Nainital, a picturesque hill station in Uttarakhand, is a popular destination for travelers seeking a serene escape from the bustling city life of Mumbai. Whether you prefer traveling by air, train, or road, this guide will help you plan your journey efficiently.
How to Reach Nainital From Mumbai
Here are some top options one can choose to reach Nainital from Mumbai, so whatever suits you best to travel easy and safely using that option with our instructions given below:
1. By Air
Flights to Pantnagar
The nearest airport to Nainital is Pantnagar Airport, located about 65 kilometers away. While there are no direct flights from Mumbai to Pantnagar, you can book a connecting flight with a layover in Delhi. Airlines like IndiGo and Air India operate regular flights on this route.
Travel Time: Approximately 6-7 hours (including layover)
Next Step: From Pantnagar, hire a taxi or take a bus to Nainital, which takes about 1.5 hours.
Flights to Dehradun
Alternatively, you can fly to Dehradun’s Jolly Grant Airport, which is about 215 kilometers from Nainital. This option might have more frequent flights but requires a longer road journey to reach Nainital.
Travel Time: Approximately 8-9 hours (including layover and road travel)
Next Step: Hire a taxi or take a bus from Dehradun to Nainital, which takes around 7-8 hours.
Tips for Air Travel
- Book Early: To get the best deals, book your flights well in advance.
- Check Layover Times: Ensure that your layover times are sufficient to avoid missing connecting flights.
- Travel Light: If possible, travel with minimal luggage to make transfers easier.
2. By Train
Train to Kathgodam
Kathgodam is the nearest railway station to Nainital, situated about 34 kilometers away. You can take a train from Mumbai to Kathgodam with a changeover at Delhi. The Ranikhet Express and Uttaranchal Sampark Kranti are popular trains on this route.
Travel Time: Approximately 24-26 hours
Next Step: From Kathgodam, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to Nainital, which takes about 1 hour.
Train to Delhi and Road to Nainital
Another option is to take a train from Mumbai to Delhi and then travel by road to Nainital. This can be a more flexible option as there are numerous trains from Mumbai to Delhi.
Travel Time: Approximately 16-18 hours (train) + 7-8 hours (road)
Next Step: From Delhi, hire a taxi or take a bus to Nainital.
Tips for Train Travel
- Book Sleeper Class: For long journeys, booking a sleeper class can make your trip more comfortable.
- Carry Essentials: Pack snacks, water, and entertainment for the long journey.
- Check Train Schedules: Train schedules can change, so check the latest timings before you travel.
3. By Road
Driving from Mumbai to Nainital
If you enjoy long drives, you can embark on a road trip from Mumbai to Nainital. The distance is approximately 1,700 kilometers, and the journey can be quite scenic.
Travel Time: Approximately 30-32 hours
Route: Mumbai → NH48 → NE4 → Nainital
Bus Services
Several private and state-run buses operate from Mumbai to Nainital. However, this option is less preferred due to the long travel time and fewer direct services.
Travel Time: Approximately 34-36 hours (including transfers)
Tips for Road Travel
- Plan Your Stops: Plan your stops for meals and rest to avoid fatigue.
- Check Vehicle Condition: Ensure your vehicle is in good condition for the long journey.
- Carry a Map: While GPS is helpful, carrying a physical map can be useful in areas with poor network coverage.
4. Best Time to Visit Nainital
The best time to visit Nainital is from March to June and September to November. During these months, the weather is pleasant, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Summer (March to June)
Summer is the peak tourist season in Nainital. The weather is pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 27°C. This is the best time for boating, trekking, and exploring the local attractions.
Monsoon (July to September)
Monsoon brings heavy rainfall to Nainital, which can lead to landslides and roadblocks. While the landscape becomes lush and green, travel can be challenging during this season.
Autumn (September to November)
Autumn is another great time to visit Nainital. The weather is cool and comfortable, making it perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The autumn foliage adds to the beauty of the region.
Winter (December to February)
Winter in Nainital is cold, with temperatures dropping to as low as -2°C. If you enjoy snow and winter sports, this can be a magical time to visit. However, be prepared for cold weather and possible travel disruptions due to snow.
5. Things to Do in Nainital
Boating in Naini Lake
Naini Lake is the heart of Nainital. Enjoy a peaceful boat ride while taking in the stunning views of the surrounding hills.
Visit Naina Devi Temple
Located near Naini Lake, Naina Devi Temple is a significant religious site. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Naina Devi and offers a serene atmosphere for visitors.
Explore Snow View Point
Snow View Point offers panoramic views of the snow-capped Himalayas. You can reach this point by a cable car ride, which is an exciting experience in itself.
Trek to Tiffin Top
Tiffin Top, also known as Dorothy’s Seat, is a popular trekking destination. The trek offers beautiful views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
Shop at Mall Road
Mall Road is the main shopping area in Nainital. You can find a variety of shops selling local handicrafts, woolens, and souvenirs.
Conclusion
Reaching Nainital from Mumbai involves a combination of air, train, and road travel. Depending on your preferences for time, comfort, and budget, you can choose the most suitable mode of transportation. Plan your journey in advance to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip to this beautiful hill station. Whether you prefer the convenience of air travel, the scenic train journey, or the adventure of a road trip, Nainital awaits with its serene beauty and charming attractions.