Traveling from Indore in Madhya Pradesh to Nainital in Uttarakhand involves a mix of train, flight, and road segments. Here’s a clear guide to all major options, including the latest travel times, connections, costs, and practical tips.
Indore to Nainital Distance
- By Road: 1,000–1,125 km
- By Rail: 870–900 km (to the nearest railhead, then a short road journey)
- Aerial (Flight): 790–820 km (to the nearest airport, then taxi/bus)
- Typical Travel Time:
- By Air + Road: 8–11 hours
- By Train + Road: 22–24 hours
- By Road: 18–24 hours
Travel Options from Indore to Nainital
1. By Flight + Taxi (Fastest Option)
- Step 1: Book a flight from Indore (IDR) to Pantnagar Airport (PGH) via Delhi. There are no direct flights.
- Flight Duration: 6–9 hours (including layover)
- Typical Fare: ₹7,500–₹13,000 (one way; fares vary by season and booking time)
- Step 2: From Pantnagar, take a taxi to Nainital (70 km, 1.5–2 hours, ₹1,500–₹2,500).
- Alternative: If Pantnagar flights are not convenient, fly to Delhi and continue by train, taxi, or bus.
2. By Train (Most Budget-Friendly)
- Step 1: Take a train from Indore to Kathgodam (KGM) or Lal Kuan (LKU)—the nearest major railheads to Nainital. Options may require connections via Ratlam, Bareilly, or other junctions.
- There is no daily direct train; connecting trains via Bareilly or Lucknow are common.
- Total Rail Duration: 21–22 hours (including transfers)
- Typical Fare: ₹1,200–₹14,000 depending on class and route
- Step 2: From Kathgodam (34 km) or Lal Kuan (55 km), proceed to Nainital by:
- Taxi: ₹800–₹2,000 (1–1.5 hr)
- Bus/Shared Jeep: Budget options available at stations
3. By Bus (Economical, Longest Duration)
- No direct bus from Indore to Nainital.
- Step 1: Bus from Indore to Delhi (~15 hours)
- Step 2: Bus from Delhi to Nainital or Haldwani/Kathgodam (7–9 hours)
- Total Duration: 22–26 hours
- Fare: ₹1,000–₹2,500 depending on the type
4. By Private Car or Taxi
- Distance: 1,100 km via Agra and Bareilly/Haldwani (NH52/NH30/NH109)
- Driving Time: 18–24 hours
- One-way Taxi Fare: ₹9,600–₹14,000+
- Best for: Groups and families seeking door-to-door convenience with flexible stops
Quick Comparison Table
| Mode | Duration | Fare (Approx.) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flight + Taxi | 8–11 hours | ₹9,000–₹15,500 | Fastest, via Pantnagar & taxi |
| Train + Taxi | 22–24 hours | ₹1,500–₹4,000 | Cheapest, via Kathgodam/Lal Kuan |
| Bus | 22–26 hours | ₹1,000–₹2,500 | Via Delhi, requires 2 buses |
| Car/Taxi | 18–24 hours | ₹10,000–₹14,000 | Flexible, good for groups |
Essential Travel Tips
- Book flights and trains early—especially for holiday or summer travel.
- Indore–Pantnagar flights always transit via Delhi. If unavailable, use Delhi for onward train/bus.
- For trains: Check IRCTC or major platforms for up-to-date schedules from Indore to Kathgodam/Lal Kuan.
- Packing: Travel light for smooth transfers, especially if using buses or shared taxis.
- Weather: Monsoon and winters can add time to the hill drive; allow for buffer time.
- Arrival at Kathgodam/Lal Kuan: Taxis, buses, and shared jeeps are easily available for the last leg.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the fastest way to reach Nainital from Indore?
A: Flight to Pantnagar (via Delhi), then taxi to Nainital (total 8–11 hours).
Q: What is the most economical route?
A: Train from Indore (via Bareilly or Lucknow) to Kathgodam, then shared taxi or bus to Nainital.
Q: Can I drive from Indore to Nainital?
A: Yes—road journey is ~1,100 km, best done over two days if solo; comfortable for groups.
Q: Are there direct trains or flights to Nainital?
A: No. The final stretch from Kathgodam/Lal Kuan/Pantnagar to Nainital is always by road.
In summary:
Reaching Nainital from Indore is straightforward—choose a flight plus taxi for speed, a train plus road segment for affordability, or road travel for flexibility. With good planning and advance bookings, you’ll enjoy a hassle-free journey from Madhya Pradesh to the Kumāon hills of Uttarakhand.
