Haldwani

Haldwani is the largest city of the Kumaon region and its commercial nerve centre, earning it the title 'Gateway of Kumaon'. Sitting on the Terai plains where the hills begin, it is a bustling town of markets, trade and transport that supplies the hill stations above.

Merging almost seamlessly with the Kathgodam railhead, Haldwani is a key junction on the Delhi–Kumaon route, with extensive bus and taxi services, hospitals, hotels and shopping that make it a practical staging post for travellers heading into the mountains.

Though primarily a commercial hub rather than a sightseeing destination, Haldwani offers easy access to the Gaula river, nearby temples and the rapid onward journey to Nainital, Bhimtal and the wider Kumaon hills.

October to March is most comfortable; summers are hot and the monsoon humid on the plains.