Traveling from Raipur (Chhattisgarh) to Nainital (Uttarakhand) is perfectly feasible and can be completed by flight, train, road, or a mix of these. Here’s a clear step-by-step guide for every route, including time estimates, fares, and essential planning tips.
Raipur to Nainital Distance
- By Road: 1,140–1,300+ km
- By Air (Raipur–Pantnagar): ~900–1,150 km (including the final road segment)
- By Train (to Kathgodam/Lal Kuan): ~1,000–1,300 km (including connections)
- Typical Fastest Journey Time: 7–10 hours (air + road)
- Cheapest: 26–29 hours (train + taxi/bus)
Travel Options from Raipur to Nainital
1. By Flight + Taxi (Fastest & Most Comfortable)
- Step 1: Board a flight from Raipur (Mana Airport, RPR) to Pantnagar Airport (PGH) or Delhi
- Step 2: From Pantnagar, hire a taxi to Nainital (70 km, 1.5–2 hours, fare ₹1,100–₹2,500)
- Alternate: If Pantnagar flights aren’t suitable, fly to Delhi, then take a train, taxi, or bus to Nainital
Total journey time: 7–10 hours (flight + taxi)
2. By Train (Economical, Long Duration)
- Step 1: Train from Raipur Jn to Lucknow, then change for Kathgodam (KGM), the nearest railhead to Nainital
- Raipur–Lucknow: ~17 hours, runs twice weekly; ₹440–₹11,000 depending on class
- Lucknow–Kathgodam: ~8 hours, once weekly; ₹250–₹4,700 depending on class
- Step 2: From Kathgodam, continue by taxi, shared jeep, or bus (34 km, 1–1.5 hours; ₹200–₹1,200)
Total journey time: 26–29 hours
Typical train fare: ₹1,300–₹17,000 depending on class and advance booking
3. By Road (Car or Private Taxi)
- Driving Distance: 1,140–1,300 km (via Varanasi/Lucknow or Delhi)
- Travel Time: 17–27 hours (door to door, may require overnight halts)
- Taxi Fare: ₹11,500–₹16,600 (one way; varies by operator and class of vehicle)
- Roads: Suitable for groups or families wanting the flexibility of a private vehicle
4. By Bus (Multi-leg, Less Recommended)
- No direct bus; you’ll need to combine a train or bus to Delhi or Lucknow, then switch to a Nainital-bound bus (Delhi–Nainital buses run overnight, 7–8 hours)
Quick Comparison Table
| Mode | Route | Duration | Estimated Fare | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Flight + Taxi | Raipur–Pantnagar–Nainital | 7–10 hrs | ₹6,000–₹15,500+ | Fastest, multiple daily flights |
| Train + Taxi | Raipur–Lucknow–Kathgodam–Nainital | 26–29 hrs | ₹1,300–₹17,000 | Most economical, weekly options |
| Car/Taxi | Raipur–Nainital direct by road | 18–27 hrs | ₹11,500–₹16,600+ | Flexible for groups, tiring solo |
| Mixed Bus | Raipur–Delhi/Lucknow–Nainital (bus) | 28–32 hrs | ₹2,500–₹4,000+ | Many legs, budget, low comfort |
Essential Travel Tips
- Book flights and trains early, especially for summer or holidays
- Pack light for easier transfers, especially if using trains or shared vehicles
- Weather: Allow for extra travel time in monsoon or winter; mountain roads may be slower
- Pantnagar Airport bookings: Check flight frequency; it’s a small airport so options may be limited
- Kathgodam/Lal Kuan arrivals: Taxis, jeeps, and buses are easily available for the last 34–55 km leg to Nainital
- Self-drive: Split the drive over two days if possible for safety and comfort
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the fastest route from Raipur to Nainital?
A: By flight from Raipur to Pantnagar, then taxi to Nainital (total 7–10 hours).
Q: Cheapest way to reach Nainital from Raipur?
A: Train from Raipur to Lucknow and onward to Kathgodam, then shared taxi or bus.
Q: Can I drive to Nainital from Raipur?
A: Yes. The journey is about 1,150–1,300 km and takes 17–27 hours.
Reach out if you need exact train/flights for your dates, or advice on hotels and local transfers. Safe journey to the lakes and hills of Nainital.
