Planning a trip to the beautiful hills of Uttarakhand and wondering how to get to Kathgodam by train? Kathgodam, the gateway to popular hill stations like Nainital, Bhimtal, and Almora, is well-connected by rail to major cities across India. Whether you’re coming from Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, or any other city, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know. Let’s dive in!
Why Choose Kathgodam as Your Destination?
Kathgodam is the last railway station in the plains before you enter the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand. It’s the perfect starting point for exploring stunning hill stations, serene lakes, and lush forests. Plus, the train journey to Kathgodam is scenic and comfortable, making it a great choice for travelers.
Popular Trains to Kathgodam
Here’s a list of some popular trains that connect major cities to Kathgodam:
1. From Delhi to Kathgodam
- Ranikhet Express (15018): Departs from Old Delhi Railway Station at 10:50 PM and reaches Kathgodam at 5:40 AM.
- Uttarakhand Sampark Kranti Express (15036): Departs from Anand Vihar Terminal at 4:50 PM and reaches Kathgodam at 10:30 PM.
- Kathgodam Shatabdi Express (12040): Departs from New Delhi Railway Station at 6:00 AM and reaches Kathgodam at 11:45 AM.
2. From Mumbai to Kathgodam
- Mumbai LTT – Kathgodam Express (15018): Departs from Lokmanya Tilak Terminus (LTT) at 2:15 PM and reaches Kathgodam at 6:15 AM the next day.
- Kalka Express (12312): Departs from Mumbai Central at 5:55 PM and reaches Kathgodam at 6:15 AM the next day.
3. From Kolkata to Kathgodam
- Doon Express (13010): Departs from Howrah Junction at 9:50 PM and reaches Kathgodam at 6:00 PM the next day.
4. From Lucknow to Kathgodam
- Lucknow – Kathgodam Express (15034): Departs from Lucknow Junction at 10:30 PM and reaches Kathgodam at 7:00 AM the next day.
How to Book Train Tickets to Kathgodam
Booking train tickets to Kathgodam is easy. Here’s how you can do it:
1. Online Booking
- Visit the IRCTC website (https://www.irctc.co.in) or use the IRCTC app.
- Enter your departure station, destination (Kathgodam), and travel date.
- Choose your preferred train and class (Sleeper, AC 3-Tier, AC 2-Tier, etc.).
- Make the payment and download your ticket.
2. Offline Booking
- Visit your nearest railway station or authorized ticket booking counter.
- Provide your travel details and book your ticket.
3. Tatkal Booking
- If you’re booking last-minute, use the Tatkal quota.
- Tatkal booking opens at 10:00 AM for AC classes and 11:00 AM for non-AC classes, one day before the travel date.
Travel Time and Cost
The travel time and cost depend on your departure city and the train you choose. Here’s a rough estimate:
- From Delhi: 5.5 to 6.5 hours | ₹300 to ₹2,500 (depending on class).
- From Mumbai: 24 to 30 hours | ₹600 to ₹2,500 (depending on class).
- From Kolkata: 20 to 22 hours | ₹500 to ₹2,000 (depending on class).
- From Lucknow: 8 to 9 hours | ₹200 to ₹1,500 (depending on class).
Tips for Train Travel to Kathgodam
- Book Early: Trains to Kathgodam, especially during peak seasons (summer and winter), get booked quickly. Plan ahead!
- Choose the Right Class: If you’re traveling overnight, opt for Sleeper or AC classes for a comfortable journey.
- Carry Essentials: Pack snacks, water, a blanket, and entertainment (books, music, etc.) for long journeys.
- Arrive Early: Reach the station at least 30 minutes before departure to avoid last-minute stress.
- Check PNR Status: Keep an eye on your PNR status to confirm your ticket.
What to Do After Reaching Kathgodam
Once you arrive at Kathgodam Railway Station, here’s what you can do:
- Hire a Taxi: Taxis are readily available outside the station for trips to Nainital, Bhimtal, Almora, and other nearby destinations.
- Take a Bus: Local buses to nearby hill stations are available from the Kathgodam Bus Stand, just a short distance from the railway station.
- Relax and Refresh: There are a few budget hotels and restaurants near the station if you need to rest before continuing your journey.
Final Thoughts
Reaching Kathgodam by train is a convenient and scenic way to start your trip to the hills of Uttarakhand. Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or in a group, the train journey offers comfort and stunning views. So book your tickets, pack your bags, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!