Traveling from Bangalore to Nainital by air is efficient and popular, combining a flight with a short scenic drive into the Himalayas. Here is a step-by-step travel guide with flight details, fares, transfer options, and practical planning tips for 2025.
Step 1: Bangalore to Pantnagar by Flight
- Nearest Airport: Pantnagar (PGH), 70km from Nainital.
- Direct Flights: There are no nonstop flights from Bangalore to Pantnagar; all options require one stop, usually in Delhi.
- Airlines: IndiGo, Air India Express, Akasa Air, SpiceJet, Air India.
- Flight Duration: 5–10 hours total (including layover time).
- First & Last Flights: Earliest departures from Bangalore are around 00:15AM and the latest by 11:30PM (subject to seasonal changes).
- Fares: Typically ₹4,000–₹13,000 one-way for economy class, depending on date and carrier.
- Booking: Book through major travel portals (EaseMyTrip, Yatra, MakeMyTrip, GoIbibo) or airline apps.
- Best Practice: Book 2–4 weeks early for the lowest fares, especially during peak tourist months.
Step 2: Pantnagar Airport to Nainital by Road
- Distance: 70km
- Travel Time: 1.5–2 hours by taxi/private car
- Taxi Fare: ₹1,100–₹2,500 (subject to car type and demand)
- Onward Options:
- Private Taxi: Easiest, available at airport exit; pre-booking through the hotel is also common.
- Shared Jeep: Budget-friendly but less frequent than taxis.
- Route Quality: Well-maintained, scenic hillside road with beautiful Himalayan views as you approach Nainital.
Summary Table: Bangalore to Nainital by Air
| Segment | Mode | Duration | Typical Fare (₹) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bangalore → Pantnagar | Flight (1 stop) | 5–10 hr | 4,000–13,000 |
| Pantnagar → Nainital | Taxi/Jeep | 1.5–2 hr | 1,100–2,500 |
Trip Planning & Essential Tips
- Book Early: Limited seat capacity at Pantnagar Airport—plan ahead.
- Daytime Arrival: Plan to land at Pantnagar by afternoon for a daytime drive into the hills.
- Hotel Pickups: Many Nainital hotels offer paid Pantnagar airport transfers—arrange in advance.
- Luggage: Travel light for easy transfers in hill taxis/shared jeeps.
- Weather Checks: Monsoon and winter may cause flight or road delays—monitor forecasts pre-trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a direct flight from Bangalore to Nainital?
No. You must fly to Pantnagar with a layover (usually in Delhi), then take a road transfer to Nainital.
How long is the entire journey?
Typically 7–12 hours (including flight, layover, and drive).
Are taxis readily available at the airport?
Yes, regular taxis and pre-booked hotel cabs serve all flights at Pantnagar. Shared jeeps are also occasionally available.
Is it safe to travel from Pantnagar to Nainital by road?
Yes, the road is well-paved and widely used. Aim for a daylight arrival for best views and easier travel.
Nainital is quickly and comfortably accessible from Bangalore by booking a connecting flight to Pantnagar, then taking a short taxi or jeep ride into the hills. Advance booking and daytime connections ensure a smooth, hassle-free journey.
