Traveling from Ahmedabad to Nainital is straightforward with several convenient and budget-friendly options by flight, train, bus, and road. Here’s a comprehensive guide covering the best routes, travel times, fares, and practical tips for 2025.
Quick Route Overview
| Mode | Typical Duration | Fare Range (₹) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flight + Taxi | 5.5–10 hours | 8,500–34,800 | Fastest, via Pantnagar, taxi for last leg |
| Train + Taxi | 25–27 hours | 1,300–16,000 | Budget-friendly, scenic, one change |
| Bus | 27–28 hours | 2,100–3,900 | Via Delhi, requires transfers |
| Car/Taxi | 16–18 hours | 11,800–17,100 | Flexible, long drive, comfort for groups |
1. By Flight (Fastest)
- Ahmedabad (AMD) → Pantnagar (PGH) Airport:
- No direct flights—connect through Delhi (most common), some options via Vadodara.
- Flight Duration: 5–10 hours in total (including layover).
- Fare Range: ₹8,500–34,800 (varies by airline, timing, and season).
- Airlines: IndiGo, Air India, often with a single layover.
- Booking: Major travel sites offer flexible, discounted packages.
- Pantnagar Airport to Nainital:
- Distance: 70km
- Travel Time: 1.5–2 hours by taxi
- Taxi Fare: ₹1,100–₹2,500
- Tip: Taxis are available at the airport or can be pre-booked with your Nainital hotel.
2. By Train (Most Economical)
No Direct Train to Nainital
- Nearest Major Stations: Kathgodam (KGM) – about 34km from Nainital; Lal Kuan (LKU) – about 55km from Nainital.
Example Route
- Ahmedabad Jn → Vadodara Jn: By direct train, then
- Vadodara Jn → Kathgodam: Connecting train (examples: Mumbai Central–Kathgodam, details may change seasonally).
- Travel Time: 25–27 hours total (including transfer), not including wait times.
- Fares: Sleeper ₹1,300+, AC classes up to ₹16,000.
Kathgodam/Lal Kuan to Nainital
- Distance: 34–55km by road.
- Taxi Fare: ₹800–₹2,000 (private).
- Shared Jeep: ₹100–₹300; buses also available for daytime travelers.
Booking Tip: Book well in advance for best fares, especially in summer or during holidays.
3. By Bus
- No direct Ahmedabad–Nainital bus.
- Option: Take a bus from Ahmedabad to Delhi (overnight, 15–18 hours), then a connecting Delhi–Nainital bus (7–10 hours).
- Total Duration: 27–28 hours.
- Fare Estimate: ₹2,100–₹3,900 for all legs combined.
- Booking: RedBus, MakeMyTrip, GoIbibo for both segments.
4. By Car or Private Taxi
- Distance: 1,140–1,200km (route via Udaipur, Jaipur, Delhi, Moradabad, Haldwani).
- Estimated Drive Time: 16–18 hours (without long breaks).
- Taxi Fare: ₹11,800–₹17,100 for a one-way sedan/SUV.
- Suggest: Suitable only for groups, experienced drivers, or those seeking flexibility.
Practical Travel Tips
- Book early for all train and flight segments in peak seasons (March–June, October–November).
- Prefer flights for speed, especially if limited on time; train for a scenic budget journey.
- Travel light for easier transfers between train/bus/taxi, especially in the hill segment.
- Weather caution: Monsoon may delay hill road journeys; check forecasts if traveling July–September.
- Arriving late? Pre-book taxis, inform your Nainital hotel for late check-ins.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which is the fastest route from Ahmedabad to Nainital?
A: Flight to Pantnagar (via Delhi) with a taxi for the last stretch—typically 5.5–10 hours in total.
Q: Cheapest way to reach Nainital from Ahmedabad?
A: Take a train to Kathgodam/Lal Kuan, then a taxi, shared jeep, or bus for the hill climb to Nainital.
Q: Are direct flights or trains available?
A: No, all journeys require at least one connection (usually via Delhi or Vadodara for trains, and Delhi for flights).
Ahmedabad is well connected to Nainital via air, rail, and road. Choose a flight for the fastest and most comfortable journey, or travel by train for the best value if you have more time. Either way, plan and book in advance for a smooth Himalayan getaway.
