Nainital is accessible from Mumbai via flight plus a short taxi ride from the nearest airport, Pantnagar. Here is a comprehensive, step-by-step guide for 2025.
Step 1: Fly Mumbai to Pantnagar
- Nearest Airport: Pantnagar (PGH), about 70km from Nainital.
- No direct flights: All services are 1-stop (usually with a layover in Delhi or Lucknow).
- Main Airlines: IndiGo, Air India Express, Akasa Air, Air India, SpiceJet.
- Flight Duration: 5–10 hours total (including layover); actual flying time (if nonstop) is ~2 hours, but total is longer due to transfers.
- Daily Schedule: First flight departs Mumbai around 01:15AM, last flight at 11:45PM; up to 5+ options daily.
- Typical Fare: ₹5,169–₹14,655+ (economy, one way; varies by date, seat class, pre-booking).
- Baggage Allowance: Most airlines allow 7kg carry-on and 15–20kg checked baggage for economy class.
| Flight Segment | Airlines | Typical Duration | Sample Fare (₹) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mumbai → Pantnagar | IndiGo, Air India Express, Akasa | 5–10 hr (1 stop) | 5,169–14,655 |
Booking tip: Book flights 2–4 weeks early for best rates. Check schedules for same-day transfers in Nainital.
Step 2: Pantnagar Airport to Nainital by Taxi
- Distance: 70km
- Travel Time: 1.5–2.5 hours depending on season and traffic
- Taxi Fare: ₹1,100–₹2,500 for private cars (some deluxe services up to ₹4,000 in peak season); shared jeeps are cheaper but less frequent.
- How to Book: Book on arrival at Pantnagar Airport, through online cab apps, or ask your Nainital hotel to organize a pickup.
- On-road route: Pantnagar → Haldwani → Kathgodam → Jeolikote → Nainital.
| Segment | Mode | Typical Time | Fare Range (₹) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pantnagar → Nainital | Taxi/Jeep | 1.5–2.5 hr | 1,100–2,500 |
Alternate Air Routes
- Mumbai → Delhi: Frequent daily flights (~2 hours). Then complete the journey to Nainital by train, bus, or taxi (Delhi–Nainital: 6–10 hours by road).
- Mumbai → Bareilly or Dehradun: Very limited flights; Pantnagar remains the best airport for Nainital access.
Essential Tips
- Advance booking: Flights and taxis fill quickly in summer/holiday seasons.
- Optimal arrival: Arrive at Pantnagar by 2:00PM for daylight transfer into the hills.
- Travel light: Hill taxis and jeeps may have limited trunk space.
- Hotel Pickup: Many hotels in Nainital offer pre-paid pickup—ask during hotel booking.
- Weather caution: During monsoon (July–September) or winter, check for possible flight or road delays.
- Return fares: Booking round-trip flights can offer extra savings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are there direct flights from Mumbai to Nainital?
A: No; fly Mumbai to Pantnagar with usually one stop.
Q: Is the Pantnagar to Nainital route safe and scenic?
A: Yes—the route climbs gently into the Kumaon hills and is well-maintained.
Q: Are taxis shared or private?
A: Both are available, but private taxi is most reliable for immediate transfer.
Nainital is easily reached from Mumbai by booking a connecting flight to Pantnagar, then taking a taxi for the last scenic 70km ride into the hills. Advance planning and coordination between flight and ground transport ensure a fast and comfortable trip.
