Nainital is about 2,200km from Chennai and is well-connected by air, rail, and a combination of road services. Here’s a step-by-step, practical guide highlighting all major travel options, typical travel times, costs, and essential tips for 2025.
1. By Flight (Fastest & Easiest)
Route: Chennai → Pantnagar (via Delhi) → Nainital
- Nearest airport to Nainital: Pantnagar (PGH), approx. 70km away
- No direct flights: All options require at least one layover, usually at Delhi
- Airlines: IndiGo, Air India, Air India Express operate these routes
- Flight duration: 6–9 hours (including layover in Delhi), can be up to 12 hours based on connection
- Typical fare: ₹7,300–₹13,000 for economy tickets
- Onward journey: From Pantnagar Airport, transfer by taxi or pre-booked cab to Nainital (70km, 1.5–2 hours, fare ₹1,100–₹2,500)
- Flight frequency: 2–7 flights weekly, check availability for your dates
Sample Flight Day Plan:
| Segment | Duration | Fare (₹) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chennai → Pantnagar | 6–9 hr | 7,300–13,000 | 1 stop at Delhi |
| Pantnagar → Nainital | 1.5–2 hr | 1,100–2,500 | Taxi/cab, book ahead or on arrival |
Tips:
- Book at least 2–4 weeks in advance for the best rates, especially in peak tourist seasons
- Flights may operate only on certain days; plan connections to avoid long layovers
- Most Nainital hotels offer airport pickups if booked in advance
2. By Train (Economical Option, Long Duration)
Route: Chennai → Delhi or Kanpur → Kathgodam → Nainital
- No direct train to Nainital: The nearest major station is Kathgodam (KGM), 34km away
- Typical journey: Train from Chennai Central to Delhi (Hazrat Nizamuddin) or Kanpur, then transfer to a north-bound train to Kathgodam
- Total journey time: 40–44 hours (including transfer wait time)
- Train fare: ₹1,700–₹16,000 depending on class and route
- Last leg: Kathgodam to Nainital by taxi, shared jeep, or bus (1–1.5 hours, ₹200–₹1,000)
Sample Train Route:
| Segment | Duration | Fare (₹) |
|---|---|---|
| Chennai – Delhi/Kanpur (train) | 28–32 hr | 1,200–8,000 |
| Delhi/Kanpur – Kathgodam (train) | 5–8 hr | 500–6,000 |
| Kathgodam – Nainital (road) | 1–1.5 hr | 200–1,000 |
Tips:
- Book train tickets well in advance, especially in summer and holidays
- If arriving late in Kathgodam, prearrange transport to Nainital (taxis available outside station)
3. By Bus (Budget, but Longest & Indirect)
- No direct bus Chennai–Nainital; combine bus/train/intra-city transit
- Route suggestion: Bus or train from Chennai to Delhi, transfer to a Delhi–Nainital sleeper/AC bus (7–10 hours, ₹499–₹2,500)
- Total travel time can be 44–48 hours door-to-door, with multiple changes
4. By Road/Car (Not Recommended for Most Travelers)
- Driving distance: 2,150–2,200km
- Time by car: 32–34 hours of non-stop driving
- Cab fare: ₹21,000–₹31,000+ (not including overnight stays, food, tolls)
- Recommended only for multi-driver families/groups with long-road experience
Summary Table: Chennai to Nainital Travel Options
| Mode | Route | Duration | Fare Range (₹) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Flight+Taxi | Chennai–Pantnagar–Nainital | 8–12 hr | 8,000–15,500 | Fastest, most convenient |
| Train+Taxi | Chennai–Delhi/Kanpur–KGM–Nainital | 40–44 hr | 1,700–16,000 | Cheapest, requires connections |
| Bus/Combo | Chennai–Delhi–Nainital | 44–48 hr | 2,800–5,800 | Budget route, slower, not direct |
| Car/Taxi | Chennai–Nainital | 32–34 hr | 21,000–31,000+ | For experienced, group travelers |
Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: What’s the fastest way from Chennai to Nainital?
A: Flight to Pantnagar (via Delhi), then taxi to Nainital; total journey in 8–12 hours. - Q: Cheapest option?
A: Train from Chennai to Kathgodam (via Delhi/Kanpur), then shared cab/bus to Nainital. - Q: Is there a direct flight/train to Nainital?
A: No direct flight/train; last stretch always by road from Pantnagar or Kathgodam. - Q: Are cabs easily available at Pantnagar/Kathgodam?
A: Yes, both pre-booked and on-arrival taxis/service are available at all hours. - Q: When should I book?
A: Book flights/trains 2–4 weeks in advance in high season for best rates and seat confirmation.
Traveling from Chennai to Nainital is smoothest by flying to Pantnagar and taking a scenic 1.5–2 hour taxi ride into the hills. Those seeking to save more can opt for a long train trip to Kathgodam and a short transfer to Nainital town. Early planning and optimized flight or train connections ensure a pleasant, worry-free Himalayan journey.
