Holiday cheer takes over Nainital: Christmas 2025 celebrations, events and cosy stays to bookmark

New Delhi: As winter deepens in the Kumaon hills of Uttarakhand, Nainital transforms into a postcard-perfect Christmas destination. Misty mornings, pine-lined slopes, softly lit streets, and the calm waters of Naini Lake set the tone for a holiday that feels warm despite the cold. Christmas here is less about loud parties and more about atmosphere, where you can experience slow walks, scenic views, and unhurried time with family or friends. The town takes on a gentle festive rhythm during the season.

Mall Road fills with shoppers and evening strollers, bakeries bring out seasonal favourites, and heritage buildings glow under festive lights. Add bonfires, quiet church services, and the return of the Winter Carnival, and Christmas in Nainital feels intimate, nostalgic, and refreshing. Here are the top Christmas events.

Top Christmas parties and celebrations in Nainital

1. Gala Christmas Celebrations

Hosted at Nature View Resort, this extended celebration focuses on warmth and family-friendly experiences. Expect cosy bonfire evenings, festive décor, live music, and a Santa Claus appearance for children, along with a dedicated kids’ play zone.

• Date: Dec 24-26
• Venue: Nature View Resort

2. Christmas Party

A compact celebration with DJ music, good food, and a bonfire, ideal for families and couples looking for a relaxed Christmas night.

• Date: Dec 25
• Time: 6 pm onwards
• Venue: Himalayan View Resort
• Price: Family package for 4 at Rs 9,999, couple package at Rs 4,999

3. Celebrate Christmas

A traditional holiday experience featuring welcome drinks, tea with cookies, a gala dinner, a bonfire, cake, games, and festive gifts.

• Date: Dec 24-26
• Venue: Cedar Woods Resort, Nainital

Where to attend Midnight Mass

1. St Francis Catholic Church

Located on Mall Road, this iconic stone church hosts Midnight Mass earlier than usual, around 10 pm, due to the cold. The church, lit with fairy lights, reflects beautifully on the lake at night.

2. St John in the Wilderness Church

Tucked away in the deodar forests of Mallital, this quiet church offers a more intimate and spiritual experience, away from the crowds and festivities.

Cosy cafes and Christmas treats

Nainital’s colonial past shows in its bakeries and cafés.

1. Sakley’s Restaurant and Pastry Shop

A town institution since 1944. Known for Roast Lamb and classic Christmas pudding.

2. Café Chica

Set inside a colonial bungalow, perfect for sunny winter breakfasts away from Mall Road crowds.

3. Sonam’s Momos (Tibetan Market)

A go-to spot for steaming momos on cold evenings, easy on the pocket and high on comfort.

Return of Nainital Winter Carnival

After a six-year gap, the Winter Carnival returns in 2025. Naini Lake will host boat decoration competitions, while the flats in Mallital will come alive with food festivals and traditional performances like Choliya dance. Many premium hotels are also planning Santa Claus processions on Christmas Eve.

• Dates: Dec 23-25, 2025

Christmas in Nainital is not about excess; it’s about atmosphere. Quiet churches, warm cafés, festive resorts, and the revived Winter Carnival come together to offer a holiday that feels grounded and genuine. For travellers seeking a peaceful yet festive mountain escape, Nainital remains a timeless Christmas choice.