How to Reach Allahabad To Ranikhet

Given the significant distance, traveling from Allahabad to Ranikhet requires considering a combination of transport modes. Here’s a detailed look at your options:

By Road: A Long but Direct Option

While it’s a long journey, traveling by road offers the most direct route and flexibility, allowing you to enjoy the changing landscapes.

1. Private Taxi or Car Rental

Hiring a private taxi or renting a car is often the most comfortable and convenient option for this long route. You can book a cab for a one-way trip or a round trip from Allahabad. Various taxi services provide different types of vehicles, from comfortable sedans to spacious SUVs, suitable for long journeys.

Journey Details: The road trip from Allahabad to Ranikhet is lengthy, usually taking 12 to 15 hours. The common route would involve driving through Uttar Pradesh, possibly via cities like Lucknow or Bareilly, and then continuing towards the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand. Once you enter Uttarakhand, the journey will take you through towns like Haldwani and Bhowali before reaching Ranikhet. The initial part of the journey across the plains will involve highways that are generally in good condition. As you approach the hills, the roads become winding, offering increasingly scenic views but also requiring more careful driving.

Benefits: This option provides maximum flexibility regarding departure time, stops, and comfort. It’s ideal for families or groups who prefer a direct and private mode of transport.

Cost: Taxi fares for such a long distance can be substantial. For a one-way trip, expect fares to start from around ₹9,500 to ₹12,000 or more, depending on the car type, service provider, and whether toll charges and driver allowances are included. It’s crucial to confirm all costs upfront.

2. Bus Services

Direct bus services from Allahabad to Ranikhet are generally not available. However, you can opt for buses from Allahabad to major transport hubs in Uttarakhand, such as Haldwani or Kathgodam. From these points, you can then take local buses or shared taxis to Ranikhet.

Journey Details: Buses from Allahabad (Prayagraj) to Haldwani or Kathgodam can take anywhere from 12 to 17 hours, sometimes even longer, depending on traffic and the number of stops. Some private bus operators might offer sleeper buses for this long route, which can make the journey more comfortable. Once you reach Haldwani or Kathgodam, Ranikhet is another 2-3 hours away by road.

Benefits: Bus travel is typically the most budget-friendly option for this route.

Considerations: This option will involve multiple transfers and can be more tiring than a private car. It’s essential to check bus schedules and book tickets in advance, especially during peak travel periods. Comfort levels on public buses can vary significantly.

By Train: A Popular and Comfortable Option

While Ranikhet does not have its own railway station, combining a train journey with a shorter road trip is often considered the most balanced and comfortable way to travel from Allahabad.

Nearest Railway Station to Ranikhet:

Kathgodam (KGM): This is the closest major railway station to Ranikhet, situated about 75-80 kilometers away. Kathgodam is a well-connected railhead, serving as the gateway to the Kumaon hills, with good train connectivity from various parts of India, including Uttar Pradesh.

How to Travel from Allahabad by Train:

Allahabad (Prayagraj) to Kathgodam: You should look for trains connecting Prayagraj Junction (PRYJ) or other stations in Allahabad to Kathgodam. There are direct trains or trains with one change, usually at a major junction like Kanpur or Lucknow, that go towards Kathgodam. For example, some routes might involve taking a train from Prayagraj to Kanpur Central, and then a connecting train from Kanpur Central to Kathgodam. The train journey from Allahabad to Kathgodam can range from 12 to 16 hours. You might find trains like the Triveni Express that connect the region, though specific direct routes to Kathgodam from Allahabad should be checked on railway websites.
From Kathgodam to Ranikhet: Once you arrive at Kathgodam railway station, you will find numerous taxis (private and shared) and local buses readily available outside the station. The drive from Kathgodam to Ranikhet is scenic, ascending through the hills, and typically takes about 2 to 3 hours.

Benefits: Train travel is generally more comfortable and less tiring for long distances compared to continuous road travel. It also offers a chance to relax and enjoy the journey.

Considerations: Booking train tickets well in advance, especially for popular routes and during holiday seasons, is highly recommended as tickets can sell out quickly. You’ll need to coordinate your train arrival with your onward taxi or bus from Kathgodam.

By Air: The Fastest but Most Indirect Way

Flying can drastically reduce travel time for the major portion of the journey, but it still requires significant road travel to reach Ranikhet.

Nearest Airport to Ranikhet:

Pantnagar Airport (PGH): This is the closest airport to Ranikhet, located approximately 115-120 kilometers away. Pantnagar is a domestic airport with limited flight connectivity.

How to Travel from Allahabad by Air:

Allahabad (Prayagraj) to Pantnagar: There are generally no direct flights from Allahabad (Prayagraj) to Pantnagar. You would typically need to take a connecting flight, usually via Delhi. This would involve flying from Allahabad’s Bamrauli Airport (IXD) to Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL), and then taking another connecting flight from Delhi to Pantnagar. The total flying time, including layovers, can make this a long process (easily 6-10 hours or more).
From Pantnagar to Ranikhet: Upon arrival at Pantnagar Airport, you can hire a private taxi or find a shared cab to Ranikhet. The drive from Pantnagar to Ranikhet takes about 3-4 hours, navigating through the scenic Kumaon hills.

Benefits: This is the fastest way to cover the long distance between the two cities.

Considerations: This is usually the most expensive travel option due to multiple flight segments. Flight schedules to Pantnagar are limited, and cancellations or delays can impact your plans. This method involves multiple transfers (airport transfers, flights, and then a road journey), which can be cumbersome.

Important Advice for Your Journey

Plan Ahead: For such a long journey, especially if combining different modes of transport, careful planning of schedules and bookings is crucial.

Pack Wisely: As you move from the plains to the hills, temperatures will change. Carry layers of clothing, including some warm wear, regardless of the season, as mountain weather can be unpredictable.

Stay Hydrated and Take Breaks: Long journeys can be tiring. Ensure you stay hydrated and take regular breaks if traveling by road to avoid fatigue.

Road Conditions in Hills: While major roads are well-maintained, the hilly sections leading to Ranikhet involve winding roads. If driving yourself, be cautious. During the monsoon season (July to September), be aware of potential landslides or slippery road conditions.

Enjoy the Transition: The journey from the historical and spiritual city of Allahabad to the tranquil beauty of Ranikhet offers a remarkable transition in landscape and atmosphere. Take time to enjoy the changing scenery.

Regardless of your chosen mode of transport, a trip from Allahabad to Ranikhet promises to be an enriching experience, offering a blend of cultural exploration and natural serenity.

How to Reach Allahabad To Ranikhet

Allahabad to Ranikhet Distance