Traveling from Pune to Nainital by train is a rewarding journey that lets you experience the transition from the Deccan Plateau to the Himalayan foothills. Though there is no direct train to Nainital, reaching the hill station by rail is comfortable and budget-friendly with proper planning. Here’s a straightforward guide covering the route, connections, travel timings, fares, and essential tips.
Pune to Nainital Distance by Train
- Rail Distance (Pune to Kathgodam): Approx. 1,325–1,525 km (varies based on train and route)
- Road Distance (Kathgodam to Nainital): 34 km
Total journey takes 31–33 hours, including transfers and waiting times.
Train Route Overview
There are no direct trains from Pune to Nainital. The journey involves two principal segments:
- Pune to Delhi (by train)
- Delhi to Kathgodam (by train)
- Kathgodam to Nainital (by road: taxi, bus, or shared jeep)
Step 1: Pune to Delhi (by Train)
- Major Trains: Goa Express, Jhelum Express, Nizamuddin Express, Hazrat Nizamuddin Duronto, and others.
- Departure Station: Pune Junction
- Arrival Stations in Delhi: New Delhi, Hazrat Nizamuddin, Old Delhi
- Travel Time: Approximately 22–26 hours
- Booking Tip: Reserve seats in AC 2-tier/3-tier or Sleeper coaches for comfort on this long segment. Book at least 1 month ahead in peak season.
Step 2: Delhi to Kathgodam (by Train)
- Why Kathgodam? It’s the nearest major railway station to Nainital (about 34 km away).
- Major Trains:
- Ranikhet Express (overnight train, daily service)
- Kathgodam Shatabdi Express (morning, several days a week)
- Uttar Sampark Kranti Express (evening service, a few days a week)
- Departure Stations: New Delhi, Old Delhi, or Anand Vihar Terminal
- Travel Time: About 5–7 hours
- Booking Tip: Ensure your Delhi arrival time gives you at least a 2–3 hour buffer for connections.
Step 3: Kathgodam to Nainital (by Road)
- Distance: 34 km
- Travel Time: 1–1.5 hours
- Modes: Taxis (private/shared), state buses, and shared jeeps are available just outside Kathgodam station.
- Fare: ₹150–₹600, depending on the vehicle.
Example Itinerary
- Board a train from Pune Junction to Delhi (New Delhi/Hazrat Nizamuddin):
- Duration: 22–26 hours
- From Delhi, catch a connecting train to Kathgodam:
- Duration: 5–7 hours
- Upon arrival at Kathgodam, hire a taxi or board a bus for Nainital:
- Duration: 1–1.5 hours
Key Trains Involved
| Segment | Major Trains | Frequency | Estimated Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pune–Delhi | Goa Express, Jhelum Express, Nizamuddin Express | Daily | 22–26 hours |
| Delhi–Kathgodam | Ranikhet Express, Shatabdi Express, Uttar Sampark Kranti Express | Most days | 5–7 hours |
Booking and Ticket Tips
- Use IRCTC or railway portals for booking Pune–Delhi and Delhi–Kathgodam trains as separate tickets.
- For comfort on these long routes, book upper berths in AC 2-tier or 3-tier classes.
- If you have long layovers in Delhi, consider a “waiting room” or nearby hotel.
- Always keep your train tickets handy—these may be checked on platforms and in stations, especially for North Indian legs.
Scenarios and Buffer Timing
- Short layover in Delhi: If your Pune–Delhi and Delhi–Kathgodam trains are close together, use only official station transport and avoid wandering outside.
- Long layover in Delhi: Store large bags in cloak rooms, explore station food courts, or book a retiring room for a nap.
Quick Reference: Total Journey
| Segment | Mode | Duration | Estimated Cost (3AC/2AC) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pune – Delhi | Train | 22–26 hours | ₹900–₹2,500 |
| Delhi – Kathgodam | Train | 5–7 hours | ₹400–₹1,600 |
| Kathgodam – Nainital | Taxi/Bus | 1–1.5 hours | ₹150–₹600 |
Essential Travel Tips
- Book trains 1–2 months ahead for the best seat options, especially during holidays or summer.
- Carry snacks, water, and essentials for the journey—train food options may be limited.
- Keep some cash handy for onward taxi/bus from Kathgodam.
- If you’re traveling in winter, pack warm clothes as Nainital can be chilly.
- Check train running status a day prior; delays between Pune and Delhi are common.
Alternative: Flight + Train Combo
If Pune–Delhi train tickets are unavailable or you want to save time:
- Fly from Pune to Delhi (2–2.5 hours).
- Take a train from Delhi to Kathgodam, then road to Nainital.
This option is faster and combines the comfort of flying with the scenic views of the train and hills.
Conclusion
Reaching Nainital by train from Pune is straightforward with two main train legs and a short road transfer. While the journey is long, it’s affordable and filled with opportunities to watch the landscape change. Book smart, allow for transfer time, and get ready to relax by Naini Lake after your adventure to the hills.
