Nainital’s Winter Carnival has returned after seven years, aiming to revive winter tourism through cultural programmes, popular music performances, adventure activities, and support for local businesses.
Nainital has revived its festive calendar with the return of the Winter Carnival after a seven-year break, aimed at energising winter tourism and supporting local businesses during the lean season. The five-day event, running from December 22 to 26, 2025, is being held at the District Sports Association (DSA) ground.

The carnival opened with a colourful procession from Tallital along Mall Road, followed by boating races and yacht displays on Naini Lake, and a traditional Deepdaan ceremony.
Key attractions this year include live performances by popular artistes such as Charu Semwal, Parmish Verma, Pawandeep Rajan, and B Praak, along with folk-fusion acts like Pandavaas. The program also features cultural evenings, local art showcases, photography contests, and storytelling sessions.
A special highlight is a 20-km trek from Birla Chungi to Kainchi Dham, designed to promote adventure tourism in Nainital and draw visitors beyond the town centre.
Officials say the carnival is helping revive Nainital’s winter charm, increase visitor footfall, and provide a much-needed boost to local traders, hotels, and small businesses during the off-peak season.
Source – Times Of India

