How to Reach Nainital? A Travel Guide

Planning a getaway to the charming hills of Nainital? You’re in for a treat! Nestled in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, Nainital is a dream destination with its scenic lakes, misty mountains, and cozy vibes. Whether you’re traveling by road, train, or air, figuring out how to reach Nainital is easy with a little guidance. Let’s explore the best ways to reach this beautiful hill station!

In this blog

1. How to Reach Nainital by Road
2. How to Reach Nainital by Train
3. How to Reach Nainital by Air
4. Reaching Nainital from Major Cities
5. Best Time to Travel to Nainital

How to Reach Nainital by Road?

Travelling by road is one of the most scenic and flexible ways to explore how to reach Nainital. Especially for those coming from nearby cities, a road trip offers stunning views and plenty of pit stops to enjoy.

• Delhi to Nainital distance is approximately 300 km, making it a popular drive for weekend getaways.
• The journey typically takes around 6–7 hours, depending on traffic and weather conditions.
• The most convenient route is via NH9, which is well-maintained and dotted with eateries and petrol stations.

You can either opt for a self-drive trip or book a comfortable Volvo bus from Delhi. Shared cabs and private taxis are also available if you prefer a more relaxed ride. A road trip to Nainital is full of scenic beauty — think rolling hills, charming villages, and lush greenery all the way!

Road Trip Tip: Start early in the morning to avoid city traffic and enjoy a smooth drive. Don’t miss out on local dhabas en route for a hearty meal!

How to Reach Nainital by Train?

If you love relaxed, scenic journeys, travelling by train is a fantastic way to figure out how to reach Nainital. Although there isn’t a direct Nainital railway station, the Nainital nearest railway station is Kathgodam Railway Station, a well-connected hub just at the foothills of the Kumaon region.

• Kathgodam to Nainital distance is approximately 34 km, and it takes about an hour to reach the town by road.
• Several trains run daily from Delhi to Kathgodam. Popular Trains to Kathgodam (Nainital Nearest Railway Station) are:

1. New Delhi–Kathgodam Shatabdi Express (12040)
• Departs NDLS: 6:20 AM | Arrives: 11:55 AM
• Duration: ~5h 30m | Runs: Daily
2. Ranikhet Express (15013/14)
• Departs DEC: 08:21 PM | Arrives: 5:05 AM (next day)
• Duration: ~7h | Runs: Daily
3. Uttaranchal Sampark Kranti Express (15035/36)
• Departs DLI: 4:00 PM | Arrives: 10:45 PM
• Duration: ~6h 45m | Runs: Daily
4. Other Options
• Kathgodam Express (14119/20) – From Dehradun via Moradabad
• Bagh Express (13019/20) – From Howrah (Kolkata)
• Garib Rath Express (12209/10) – From Jammu Tawi (on sundays)

Once you reach Kathgodam, you can easily hire taxis, shared cabs, or board local buses to Nainital. The taxi fare usually ranges from ₹1,000–₹1,500 for a private cab, while shared taxis and buses are more budget-friendly options.

Train Tip: Booking your train tickets in advance, especially during the peak summer season, is a smart move to secure a comfortable seat! 

How to Reach Nainital by Air?

Wondering if air travel is an option when planning how to reach Nainital? Good news — it is! While Nainital doesn’t have its own airport, the airport near Nainital is the Pantnagar Airport (PGH), located about 70 km away.

• Pantnagar Airport is small but functional, offering limited flight connectivity mainly from Delhi.
• Most Connected Airport is Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL), Delhi – ~300 km from Nainital
• Flights are frequent during the tourist season, and the journey from Delhi to Pantnagar takes about an hour.

From Pantnagar, you can hire a taxi or a cab to reach Nainital. The drive usually takes around 2 hours depending on traffic and weather. Private taxis are readily available at the airport, making the onward journey hassle-free.

Travel Tip: Since flight options can be limited, it's wise to book your tickets early and check the flight schedule in advance!

Reaching Nainital from Major Cities

Still curious about how to reach Nainital from different parts of India? Here's a quick guide to make your travel planning even easier:

• From Delhi:
• By Road: Approx. 300 km, about 6–7 hours via NH9.
• By Train: Daily trains to Kathgodam Railway Station, then a taxi or bus to Nainital.
• By Air: Flights to Pantnagar Airport, then a 2-hour drive.
• From Dehradun:
• By Road: Around 290 km, about 7 hours of scenic drive.
• No direct trains or flights; road travel is the best option.
• From Lucknow:
• By Road: Around 360 km, about 8 hours by car or bus.
• By Train: Direct trains to Kathgodam, followed by a road trip to Nainital.

No matter which city you're traveling from, Nainital promises a refreshing retreat once you arrive!

Best Time to Travel to Nainital

Choosing the right season can make your trip even more memorable! Here's a quick guide to help you plan:

• Summer Escape (March to June):
  Perfect for beating the city heat, with temperatures ranging between 10°C and 25 25°C. It's the best time for boating, sightseeing, and enjoying outdoor activities.
• Winter Wonderland (October to February):
  Ideal for snowfall lovers! If you dream of snow-capped mountains and misty mornings, winter is the time to visit.
• Monsoon Caution (July to September):
  While Nainital turns lush and green, heavy rains can sometimes lead to roadblocks. Travel with caution.

Travel Tip: If you’re planning how to reach Nainital during peak seasons, make sure to book your transport and stay well in advance to avoid last-minute hassles. 

Stay Recommendations: Club Mahindra Patkote Resort in Nainital

Set amidst the tranquil wilderness of Uttarakhand, Club Mahindra Patkote is a standout Himalayan resort in Nainital offering an immersive blend of luxury and nature. Surrounded by dense forests and rolling hills, this mountain resort in Uttarakhand promises a rejuvenating retreat for every traveller.

Expect superlative services, courteous staff, and spectacular environs. Immaculate rooms, delectable cuisine, and lush greenery create the ideal ambiance for relaxation. The resort boasts an inviting pool and stunning dining spaces that serve both authentic Kumaoni flavours and international dishes. Guests can also unwind with holistic spa treatments and wellness services, or enjoy cheerful moments at the well-stocked bar.

This hill resort in India caters to families with a vibrant Happy Hub for kids, along with a wide range of indoor and outdoor games. With its thoughtful amenities and peaceful charm, Club Mahindra Patkote earns its place among the best hill resorts in India.

Conclusion

Whether you're planning a road trip, catching a train to Kathgodam, or flying into the airport near Nainital, there are plenty of comfortable ways to reach Nainital. With its scenic beauty and charming atmosphere, this hill station promises an experience like no other. So plan your journey, pack your bags, and get ready to fall in love with the magic of Nainital!