Traveling from Mumbai to Nainital is straightforward, with good options by air, train, and road. Here’s a complete, practical guide with all major routes, durations, fares, and tips for 2025.
Fastest Route: Flight to Pantnagar + Taxi
- Pantnagar Airport (PGH) is the nearest airport (about 70km from Nainital).
- Flights: There are no direct nonstop flights, but connecting flights (typically via Delhi) are available daily with IndiGo, Air India, Akasa Air, and others.
- Journey Time:
- Flight: 7–10 hours (including layover)
- Taxi: 1.5–2 hours from Pantnagar to Nainital
- Typical Flight Fares: ₹8,900–₹32,400 (one-way, economy, varies with season and timing)
- Taxi Fare: ₹1,100–₹2,500 from Pantnagar Airport to Nainital
Tip: Book flights at least 2–4 weeks ahead in tourist season for best pricing and schedule. Arrive at Pantnagar by afternoon for safer hill travel.
Budget-Friendly: Train to Kathgodam or Lal Kuan + Road
Nearest railhead:
- Kathgodam (KGM): 34km from Nainital
- Lal Kuan (LKU): 55km from Nainital
Major Trains
- BDTS–RMR SF Express (22975):
- Departs: 05:10 AM from Bandra Terminus (BDTS, Mumbai)
- Arrives: 05:40 AM next day at Lal Kuan (LKU)
- Duration: 24h 30m
- Fare: Starting from ₹670 (sleeper)
- MMCT–KGM SF Special (09075):
- Departs: 11:00 AM from Mumbai Central (MMCT)
- Arrives: 02:30 PM next day at Kathgodam (KGM)
- Duration: 27h 30m
- Fare: Starting from ₹850 (sleeper)
Train bookings: Use IRCTC or major travel sites and book well in advance—seats fill up quickly, especially in summer.
Last Mile to Nainital
- Taxi: ₹800–₹2,000 (1–1.5 hours)
- Shared Jeep: ₹100–₹300 per seat (leaves when full)
- Bus: ₹70–₹200 (frequent daytime departures, less in evening).
Alternate: Flight/Train/Bus via Delhi
- Fly or take a train from Mumbai to Delhi.
- Take a train from Delhi to Kathgodam (6–7 hours, several daily options like Shatabdi and Ranikhet Express).
- Road transfer (taxi, jeep, or bus) from Kathgodam to Nainital (details above).
Advantages: Greater ticket availability; more daily flights and trains to Delhi.
By Bus/Road (Least Recommended Due to Duration)
- No direct Mumbai–Nainital bus.
- Typical route: Mumbai to Delhi by bus/train, then take an overnight bus from Delhi (Anand Vihar ISBT/Kashmiri Gate) to Nainital.
- Total Duration: 34–38 hours
- Fare: ₹1,225–₹3,900 (all segments combined)
- Driving Distance: 1,500–1,700km (20–24 hours by car/taxi, not recommended for most travelers)
Route Comparison Table
| Route | Duration | Typical Fare (₹) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flight to Pantnagar + Taxi | 8–12 hours | 9,000–34,000+ | Fastest, most comfortable |
| Train to Kathgodam/Lal Kuan + Road | 25–29 hours | 670–2,000+ (train + taxi) | Budget option; book well ahead |
| Flight/Train via Delhi | 12–18 hours | 5,000–20,000+ | More frequency, flexible schedules |
| Bus/Road (via Delhi) | 34–38 hours | 1,225–3,900 | Longest, suitable only for budget travelers |
Essential Tips
- Book air/train tickets early in peak months (March–June, October–November).
- Prefer flights for speed; train for scenic, affordable journeys.
- Travel light for easier transfers on the hill segment.
- Nainital hotels: Many offer taxi pick-up from Kathgodam/Pantnagar—prearrange if needed.
- Monsoon & winter: Allow buffer time; hill travel may slow due to weather.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which is the fastest way from Mumbai to Nainital?
A: Flight to Pantnagar, then taxi—journey can be as quick as 8 hours.
Q: Is there a direct train from Mumbai to Nainital?
A: No direct train to Nainital—take BDTS–RMR SF Express or MMCT–KGM SF Special to Kathgodam/Lal Kuan, then continue by road.
Q: Are buses available?
A: No direct Mumbai–Nainital bus; must use a combination via Delhi or self-drive.
Q: Are taxis available at Kathgodam/Pantnagar?
A: Yes, both pre-booked and walk-in taxis are available for all main train/flight arrivals, even late at night.
Nainital is easily accessible from Mumbai with a blend of air, rail, and road options. Choose a flight for speed, a train for value, or combine both for flexibility—and look forward to a smooth Himalayan journey.
