What to Wear in Nainital

Summer, April to June

Days by the lake are mild and often warm in the sun. Evenings turn cool quickly, and the ridges are colder still. Wear cotton or light knits by day and carry a light sweater or fleece. Sunglasses and a cap help on the boat, where the light bounces off the water.

Monsoon, late June to September

It rains hard and often. A proper rain jacket works better than an umbrella on the narrow, crowded Mall. Quick-drying trousers, and shoes with real grip, matter on the steep lanes and the ridge paths, which turn to mud. Keep a dry layer in your bag for the evening.

October and November

This is clear, crisp weather. Light woollens by day and a warm jacket at night are enough. It is the best time for the ridge walks, so wear comfortable closed shoes.

Winter, December to February

Nights can drop close to freezing. Bring a thick jacket, thermals, a warm hat, gloves and socks. On the rare days with snow or frost, the lanes turn icy, so wear boots with a good sole.

At the temple

At Naina Devi, cover your shoulders and knees, and be ready to leave your shoes outside. Socks help on cold stone floors in winter.

Local dress

Kumaoni women wear the pichora, a yellow and red veil, with a ghagra and silver jewellery at weddings and festivals. It is festival dress rather than tourist wear. The Tibetan market at Mallital and the Mall Road shops sell woollen caps, shawls and gloves if you arrive under-dressed.