Pune, a bustling city in Maharashtra, is well connected to many parts of India. Nainital, a charming hill station nestled in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, is a favorite getaway for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Traveling from Pune to Nainital is popular among tourists looking for a refreshing break from city life.

This guide covers all practical ways to reach Nainital from Pune, including train, bus, car, and flight options. You'll find detailed travel tips, step-by-step plans, and advice on the best times to travel, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable journey to this scenic destination.

Getting from Pune to Nainital – Main Options

By Train

Train travel from Pune to Nainital is a convenient and economical option, though it requires some planning due to the lack of direct trains. Most travelers take a train to Kathgodam, the nearest railhead to Nainital, followed by a road journey.

• Key stations:

  Board trains from Pune Junction (PUNE) to Kathgodam (KGM), typically with a change at Delhi or Moradabad. The total distance is around 1,900 km, and the journey takes approximately 36 to 40 hours depending on the train chosen.

• Ticket costs and classes:

  Sleeper class tickets start from ₹800, while AC 3-tier and 2-tier range between ₹1,500 to ₹3,000. Booking via IRCTC well in advance is recommended due to high demand on this route.

• Comfort and frequency:

  Trains like the Pune–Kathgodam Express run weekly, so checking schedules early is important. AC coaches offer better comfort for the long journey, and trains are generally clean and punctual.

• Last-mile connectivity:

  From Kathgodam station, taxis and shared jeeps are available for the 35 km drive to Nainital, taking about 1.5 hours. Prepaid taxi counters at the station help avoid overcharging.

• Travel tips:

  Night trains are preferable to save daytime for sightseeing. Carry snacks and water, as station food options can be limited en route. Booking lower berth tickets can help with rest during the long journey.

By Bus

Bus travel from Pune to Nainital is less common due to the long distance but possible with multiple changes. It is a budget-friendly option for those who prefer road travel and have time to spare.

• Route and operators:

  No direct buses run this route. Travelers typically take a Pune to Delhi bus (MSRTC or private operators), then switch to a Delhi to Nainital bus operated by Uttarakhand Transport Corporation (UTC).

• Travel time and cost:

  Pune to Delhi buses take around 24 to 28 hours, costing ₹1,200 to ₹2,000. Delhi to Nainital buses take 7 to 8 hours, costing ₹300 to ₹600. Total travel time can exceed 36 hours.

• Comfort and frequency:

  Volvo and deluxe buses are available on Pune–Delhi routes, providing decent comfort. Delhi–Nainital buses run frequently from ISBT Kashmiri Gate, including AC and non-AC options.

• Booking tips:

  Book Pune–Delhi tickets online via MSRTC or private portals. For Delhi–Nainital, tickets can be booked at ISBT or via UTC’s website. Avoid traveling during peak festival seasons to secure seats.

• Challenges:

  Multiple bus changes can be tiring. Delhi traffic congestion may cause delays. Night travel on buses is common but can be uncomfortable for some.

By Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Pune to Nainital is an adventurous option for travelers who enjoy road trips and flexibility. The journey covers roughly 1,900 km and takes about 35 to 40 hours of driving time.

• Route details:

  The most common route is via NH48 to Delhi, then NH9 and NH109 to Nainital. Key cities en route include Mumbai, Vadodara, Udaipur, Jaipur, Delhi, and Haldwani.

• Road conditions and tolls:

  National highways are mostly well-maintained, with multiple toll plazas. The Mumbai–Pune Expressway is smooth and scenic. Mountain roads near Nainital require careful driving, especially in monsoon.

• Stops and accommodations:

  Plan overnight stops in cities like Udaipur or Jaipur to avoid fatigue. Numerous dhabas and restaurants along NH48 offer local cuisine and refreshments.

• Vehicle considerations:

  Ensure your vehicle is serviced before the trip. Carry a spare tire, first aid kit, and sufficient water. Avoid night driving in hilly areas due to limited visibility and wildlife crossings.

• Permits and parking:

  No special permits are needed for this route. In Nainital, parking near Mall Road can be challenging; use designated parking lots or hotel facilities.

By Flight

Flying is the fastest way to cover most of the distance from Pune to Nainital, though there is no airport in Nainital itself. The nearest airport is Pantnagar, about 70 km away.

• Flight options:

  Fly from Pune Airport (PNQ) to Delhi (DEL) or Pantnagar (PGH) with connecting flights. Direct flights to Pantnagar are limited; most travelers fly to Delhi and then take a taxi or bus.

• Flight duration and cost:

  Pune to Delhi flights take around 2 hours, costing ₹3,000 to ₹7,000 depending on the airline and booking time. Delhi to Pantnagar flights take about 1 hour, with fares around ₹2,000 to ₹4,000.

• From airport to Nainital:

  From Pantnagar Airport, taxis and shared cabs are available for the 2-hour drive to Nainital. From Delhi, you can hire a taxi or take a bus for the 7-8 hour journey.

• Booking tips:

  Book flights early for better prices, especially during peak tourist seasons. Use apps like MakeMyTrip or Cleartrip for combined flight and taxi bookings.

• Travel tips:

  Flights can be delayed during monsoon or winter fog. Carry light luggage for easier transfers. Airport transfers in Pantnagar are limited after evening hours.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This simple itinerary helps first-time travelers plan their journey from Pune to Nainital smoothly, balancing comfort and convenience.

• Book your train or flight tickets early:

  Use IRCTC for trains or airline websites/apps for flights. Early booking ensures availability and better fares.

• Reach the departure point early:

  Arrive at Pune railway station or airport at least 1 hour before departure to avoid last-minute rush and complete security checks.

• Prepare for the last leg:

  If arriving at Kathgodam or Pantnagar, pre-book a taxi or shared jeep to Nainital to avoid waiting and overcharging.

• Pack essentials for the hill climate:

  Carry warm clothes, comfortable shoes, and rain gear depending on the season. Also, keep snacks and water handy for long journeys.

• Plan your arrival time:

  Arriving in daylight helps with easier navigation and safer travel on hilly roads. Avoid late-night arrivals in Nainital.

• Arrange local transport in Nainital:

  Use local taxis or rent a scooter to explore the town. Prepaid taxis and Ola/Uber services are available but limited in peak season.

Practical Travel Tips

• Safety on mountain roads:

  Drive cautiously on narrow and winding roads near Nainital. Avoid overtaking and use low gears on steep slopes.

• Food and water:

  Stick to bottled water and eat at popular restaurants or dhabas to avoid stomach issues. Try local Kumaoni cuisine for an authentic experience.

• Booking strategy:

  Use IRCTC for trains and official airline websites for flights. Avoid third-party sellers to prevent scams and inflated prices.

• Local commute in Nainital:

  Shared jeeps are economical for nearby sightseeing. For convenience, use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs, especially during peak tourist seasons.

• Luggage handling:

  Pack light and use sturdy bags. Carry a daypack for essentials during sightseeing to avoid carrying heavy luggage around.

• Seasonal travel warnings:

  Monsoon can cause landslides and roadblocks near Nainital. Winter fog may delay flights and trains; check weather forecasts before traveling.

Best Time & Conditions

The best time to travel from Pune to Nainital depends on weather and tourist seasons. Summer and early autumn offer pleasant weather, while monsoon and winter require caution.

Planning your departure time and route can help avoid traffic and delays, making your journey more enjoyable.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Diwali and Christmas to escape heavy traffic and fully booked accommodations.

• Monsoon (July to September) brings heavy rains and slippery roads; avoid night driving and check for road closures.

• Winter (December to February) can be foggy and cold; flights and trains may face delays, so plan buffer time.

• Early morning departures from Pune help avoid city traffic and ensure timely connections, especially for flights and trains.

Arrival at Nainital & What to Expect

Upon arrival in Nainital, travelers are greeted by a serene hill station known for its beautiful lakes, pleasant climate, and vibrant markets. The town is compact, making it easy to explore on foot or by local transport.

Local commute options include shared jeeps, taxis, and rented scooters. Popular stay areas include Mall Road, Tallital, and Mallital, all close to major attractions like Naini Lake and Snow View Point. Prepaid taxis at Kathgodam station and Pantnagar airport ensure safe transfers to your hotel.

Conclusion

Among the various options, taking a train to Kathgodam followed by a taxi to Nainital is the most balanced choice, combining affordability and comfort. For those short on time, flying to Delhi or Pantnagar and then traveling by road is the fastest way.

With proper planning, early bookings, and attention to seasonal conditions, you can enjoy a hassle-free journey from Pune to Nainital. This guide equips you with all the practical knowledge needed to embark on your trip confidently and make the most of your hill station adventure.