfall time.
For a better chance nearby, try Kilbury and Pangot (about 12-15 km) or Mukteshwar (about 50 km), both higher than Nainital.
Is Nainital open in winter?
Yes. Hotels, shops, restaurants and most sights stay open, and the lake does not freeze.
- Boating on Naini Lake usually runs on clear days.
- The ropeway to Snow View runs when the weather allows; it can stop in high wind or heavy snow.
- Naina Devi Temple, The Mall and the Flats are open as usual.
- After heavy snow, roads to Snow View, Kilbury and Mukteshwar can be icy or closed for some hours.
Christmas and New Year in Nainital
The town fills up from about 24 December to 1 January, and hotels and roads are at their busiest.
- The old churches, such as St John in the Wilderness, draw visitors at Christmas.
- Book a hotel with confirmed parking and carry the booking; police may check cars and restrict entry on peak days.
- Expect traffic jams from Kathgodam and Haldwani; leave early.
- For a quieter New Year, stay at Bhimtal, Sattal or Pangot and visit Nainital for the day.
A 2-day winter plan
- Day 1: arrive by noon, walk The Mall and the lake, visit Naina Devi Temple, and take an evening boat ride if it is clear.
- Day 2: early walk or pony ride to Naina Peak for sunrise views (and snow, if any), then Snow View and Tiffin Top; in the afternoon drive out to Kilbury or Pangot for forest views.
- With a third day, add Mukteshwar for the widest Himalayan panorama in the area.
How to reach Nainital in winter
The nearest railway station is Kathgodam, about 35 km below Nainital; taxis and buses run up the hill road. From Delhi it is about 300-320 km by road. In winter, try to reach before dark, when the road begins to ice over.
What to pack
- Heavy jacket, thermals, woollen cap, gloves and warm socks
- Shoes with grip for icy paths to the viewpoints
- Moisturiser, lip balm and sunscreen
Choosing where to stay? See the best areas to stay in Nainital. Planning a wider snow trip? See snowfall in Uttarakhand.
Nainital in Winter: December and January Trip Guide: FAQs
Is Nainital good to visit in winter?
Yes, for clear views, quiet weekdays and a chance of snow. It is cold, and Christmas to New Year is very crowded.
Does it snow in Nainital in December?
Sometimes in the last week of December, usually on the higher points. January is the most likely month.
What is the temperature in Nainital in January?
Days are about 7° to 11°C and nights often drop below freezing.
Does Naini Lake freeze in winter?
No. The lake does not freeze, and boating usually continues on clear days.
Where can I see snow near Nainital?
Naina Peak, Snow View and Tiffin Top in town, Kilbury and Pangot nearby, and Mukteshwar about 50 km away.