Khurpatal and Nainital are two serene and picturesque destinations settled in the beautiful state of Uttarakhand. While Nainital, also known as the “Lake District” of India, attracts tourists from all over the world, Khurpatal is a hidden gem, famous for its calm lake, lush green surroundings, and peaceful ambience. For those who are planning to visit Nainital, travelling on the scenic route from Khurpatal to Nainital will add more excitement to your travel.
In this article, we will take you through the journey from Khurpatal to Nainital, the distance from Kathgodam to Khurpatal, and other key details that you need to know to make your trip smooth and memorable.
The Journey from Khurpatal to Nainital
Nainital is one of the beautiful hill stations situated in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, known for its beautiful landscape, Naini Lake, and a range of tourist attractions. Nainital is connected by road and rail, while Khurpatal is a small village at a distance of about 12 kilometres from Nainital. Khurpatal is a secluded place in nature. The serenity of Lake Khurpatal is synonymous with a peaceful and placid lake in the midst of beautiful hills with picturesque views that make it perfect for relaxation walks and nature’s walks.
The journey from Khurpatal to Nainital is rather short but breathtakingly beautiful. The distance between the two places is approximately 12 kilometres (7.5 miles), and it takes about 30 to 40 minutes by car, depending on the road conditions and the weather. The road is very good, and you will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the lush green hills, small villages, and the mighty mountains surrounding the area. As you reach Nainital, the charm of the hill station becomes evident, and you will be greeted by its cool, refreshing climate and natural beauty.
Distance from Kathgodam to Khurpatal
Kathgodam is a popular town located at the foothills of the Kumaon region and is the closest railway station to Nainital. It serves as the entry point for travellers heading to Nainital and the surrounding areas. From Kathgodam, the distance to Khurpatal is approximately 20 kilometres (12.4 miles). This distance is easily covered by road in about 30 to 40 minutes.
Taxi or private vehicle is available from Kathgodam to reach Khurpatal. The road from Kathgodam to Khurpatal is smooth and offers scenic views of the forested hills and valleys. Many tourists prefer this route to avoid the hustle and bustle of Nainital and enjoy a more serene and quieter environment in Khurpatal. The proximity of Khurpatal to Kathgodam makes it an excellent destination for those looking for a peaceful retreat while still being close to the popular tourist attractions in Nainital.
Khurpatal to Nainital Distance by Road
As mentioned above, the distance from Khurpatal to Nainital is about 12 kilometres. The journey between both places is a very scenic affair as you travel through winding roads, dense forests, and cute little local villages. You could travel by car, taxi, or private vehicle, and the ride is smooth and pleasant.
Road Route from Khurpatal to Nainital Step by Step:
Start from Khurpatal: Begin your journey from Khurpatal Lake. The picturesque surroundings of the lake, with lush greenery and calm water, are the perfect way to begin your journey.
Head towards Nainital: Follow the main road heading towards Nainital. The route is well-signposted and takes you through beautiful hilly terrain, with several points along the way where you can stop to enjoy the view.
Viewpoints: There are numerous viewpoints that you would be passing by, along the road. The path winds through the deodar and pine trees forests. On approaching Nainital, the landscape starts becoming more open. The journey becomes even more fun with fresh mountain air and a cool breeze.
As you approach Nainital, you will be able to view the famous Naini Lake and the buzzing hill station amidst tall mountains. The road brings you directly to the main town area of Nainital and you can take a tour to various places like Naini Lake, Naina Devi Temple, Snow View Point, and the Tiffin Top.
Best Mode of Transport from Khurpatal to Nainital
Several options are available for travelling from Khurpatal to Nainital, depending on your preference and convenience.
1. Private Vehicle or Taxi:
The most comfortable and convenient option is to hire a private vehicle or taxi. It offers flexibility in terms of stops along the way and ensures a comfortable ride. You can choose to travel at your own pace, making stops at scenic points to capture photographs or simply enjoy the natural beauty.
2. Shared Taxis:
For the budget-conscious traveller, shared taxis are available from Khurpatal to Nainital. These are usually used by locals and other tourists and can be a more economical option. However, this might not offer as much comfort or flexibility as a private vehicle.
3. Buses:
Although there are no direct bus services from Khurpatal to Nainital, you can catch a bus from Kathgodam to Nainital and then take a taxi to Khurpatal. This is a little less convenient, but it is fine for budget-conscious travellers.
Things to Do in Khurpatal and Nainital
On your way from Khurpatal to Nainital, you can really discover the best of both destinations. Here are some of the things to do in these places:
Things to Do in Khurpatal:
Khurpatal Lake: Spend some time by the serene Khurpatal Lake where you can indulge in all varieties of boating, fishing, or even just strolling around the lake.
Nature Walks: Short nature walks or treks around the surrounding forests and hills can be undertaken. It is ideal for those who like quiet surroundings and natural beauty.
Things to Do in Nainital:
Naini Lake: The major attraction here, is where one can indulge in boating or take a stroll around the lake while enjoying the view.
Naina Devi Temple: One of the popular Hindu temples in Nainital dedicated to Goddess Naina, which lies close to Naini Lake.
Snow View Point: Take a cable car ride to Snow View Point for stunning panoramic views of the surrounding snow-covered peaks.
Tiffin Top: Enjoy a short trek or a horse ride to Tiffin Top, which offers breathtaking views of Nainital and the surrounding region.
Best Time to Visit Khurpatal and Nainital
The best time to visit Khurpatal to Nainital is during the summer months of March to June when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing. September to November is also a great time to visit when the monsoon showers have subsided, and the landscape is lush and green. Winters (December to February) are cold, with occasional snowfall, making it a great time for snow lovers.
Conclusion
Whether you go to Khurpatal to Nainital for a relaxing break, a nature retreat, or an adventure-filled holiday, the tour is bound to capture your imagination in pictures of stunning views, peaceful surroundings, and the beauty of the Kumaon region. The short yet scenic trip from Khurpatal to Nainital makes it easy to enjoy both places in a single trip. The added attraction of Kathgodam to Khurpatal distance, a little over 20 kilometres from each other, offers perfect sojourn destinations to break off from the hustle and bustle of city life so that you can enjoy reconnecting with nature and experience Uttarakhand at its magic best.