Welcome to The Nainital Guide, your trusted travel companion for exploring the charming hill town of Nainital. Nestled in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, Nainital is famous for its sparkling Naini Lake, misty mountains, and serene landscapes that draw travelers from all across India and abroad.
If you’re planning your next getaway to this peaceful hill station, one of the first questions that might come to mind is — “What is the Nainital Nearest Airport?” Understanding the best way to reach Nainital can make your journey more comfortable and well-planned.
In this detailed travel guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about how to reach Nainital — whether by air, road, or train. From flight details and nearby airports to scenic road routes and rail connections, you’ll find all the essential travel tips right here to make your trip seamless, stress-free, and filled with beautiful memories of the Lake City.
Why Knowing the Nainital Nearest Airport Matters
When you’re planning a trip to the mountains, especially a destination as popular as Nainital in Uttarakhand, even the smallest travel details can make a big difference. The journey to the hills is just as memorable as the destination itself — but only if it’s well planned. That’s why knowing the Nainital nearest airport is so important before you pack your bags.
Choosing the right airport doesn’t just save time — it can also affect your overall travel experience, budget, and comfort level. For example, some travelers prefer shorter road trips after their flight, while others might enjoy a scenic mountain drive. Knowing your airport options helps you plan accordingly.
When you’re aware of which airport is closest to Nainital, you can easily book the most convenient flight, arrange reliable ground transportation, and even coordinate your itinerary better — whether you’re visiting for a quick weekend escape, a romantic honeymoon, or a peaceful solo trip. It ensures that your journey to the “Lake City of India” starts smoothly and without any last-minute confusion.
Ultimately, understanding your best route to reach Nainital means more time enjoying the lake views, the café culture, and the peaceful mountain air, instead of worrying about logistics. So let’s dive deeper and explore which airports bring you closest to this Himalayan gem.
The Nainital Nearest Airport by Air
Pantnagar Airport – the closest option
The airport that is considered the Nainital Nearest Airport is the Pantnagar Airport (IATA: PGH), located in the Udham Singh Nagar district of Uttarakhand. It lies approximately 60-70 kilometres from the heart of Nainital. Flights from major hubs (e.g., Delhi) connect to Pantnagar, making it the most convenient air access point. After landing, you’ll need a taxi or cab for the onward road journey to Nainital — typically 1.5 to 2.5 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.
For more details about flight schedules and airport information, visit the Pantnagar Airport Wikipedia page.
Other Airport Options & Why They’re Secondary
If for any reason you can’t fly into Pantnagar (limited flights, seasonal weather, etc.), the next best options include Indira Gandhi International Airport (Delhi) and other airports farther away. As per Rome2Rio, Pantnagar is still the “recommended airport” for Nainital.
Clearly, considering travel time, costs and convenience, flying into Pantnagar remains the preferred gateway to Nainital.
Road Journey After Air Landing
From Pantnagar to Nainital by Road
Once you land at Pantnagar, hiring a taxi or using a pre-booked car is the easiest way to reach Nainital. The drive covers roughly 60-70 km and winds through scenic roads with views of the hills, terraced fields and pine forests. According to multiple sources, the drive typically takes around 2-3 hours.
Pre-booked taxi services (through local operators or your travel partner) help avoid delays and ensure you’re picked up on time.
Road Trip from Delhi or Other Major Cities
If you’re driving or taking a road-trip from Delhi or nearby cities, you’ll bypass the airport part and come directly via major highways (for example NH-109 or older NH-87). Sources mention the drive from Delhi takes about 7 hours.
Given the scenic views en-route, many travellers choose to break the journey — stay overnight en-route, enjoy local cuisine and then arrive fresh in Nainital.
Reaching Nainital by Train
The Nearest Railhead – Kathgodam
While focusing on the “Nainital Nearest Airport,” it’s important to also know about the train option, especially when flights are not available. The Kathgodam Railway Station serves as the major railhead for Nainital, located about 35-41 km from Nainital proper.
From Kathgodam, taxis and local transports ferry passengers into Nainital with ease.
Combined Travel via Train + Road
For travellers who prefer rail travel, the strategy is: catch a train to Kathgodam → pick up a taxi from Kathgodam → reach Nainital. This route is useful especially during bad weather or when airports are full.
Book your train tickets in advance via IRCTC, and coordinate the onward road journey ahead of time for seamless arrival.
Best Time & Seasonal Tips for Using the Nainital Nearest Airport
Peak Seasons at Nainital
If you are planning to visit during peak seasons (March-June, October-December), arranging your flight into Pantnagar early and pre-booking your taxi will save hassle. Roads may get busy and hotel-availability may reduce.
Winter & Weather Considerations
Winter, especially December to February, brings snow and fog which can disrupt flights or road travel. The Pantnagar airport and connecting roads may face delays due to weather conditions.
Monsoon Travel
Monsoon season (July-September) brings lush greenery and mist-covered hills but also increased chances of landslides or roadblocks. If you fly in, ensure your travel partner monitors road conditions from Pantnagar onwards.
Booking Tips & Practical Advice
Flights
Since Pantnagar Airport is the Nainital nearest airport, it operates limited flights from major cities like Delhi. That’s why it’s always smart to book your flight well in advance, especially during weekends, long holidays, or festive seasons when demand spikes. Keep an eye on airline schedules — as timings may vary due to weather conditions in the Kumaon hills. Early morning flights are usually more reliable and provide ample time to reach Nainital before evening.
Taxi & Car Rentals from Pantnagar
Once you land at Pantnagar, the best way to reach Nainital comfortably is by pre-booking a taxi or private cab. The journey from Pantnagar Airport to Nainital takes about 2.5 to 3 hours through scenic forested roads and local villages. Many local travel operators — including The Nainital Guide — provide reliable car rental and driver services that ensure door-to-door pickup, safe driving in hilly terrain, and even sightseeing stops along the way. Pre-booking avoids last-minute price hikes and guarantees a smooth start to your mountain trip.
Multi-Modal Backup Plan
It’s always smart to have a Plan B, especially when traveling in the hills. Pantnagar flights may sometimes face delays or cancellations due to weather. In such cases, Kathgodam Railway Station is your next best alternative — it’s well connected to Delhi and Dehradun by daily trains. Alternatively, you can take a road trip from Delhi to Nainital (approx. 6–7 hours), which is scenic and convenient. Having this multi-modal backup means your vacation stays stress-free, no matter what happens with your flight schedule.
Luggage & Arrival Timing
If your flight lands late in the evening at Pantnagar, it’s best to avoid driving to Nainital at night, as mountain roads can get foggy and less lit. Instead, book an overnight stay near Pantnagar or in Haldwani, which offers several good hotels and restaurants. Start early the next morning to enjoy the scenic drive up to Nainital in daylight. Also, keep your luggage light and easy to carry since you’ll likely be switching between car and hotel transfers during the journey.
Focus on Your Stay in Nainital After Arrival
Now that you’ve sorted out the Nainital nearest airport and reached the hill town, the next important step is choosing the right place to stay. Nainital offers a wide range of accommodations — from budget hotels near the lake to luxury resorts overlooking the snow-capped peaks. If you want easy access to boating, shopping, and cafés, choose a stay around Mallital or Tallital. For a peaceful retreat, look for villas or cottages in Ayarpatta or Pangot, surrounded by forests and birdlife. Always read guest reviews, check photos, and compare locations before booking to ensure comfort, good views, and convenience to local attractions.
For comfortable stays and local recommendations, check out my blog on the Best Hotels & Homestays in Nainital.
The nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport, about 60-70 km from Nainital.
Yes—there are limited flights from Delhi and regional cities to Pantnagar. However connectivity may vary by season.
Safety & Health Considerations
Altitude & Weather
Although Nainital is located at a moderate altitude of around 2,000 meters above sea level, visitors coming from low-lying cities like Delhi or Lucknow should take it easy on the first day to adjust comfortably. The air is crisp and fresh, but it can feel thinner for some. Carry light woollens or jackets even during summer, as mornings and evenings can be surprisingly cool. In winter, pack proper thermal layers and shoes with good grip to move safely around icy patches.
Road Conditions
The road journey from Pantnagar Airport to Nainital offers beautiful views but requires careful driving, especially during monsoon and winter months. Some stretches can be narrow, steep, or slippery, particularly when it rains or snows. Always hire experienced local drivers familiar with hill terrain, and avoid night travel if possible. Keeping a small first-aid kit, water, and snacks handy for longer drives is a smart idea.
Airport & Transport Delays
Since Pantnagar is a regional airport in the Kumaon region, weather conditions like fog, rain, or snowfall can occasionally lead to flight delays or cancellations. It’s wise to plan your itinerary with a buffer day, especially if you have connecting travel plans. During peak tourist seasons, pre-book taxis or shared cabs early to avoid last-minute hassle. Staying flexible and updated about local weather will ensure a smooth and stress-free journey.
Conclusion
Landing via Nainital Nearest Airport at Pantnagar gives you the perfect start to your memorable hill-station retreat. With the support of The Nainital Guide, you can handle your arrival, travel, stay, and experiences in Nainital with ease. Whether you’re gazing at Naini Lake, strolling Mall Road, or exploring nearby trails, your journey begins the moment your wheels touch ground. Book smart, travel safe, and savour every moment of your stay in Nainital.
Once you arrive, let the calm mountain air and misty surroundings wash away the noise of city life. Enjoy a cup of hot tea by the lake, or take a scenic drive to nearby viewpoints like Snow View Point or Tiffin Top. With convenient airport access, seamless transfers, and helpful travel services from The Nainital Guide, your trip becomes more about relaxation and less about planning. Experience the true charm of Uttarakhand’s lake district—where every view feels like a postcard and every moment feels timeless.
The most convenient way is to hire a taxi or pre-booked car from Pantnagar to your hotel in Nainital, taking about 2-3 hours. You can also plan an overnight stop if arrival is late.