Nainital, the “Lake District of India,” is a popular hill station in Uttarakhand, known for its beautiful Naini Lake, scenic mountains, and pleasant weather. Whether you’re traveling from Delhi, Dehradun, or other cities, here’s a complete guide on how to reach Nainital by road, train, and air, along with estimated fares.
1. How to Reach Nainital by Road
Nainital is well-connected to major cities like Delhi, Dehradun, Haridwar, and Bareilly via a good road network.
Major Routes to Nainital:
🚘 Delhi → Ghaziabad → Moradabad → Rampur → Haldwani → Nainital
🚘 Dehradun → Haridwar → Haldwani → Nainital
🚘 Bareilly → Haldwani → Nainital
Route & Distance:
| Route | Distance (Approx.) | Travel Time |
|---|---|---|
| Delhi to Nainital | 315 km | 6-7 hrs |
| Dehradun to Nainital | 285 km | 7-8 hrs |
| Haridwar to Nainital | 235 km | 6-7 hrs |
| Bareilly to Nainital | 140 km | 4-5 hrs |
| Haldwani to Nainital | 40 km | 1-1.5 hrs |
✅ Luxury buses, government buses, and private cabs are available from Delhi, Dehradun, and Haldwani.
✅ Taxis and shared jeeps operate from Haldwani, Kathgodam, and Rudrapur.
2. How to Reach Nainital by Train
The nearest railway station to Nainital is:
🚆 Kathgodam Railway Station (KGM) – 35 km from Nainital
From Kathgodam, you can reach Nainital by:
✅ Taxi (₹800 – ₹1,500 per car) – Takes about 1 hour.
✅ Shared Jeep (₹150 – ₹300 per person) – Cheaper option.
✅ Local Bus (₹100 – ₹200 per person) – Available during the day.
Major Trains to Kathgodam:
| Train Name | From | Travel Time |
|---|---|---|
| Ranikhet Express (15013) | Delhi | 6.5 hrs |
| Uttaranchal Sampark Kranti (15035) | Delhi | 6 hrs |
| Bagh Express (13019) | Kolkata | 30 hrs |
3. How to Reach Nainital by Air
The nearest airport to Nainital is:
✈️ Pantnagar Airport (PGH) – 70 km from Nainital
From Pantnagar, you can reach Nainital by:
✅ Taxi (₹1,500 – ₹2,500 per car) – Takes about 2 hours.
✅ Bus or Shared Jeep (₹300 – ₹600 per person) – Available from Haldwani.
Flight Connectivity:
- Direct flights available from Delhi to Pantnagar.
- Limited flights, so check availability before booking.
Fare Table for Nainital Travel
| Travel Mode | Route | Approx. Fare (INR) | Time Taken |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bus (Govt/Private) | Delhi to Nainital | ₹600 – ₹1,500 | 7 hrs |
| Taxi (Sedan) | Delhi to Nainital | ₹5,500 – ₹7,500 | 6-7 hrs |
| Taxi (SUV/Innova) | Delhi to Nainital | ₹8,000 – ₹12,000 | 6-7 hrs |
| Train | Delhi to Kathgodam | ₹200 – ₹1,500 | 6-7 hrs |
| Flight | Delhi to Pantnagar | ₹3,500 – ₹6,500 | 1 hr |
Note: Taxi fares vary based on season and vehicle type.
Best Time to Visit Nainital
✅ March to June – Best time for sightseeing and boating.
✅ September to November – Ideal for nature lovers, post-monsoon greenery.
✅ December to February – Snowfall season, perfect for winter lovers.
⛔ July to August – Heavy monsoons, landslides possible.
Final Travel Tips for Nainital
✅ Book your transportation in advance during peak seasons.
✅ Carry warm clothes even in summer, as nights can be chilly.
✅ Avoid traveling during heavy rains, as landslides may occur.
✅ Local transport like rickshaws and rental bikes are available for sightseeing.
Conclusion
Nainital is a beautiful hill station offering a perfect retreat for nature lovers. Whether you’re traveling by road, train, or air, this guide ensures a smooth journey. Plan your trip and enjoy the breathtaking beauty of Naini Lake and the surrounding hills.
