Traveling from Kochi Airport (COK) in Kerala to Nainital, Uttarakhand, is straightforward with air and road connectivity. The fastest, most convenient journey involves flying to the nearest airport to Nainital—Pantnagar (PGH)—followed by a short road transfer. Here’s a step-by-step guide with all your options, timings, fares, and tips.
Kochi Airport to Nainital Distance
- By Air + Road: ~2,230 km (Kochi to Pantnagar by flight + Pantnagar to Nainital by car)
- Direct road journey: 2,600+ km (not practical)
- Total Typical Travel Time: 7–12 hours (flight + road, including layover)
Best Routes from Kochi Airport to Nainital
1. By Air: Kochi to Pantnagar + Taxi to Nainital (Fastest & Easiest)
Step 1: Kochi Airport (COK) to Pantnagar Airport (PGH) by Flight
- No direct flights: All flights require at least one layover, usually at Delhi.
- Popular airlines: IndiGo, Air India, Air India Express.
- Frequency: Several connecting options weekly; typical earliest departure is around 09:05 AM, and flights usually connect in Delhi or Bengaluru.
- Flight duration: 7–11 hours (including layover). Total journey time may vary depending on the connection.
Step 2: Pantnagar Airport (PGH) to Nainital
- Distance: ~70 km by road.
- Travel time: 1.5–2 hours by taxi.
- Typical taxi fare: ₹1,100–₹2,500.
- Availability: Taxis are easily available at Pantnagar Airport to take you directly to your hotel in Nainital.
Sample Itinerary for Fastest Journey
| Segment | Mode | Duration | Fare Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kochi–Pantnagar | Flight (1–2 stops) | 7–11 hrs (incl. layover) | ₹10,702–₹16,504 |
| Pantnagar–Nainital | Taxi | 1.5–2 hrs | ₹1,100–₹2,500 |
2. By Air: Kochi to Delhi, Then Train/Taxi/Bus to Nainital
- Step 1: Flight from Kochi Airport to Delhi (3–4 hours; multiple direct daily flights).
- Step 2: From Delhi, continue to Nainital by:
- Train: Board a train from Delhi to Kathgodam (nearest railhead to Nainital), then take a taxi up to Nainital.
- Taxi/Bus: Hire a taxi (7–8 hours, ₹6,500–₹12,000) or take an overnight bus to Nainital.
- Total Duration: 10–15 hours (flight + road/train).
3. By Train (Budget Option)
- Step 1: Take a train from Ernakulam Junction to New Delhi.
- Step 2: Change trains at New Delhi for Kathgodam.
- Step 3: From Kathgodam, take a taxi, bus, or shared jeep for the last 34 km to Nainital.
- Total Duration: 36–48 hours; not recommended for short trips due to duration but is the most cost-effective.
Quick Comparison Table
| Route | Travel Time | Approx. Total Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flight (Kochi–Pantnagar) + Taxi | 7–12 hrs | ₹12,000–₹18,000+ | Fastest, most comfortable |
| Flight (Kochi–Delhi) + Train/Taxi | 10–15 hrs | ₹6,000–₹15,000+ | Flexible, more connections |
| Train (Ernakulam–Kathgodam–Nainital) | 36–48 hrs | ₹2,500–₹4,000+ | Cheapest, longest |
Practical Tips
- Book flights in advance: Especially in holiday/summer season for best fares and connections.
- Pantnagar flights: Not daily—plan your trip according to available connections.
- Last-mile transfer: Taxis at Pantnagar are safe and can be prepaid for ease.
- Weather: Check for possible delays, especially during monsoon or winter.
- Travel well-packed: Take a jacket—Nainital will be much colder than Kochi.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is there a direct flight from Kochi to Nainital?
A: No, you must fly to Pantnagar (nearest airport), usually via Delhi, then take a taxi to Nainital.
Q: What is the fastest way?
A: Flight to Pantnagar, then direct taxi—total journey of 7–12 hours, depending on connections.
Q: Can I get a taxi at Pantnagar Airport?
A: Yes, taxis and shared cabs are readily available throughout the day.
Q: Cheapest options?
A: Train from Kochi to Kathgodam via Delhi, then taxi or bus—much longer but more economical.
Summary
- Fastest: Fly Kochi to Pantnagar (usually via Delhi), then direct taxi to Nainital.
- Alternative: Fly to Delhi, then take train/taxi/bus to Nainital.
- Budget: Train from Kochi to Kathgodam via Delhi, then onward by road.
- Tip: Book everything in advance and check airline schedules, as Pantnagar flights are not always daily.
With these options, you can easily and efficiently plan your journey from Kochi Airport to the lakes and hills of Nainital.
