Traveling from Hyderabad to Nainital by flight is the most effective and comfortable way to reach this Himalayan hill town from South India. While Nainital does not have its own airport, a combination of air and road travel makes the journey smooth. Here’s a practical, clear guide for planning your trip.
Hyderabad to Nainital Distance
- Aerial Distance: ~1,415 km
- By Flight + Road: 1,500–1,700 km (depending on connection and final route)
- Journey Duration: 8–13 hours (including layovers and road transfer)
Step 1: Fly from Hyderabad to Pantnagar or Delhi
Option 1: Hyderabad → Pantnagar (Nearest Airport to Nainital)
- Pantnagar Airport (PGH) is the closest to Nainital (about 70 km away).
- No direct flights from Hyderabad to Pantnagar; all flights require at least one layover, typically in Delhi.
- Route: Hyderabad (HYD) → Delhi (DEL) → Pantnagar (PGH)
- Hyderabad to Delhi flight: 2–2.5 hours
- Layover in Delhi: usually 1–5 hours depending on schedule
- Delhi to Pantnagar flight: about 1 hour
- Total flight time: ~5–9 hours (with layovers)
- Airlines: IndiGo, Air India, and other carriers operate these routes.
- Flight frequency: Pantnagar flights are limited, generally once or twice per day.
Option 2: Hyderabad → Delhi, then Road or Train to Nainital
- Much higher flight frequency between Hyderabad and Delhi.
- Route: Hyderabad (HYD) → Delhi (DEL) by air (2–2.5 hours)
- From Delhi, continue by:
- Taxi/Private Car: ~315 km, 7–8 hours directly to Nainital.
- Train: Delhi to Kathgodam (the nearest railhead to Nainital, 34 km away; trains like Ranikhet Express or Shatabdi Express take 5–7 hours), then taxi/bus to Nainital (~1–1.5 hours).
- Bus: Overnight Volvo buses to Haldwani/Kathgodam/Nainital (7–9 hours).
- From Delhi, continue by:
Step 2: Road Transfer to Nainital
From Pantnagar Airport
- Distance: 70 km to Nainital
- Transport: Taxi directly from airport (recommended; cost usually ₹1,500–₹2,800).
- Travel Time: 1.5–2 hours
From Delhi
- By Taxi/Private Car: 315 km; travel time 7–8 hours
- By Train: Board from New Delhi Railway Station to Kathgodam (34 km from Nainital). Then, hire a taxi or take a bus (1–1.5 hours to Nainital).
- By Bus: Multiple daily/overnight Volvos available.
Summary Table: Hyderabad to Nainital by Flight
| Route | Flight Time | Road/Train Transfer | Total Typical Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| HYD → Delhi → Pantnagar | 4–6 hours (inc. layover) | Taxi Pantnagar–Nainital: 1.5–2 hrs | 8–11 hours |
| HYD → Delhi | 2–2.5 hours | Train/taxi to Nainital: 7–9 hrs | 10–13 hours |
Essential Travel Tips
- Book flights early: Pantnagar flights are limited and fill up fast in tourist seasons.
- Connect in Delhi: If Pantnagar flights aren’t available, fly to Delhi and complete the journey by train or taxi.
- Check layover times: Some connections at Delhi may be long; opt for shorter layovers for faster trips.
- From Pantnagar: Pre-book your taxi to Nainital, especially in high season.
- Limited flights from Delhi to Pantnagar: Some flights may run only certain days a week. Check schedules in advance.
- Luggage: Pack light if using shared taxis or buses for the last leg.
Sample Hyderabad to Nainital Itineraries
Option 1:
- Morning flight Hyderabad → Delhi
- Afternoon Delhi → Pantnagar flight
- Taxi from Pantnagar Airport to Nainital (arrive by evening)
Option 2:
- Morning flight Hyderabad → Delhi
- Train from Delhi to Kathgodam (overnight or daytime)
- Taxi or bus from Kathgodam to Nainital
Option 3:
- Morning flight Hyderabad → Delhi
- Hire a direct taxi/private car from Delhi to Nainital
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is there a direct flight from Hyderabad to Nainital?
A: No. You must fly to Pantnagar (nearest airport) via Delhi or to Delhi and continue by train, bus, or taxi.
Q: Which is the fastest route?
A: Hyderabad to Pantnagar by flight (with Delhi layover), then taxi to Nainital.
Q: How much does the journey cost?
- Flights: ₹7,000–₹30,000 (season and how early you book)
- Taxi Pantnagar–Nainital: ₹1,500–₹2,800
- Taxi Delhi–Nainital: ₹7,000–₹12,000
- Trains/buses: more affordable, but add to travel time
Q: Should I book all tickets in advance?
A: Yes, especially during holiday and summer seasons, to get the best fares and ensure availability for all connections.
Conclusion
To reach Nainital from Hyderabad by flight, your fastest options are to connect via Delhi and Pantnagar, then take a comfortable taxi ride up to the lake town. If Pantnagar flights are unavailable or not convenient, continue from Delhi by train, bus, or taxi. Book in advance and check connection times for a stress-free trip to Nainital.
