Traveling from Ranchi (Jharkhand) to Nainital (Uttarakhand) is straightforward with several comfortable and budget-friendly options available, including flight, train, bus, and road. Here’s a concise, practical guide covering all travel modes, times, costs, and essential tips for 2025.
Ranchi to Nainital Distance
- By Road: 750–1,213 km (depending on route)
- By Air (Aerial): 862–1,148 km
- Typical Travel Time: 8–25 hours depending on mode
Best Travel Options from Ranchi to Nainital
1. By Flight + Taxi (Fastest Option)
- Route: Ranchi Airport (IXR) → Pantnagar Airport (PGH, nearest to Nainital; or via Delhi) → Taxi to Nainital
- Flight Duration: 4.5–7 hours (via Delhi, as there are no direct Ranchi–Pantnagar flights most days)
- Taxi (Pantnagar to Nainital): 70 km, 1.5–2 hours, fare ₹1,100–₹2,500
- Estimated Total Door-to-Door Time: 6.5–11 hours
- Typical Airfare: ₹7,000–₹31,000 one way, often lower with advance booking
Steps:
- Book a Ranchi–Pantnagar (PGH) flight, usually via Delhi.
- After landing, take a pre-booked taxi or cab from Pantnagar to Nainital.
Alternative: Fly to Delhi if Pantnagar flights are unavailable or expensive, then continue by train, bus, or taxi to Nainital.
2. By Train (Most Budget-Friendly)
Nainital does not have a railway station. The nearest railheads are Kathgodam (KGM) and Lal Kuan (LKU).
Option A: Ranchi → New Delhi → Kathgodam → Nainital
- Step 1: Train from Ranchi to New Delhi (18–22 hours; Sleeper fare from ₹550)
- Step 2: Train from New Delhi to Kathgodam (5.5–7 hours; Sleeper fare from ₹210)
- Popular trains: Kathgodam Shatabdi (12040), Ranikhet Express (15013)
- Step 3: Taxi or bus from Kathgodam to Nainital (34 km, 1–1.5 hours, ₹200–₹1,200)
- Total Journey Time: 26–30 hours (including transfer times)
- Total Train Fare: From ₹1,400–₹4,000+ (sleeper/3AC); plus last-mile taxi/bus
Option B: Ranchi → Chhapra → Kathgodam → Nainital
- Step 1: Train from Ranchi to Chhapra (Eastern UP, 18–19 hours)
- Step 2: Train from Chhapra to Kathgodam (Bagh Express, ~21 hours)
- Step 3: Taxi/bus as above
Booking: Use IRCTC or popular travel apps; book 2–4 weeks ahead, especially in high season.
3. By Bus (Economical, Long Journey)
- No direct bus from Ranchi to Nainital.
- Typical route:
- Bus from Ranchi to Delhi or Lucknow (18–22 hours)
- Switch to a Delhi–Nainital or Lucknow–Nainital bus (8–10 hours)
- Total Travel Time: 28–35 hours
- Fare: ₹2,000–₹4,000 total (variable by operator and booking time)
- Booking: Via RedBus, Yatra, or other portals
4. By Car or Private Taxi
- Driving Distance: 1,044–1,213 km (via Gaya, Lucknow, Moradabad, Haldwani)
- Travel Time: 16–23 hours, usually over 2 days with stops
- Fare: ₹10,500–₹15,200 for one-way; higher for premium vehicles
- Self-drive recommended only for groups/split driving and experienced hill drivers
Ranchi to Nainital Route Overview
| Mode | Route Details | Distance/Time | Fare (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flight + Taxi | Ranchi–Pantnagar–Nainital | 6.5–11 hrs | ₹8,000–₹33,000 |
| Train + Taxi | Ranchi–Delhi/Chhapra–Kathgodam–Nainital | 26–40 hrs | ₹1,400–₹5,000+ |
| Bus | Ranchi–Delhi/Lucknow–Nainital | 28–35 hrs | ₹2,000–₹4,000 |
| Car/Taxi | Ranchi–Nainital (via NH routes) | 16–23 hrs | ₹10,500–₹15,200 |
Practical Tips
- Book early for trains and flights, especially in holidays/summer.
- Pantnagar Airport: Has limited direct flights; check schedules before booking.
- Travel light for easier transition between modes, especially for hill taxi or shared jeep.
- Snacks and water: Carry enough for long train or bus journeys.
- Monsoon/winter: Allow extra buffer time for possible weather-related delays.
- Last leg from Kathgodam/Lal Kuan/Pantnagar: Taxis and buses are easily available at all major entry points, operating throughout the day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the fastest way to reach Nainital from Ranchi?
A: Flight to Pantnagar via Delhi, then taxi (6.5–11 hours total)
Q: Which is the cheapest way?
A: Train to Kathgodam via Delhi or Chhapra, then taxi/bus (₹1,400–₹5,000 total, 26–40 hours)
Q: Are buses available?
A: Yes, but with transfers—book online and consider breaking your journey at Delhi or Lucknow.
Q: Is self-drive feasible?
A: Only for experienced drivers or groups ready for a long drive; hills near Nainital require caution.
In summary:
For Ranchi to Nainital, the fastest is a flight to Pantnagar (with a Delhi layover) plus a short scenic taxi ride to Nainital. Trains offer a budget-friendly option, with easy onward taxi/bus connections from Kathgodam. Buses and car journeys are possible but take longer. Plan and book ahead for best fares and a smooth Himalayan journey.
