Nearest Airport to Nainital: Nainital is situated in the foothills of the Himalayas in Uttarakhand. It is one of India’s most popular hill stations, known for its scenic landscapes, peaceful lakes, and pleasant weather. While Nainital itself does not have an airport, several nearby airports provide suitable access for travelers looking to explore this beautiful destination. Here’s a detailed guide on the nearest airports to Nainital and how to reach the hill station from each:
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Nearest Airport to Nainital:
Pantnagar Airport (PGH)
- Distance from Nainital: Approximately 65 km (1.5 – 2 hours by road)
- Overview: Pantnagar is the closest airport to Nainital, located about 65 kilometers away. It is a small domestic airport that primarily serves flights from Delhi, and it is the most convenient option for those traveling to Nainital. From Pantnagar Airport, you can take a taxi or hire a private vehicle to reach Nainital. The journey takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, offering scenic views of the Kumaon region.
- Airport Facilities: Pantnagar Airport is a small facility with basic amenities, including a waiting area and transportation services. It is best suited for domestic travelers as flight options are limited compared to larger airports.
Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi (DEL)
- Distance from Nainital: Approximately 300 km (6-7 hours by road)
- Overview: Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi is one of the busiest and most well-connected airports in India, offering a wide range of international and domestic flights. Although it’s farther from Nainital, Delhi is a major gateway for travelers from all parts of the world. After landing in Delhi, you can either take a domestic flight to Pantnagar (if available) or travel by road to Nainital. The road journey from Delhi to Nainital is about 6-7 hours and offers a comfortable and scenic route.
- Airport Facilities: Delhi Airport is a world-class facility with a variety of services, including shopping, dining, lounges, and transport options. It’s an ideal choice for international travelers and those connecting from major cities across India.
Dehradun Jolly Grant Airport (DED)
- Distance from Nainital: Approximately 280 km (6-7 hours by road)
- Overview: Located in Dehradun, Jolly Grant Airport is another viable option for travelers heading to Nainital. The airport is well-connected to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and other parts of India with regular domestic flights. From Dehradun, Nainital is approximately 6-7 hours away by road, and you can travel by taxi, bus, or private vehicle. The drive is scenic and takes you through beautiful landscapes of Uttarakhand.
- Airport Facilities: Jolly Grant Airport is a small domestic airport with basic amenities. However, it offers enough services for passengers flying in from other cities. It’s a good choice for those looking for alternative access to Nainital.
Chandigarh International Airport (IXC)
- Distance from Nainital: Approximately 350 km (7-8 hours by road)
- Overview: Chandigarh International Airport is an international gateway and serves a range of domestic and international flights. Though it is a bit farther from Nainital (around 7-8 hours by road), it can be a good option if you’re traveling from international destinations or major cities not directly connected to the smaller airports in Uttarakhand. From Chandigarh, you can take a cab or hire a private vehicle to Nainital.
- Airport Facilities: Chandigarh Airport is a modern facility with a variety of services, including duty-free shopping, lounges, and food outlets. It’s a convenient airport for both domestic and international travelers.