How to Travel from Delhi to Nainital by Train, Bus, and Car

Nainital is a serene hill station famous for its beautiful lakes, lush green hills, and cool weather. Often referred to as the “Lake District of India,” Nainital has become a favorite destination for travelers seeking a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of Delhi. Just 320 kilometers from Delhi, this charming hill station offers a welcome retreat, with options for travelers of all budgets and preferences. Whether you’re looking for an adventurous road trip, a comfortable train journey, or an economical bus ride, this guide has everything you need to plan your trip to Nainital.

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How to Get From Delhi to Nainital

Train: 5.5 hours (plus 1-1.5 hours from Kathgodam to Nainital), starting at ₹150
Bus: 7-8 hours, starting at ₹450
Car: 6.5–7 hours, 320 kilometers

Suggested Itineraries for Nainital trip:

What Is the Cheapest Way to Get From Delhi to Nainital?

The cheapest way to get from Delhi to Nainital is by bus. Several state-run and private bus services operate on this route, and tickets can be as low as ₹450 for a standard non-AC bus. Uttarakhand Roadways offers buses from Delhi’s ISBT Anand Vihar to Nainital that are budget-friendly, though basic. Private operators like RedBus or Upscale Volvo buses are slightly more expensive but offer more comfort and amenities, such as reclining seats and air-conditioning.

While the bus is economical, it can take longer due to road conditions, rest stops, and occasional traffic. If you’re on a tight budget, it’s a great option. But if you’re willing to spend a little more, the train or car journey is faster and more comfortable.

Suggested Itineraries for Uttarakhand:

What Is the Fastest Way to Get From Delhi to Nainital?

The fastest way to get from Delhi to Nainital is by taking the train to Kathgodam, followed by a one-hour taxi or bus ride to Nainital. The train journey from Delhi to Kathgodam is about 5–5.5 hours, and Kathgodam is the nearest railway station to Nainital, situated just 35 kilometers away. Once at Kathgodam, you can easily find a shared cab, private taxi, or bus to Nainital.

Option 1: By Train

Taking the train to Nainital is the most popular option for travelers who want a comfortable and efficient journey. While there’s no direct train to Nainital itself, the nearby Kathgodam Railway Station serves as the gateway to this hill station. Trains from Delhi to Kathgodam are well-connected, punctual, and relatively affordable.

Popular Trains From Delhi to Kathgodam:

12040 Shatabdi Express
- Duration: 5 hours
- Departure: 6:20 a.m. from New Delhi Railway Station (NDLS)
- Arrival: 11:40 a.m. at Kathgodam (KGM)
- Fare: ₹450 (CC – Chair Car, Air-Conditioned); ₹900 (EC – Executive Class)
- Why Choose This Train: It’s the fastest train to Kathgodam, with excellent punctuality and onboard catering that includes snacks, tea, and meals.
15013 Ranikhet Express
- Duration: 7 hours
- Departure: 10:40 p.m. from Old Delhi Railway Station (DLI)
- Arrival: 5:05 a.m. at Kathgodam (KGM)
- Fare: ₹150 (SL – Sleeper Class); ₹1,200 (1AC – First Class, Air-Conditioned)
- Why Choose This Train: A great overnight option for budget travelers. You’ll arrive early in the morning, giving you a full day to explore Nainital.
15035 Uttar Sampark Kranti Express
- Duration: 6 hours
- Departure: 4:00 p.m. from Old Delhi Railway Station (DLI)
- Arrival: 10:10 p.m. at Kathgodam (KGM)
- Fare: ₹300 (2S – Second Sitting); ₹900 (3AC – Third AC)
- Why Choose This Train: Affordable and ideal for those who prefer an afternoon departure.

From Kathgodam to Nainital

Once you arrive at Kathgodam, you’ll need to cover the final 35 kilometers to Nainital by road. Here are your options:

Taxi: Private taxis cost around ₹800–₹1,000 for the one-hour trip. Shared taxis are available for ₹150–₹200 per seat.
Bus: Uttarakhand Roadways runs regular buses from Kathgodam to Nainital for ₹50–₹100.

Pro Tip: Book your train tickets in advance, especially during weekends and holiday seasons, as seats tend to fill up quickly.

Option 2: By Bus

For budget travelers, buses are an affordable and reliable way to get from Delhi to Nainital. Several state-run and private operators connect Delhi to Nainital, with departures primarily from ISBT Anand Vihar.

Types of Buses:

Uttarakhand Roadways: Standard non-AC buses for ₹450–₹600.
Private Operators: AC Volvo or semi-sleeper buses for ₹800–₹1,200 (operators like RedBus and Uttarakhand Transport).

Bus Timings:

Departure Points in Delhi: ISBT Anand Vihar, Kashmere Gate, and occasionally Dhaula Kuan.
Travel Duration: 7–8 hours, depending on road conditions and stops.
First Bus: 6:00 a.m.
Last Bus: 11:00 p.m.

Pro Tip: Book tickets online through platforms like RedBus for smoother planning. Always check whether the bus stops in Haldwani or Kathgodam before reaching Nainital, as this may add extra time to your journey.

Option 3: By Car

For travelers seeking the most flexible and hassle-free option, driving from Delhi to Nainital by car is a great choice. The 320-kilometer route takes around 6.5 to 7 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.

Route:

Delhi to Moradabad (via NH9): Smooth highways with tolls.
Moradabad to Haldwani: Pass through Rampur and Bazpur.
Haldwani to Nainital: A scenic, uphill drive through winding mountain roads.

Advantages of Driving:

Flexibility: Stop wherever you want for food or photos.
Comfort: Travel at your own pace without worrying about train or bus schedules.

Tips for Driving to Nainital:

Start early in the morning to avoid Delhi traffic and reach before dark (mountain roads can be tricky at night).
Hire a private taxi if you’re unfamiliar with hill driving. Rates for one-way trips range from ₹3,500–₹5,000 for a sedan. Round trips are also available.
Use navigation apps like Google Maps, but ask locals for guidance on shortcuts or road conditions.

Best Time to Visit Nainital

Nainital is a year-round destination, but your travel experience will vary depending on the season:

Summer (March to June): Pleasant weather, ideal for boating on Naini Lake and exploring nearby viewpoints.
Monsoon (July to September): Avoid travel during this time due to frequent landslides and slippery roads.
Winter (October to February): Perfect for cozy holidays and snowfall in nearby areas like Snow View Point.

Pro Tip: Avoid traveling on weekends or public holidays to skip crowds, and always check road and weather conditions before your trip.

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What Is There to Do in Nainital?

Once you’ve arrived in Nainital, there’s plenty to explore:

- 1. Naini Lake: Take a boat ride or just sit by the shore and enjoy the view.
  2. Mall Road: Shop for souvenirs, woolens, and handicrafts, or sample local food.
  3. Snow View Point: Take a cable car ride for panoramic views of the Himalayas.
  4. Naina Devi Temple: A sacred temple located near Naini Lake.
  5. Tiffin Top: A popular trek that rewards you with stunning views of the surrounding hills.
  6. Eco Cave Gardens: A fun spot for kids and families to explore interconnected caves.

Check more Articles for Nainital:

- - Snow View Point, Nainital
  - Nainital in January 2025

Final Thoughts

Whether you choose to travel by train, bus, or car, Nainital is an accessible and rewarding destination for a short getaway from Delhi. With this guide, you’ll have all the details you need to plan your trip smoothly and make the most of your time in this charming hill station. So, pack your bags, plan your itinerary, and get ready to immerse yourself in the natural beauty and tranquility of Nainital!

Disclaimer: The information shared on this post is intended for informational purposes only. While we strive for accuracy, our content is based on research and opinions available at the time of writing. We encourage readers to verify details such as specifications and availability independently before making any travel plans or purchasing decisions. Ease India Trip is not liable for any discrepancies, inaccuracies, or subsequent changes.

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