Are you planning a visit from the spiritual sanctuary of Kainchi Dham to the bustling town of Kathgodam? This guide will help you understand all the ways to travel by road, making your trip easy and enjoyable. Kathgodam serves as a key gateway to the Kumaon hills, connecting this beautiful region to major cities in the plains. Let’s find out how you can reach this important transit hub.
Kainchi Dham to Kathgodam Distance
The road distance between Kainchi Dham and Kathgodam is approximately 35 to 43 kilometers. The travel time typically ranges from 1 hour to 1 hour 40 minutes by road, depending on your mode of transport, road conditions, and any stops you make. This is a relatively short and scenic route, mostly downhill as you descend from the hills.
How to Reach Kathgodam from Kainchi Dham
Due to the close proximity and mountainous terrain, road travel is the most direct, common, and convenient way to get from Kainchi Dham to Kathgodam.
1. By Road: Car or Taxi (Most Common and Convenient)
Travelling by road is the most popular choice for this route, offering pleasant views of the Kumaon foothills.
- Kainchi Dham to Kathgodam by Car:
- Distance: Roughly 35 to 43 km.
- Travel Time: The drive usually takes about 1 hour to 1 hour 40 minutes. This can vary based on traffic, especially in peak tourist season, and winding road conditions.
- Route: The journey typically passes through Bhowali and Jeolikote. The roads are generally well-maintained.
- Pros: You have the freedom to stop whenever you want, take photos, and enjoy the beautiful views. It’s an excellent option for families or groups who prefer a private and flexible journey.
- Cons: Driving on winding mountain roads requires careful attention.
- Tips: Drive carefully, especially on curves. Starting a little early can help if you have a train to catch from Kathgodam.
- Kainchi Dham to Kathgodam by Taxi/Cab:
- Distance: Similar to driving your own car, around 35-43 km.
- Travel Time: Around 1 hour to 1 hour 40 minutes.
- Booking: Taxis are readily available near Kainchi Dham. You can book them through local taxi stands or various online cab services like MakeMyTrip or Goibibo.
- Fares for a private one-way trip can start from around ₹800 to ₹1,500 for a hatchback/sedan. For SUVs, fares might range from ₹1,800 to ₹2,400. Prices will vary based on vehicle type and the operator.
- Pros: Very convenient as you don’t have to worry about driving. You can simply relax and enjoy the scenery. It offers comfortable door-to-door service, and a professional driver handles the mountain roads.
- Cons: Generally more expensive than public transport options, especially for solo travellers.
- Tips: Always confirm the fare, including any extra charges, before starting your journey. Shared taxis/jeeps are also available, often picking up near Kainchi Dham, and cost around ₹100-₹150 per seat, taking about 1.5 hours due to multiple stops.
2. By Bus (Economical and Frequent)
Taking a bus is a very common and economical way to travel from Kainchi Dham to Kathgodam, with frequent services.
- Kainchi Dham to Kathgodam by Bus:
- Distance: Approximately 35-43 km by road.
- Travel Time: Bus journeys typically take around 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours 30 minutes, depending on the number of stops and the specific service.
- Starting Point: Local buses (e.g., Kumaon Motor Owners Union Limited – KMOU) and private bus operators frequently ply this route. You can usually find buses from the main road near Kainchi Dham heading towards Bhowali, Nainital, or directly to Kathgodam/Haldwani.
- Pros: It’s generally a very affordable way to travel. Bus tickets can be as low as ₹100-₹130 (local bus fare) or around ₹650-₹850 for some private AC seater/sleeper buses (though these might be passing through from farther destinations).
- Cons: Buses can be less comfortable than private cars. They make multiple stops, increasing travel time.
- Tips: Inquire about bus timings and availability at the local bus stands or with locals. This is a very common route, so you should find options easily throughout the day.
3. By Train (Not Applicable)
Kainchi Dham does not have a railway station. As mentioned, Kathgodam (KGM) itself is the nearest major railway station. Therefore, you will use road transport to reach Kathgodam from Kainchi Dham to catch a train.
- Nearest Railway Station to Kainchi Dham: Kathgodam (KGM).
- Overall: Train travel is part of a longer journey to or from the region, not for travel between Kainchi Dham and Kathgodam itself.
4. By Air (Not Practical)
Neither Kainchi Dham nor Kathgodam has an airport suitable for commercial flights for direct travel between them. The nearest major operational airport for this region is Pantnagar Airport (PGH). While Pantnagar Airport is approximately 70 km from Kainchi Dham and about 35 km from Kathgodam, flying for such a short road distance within the same mountainous region is not practical or economical.
- Nearest Airport to Kainchi Dham: Pantnagar Airport (PGH).
- Nearest Airport to Kathgodam: Pantnagar Airport (PGH).
- Overall: Not a viable option for this short inter-town travel.
Choosing Your Best Way to Travel
For travel between Kainchi Dham and Kathgodam:
- For convenience, comfort, and directness: A taxi or private car is the best option.
- For budget travellers: The bus or shared taxi/jeep is a reliable and very economical choice.
Given the pleasant and relatively short distance, traveling by road is the ideal way to experience the beautiful descent from Kainchi Dham to the bustling plains gateway of Kathgodam. Enjoy your journey.