Nainital is a quintessential hill station famed for its captivating landscape and serene lakes. As a popular travel destination, reaching Nainital is a journey as scenic as the destination itself. Whether you’re planning a road trip, considering a train, or flying into the region, this guide provides you with all the necessary details to make your travel as smooth as possible.
| Mode of Transport | Key Points |
|---|---|
| Road | – Connected via National Highway 87 |
| – Accessible from Delhi (300 km), Dehradun (280 km), and other major cities | |
| – Frequent bus services from ISBT Anand Vihar, Delhi | |
| – Scenic drive with well-maintained roads | |
| Rail | – Nearest railway station is Kathgodam (34 km from Nainital) |
| – Direct trains from Delhi, Kolkata, and Lucknow | |
| – Frequent taxi and bus services from Kathgodam to Nainital | |
| Flight | – Nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport (about 70 km from Nainital) |
| – Limited flights primarily from Delhi | |
| – Taxi and bus services available from the airport to Nainital |
By Road:
Driving to Nainital offers the most scenic vistas of the verdant mountains and vibrant landscapes. The town is well-connected by motorable roads from major cities like Delhi, which is approximately 300 kilometers away. The journey takes about 7 to 8 hours depending on traffic conditions.
Road Trip from Delhi to Nainital
Distance and Duration: Spanning approximately 317 kilometers, the drive from Delhi to Nainital is a scenic excursion into the heart of the Himalayas. Typically, it takes about 7 hours, making it a perfect road trip experience.
The Route: The journey unfolds on smooth highways, ensuring a comfortable and serene drive. The route is flanked by hills and lush forests, providing a visual treat and numerous opportunities for memorable stops.
Routes from Delhi to Nainital
Two Main Routes:
- Delhi – Nainital via Rampur: Longer, with more traffic but scenic.
- Delhi – Nainital via Kaladungi: This is the recommended route as it is faster and offers smoother roads and less traffic, enhancing the overall driving experience.
Route Highlights:
- Didauli Jheel: A refreshing lake perfect for a quick stop.
- Ambedkar Park, Amroha: A serene spot for relaxation and a picnic.
- Prem Water Kingdom, Moradabad: Ideal for a fun break, especially if traveling with family.
- Corbett Falls: A stunning natural waterfall, perfect for nature lovers.
Travel Tips:
- Start Early: Leaving early can help you avoid the traffic and fully enjoy the morning mist that often hangs over the hills.
- Scenic Stops: Take advantage of the journey by planning stops at viewpoints and local attractions.
- Vehicle Preparation: Ensure your vehicle is well-maintained for the trip, with special attention to brakes and tires, which are crucial for hill driving.
Road Trip from Dehradun to Nainital
- From Dehradun: The distance is roughly 280 kilometers, and it takes about 9 hours. Travelers can take the NH734 followed by NH309, passing through picturesque towns and lush forests. More detailed guide read our blog here
For those looking for adventure and convenience, several bus services are available. Both state-run buses and private operators provide daily services from major cities. Luxury coaches and Volvo buses can also be booked for a comfortable journey.
5 Days Nainital & Mukteshwar Tour Itinerary
By Rail:
Kathgodam Railway Station is the nearest railhead to Nainital, located about 34 kilometers away. It serves as the gateway to the Kumaon region, making it a critical hub for travelers.
- Trains from Delhi: The Ranikhet Express and the Uttar Sampark Kranti Express are two popular trains that connect Delhi with Kathgodam, offering an overnight journey that is both comfortable and economical.
- Trains from Kolkata: Bagh Express is the direct train available from Kolkata to Kathgodam, ideal for long-distance travelers.
Popular train to reach Nainital
Here are the primary train options from Delhi to Kathgodam, which is the closest station to Nainital:
Kathgodam Shatabdi Express (12040): This is the fastest train between Delhi and Kathgodam, departing daily except Thursdays. It leaves New Delhi at 6:00 AM and reaches Kathgodam at 11:10 AM.
Uttaranchal Sampark Kranti Express: This train runs daily, starting from Delhi at 4:00 PM and arriving at Kathgodam at 10:45 PM.
Ranikhet Express (15013): This is a longer route starting from Jaisalmer and passing through Delhi. It departs from Delhi at around 10:40 PM and reaches Kathgodam by approximately 5:05 AM the next morning. Despite being the slowest option, it is known for its cleanliness and punctuality.
From Kathgodam, you can hire a taxi or board a local bus to reach Nainital. The drive is short but incredibly picturesque, often taking less than an hour.
3 Nights 4 Days Nainital Corbett Tour
By Flight:
For those preferring to fly, Pantnagar Airport is the closest airport, about 65 kilometers from Nainital. However, it’s important to note that flight options might be limited.
- Flights to Pantnagar: Currently, the airport is connected with direct flights from Delhi. The flight duration is about one hour, making it the fastest way to reach near Nainital.
Here are some approximate costs for flights to Pantnagar:
- From Delhi, flight prices start around ₹2,500 to ₹5,000 one-way.
- From Ahmedabad to Dehra Dun, with a transfer to Pantnagar, prices range from ₹5,000 to ₹17,000.
- From Vadodara to Pantnagar via Delhi, prices range from ₹6,000 to ₹15,000.
These costs can vary significantly based on booking time, season, and availability, so it’s advisable to book in advance to get the best rates.
Upon landing, taxis are readily available at the airport to take you directly to Nainital. The drive from Pantnagar to Nainital is an experience in itself, showcasing the rich flora and fauna of Uttarakhand.
Enhance Your Visit
While planning your journey to Nainital, consider exploring the best places to visit in Nainital to ensure a memorable trip. For those interested in the panoramic views, viewpoints in Nainital offer breathtaking perspectives of this hill station. If you’re visiting in the warmer months, don’t miss places to visit near Nainital in June or in July for some cool retreats.
Conclusion
Reaching Nainital can be an adventure in itself, filled with the promise of natural beauty and serene landscapes. Whether you choose to drive, take the train, or fly, the journey to Nainital is filled with the anticipation of discovering the tranquility that this hill station has to offer. Prepare well, travel safely, and you are bound to have a delightful experience in the heart of Uttarakhand.
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