How to Reach Pauri To Ranikhet

Pauri, often referred to as Pauri Garhwal, is a charming district headquarters and hill town located in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand. It’s known for its panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks, including the Chaukhamba range, and its serene, uncommercialized atmosphere. Ranikhet, a picturesque cantonment town in the Kumaon region, offers a different kind of charm with its lush pine forests, famous golf course, and a historical British influence. While both are beautiful hill destinations in Uttarakhand, they belong to different administrative divisions and are separated by a significant distance, making the journey between them a full-day affair through diverse mountain landscapes.

Pauri to Ranikhet Distance

The approximate road distance between Pauri and Ranikhet is around 225 to 240 kilometers. The journey typically takes about 7 to 8 hours by road, due to the winding mountain roads and the terrain you need to traverse. This makes it a full-day trip that requires an early start.

How to Reach Pauri To Ranikhet

Road travel is the primary and most practical way to get from Pauri to Ranikhet. Other modes of transport would involve considerable detours and additional time.

By Road: The Primary and Scenic Route

Road travel is the most efficient and recommended method for this route, allowing you to experience the varied landscapes of both Garhwal and Kumaon.

1. Private Taxi or Car Rental

Hiring a private taxi is the most convenient and comfortable option for traveling from Pauri to Ranikhet. You can find local taxi services in Pauri, or your hotel/guesthouse can assist you in arranging one.

• Journey Details: The road trip usually takes about 7 to 8 hours. From Pauri, you will typically head towards Srinagar Garhwal, then continue towards Rudraprayag, and then take a route that leads you into the Kumaon region. A common route might involve going via Rudraprayag, Karnaprayag, Gairsain, and then connect to Ranikhet via Almora or directly. Another possibility involves heading towards Kotdwar from Pauri, then proceeding towards Ramnagar and then ascending to Ranikhet, though this might be longer. The entire route is mountainous, featuring winding roads that offer continuous, stunning views of valleys, rivers (like the Alaknanda and Pindar), terraced fields, and dense forests. While major sections of the highway are generally well-maintained, an experienced local driver is highly recommended for navigating these hill roads safely.
• Benefits: This option offers maximum flexibility. You can decide your departure time, stop for breaks, meals, or photo opportunities at scenic spots. It’s ideal if you are traveling with family or a group, ensuring a comfortable and direct transfer without the hassle of multiple changes.
• Cost: Taxi fares for this long mountain journey can vary significantly based on the type of vehicle (e.g., sedan, SUV) and the taxi service provider. For a one-way trip, you can expect fares to range from approximately ₹4,500 to ₹7,500, depending on the car type and exact route. It’s always advisable to confirm the total fare, including any potential toll charges and driver allowances, before starting your journey.

2. Shared Taxis/Jeeps and Local Buses

For budget-conscious travelers, a combination of shared taxis/jeeps and local buses is a viable option, though it will be more time-consuming and likely require multiple changes.

• Journey Details:
  • Pauri to Srinagar (Garhwal): From Pauri, you can find shared jeeps or local Uttarakhand Roadways (UTC) buses that frequently ply to Srinagar Garhwal, a major hub in Garhwal.
  • Srinagar (Garhwal) to Kumaon towns: From Srinagar, you would then need to find connecting buses or shared taxis towards major Kumaon towns like Almora or Kathgodam. This leg of the journey will involve traversing through interior mountain roads.
  • Almora/Kathgodam to Ranikhet: Once you reach Almora (about 1 hour from Ranikhet) or Kathgodam (about 2.5-3.5 hours from Ranikhet), you will find frequent shared taxis and buses heading directly to Ranikhet.
• Benefits: This is the most economical way to travel, suitable for solo travelers or those on a tight budget.
• Considerations: This option involves multiple changes and can be more tiring due to frequent transfers, potential waiting times for shared transport to fill up, and basic comfort levels. Bus schedules in these remote areas can be less predictable, so it’s best to inquire locally about timings. An early start (as early as 6-7 AM) is crucial to complete the journey comfortably within daylight hours.

By Train: Not a Practical Option

Neither Pauri nor Ranikhet has its own railway station.

• Nearest Railway Station to Pauri: Kotdwar (KTW), approximately 101-108 kilometers from Pauri.
• Nearest Railway Station to Ranikhet: Kathgodam (KGM), approximately 75-80 kilometers from Ranikhet.
• How to Travel by Train: Attempting to use trains for this journey would be highly indirect and inefficient. You would first need to travel by road from Pauri to Kotdwar, then take a train from Kotdwar to a major junction like Moradabad or Bareilly, and then another train to Kathgodam, followed by a taxi/bus to Ranikhet. This complex itinerary makes train travel impractical for directly connecting Pauri and Ranikhet.

By Air: Not a Practical Option

Neither Pauri nor Ranikhet has its own operational airport for commercial flights.

• Nearest Airport to Pauri: Jolly Grant Airport (DED) in Dehradun, approximately 133-155 kilometers from Pauri.
• Nearest Airport to Ranikhet: Pantnagar Airport (PGH), approximately 115-120 kilometers from Ranikhet.
• How to Travel by Air: While Jolly Grant and Pantnagar are the nearest airports, flying is not a practical choice for directly connecting Pauri and Ranikhet. You would need to take a long taxi ride from Pauri to Jolly Grant, then potentially a very short and often expensive flight (if available) to Pantnagar (or another major city like Delhi and then to Pantnagar), and then another taxi to Ranikhet. This multi-leg journey would be significantly more expensive and time-consuming than a direct road trip.

Important Tips for Your Journey

• Road Conditions: The roads between Pauri and Ranikhet are entirely mountainous and winding. While major sections are maintained, road conditions can vary. During the monsoon season (July to September), there is an increased risk of landslides and road blockages, so it’s crucial to check local road conditions and weather forecasts before you travel.
• Start Early: For a smooth mountain journey, starting very early in the morning (by 6-7 AM) is highly advisable. This allows you to complete most of your travel during daylight hours, avoid potential traffic, and ensures you reach your destination comfortably before evening.
• Carry Essentials: Always keep warm clothing handy, as mountain weather can change quickly, especially at higher altitudes. Also, carry basic medicines (especially for motion sickness, if you’re prone to it on winding roads), snacks, and sufficient water.
• Enjoy the Views: This journey offers incredible scenic beauty as you pass through different geographical features of Uttarakhand. Be prepared for stunning views of the Himalayan range, lush green valleys, and a refreshing change in atmosphere.

In conclusion, the most efficient and recommended way to travel from Pauri to Ranikhet is by road, with a private taxi offering the most comfortable and flexible option for this long and picturesque journey through the heart of Uttarakhand’s hills.