Pantnagar Airport or Nainital Airport? Which is the Best Option for Travelers

 

Planning a trip to the serene hills of Nainital? One of the first questions that might come to mind is about air connectivity. Let's clear the air—Nainital doesn't have its own airport. However, the nearest airport, Pantnagar Airport, serves as the primary gateway to this picturesque destination. In this guide, we'll explore the details of Pantnagar Airport and how it facilitates travel to Nainital.​

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🛬 Understanding Nainital's Air Connectivity

While Nainital lacks its own airport, Pantnagar Airport (IATA: PGH) is the closest airstrip, located approximately 65–70 kilometers away. This proximity makes it a convenient option for travelers aiming to reach Nainital by air.​

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✈️ Pantnagar Airport: The Gateway to Nainital

Location & Distance: Pantnagar Airport is situated in the Udham Singh Nagar district of Uttarakhand, about 65–70 kilometers from Nainital. The drive from the airport to Nainital typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. ​

Flight Connectivity: Currently, Pantnagar Airport offers regular flights to and from Delhi, primarily operated by regional carriers. This limited connectivity means that travelers from other parts of India or abroad would need to transit through Delhi to reach Pantnagar. 

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🚗 Traveling from Pantnagar Airport to Nainital

Upon arriving at Pantnagar Airport, travelers have several options to reach Nainital:

• Taxi: Hiring a taxi is the most straightforward option. The journey takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, with fares ranging based on vehicle type and season. ​

• Bus: State-run and private buses operate between Pantnagar and Nainital, offering a budget-friendly alternative. However, buses might take longer due to multiple stops.​

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🛤️ Alternative: Traveling via Delhi

For travelers unable to find suitable flights to Pantnagar, Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) serves as a major hub with extensive domestic and international connections. From Delhi, one can:​

• Fly to Pantnagar: Take a connecting flight to Pantnagar, then proceed to Nainital by road.​

• Train to Kathgodam: Board a train to Kathgodam Railway Station, the nearest railhead to Nainital, followed by a road journey of about 1 hour.​

• Direct Road Trip: Embark on a road trip from Delhi to Nainital, covering approximately 300 kilometers in 7 to 8 hours.​

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🏞️ Final Thoughts

While Nainital lacks its own airport, Pantnagar Airport effectively bridges this gap, offering a viable route for air travelers. Despite its limited flight options, its proximity to Nainital makes it a preferred choice for many. For those seeking more flight options, Delhi remains a reliable alternative, albeit with a longer road journey.​

Understanding these travel options ensures a smoother journey to the enchanting hills of Nainital. Whether you choose the direct route via Pantnagar or opt for the broader connectivity of Delhi, the destination's charm awaits you.