Ready to leave behind Mumbai’s hustle and bustle for the peaceful Himalayan hills? Kainchi Dham, located in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand, is a tranquil ashram founded by Neem Karoli Baba, a revered saint whose teachings have inspired global icons like Steve Jobs and Mark Zuckerberg.
Traveling from Mumbai to Kainchi Dham is a spiritual and logistical journey—it involves a mix of rail, air, and road travel, but it’s worth every bit of the effort. This guide will walk you through all possible routes, costs, and helpful tips to make your journey easy and fulfilling.
How to Reach Kainchi Dham from Mumba
About Kainchi Dham
Situated at an altitude of approximately 1,400 meters, Kainchi Dham is more than just a temple—it’s a powerful spiritual center nestled between forested hills and the serene Kosi River. The ashram attracts thousands of visitors, especially on June 15th, during the annual Bhandara festival.
Located near Bhowali and about 17–18 km from Nainital, it’s surrounded by nature and known for its calm, meditative environment. The nearest major railway station is Kathgodam, and the closest airport is Pantnagar.
Distance Between Mumbai and Kainchi Dham
The approximate distance from Mumbai to Kainchi Dham is:
- By Road: ~1,700 km
- By Train (to Kathgodam): ~1,600 km
- By Air (via Delhi + road/train): ~1,300 km
Depending on your mode of transport, the travel time can range from 12 to 36 hours.
Best Time to Travel
The ideal time to visit Kainchi Dham is:
- March to June: Clear skies, mild temperatures—perfect for spiritual visits.
- September to November: Post-monsoon freshness with fewer crowds.
- Avoid July–August: Heavy monsoons can cause landslides and disrupt transport.
- December–February: Cold, but beautiful if you’re comfortable with low temperatures.
Different Travel Routes from Mumbai to Kainchi Dham
There are several travel combinations available:
Option 1: Train (Mumbai to Kathgodam)
- Most economical
- Direct train options available
- Journey time: ~30 to 35 hours
Option 2: Flight (Mumbai to Delhi + Train/Taxi to Kathgodam)
- Fastest and most comfortable
- Multiple daily flights
- Total time: ~12–15 hours
Option 3: Flight (Mumbai to Pantnagar via Delhi)
- Shortest distance to Kainchi Dham
- Fewer flights; may include layovers
- Travel time: ~12 hours total
Option 4: Road Trip
- Adventurous, but tiring
- Can be split into multiple stops
Mumbai to Kathgodam by Train
For those who prefer budget-friendly long-distance travel, the train journey from Mumbai to Kathgodam is a solid option. While it’s long, the ride is scenic once you hit northern India, and it’s quite comfortable if you book in advance.
Popular Trains from Mumbai to Kathgodam:
| Train Name | Departure | Arrival | Duration |
| Ranikhet Express (Train No. 15014) | Mumbai Bandra Terminus | Kathgodam | ~34–36 hours |
| Mumbai LTT – Kathgodam Express (Train No. 12175) | Lokmanya Tilak Terminus | Kathgodam | ~31–33 hours |
Note: Direct trains may run on specific days, so always check the IRCTC website or app for updated schedules and availability.
Travel Classes:
- 2AC / 3AC: Best for comfort
- Sleeper Class (SL): Budget option, but crowded
- General: Not recommended for long journeys
Tips for Train Travel:
- Book tickets at least 2 weeks in advance, especially during holidays and summer.
- Carry essentials like snacks, a pillow, bedsheets, power bank, and sanitizers.
- Get off at Kathgodam station, which is the nearest railhead to Kainchi Dham.
From Kathgodam, Kainchi Dham is only about 35 km away and easily accessible by taxi or bus.
Mumbai to Delhi by Air and Further to Kainchi Dham
The fastest and most convenient way to reach Kainchi Dham from Mumbai is by flying to Delhi and then taking a train, bus, or cab to reach the dham.
Step-by-Step Route:
- Fly from Mumbai to Delhi:
- Multiple flights operate daily from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (BOM) to Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL).
- Flight duration: ~2.5 hours
- From Delhi to Kathgodam:
- Board a train like the Ranikhet Express or Shatabdi Express to Kathgodam (5–6 hours).
- Alternatively, hire a cab or use a Volvo bus to Nainital/Bhowali and then to Kainchi Dham.
Total Travel Time: 10–14 hours
Total Cost Estimate: ₹4,000 – ₹6,000 depending on the season and bookings
This route is ideal for those looking to save time and travel in comfort.
Mumbai to Pantnagar by Air (Limited Flights)
Pantnagar Airport (PGH) is the closest airport to Kainchi Dham, just 70 km away. However, flight options from Mumbai are limited and usually connect via Delhi.
Route Plan:
- Mumbai → Delhi → Pantnagar (with layover)
- Airlines like IndiGo or Alliance Air operate connecting flights
- From Pantnagar, take a taxi to Kainchi Dham (2.5–3 hours drive)
Pros:
- Closest airport to the ashram
- Scenic hill drive post-flight
Cons:
- Limited flights and frequent schedule changes
- Expensive compared to other routes
Use this option if you’re lucky to find a direct connection that fits your schedule.
Mumbai to Nainital by Road (Long Drive Option)
If you’re in for an adventure or planning a multi-stop road trip, you can also drive from Mumbai to Kainchi Dham.
Route Overview:
Mumbai → Vadodara → Udaipur → Jaipur → Delhi → Haldwani → Bhowali → Kainchi Dham
- Total Distance: ~1,700 km
- Travel Time: 30–36 hours of driving (spread over 2–3 days)
- Best For: Road trippers, motorcycle enthusiasts, or those planning multiple stops
Important Tips:
- Break the journey into segments with overnight stays
- Keep your car documents, insurance, and FASTag ready
- Hill driving requires caution after Haldwani
This route is not for everyone, but it’s a fantastic way to explore the cultural and natural diversity of India on your way to a spiritual destination.
Kathgodam to Kainchi Dham
Once you’ve reached Kathgodam via train or road, getting to Kainchi Dham is the final, scenic stretch.
Options Available:
- Private Taxi:
- Available at the station
- Fare: ₹800 – ₹1,200
- Travel time: ~1–1.5 hours
- Shared Jeeps:
- Available from Kathgodam or Bhowali
- Cost: ₹100 – ₹150 per person
- Less comfortable but cheaper
- Local Buses:
- Board from Haldwani or Bhowali toward Nainital
- Get off at Kainchi Dham stop on the main road
Booking Transportation
To make your journey from Mumbai to Kainchi Dham smooth and stress-free, it’s essential to book your tickets in advance—whether it’s a train, flight, bus, or taxi.
1. Train Tickets:
- Use the IRCTC official website or IRCTC Rail Connect mobile app.
- Other platforms: MakeMyTrip, Paytm, Goibibo, and ConfirmTkt
- Opt for AC 2-Tier or AC 3-Tier for long journeys
2. Flights:
- Book via trusted portals like MakeMyTrip, ClearTrip, Skyscanner, or Goibibo
- Be flexible with dates for cheaper fares
- Set fare alerts to grab discounts early
3. Buses:
- Use apps like RedBus, AbhiBus, or UTC official website for Volvo and local bus bookings from Delhi or Kathgodam to Bhowali/Nainital
4. Cabs & Local Transport:
- Pre-book taxis via Gozo Cabs, Savaari, or Ola Outstation from Kathgodam, Haldwani, or Pantnagar
- You can also negotiate with local taxi stands at train stations and airports
Pro Tip: Book at least 7–15 days in advance during peak season (May–June, October), and even earlier if traveling for the June 15th Bhandara Festival at Kainchi Dham.
Accommodations Near Kainchi Dham
Once you arrive, you’ll need a place to stay that complements your spiritual experience. There are plenty of options based on your budget and purpose.
1. Neem Karoli Baba Ashram
- Staying in the ashram is possible only with prior written approval
- Facilities are basic, focused on simplicity and spiritual routine
- Ideal for true seekers wanting to immerse themselves in quietude
2. Budget Hotels and Guesthouses (Bhowali/Nainital)
- Easily available and close to the dham
- Price range: ₹800 – ₹2,000 per night
- Options include homestays, lodges, and low-key resorts
3. Mid-Range and Premium Hotels
- Found mostly in Nainital, around 18 km from Kainchi Dham
- Options include boutique hotels, lake view stays, and family-friendly resorts
- Price range: ₹2,000 – ₹6,000 per night
Booking Platforms:
- Booking.com, Airbnb, Agoda, and Goibibo
Travel Tips
Here are some final travel tips to ensure a safe, respectful, and spiritually enriching experience:
- Carry Warm Clothes: Even in summer, evenings in Kainchi Dham can get chilly.
- Cash Over Cards: ATMs are limited and many local transport services don’t accept digital payments.
- Pack Light: Especially if you’re relying on public transport or shared taxis.
- Ashram Etiquette: Be respectful of the quiet environment, dress modestly, and follow posted rules.
- Travel Early: For bus or jeep connections from Kathgodam/Bhowali, mornings are the best time to travel.
Conclusion
Traveling from Mumbai to Kainchi Dham may require some planning and patience, but the journey itself is part of the spiritual experience. Whether you choose to go by train, flight, or road, each route offers unique moments—from bustling city life to serene mountain air. The key is to match your comfort, time, and budget to the best travel option.
Once you arrive, Kainchi Dham will greet you with stillness, peace, and a sense of divine presence that’s hard to put into words. Let this journey be not just about distance, but about discovering something sacred within and beyond.
FAQs
- Which is the fastest way to reach Kainchi Dham from Mumbai?
The fastest route is to fly from Mumbai to Delhi, then take a train or taxi to Kathgodam, and finally a cab to Kainchi Dham. Total time: ~12–15 hours. - Can I get a direct flight to Kainchi Dham?
No, Kainchi Dham does not have an airport. The nearest airport is Pantnagar, accessible via connecting flights from Delhi. - Are there any direct trains to Kainchi Dham?
There are no trains directly to Kainchi Dham, but you can take a direct train to Kathgodam or Haldwani, and then travel by road. - Is Kainchi Dham open year-round?
Yes, the ashram is open throughout the year, but visiting is especially popular between March to June and September to November. - Can I stay in the ashram?
Yes, but only with prior written permission. Visitors must apply ahead of time; walk-ins are not allowed.