Nainital, a beautiful hill station in Uttarakhand, is a popular destination for travelers seeking a serene escape from the city life of Lucknow. If you’re planning a trip and wondering how to reach Nainital from Lucknow, this guide will provide you with all the necessary information to make your journey smooth and enjoyable.
How to Reach Nainital from Lucknow
There are several ways one can choose from through which they can reach Nainital from Lucknow:
By Air
The nearest airport to Nainital is Pantnagar Airport, which is approximately 70 kilometers away. Here’s how you can plan your journey:
- Flight from Lucknow to Pantnagar: There are no direct flights from Lucknow to Pantnagar. However, you can book a connecting flight with a layover in Delhi. The total flight duration, including the layover, is around 5 to 6 hours. Upon arrival at Pantnagar, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Nainital, which takes about 2 hours.
- Flight from Lucknow to Delhi: Alternatively, you can take a direct flight from Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport (LKO) in Lucknow to Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) in Delhi. The flight duration is approximately 1.5 hours. From Delhi, you have two options to reach Nainital:
- By Train: Take a train from Delhi to Kathgodam, the nearest railway station to Nainital. The train journey takes around 6-7 hours. From Kathgodam, Nainital is a 1.5-hour drive.
- By Bus: You can also take a direct bus from Delhi to Nainital. The journey takes around 7-8 hours. Buses are available from ISBT Anand Vihar in Delhi.
By Train
Traveling by train is another convenient option for reaching Nainital from Lucknow. The nearest railway station to Nainital is Kathgodam, which is well-connected to major cities in India. Here’s how you can plan your train journey:
- Direct Train from Lucknow to Kathgodam: Indian Railways operates direct trains from Lucknow Junction (LJN) to Kathgodam (KGM). The journey takes approximately 7-8 hours. Some popular trains on this route include the Bagh Express and the Doon Express. Once you reach Kathgodam, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Nainital.
- Train from Lucknow to Delhi and then to Kathgodam: Another option is to take a train from Lucknow to Delhi and then board a train from Delhi to Kathgodam. Trains like the Rajdhani Express and Duronto Express offer a comfortable journey from Lucknow to Delhi. From Delhi, you can take the Ranikhet Express or the Uttar Sampark Kranti Express to Kathgodam.
By Road
If you enjoy road trips, driving from Lucknow to Nainital can be an adventurous and scenic experience. The distance between Lucknow and Nainital is approximately 390 kilometers, and the journey can take around 7-8 hours, depending on the route and traffic conditions. Here are the two main routes you can take:
- Route via NH30 and SH37: This route takes you through cities like Sitapur, Bareilly, and Haldwani. The road conditions are generally good, and you can find several rest stops and eateries along the way. It’s advisable to take breaks and plan overnight stays to make the journey more comfortable.
- Route via NH27 and NH9: This route passes through cities like Shahjahanpur, Pilibhit, and Haldwani. While this route is slightly longer, it offers beautiful landscapes and less traffic. Ensure your vehicle is in good condition and carry essential supplies for the journey.
By Bus
Traveling by bus is another economical option to reach Nainital from Lucknow. Although there are no direct buses from Lucknow to Nainital, you can break your journey into two parts:
- Bus from Lucknow to Delhi: Several private and state-run buses operate from Lucknow to Delhi. The journey takes around 8-10 hours. You can choose from various types of buses, including sleeper, semi-sleeper, and Volvo buses.
- Bus from Delhi to Nainital: From Delhi, you can take a direct bus to Nainital. Uttarakhand Roadways and private operators run regular bus services from Delhi’s ISBT Anand Vihar to Nainital. The journey takes around 7-8 hours. Buses are available in different categories, including deluxe, semi-deluxe, and Volvo.
Tips for a Comfortable Journey
- Advance Booking: Whether you choose to travel by air, train, or bus, it’s advisable to book your tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
- Travel Light: Pack light and carry only essential items to make your journey hassle-free. Don’t forget to carry warm clothing, as Nainital can get chilly, especially in the evenings.
- Stay Hydrated and Carry Snacks: Keep yourself hydrated and carry some snacks for the journey, especially if you’re traveling by road or train.
- Check Weather Conditions: Before you start your journey, check the weather conditions in Nainital to pack accordingly and avoid any travel disruptions.
Conclusion
Nainital is a beautiful destination that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and tranquility. Whether you choose to travel by air, train, road, or bus, each mode of transport has its own charm and convenience. By following this guide on how to reach Nainital from Lucknow, you can plan your trip efficiently and enjoy a memorable vacation in the lap of nature. Safe travels!