Nainital in Uttarakhand attracts tourists from across India and beyond. Situated in the lake district of India, Nainital is known for its beauty and is a sought-after destination throughout the year. This guide explores key aspects of visiting Nainital, including how to reach by exploring Nainital’s nearest railway station, things to explore in the town and real estate.
Kathgodam railway station (KGM): Nearest railway station to Nainital
Kathgodam station is the nearest railway station to Nainital, located 41 km away. The station is well-connected to major Indian cities like Delhi, Lucknow and Kolkata.
- Station code: KGM
- Zone: North-eastern railway
- Grade: D
- Number of platforms: 3
Some of the important trains that pass through the Kathgodam station:
- KGM Garib Rath (12255),
- Ranikhet Express (15014),
- Jan Shatabdi Spl (02091),
- Lucknow KGM Express (15043),
- NDLS KGM Express (12040)
Other stations
Haldwani railway station (HDW)
Haldwani Railway Station is a single broad-gauge station in Nainital district, Uttarakhand, located 42 km from Nainital city.
- Station code: HDW
- Zone: North-eastern railway
- Grade: D
- Number of platforms: 3
Some of the important trains that pass through the Haldwani Railway Station:
- Moradabad Kathgodam Passenger (55303),
- Bagh Express (13019),
- Anand Vihar Trm Kathgodam Sht (12040),
- Dehradun Kathgodam Express (14120),
- Ranikhet Express (15013)
Lalkuan Junction railway station (LKU)
Lal Kuan Junction falls under Ijjatnagar railway division of the North-Eastern railways and is situated 60.7 km away from Nainital city.
- Station code: LKU
- Zone: North-eastern railway
- Grade: C
- Number of platforms: 4
Some of the important trains that pass through the Lalkuan Railway Station:
- Lal Kuan Bareilly City Passenger (55348),
- Ramnagar Bandra Terminus Express (19062),
- LKU Ndls Ac Spl (02039),
- Jammu Garib Rath (12207),
- Ramnagar Express (19061)
See also: All about Uttarakhand Airports
How to reach Nainital?
By air
The Pant Nagar Airport, 72 km from Nainital, is the nearest airport. Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi, 300 km away, also provides connectivity. Taxis from Pant Nagar Airport are readily available.
By train
The Kathgodam Railway Station, 41 km from Nainital, is a major railhead. Trains like 5013A Ranikhet Exp and 5308 Nainital Express offer convenient travel options. Buses and taxis are easily accessible from Kathgodam to Nainital.
By road
Nainital is well connected by roads and the journey from Kathgodam takes approximately one hour. The National Highway 87 connects Nainital and buses are available from ISBT Anand Vihar in Delhi.
Things to explore in Nainital
Naini Lake
Address: 9FM7+57Q, Ayarpatta, Nainital, Uttarakhand 263002
Famous for boating, Naini Lake offers a majestic view surrounded by seven peaks. Boats are available for 30 to 60 minutes, allowing visitors to enjoy the scenic beauty.
Tiffin Top
Address: 9FM2+F63, Ayarpatta, Nainital, Naina Range, Uttarakhand 263002
A popular picnic spot, Tiffin Top provides a breathtaking view of Nainital and the Kumaon hills. It’s an ideal place for trekking and horse rides.
Naina Devi Temple
Address: Ayarpatta, Nainital, Uttarakhand 263002
Dedicated to Goddess Naina Devi, this temple is a spiritual hub and a significant pilgrimage site. It is believed to be one of the 64 Shakti Peethas in India.
Raj Bhawan
Address: 9FF4+GH3, Amghari, Nainital, Naina Range, Uttarakhand 263002
Built by the British in 1924, Raj Bhawan resembles Buckingham Palace. The 113-room palace is surrounded by an 18-hole golf club with unique flora and fauna.
Jim Corbett National Park
Address: Nainital District, Ramnagar, Uttarakhand 244715
The Jim Corbett National Park is rich in biodiversity and is also the oldest national park in India. It is nothing less than a haven for wildlife enthusiasts.
See also: Best things to do and places to visit in Nainital
Shopping in Nainital
Mall Road
Address: Mall Road, Nainital, Uttarakhand
Bara Bazar
Address: Bara Bazar, Mallital, Nainital, Uttarakhand 263001
Tibetan Market
Address: 9FQ3+PH6, Ayarpatta, Nainital, Uttarakhand 263001
Bhotia Bazaar
Address: 9FQ3+PH6, Ayarpatta, Nainital, Uttarakhand 263001
Must-buy items from all markets: scented candles, artificial jewellery, trinkets and handicrafts
Where to stay in Nainital?
The Naini Retreat
Address: Ayarpatta Slopes, Mallital, Nainital, Uttarakhand 263002
A heritage hotel offering a unique blend of history and luxury.
ROSASTAYS Nainital Bara Bungalow
Address: H.No.45, Bara Bungalow – Vienna Cottage, Dhampur Bend, Mallital, Nainital, Naina Range, Uttarakhand 263001
A heritage resort providing a comfortable stay with a touch of history.
Sterling Nainital
Address: 7th Milestone, Jokhia, Nainital – Bhowali Rd, Uttarakhand 263132
A luxurious 3-star accommodation offering mountain views and good service.
The Willow Way
Address: Emily Cottage Compound Sherwood, Barapathar Road, Mallital, Nainital, Uttarakhand 263001
A cottage-structured hotel providing comfortable amenities for a pleasant stay.
Hotel Cloud 7
Address: The Mall Road, opposite Allahabad Bank, Mallital, Nainital, Uttarakhand 263002
An affordable 2-star option for budget-conscious travellers.
Royal Windsor Hotel
Address: Rani Bagh, Bareilly – Nainital Road, Chhoti Haldwani, Uttarakhand 263126
A budget-friendly 1-star hotel catering to basic accommodation needs.
Real estate in Nainital
Residential property in Nainital
Nainital offers serene surroundings, making it an attractive location for residential properties. The peaceful environment and proximity to nature make it an ideal choice for homeowners.
Commercial property in Nainital
Investors seeking commercial properties in Nainital can explore opportunities in the bustling marketplaces. Tourism-driven businesses thrive smoothly in Nainital.
Price range of properties in Nainital
Avg. price per sqft: Rs 5,320
Price range per sqft: Rs 1,554 to Rs 12,666
Apartments
| Locality | Avg. price / Sqft | Price range / sqft |
| Mukteshwar | Rs 5,255 | Rs 3,600 to Rs 10,824 |
| Sukha | Rs 3,677 | Rs 2,446 to Rs 4,888 |
| Bhimtal | Rs 4,695 | Rs 2,750 to Rs 16,666 |
| Ramnagar | Rs 3,116 | Rs 2,962 to Rs 3,272 |
| Dhanachuli | Rs 6,150 | Rs 5,419 to Rs 6,443 |
| Subhash Nagar | Rs 8,055 | Rs 4,566 to Rs 9,061 |
| Mallital | Rs 8,544 | Rs 6,006 to Rs 10,666 |
| Ramgarh | Rs 5,833 | Rs 5,833 to Rs 5,833 |
Independent houses
| Locality | Avg. price / Sqft | Price range / sqft |
| Haldwani | Rs 4,098 | Rs 1,180 to Rs 8,095 |
| Ramnagar | Rs 4,853 | Rs 1,350 to Rs 11,764 |
| Dhanachuli | Rs 3,400 | Rs 3,400 to Rs 3,400 |
| Tallital | Rs 5,204 | Rs 2,500 to Rs 10,769 |
| Subhash Nagar | Rs 3,213 | Rs 2,055 to Rs 4,583 |
Villas
| Locality | Avg. price / Sqft | Price range / sqft |
| Mukteshwar | Rs 4,818 | Rs 1000 to Rs 12,826 |
| Sukha | Rs 5,623 | Rs 4,166 to Rs 8,000 |
| Haldwani | Rs 4,341 | Rs 1,700 to Rs 12,777 |
| Bhimtal | Rs 5,749 | Rs 3,000 to Rs 13,978 |
| Dhanachuli | Rs 4,684 | Rs 3,200 to Rs 6,444 |
| Naukuchiatal | Rs 5,197 | Rs 3,131 to Rs 7,200 |
| Ayarpatta | Rs 2,250 | Rs 2,250 to Rs 2,250 |
FAQs
When is the best time to visit Nainital?
The best time to to pay a visit to Nainital is from March to June and October to February is also pleasant.
Which is the nearest airport to Nainital?
The Pant Nagar Airport, located 72 km away, is the nearest airport to Nainital.
How far is Nainital from Kathgodam Railway Station?
Nainital is around 41 km away from Kathgodam Railway Station.
What are the popular shopping destinations in Nainital?
Mall Road, Bara Bazaar, Tibetan Market and Bhotia Bazaar are popular shopping spots in Nainital.
What is the major attraction of Nainital?
Naini Lake, surrounded by seven peaks, is a major attraction known for boating.
Which is the oldest national park in India?
The Jim Corbett National Park in Nainital is the oldest national park in India.
Which is the best place for trekking and horse rides in Nainital?
Tiffin Top is a very popular spot for trekking and horse rides, offering a breathtaking view of Nainital.
What is the architectural resemblance of Raj Bhawan?
Raj Bhawan, built by the British in 1924, resembles Buckingham Palace with 113 rooms and an 18-hole golf club.
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