How far is Dhokaney Waterfall from Nainital?

Dhokaney Waterfall is about 35 km from Nainital, and it takes around 1.5 hours to reach by car or bike. If you're using public transport, take a bus/shared taxi to Bhimtal and then a local cab to Dhokaney.

How far is Dhokaney Waterfall from Kainchi Dham?

Dhokaney Waterfall is just 13 km from Kainchi Dham, making it a perfect stop after visiting the temple. A short 30-minute drive will get you from Kainchi Dham to the refreshing waters of Dhokaney.

What are the best waterfalls to explore near Nainital in summer?

For a summer escape, these are the best waterfalls near Nainital: Dhokaney Waterfall (35 km) – Best for a peaceful dip, Corbett Falls (65 km) – Scenic jungle waterfall, Bhalu Gaad Waterfall (60 km) – Hidden gem near Mukteshwar, Sita Bani Waterfall (70 km) – Remote but stunning.

Is Dhokaney Waterfall safe for swimming?

Yes, Dhokaney Waterfall is safe for swimming, but be careful as the rocks near the pool are slippery. The water is cold and refreshing in summer, but avoid visiting right after heavy monsoons due to strong currents.

Are there food stalls near Dhokaney Waterfall?

No, there are no food stalls near the waterfall. It’s best to carry your own snacks and water. The nearest food options are in Bhimtal (10 km away), where you’ll find cafés and dhabas serving local cuisine.

What is the best time to visit Dhokaney Waterfall?

The best time to visit is March to June (summer) and September to October (post-monsoon). This is when the waterfall is full, the weather is pleasant, and the trail is safe.

Can I visit Dhokaney Waterfall with family?

Yes! Dhokaney Waterfall is great for families as it’s not too crowded, and the trek is easy. Just make sure to carry extra clothes if you plan to enjoy the water!

How I Reached Dhokaney Waterfall from Nainital – My Experience

Deepak Singh Bhandari
Apr 3
3 min read

Updated: Apr 4

A Hidden Escape Beyond Nainital

The summer crowds in Nainital were getting overwhelming. Mall Road was packed, the boats on Naini Lake were fully booked, and even Kainchi Dham had long queues. I wanted something different—a peaceful retreat where I could escape the tourist rush, feel the cold mountain water on my skin, and enjoy pure nature.

That’s when I found Dhokaney Waterfall.

The name didn’t pop up in mainstream travel guides. But after some local inquiries, I learned about this offbeat waterfall near Nainital, perfect for a refreshing summer escape. A few phone calls, a quick plan, and I was on my way to discover a hidden paradise.

In This Guide, You’ll Learn:

✔️ The best route to reach Dhokaney Waterfall from Nainital

✔️ Transport options & costs (budget-friendly guide)

✔️ Best time to visit for the perfect experience

✔️ What to pack & food options nearby

✔️ Pro tips from my own trip that you won’t find anywhere else

Man enjoying a waterfall shower, eyes closed, with a serene expression. Water drops glisten on his face, surrounded by lush greenery. — Pure bliss under the waterfall – nature’s ultimate refreshment.

How to Reach Dhokaney Waterfall from Nainital?

Dhokaney Waterfall is about 35 km from Nainital and can be reached in different ways:

🚗 By Private Car or Bike (Most Convenient)

Distance: ~1.5-hour drive
Route: Nainital → Bhowali (Kainchi Dham) → Dhokaney
Road Condition: Smooth roads but narrow towards the end
Tip: Rent a bike from Bhimtal if you’re on a solo adventure

🚌 By Public Transport (Budget-Friendly Option)

Take a shared taxi or bus from Nainital to Suyalbari (~₹50-₹100)
From Suyalbari, go for shared taxi or try for 1.5 KM road trail to Dhokaney waterfall.

💡 My Tip: If you’re traveling solo, the shared taxi + local cab combo is the best budget option.

Best Time to Visit Dhokaney Waterfall

Dhokaney is best enjoyed in summer (March-June) and post-monsoon (September-October).

Season	What to Expect?
March - June	Best for summer escapes, water flow is strong
July - August	Monsoon makes the trail slippery but scenic
Sept - Oct	Fresh greenery, perfect for photography
Nov - Feb	Waterfall reduces in size, colder temperatures

💡 Avoid peak monsoon days if you're not comfortable with slippery paths.

What to Do at Dhokaney Waterfall?

☑ Refreshing Dip – The water is crystal clear and super cold (perfect for summer)

☑ Photography Spot – Natural pools & lush greenery make it Instagram-worthy

☑ Picnic Spot – Carry light snacks; it’s a perfect peaceful getaway

☑ Explore Nearby – Visit Kainchi Dham (13 km) & Bhimtal (10 km) for a full-day trip

💡 Pro Tip: There’s no mobile network near the waterfall. Inform someone before heading in!

What to Pack for the Trip?

✔️ Waterproof sandals (Rocks are slippery near the falls)

✔️ Towel & extra clothes (You will want to take a dip)

✔️ Snacks & water (No shops near the waterfall)

✔️ Power bank & cash (Limited network, and UPI may not work)

💡 My Mistake: I wore sneakers, and they got soaked & heavy. Learn from my mistake—wear something waterproof!

Food & Stay Options Near Dhokaney Waterfall

🍛 Where to Eat?

✅ Kainchi Dham Bhandara (Simple, free prasad meal)

✅ Bhimtal Cafés (I loved iHeart Café & The Birdsong Café)

✅ Local Dhabas (Try pahadi dal-rice for an authentic experience)

🏡 Where to Stay?

✅ Budget: ₹800-₹1500 – Homestays in Bhimtal

✅ Mid-Range: ₹2000-₹5000 – Lakeside resorts

✅ Luxury: ₹7000+ – Boutique stays in Nainital

💡 My Pick: If you want a peaceful stay, Bhimtal is better than Nainital (fewer crowds, better views).

Final Thoughts – Is It Worth Visiting?

If you’re looking for an offbeat summer escape near Nainital, Dhokaney Waterfall is a hidden gem worth exploring. It’s not over-commercialized, the water is fresh, and the peaceful vibe is something you won’t find in crowded hill stations.

"Sometimes, the best places aren’t on the map—they’re found through curiosity."

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