How to Reach Nainital? A Travel Guide

When you’re living in Delhi, one of the busiest metropolises in India, it’s hard to resist the charm of Nainital, the beautiful hill station in Uttarakhand. Besides, Delhi is one of the best places to start your journey toward Nainital because of its easy accessibility to the national capital.

So, let’s find out how to reach Nainital from Delhi through various means of transport.

How to Reach Nainital by Road?

Nainital is well connected to Delhi by road. Most tourists from Delhi prefer to take the road route to reach Nainital. You can cover the 311 km distance between the two cities in about 7 hours if you take the NH7 route. Another convenient way is to board an overnight bus from Delhi. Both AC and non-AC bus services to Nainital are available at a reasonable cost in Delhi. 

Also Read: Best Time to Visit Nainital With Family

How to Reach Nainital by Train?

Kathgodam, located at a distance of 34 km, is the nearest railway station to Nainital. The station has good railway connectivity with Delhi. Additionally, many trains from other important locations like Lucknow, Agra, Mathura, and Kolkata ply to this place. 

You can take a taxi from Kathgodam station to reach Nainital. 

How to Reach Nainital by Flight?

There is no airport in Nainital. The nearest Pantnagar airport is located about 70 km away from Nainital. It will take about 2 hours 30 minutes of road journey to reach Nainital from this airport. It's a small domestic airport with a limited number of daily flights. 

When to Visit?

Nainital is ideal for visits in any season throughout the year. However, the best time to visit Nainital can be during the winter season, especially during December and January. You can witness the snowfall during this time which can be an ethereal experience for you. 

Where to Stay?

Club Mahindra Naukuchiatal can be one of the best resorts in Nainital for tourists who want a calm and serene environment. The resort is situated in picturesque surroundings amidst lush greenery, overlooking the mountains and the Naukachiatal lake.

Also Read: 10 Places to Visit in Nainital For A Summer Vacay

Places to Visit in Nainital

• Naini Lake

Naini lake is a primary stopover for most Nainital tours. Boating is available on this beautiful lake. There are also some delicious eateries around the lake where you can stop for a quick bite.

• Tiffin Top

It is one of the best places to visit in Nainital to watch the sunrise. Tiffin Top also provides a beautiful clear view of the distant Himalayan peaks. Many fitness enthusiasts like to cover the 4 km distance between Tiffin Top and Nainital through a trek. Horse rides are also available from Nainital to reach this place.

• Nainital Ropeway

One of the popular things to do in Nainital is to take a ropeway ride at Mallital. The cable car provides a bird’s eye view of Nainital. It passes through the enchanting hills and provides a mesmerising view of the Naini lake while on its way to Snow View. 

• Tibetan Market

If you like shopping, the Tibetan market at Ayarpatta is a must-visit site. Collect souvenirs for your friends back home or shop for ethnic dresses, Tibetan bags, etc.; the market will keep you busy as long as you want.

• Cave Garden

Situated at Sukhatal, Cave Garden is an unusual tourist destination in Nainital which may pleasantly surprise you. Here, you'll find a series of interconnected rock caves that can educate you about Himalayan wildlife. 

Also Read: Top 10 Things to Do in Nainital With Family on Your Next Trip

You don’t need a reason to visit Nainital. All you need is a desire to greet the mountains, a backpack, and a tour itinerary outlining your tour plan.