Posted in Hill Stations, Travel Destinations

How To Reach Nainital From Delhi

how to reach nainital from delhi

How to Reach Nainital from Delhi – Train, Bus, Flight & Road Travel Guide

Planning a trip to Nainital and wondering how to reach Nainital from Delhi? You’re not alone. Nainital, often called the “Lake District of India,” is one of the most visited hill stations in Uttarakhand. Surrounded by lush hills and home to the famous Naini Lake, it offers peace, adventure, and natural beauty just 300 km away from Delhi.

Whether you prefer trains, buses, flights, or a road trip by car, there are multiple ways to reach Nainital comfortably. In this travel guide, we’ll cover all transport options in detail—so you can choose the one that best suits your style, time, and budget.

👉 For more travel inspiration, you can also check our detailed Nainital guide here: Nainital Travel Guide

Best Time to Visit Nainital

Before you decide how to reach Nainital from Delhi, it’s important to know the right season to plan your journey.

  • Summer (March – June): Pleasant weather, perfect for boating, sightseeing, and escaping Delhi’s heat.
  • Winter (October – February): Ideal for snowfall lovers, cozy stays, and a peaceful holiday.
  • Monsoon (July – September): Lush greenery but with heavy rains, landslides, and roadblocks—avoid if possible.

How to Reach Nainital from Delhi – Travel Options

1. How to Reach Nainital from Delhi by Train

Nainital doesn’t have its own railway station. The nearest railway station is Kathgodam, around 34 km from Nainital.

  • Major Trains from Delhi to Kathgodam:
    • Ranikhet Express (overnight option)
    • Kathgodam Shatabdi Express (morning option)
    • Uttar Sampark Kranti Express

Once you reach Kathgodam, you can hire a taxi or take a shared cab to Nainital. The drive takes about 1 hour through winding mountain roads.

👉 If you are looking for comfort and time-saving, booking Shatabdi Express is highly recommended.

Quick Tip: Always book train tickets in advance, especially during peak summer and holiday season.

2. How to Reach Nainital from Delhi via Train (Alternative Routes)

If tickets to Kathgodam are unavailable, you can also get down at Haldwani or Lalkuan stations, both well-connected and close to Nainital. Local buses and taxis are easily available from these towns.

3. How to Reach Nainital from Delhi by Bus

Buses are one of the most affordable and convenient ways to reach Nainital from Delhi.

  • Nearest Bus Stand: Tallital Bus Stand, around 2 km from Nainital town.
  • Travel Duration: 8–9 hours.
  • Bus Options from Delhi:
    • Government Buses: Operated by Uttarakhand Transport Corporation (UTC).
    • Private Buses: Sleeper and semi-sleeper options available.

Most buses depart from ISBT Anand Vihar in Delhi.

4. How to Reach Nainital from Delhi by Volvo Bus

For extra comfort, especially if you’re traveling overnight, Volvo buses are a popular choice. They are air-conditioned, have push-back seats, and stop at clean eateries on the way.

  • Fare: ₹700 – ₹1200 per person (approx.), but it may change depending on the season and time of travel.
  • Duration: 7–8 hours
  • Best Option: Book a Delhi to Kathgodam Volvo, then hire a taxi to Nainital. Some luxury buses also go directly to Nainital.

5. How to Reach Nainital from Delhi by Flight

Nainital doesn’t have its own airport. The nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport, around 70 km away.

  • Delhi to Pantnagar Flights: SpiceJet and Alliance Air operate limited flights.
  • Flight Duration: 1 hour
  • Post-Flight Travel: Taxis and shared cabs from Pantnagar to Nainital (2–2.5 hours).

Note: Flights are limited, so tickets can be costly and availability depends on season. This option is best for those who want to save time, not money.

6. How to Reach Nainital from Delhi by Car

If you love road trips, driving from Delhi to Nainital is a great experience. The journey is about 300 km and takes 7–8 hours.

Best Route (via NH9):
Delhi → Hapur → Moradabad → Rampur → Haldwani → Kathgodam → Nainital

  • Road Condition: Good highways till Haldwani, then hilly terrain for the last stretch.
  • Stops Enroute: Gajraula (popular for breakfast), Rampur, and Haldwani.

Quick Tip: Start early in the morning (around 5 AM) to avoid Delhi traffic and reach Nainital by afternoon.

7. How to Reach Nainital from Delhi by Road (Self-Drive & Taxi)

If you don’t own a car, you can book an outstation taxi or rent a self-drive car from Delhi.

  • Taxi Fare: ₹5000 – ₹7000 (round trip, approx.)- but it may change depending on the season and time of travel.
  • Self-Drive Rental: ₹2500 – ₹3500 per day depending on car type. – but it may change depending on the season and time of travel.

Driving gives you the flexibility to stop at roadside dhabas, enjoy scenic landscapes, and explore nearby attractions like Bhimtal and Naukuchiatal.

Local Transportation in Nainital

Once you reach Nainital, getting around is easy:

  • Taxis & Shared Cabs: Available for sightseeing tours.
  • Rickshaws: For short distances in town.
  • Walking: The best way to enjoy Nainital’s charm, especially around Mall Road and Naini Lake.

Packing Essentials for Nainital

To make your trip comfortable, here’s a quick checklist:

  • Clothing: Warm clothes for winter, light jackets for summer.
  • Accessories: Sunglasses, hat, umbrella/raincoat.
  • Health: First-aid kit, medicines, sanitizer, face mask.
  • Electronics: Phone charger, power bank, camera, portable Wi-Fi.
  • Documents: ID proof, hotel booking confirmations, tickets.
  • Snacks & Water: Energy bars, nuts, reusable bottle.

Final Travel Tips

  • Always check the weather forecast before you leave.
  • Avoid monsoon season for road travel due to landslides.
  • Book hotels and transport in advance during peak season.
  • Carry some cash as ATMs are limited in hill areas.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the fastest way to reach Nainital from Delhi?

The fastest way is by flight from Delhi to Pantnagar, followed by a taxi or cab to Nainital, which takes about 3–4 hours in total.

2. How long does it take to reach Nainital from Delhi by train?

The journey from Delhi to Kathgodam by train takes around 6–8 hours, and then a taxi or bus from Kathgodam to Nainital takes about 1 hour.

3. Are there direct buses from Delhi to Nainital?

Yes, several government and private buses run directly from Delhi (ISBT Anand Vihar) to Nainital. Travel time is approximately 8–9 hours.

4. Can I travel from Delhi to Nainital by Volvo bus?

Absolutely. Volvo buses provide a comfortable, air-conditioned option with push-back seats, typically taking 7–8 hours to reach Nainital.

5. Which is the nearest airport to Nainital?

The nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport, located 70 km from Nainital. Flights from Delhi are available daily.

6. Is it convenient to drive from Delhi to Nainital by car?

Yes, driving from Delhi is a popular option. The journey is about 300 km and takes 7–8 hours via NH9, offering scenic views of the hills.

7. What is the nearest railway station to Nainital?

The nearest railway station is Kathgodam, around 34 km from Nainital, well-connected to Delhi and other major cities.

8. How much does a taxi from Kathgodam to Nainital cost?

A taxi from Kathgodam to Nainital costs approximately ₹800–₹1200, depending on the type of vehicle. Shared cabs are cheaper.

9. Can I reach Nainital from Delhi during winter?

Yes, Nainital is accessible year-round. Winter (December–January) offers snowfall and serene views, but roads may be slippery, so plan accordingly.

10. Are there local transport options in Nainital?

Yes. You can use taxis, shared cabs, and rickshaws. Many tourists also prefer exploring on foot, especially around Mall Road and Naini Lake.

Conclusion

Now that you know all the options for how to reach Nainital from Delhi, you can easily choose between train, bus, flight, car, or road trip depending on your budget and travel preference.

  • Quickest: Flight (Delhi → Pantnagar → Nainital)
  • Most Comfortable: Train (Delhi → Kathgodam → Taxi)
  • Budget-Friendly: Bus (Delhi → Nainital)
  • Scenic & Flexible: Road Trip by Car

No matter which option you choose, Nainital will welcome you with breathtaking views, a serene lake, and a perfect hill station vibe. So pack your bags, plan your route, and get ready for a memorable trip.

👉 For more details on attractions, hotels, and travel tips, visit: Nainital Travel Guide

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