Nainital, a picturesque hill station in Uttarakhand, is a popular destination for travelers seeking a serene escape. If you’re planning a trip from Chennai to Nainital, there are several travel options available, including flights, trains, and road trips. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to reach Nainital from Chennai.
How to Reach Nainital from Chennai
By Flight
Option 1: Chennai to Pantnagar
- Book a Flight: The nearest airport to Nainital is Pantnagar Airport, which is approximately 65 kilometers away. You can book a flight from Chennai International Airport (MAA) to Pantnagar Airport (PGH). There are no direct flights, so you will need to take a connecting flight via Delhi.
- Travel from Pantnagar to Nainital: Upon arrival at Pantnagar, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Nainital. The drive takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.
Option 2: Chennai to Dehradun
- Book a Flight: Another option is to fly from Chennai to Dehradun’s Jolly Grant Airport (DED), which is about 215 kilometers from Nainital. This route also typically involves a connecting flight via Delhi.
- Travel from Dehradun to Nainital: From Dehradun, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Nainital. The journey by road takes around 7 to 8 hours.
By Train
- Book a Train Ticket: There are no direct trains from Chennai to Nainital. The nearest railway station to Nainital is Kathgodam (KGM). You can book a train from Chennai Central (MAS) to Kathgodam with a change at either New Delhi (NDLS) or Hazrat Nizamuddin (NZM).
- Travel Duration: The total travel time by train is approximately 40 to 44 hours.
- From Kathgodam to Nainital: Once you arrive at Kathgodam, you can take a taxi or bus to Nainital. The drive takes about 1 to 1.5 hours.
By Road
- Self-Drive: If you enjoy road trips, you can drive from Chennai to Nainital. The distance is approximately 2,200 kilometers, and the journey takes around 40 hours. This option offers the flexibility to explore various destinations along the way.
- Bus: You can also take a bus from Chennai to Delhi and then another bus from Delhi to Nainital. This option is more time-consuming but can be cost-effective.
Travel Tips
- Book in Advance: Whether you’re traveling by flight, train, or bus, it’s advisable to book your tickets well in advance to secure the best deals.
- Check Schedules: Keep an eye on flight and train schedules to ensure your travel plans align with the available options.
- Pack Essentials: Since the journey can be long, pack essentials like snacks, water, and entertainment to keep yourself comfortable.
- Stay Updated: Monitor travel updates and announcements to avoid any last-minute surprises.
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. The monsoon season (July to August) brings heavy rainfall, which can sometimes lead to landslides, so it’s best to avoid traveling during this period.
Things to Do in Nainital
Once you reach Nainital, there are plenty of activities and attractions to explore:
- Naini Lake: Enjoy a boat ride on the serene Naini Lake, surrounded by lush hills.
- Naina Devi Temple: Visit the sacred Naina Devi Temple, located on the northern shore of Naini Lake.
- Snow View Point: Take a cable car ride to Snow View Point for panoramic views of the Himalayas.
- Tiffin Top: Hike to Tiffin Top for a breathtaking view of Nainital and the surrounding mountains.
- Mall Road: Stroll along Mall Road, lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants.
Conclusion
Traveling from Chennai to Nainital offers multiple options to suit different preferences and budgets. Whether you choose to fly, take a train, or drive, the journey is filled with scenic beauty and adventure. Plan your trip accordingly and enjoy the serene and picturesque landscapes of Nainital.