Nainital, famously known as the “Lake City of India,” is a popular hill station centered around the beautiful Naini Lake, offering boating, scenic views, and a bustling Mall Road. Ranikhet, a serene cantonment town in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, provides a peaceful escape with its lush forests, golf course, and panoramic views of the Himalayas. The journey between these two beloved Kumaon destinations is short, scenic, and very popular among tourists.
Nainital to Ranikhet Distance
The approximate road distance between Nainital and Ranikhet is relatively short, around 55 to 60 kilometers. The journey typically takes about 2 to 2.5 hours by road, making it an easy half-day trip.
How to Reach Nainital To Ranikhet
Given the short distance and the hilly terrain, road travel is the only practical and most efficient way to get from Nainital to Ranikhet.
By Road: The Most Direct and Scenic Way
Road travel is the primary and most recommended method for this route, offering a pleasant drive through the lower Himalayan ranges.
1. Private Taxi or Car Rental
Hiring a private taxi is the most convenient and comfortable option for traveling from Nainital to Ranikhet. You will easily find taxis available at various stands in Nainital, especially around the Mall Road and Tallital/Mallital.
- Journey Details: The road trip usually takes about 2 to 2.5 hours. From Nainital, you will typically travel towards Bhowali and then take the scenic Bhowali-Ranikhet Road. The route is entirely mountainous, featuring winding roads that offer continuous, stunning views of valleys, pine forests, and charming villages. You’ll pass by attractions like Kainchi Dham, a famous ashram, on the way. The roads are generally well-maintained, but an experienced local driver is highly recommended for navigating these hill roads safely.
- Benefits: This option offers maximum flexibility and privacy. You can decide your departure time, stop for breaks, meals, or photo opportunities at scenic spots. It’s ideal for families or groups, ensuring a comfortable and direct transfer to your destination.
- Cost: Taxi fares for this route can vary based on the type of vehicle (e.g., hatchback, sedan, SUV) and the taxi service provider. You can expect one-way fares to range from approximately ₹1,600 to ₹3,500, depending on the car type and season. It’s always advisable to confirm the total fare with the driver before starting your journey.
2. Shared Taxis/Jeeps
For budget-conscious travelers, shared taxis or jeeps are a very popular and economical option for reaching Ranikhet from Nainital.
- Journey Details: You can often find shared jeeps or taxis (like Sumos or Boleros) available at specific stands in Nainital (inquire locally for the exact pick-up points). These vehicles operate on a “fill and go” basis, meaning they depart once all seats are occupied. The route will be similar to that of a private taxi. This might involve a short waiting period for the vehicle to fill up.
- Benefits: This is a very budget-friendly way to travel, suitable for solo travelers or those looking to save money on transportation.
- Considerations: While economical, shared transport can be less comfortable and may involve slightly longer travel times (around 2.5 to 3 hours) due to stops to pick up and drop off other passengers. If you have a lot of luggage, it might be a bit cumbersome.
3. Local Buses
Local buses operated by Uttarakhand Roadways (UTC) and Kumaon Motor Owners Union (KMOU) also ply the route between Nainital and Ranikhet.
- Journey Details: Buses depart from the Nainital bus stand. These are regular public buses that make stops at various towns and villages along the way. The bus journey typically takes around 2.5 to 3 hours. Some online sources indicate a direct bus that takes around 1 hour 15 minutes, but it’s always best to check local timings and availability.
- Benefits: This is the most economical mode of transport.
- Considerations: Buses can sometimes be crowded, and comfort levels are basic. They make several stops, which increases travel time. If you prefer a more direct or comfortable journey, other options might be better. It’s advisable to check bus schedules at the bus stand upon arrival.
By Train: Not a Practical Option
Neither Nainital nor Ranikhet has its own railway station.
- Nearest Railway Station to Ranikhet: Kathgodam (KGM), approximately 75-80 kilometers from Ranikhet.
- How to Travel by Train: While Kathgodam is the railhead for the Kumaon region, it’s not practical to use a train to travel between Nainital and Ranikhet given their proximity and the direct road connection. You would first take a taxi/bus from Nainital to Kathgodam, and then from Kathgodam to Ranikhet. This would be a roundabout way, making the journey longer and more complicated than a direct road trip.
By Air: Not a Practical Option
Neither Nainital nor Ranikhet has its own airport for commercial flights.
- Nearest Airport to Ranikhet: Pantnagar Airport (PGH), approximately 115-120 kilometers from Ranikhet.
- How to Travel by Air: Traveling from Nainital to Pantnagar Airport by taxi (approximately 2.5-3 hours drive) and then from Pantnagar Airport to Ranikhet (approximately 3-4 hours drive) is highly inefficient and expensive for this specific route.
Important Tips for Your Journey
- Road Conditions: The roads between Nainital and Ranikhet are mountainous and winding. They are generally well-maintained, but as with all hill roads, caution is advised.
- Weather: Check the weather forecast before you travel. Ranikhet’s weather is generally cooler than Nainital’s, especially during evenings. Pack appropriate clothing.
- Enjoy the Views: The journey itself is incredibly scenic, offering constant views of the lush Kumaon hills and forests. Keep your camera ready!
In conclusion, the most straightforward and recommended way to travel from Nainital to Ranikhet is by road, with private taxis offering the most comfortable and flexible option, and shared taxis/buses providing a budget-friendly alternative for this short and beautiful mountain journey.
