How to get to Pantnagar

Located in the picturesque state of Uttarakhand, Pantnagar serves as a vital transport gateway to the foothills of the Himalayas and the famous Kumaon region. Known for its major university and developed industry, this city often becomes a starting point for tourists heading to mountain resorts and national parks. You can reach here in various ways: by using the local airport, organising a train journey through neighbouring hubs, or enjoying the views from a car window.

The fastest way to start your journey is to fly directly to Pantnagar Airport (PGH). This compact regional airport is well connected to the city and allows you to avoid long land transfers, immediately immersing you in the atmosphere of Uttarakhand state.

Alternatively, consider flying to neighbouring cities if there are no direct flights on your desired dates. The nearest options include the airport in the city of Bareilly, located 73 km away, or Dhangadhi Airport (116 km), from where it is easy to continue the journey by taxi.

Since there is no railway station in the city of Pantnagar itself, travellers are advised to plan their route through the nearest major transport hubs. One of the most convenient stations is Bareilly, located 73 km away, where trains arrive from many metropolises of India.

Another option is to take a train to the city of Dhangadhi (116 km) if your route lies through this region. A railway journey through India is a distinct type of adventure, allowing you to see the authentic life of the country, and the final leg of the journey to Pantnagar can be covered comfortably by taxi.

Bus service remains one of the most affordable ways to get to the city of Pantnagar from various corners of northern India. Although the unified schedule database may be incomplete, government and private carriers regularly operate routes connecting the city with neighbouring regions.

Travellers should look for buses heading towards the Kumaon region or the city of Haldwani, which often make a stop here. When choosing between regular buses and Volvo AC class, it is better to prefer the latter for a more comfortable trip over long distances.

A car trip allows you to manage your own time and enjoy the landscapes on the way to Pantnagar. The shortest and most popular route runs from the city of Bareilly: the distance of 85 km can be covered in approximately 2 hours, making this option quite comfortable.

If you are departing from Dhangadhi, prepare for a longer journey of about 160 km, which will take around 4 hours. Taxis in this region are available, but it is better to agree on the trip cost with the driver in advance to get a fair price.

Preparing for a trip to Pantnagar will help make your stay in this industrial and educational hub as comfortable as possible. Here are some practical recommendations that will be useful for every tourist:

1. Clothing and Seasonality: Summers here can be very hot, so choose light clothing made of natural cotton. In winter (from November to February), the temperature can drop quite low, so be sure to bring warm clothes and a jacket.
2. Transport within the city: The most convenient way to get around is auto-rickshaws and cycle-rickshaws for short distances. You should always agree on the price of the trip before boarding.
3. Finances: The main currency is the Indian Rupee (INR). Cards are accepted in major hotels and restaurants, but always keep cash with you for small expenses, transport, and markets.
4. Health: Drink only bottled water and avoid drinks with ice in street cafes. It is also recommended to carry mosquito repellents, especially in the evening.
5. Language of communication: The official language is Hindi, but in the university environment and tourism sector, many speak English at a basic or good level.
6. Etiquette: Greet locals with folded palms ("Namaste"). When visiting temples, be sure to remove your shoes and dress modestly, covering your shoulders and knees.
7. What to avoid: Do not photograph people (especially women) without their permission. Also, avoid consuming street food that has not undergone thermal processing in your presence.
8. Useful tip: Pantnagar is known for its agricultural university — the campus territory is very green and beautiful, but clarify the entry rules for outsiders before visiting.

Following these simple rules will help you avoid awkward situations and focus on exploring the culture and attractions of the region.