Haldwani is a bustling city located in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand, India. Known as the “Gateway to Kumaon,” it serves as a significant commercial and transportation hub for the region. Its strategic location makes it an ideal base for tourists planning to explore nearby hill stations and other attractions.
Reaching Haldwani is relatively easy as it is well-connected by air, train, and road. Here are the various ways to reach Haldwani:
By Air: The nearest airport to Haldwani is Pantnagar Airport, located about 32 km (20 miles) away. There are limited flights connecting Pantnagar to Delhi and other major cities in India. Once you arrive at Pantnagar Airport, you can hire a taxi or take a shared jeep to reach Haldwani.
By Train: Haldwani Railway Station connects the city to major Indian cities like Delhi, Dehradun, and Lucknow. Several trains operate on these routes, offering comfortable and affordable travel options. Some popular trains that run between Delhi and Haldwani include the Ranikhet Express, Uttar Sampark Kranti Express, and the Naini Doon Jan Shatabdi Express. Upon reaching Haldwani by train, you can easily find taxis, shared jeeps, or local buses to travel within the city or to nearby tourist destinations.
By Road: Haldwani is well-connected by road to various cities in North India. The city is about 280 km (174 miles) from Delhi, with a driving time of approximately 6-7 hours. Regular bus services, including state transport and private operators, run between Delhi and Haldwani. You can also choose to drive or hire a taxi for a more comfortable journey. The main route from Delhi to Haldwani is via NH9 and NH109.
The best time to visit Haldwani is during the months of October to March when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing and exploring the nearby tourist attractions.
October to February (Winter): Winter in Haldwani is characterized by cool and pleasant weather, with daytime temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). Nights can be chilly, with temperatures sometimes dropping to 5°C (41°F) or lower. This period is perfect for exploring the city and its surroundings, as well as visiting nearby hill stations like Nainital, Bhimtal, and Almora, which often experience snowfall during this time.
March to May (Summer): Summer in Haldwani is mild and comfortable, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). This season is also suitable for visiting the city and surrounding areas, especially if you want to escape the scorching heat of the plains. The hill stations nearby offer a refreshing retreat with their pleasant weather and scenic beauty.
June to September (Monsoon): Haldwani receives moderate rainfall during the monsoon season. While the region’s natural beauty is enhanced by the rains, landslides and roadblocks can occur, making travel difficult. It is generally not recommended to visit during the monsoon season unless you are an experienced traveler or enjoy exploring the region during the rains.
