Nainital, nestled in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, is a popular hill station known for its scenic beauty and tranquil environment. If you’re planning a trip from Pune to Nainital, this guide will provide you with all the necessary information to make your journey smooth and enjoyable.
How to Reach Nainital from Pune
Traveling from Pune to Nainital involves covering a significant distance, but there are several options available to make the journey convenient. In this section, we will explore the various modes of transportation you can use to reach Nainital from Pune.
Reaching Nainital from Pune
The distance between Pune and Nainital is approximately 1,700 kilometers. Depending on your preference, budget, and time constraints, you can choose to travel by air, train, bus, or car. Each mode of transportation offers a unique experience and has its own advantages.
By Air
The fastest way to reach Nainital from Pune is by taking a flight. There are no direct flights to Nainital, but you can fly to the nearest airport, Pantnagar Airport, which is about 70 kilometers from Nainital. Here’s how you can plan your journey:
- Flight from Pune to Delhi: Several airlines operate daily flights from Pune to Delhi. The flight duration is approximately 2 hours.
- Flight from Delhi to Pantnagar: From Delhi, you can take a connecting flight to Pantnagar. The flight duration is around 1 hour.
- Taxi from Pantnagar to Nainital: Once you reach Pantnagar, you can hire a taxi to Nainital. The drive takes about 2 hours.
By Train
Traveling by train is another popular option for reaching Nainital from Pune. Although there is no direct train to Nainital, you can take a train to Kathgodam, the nearest railway station to Nainital. Here’s the route you can follow:
- Train from Pune to Delhi: Several trains run from Pune to Delhi, with a travel time of approximately 24 hours.
- Train from Delhi to Kathgodam: From Delhi, you can board a train to Kathgodam. The journey takes around 6-7 hours.
- Taxi or Bus from Kathgodam to Nainital: Once you reach Kathgodam, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Nainital. The distance is about 35 kilometers, and the journey takes around 1.5 hours.
By Bus
If you prefer traveling by road, you can take a bus from Pune to Delhi and then from Delhi to Nainital. Here’s how you can plan your journey:
- Bus from Pune to Delhi: Several private and government buses operate on this route. The journey takes around 24-26 hours.
- Bus from Delhi to Nainital: From Delhi, you can take a direct bus to Nainital. The travel time is approximately 8-10 hours.
By Car
For those who enjoy long drives, traveling by car from Pune to Nainital is an adventurous option. The route covers a distance of about 1,700 kilometers and takes approximately 30 hours of driving time. Here’s the route you can follow:
- Pune to Delhi: Drive from Pune to Delhi via the AH47 and NE4 highways.
- Delhi to Nainital: From Delhi, take the NH9 highway to reach Nainital.
Tips for a Comfortable Journey
- Plan Your Route: Whether you’re traveling by air, train, bus, or car, plan your route in advance to avoid any last-minute hassles.
- Book Tickets in Advance: During peak tourist seasons, flights and trains can get fully booked. Make sure to book your tickets well in advance.
- Pack Essentials: Carry essentials like water, snacks, medications, and warm clothing, especially if you’re traveling during the winter months.
- Check Weather Conditions: The weather in Nainital can be unpredictable. Check the weather forecast before starting your journey and pack accordingly.
- Travel Light: If possible, travel light to make your journey more comfortable and hassle-free.
Places to Visit in Nainital
Once you reach Nainital, there are several attractions and activities to explore. Here are some must-visit places in Nainital:
Naini Lake
Naini Lake is the heart of Nainital and a major attraction for tourists. The serene lake is surrounded by seven hills and offers boating facilities. You can enjoy a peaceful boat ride while taking in the stunning views of the surrounding hills and the town.
Naina Devi Temple
Located at the northern end of Naini Lake, Naina Devi Temple is a significant religious site dedicated to Goddess Naina Devi. The temple is believed to be one of the 51 Shakti Peeths and attracts devotees from all over the country.
Snow View Point
Snow View Point offers panoramic views of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks. You can reach this viewpoint by taking a cable car ride from Mallital. The breathtaking views of the mountains make it a popular spot for tourists.
Tiffin Top (Dorothy’s Seat)
Tiffin Top, also known as Dorothy’s Seat, is a popular picnic spot that offers stunning views of Nainital and the surrounding hills. It is a short trek from the town and is ideal for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.
The Mall Road
The Mall Road is the main shopping and dining area in Nainital. It is lined with shops, restaurants, and cafes, offering a variety of local and international cuisines. You can also shop for souvenirs, handicrafts, and woolens here.
Conclusion
Reaching Nainital from Pune involves a bit of planning, but the journey is well worth it. Whether you choose to travel by air, train, bus, or car, each mode of transportation offers a unique experience. Once you arrive in Nainital, you can explore its beautiful lakes, temples, viewpoints, and markets. Plan your trip in advance, carry essentials, and get ready to enjoy the serene beauty of this charming hill station.
By following this guide, you will have all the information you need on how to reach Nainital from Pune and make the most of your visit to this picturesque destination.