Nainital, often referred to as the “Lake District” of India, is one of the most popular hill stations in Uttarakhand. Located at an altitude of around 2,000 meters above sea level, this picturesque destination is known for its tranquil lakes, beautiful hills, and pleasant weather. If you’re planning a trip from Delhi, the good news is that Nainital is easily accessible through various modes of transport. In this guide, we’ll discuss how to reach Nainital from Delhi via road, train, and air.
How Far is Nainital from Delhi?
The distance between Delhi and Nainital is approximately 300 to 350 kilometers, depending on the route you take. It typically takes around 7 to 8 hours to cover this distance by road.
Best Time to Travel to Nainital from Delhi
Nainital can be visited year-round, but the best time to travel depends on your preference. The ideal months are from March to June (for pleasant weather) and September to November (for post-monsoon greenery and clear skies). Avoid traveling during the monsoon months (July-August) due to the risk of landslides and heavy rains, which can make the journey more challenging.
How to Reach Nainital from Delhi
Here we have listed all the options available for one to choose reaching Nainital From Delhi either Via Road, Train, Bus, or even by hiring a cab/taxi.
How to Reach Nainital from Delhi by Road
A. Route 1: Delhi to Nainital via Hapur, Moradabad, and Haldwani
- Distance: Approximately 315 kilometers.
- Travel Time: 7 to 8 hours.
This is the most popular and convenient route:
- Start from Delhi and take NH9 toward Hapur.
- Pass through Moradabad, a city known for its brassware.
- After Moradabad, continue towards Rampur and then head to Haldwani.
- The final stretch of the journey from Haldwani to Nainital involves driving through beautiful hill roads with scenic views.
B. Route 2: Delhi to Nainital via Meerut and Kaladhungi
- Distance: Around 330 kilometers.
- Travel Time: 7 to 9 hours.
An alternate route with less traffic involves taking the Meerut Bypass Road, leading to Kaladhungi before the ascent to Nainital.
C. Road Trip Tips
- Start Early: Leaving Delhi by 5-6 AM can help avoid city traffic and give you ample daylight for driving on hill roads.
- Drive Slowly on Hills: Once you reach the hills, be mindful of sharp turns and bends. Drive at a steady pace.
- Check Your Vehicle: Ensure your vehicle is in good condition for the journey, especially the brakes, tires, and fuel levels before you hit the hills.
How to Reach Nainital from Delhi by Train
If you prefer not to drive, traveling by train is another excellent option.
A. Nearest Railway Station to Nainital
- Kathgodam Railway Station: The nearest railway station to Nainital is Kathgodam, located about 34 kilometers away.
B. Popular Trains from Delhi to Kathgodam
- Ranikhet Express (Departure from Delhi: 10:30 PM, Arrival in Kathgodam: 5:05 AM)
- Uttar Sampark Kranti Express (Departure from Delhi: 4:00 PM, Arrival in Kathgodam: 10:40 PM)
- Anand Vihar-Kathgodam Shatabdi Express (Departure from Anand Vihar: 6:00 AM, Arrival in Kathgodam: 11:40 AM)
C. From Kathgodam to Nainital
Once you arrive at Kathgodam, you can easily get a taxi or a shared jeep to Nainital. The drive takes about an hour and offers beautiful views of the surrounding hills.
How to Reach Nainital from Delhi by Air
If you want to reach Nainital quickly, flying is the fastest option. Although Nainital doesn’t have its own airport, you can fly to the nearest airport.
A. Nearest Airport to Nainital
- Pantnagar Airport: Pantnagar, which is about 70 kilometers from Nainital, is the closest airport.
B. Flights from Delhi to Pantnagar
Pantnagar is well-connected to Delhi by regular flights. It takes about an hour to reach Pantnagar by air.
C. From Pantnagar to Nainital
Once you land at Pantnagar, you can hire a taxi or use public transport to reach Nainital. The drive from Pantnagar to Nainital takes about 2 hours.
How to Reach Nainital by Bus
Another budget-friendly option is to travel by bus. Several private and government-operated buses connect Delhi with Nainital.
A. Bus Services
- Government-run Buses: You can take Uttarakhand State Road Transport Corporation (USRTC) buses from ISBT Anand Vihar in Delhi.
- Private Buses: Various private operators provide comfortable Volvo and semi-sleeper buses.
B. Bus Types
- AC Deluxe Buses: Comfortable for long journeys with ample leg space and air conditioning.
- Non-AC Semi-Sleeper Buses: A more economical option if you’re looking to save on travel costs.
C. Bus Travel Time
The bus journey takes approximately 9 to 10 hours, depending on the road and traffic conditions. Most buses leave Delhi in the evening and arrive in Nainital early in the morning.
Self-Drive vs. Hiring a Taxi
A. Self-Drive
Many travelers prefer self-driving to Nainital because it gives them flexibility to stop along the way and explore. It’s also a good option if you plan to visit nearby destinations like Bhimtal, Sattal, or Mukteshwar. However, make sure you’re comfortable with hill driving.
B. Hiring a Taxi
If you’re not familiar with driving in the hills, it might be a better idea to hire a taxi. Taxi services are readily available in Delhi, and you can book one online or through a travel agency. Taxis are ideal for families or larger groups who prefer to travel in comfort without worrying about navigating the roads.
Cost of Traveling to Nainital from Delhi
- By Road: Fuel costs for a round trip (Delhi-Nainital-Delhi) can range from ₹2,500 to ₹3,500, depending on your vehicle’s fuel efficiency.
- By Train: Train fares vary, with second-class tickets starting around ₹150, and Shatabdi Express fares going up to ₹1,000.
- By Air: Flight fares from Delhi to Pantnagar range between ₹2,500 to ₹6,000, depending on the season and availability.
- By Bus: Bus tickets range from ₹500 for non-AC buses to ₹1,200 for luxury AC coaches.
Best Places to Stop on the Way to Nainital
If you’re driving, take the opportunity to stop at some beautiful places along the route:
- Gajraula: A good spot for a meal, with several dhabas and restaurants offering North Indian cuisine.
- Bhimtal: A scenic lake town located about 20 kilometers before Nainital, it’s a great place to take a quick break and enjoy the views.
Conclusion: Enjoy Your Journey to Nainital
Reaching Nainital from Delhi is both convenient and enjoyable, with multiple travel options to suit all budgets and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely road trip, a quick flight, or a scenic train ride, this journey offers beautiful landscapes and a smooth travel experience. Whichever mode you choose, your trip to Nainital will be filled with unforgettable memories of the hills, lakes, and cool mountain air.
FAQs
1. What is the fastest way to reach Nainital from Delhi?
The fastest way is by flight to Pantnagar, followed by a taxi or bus ride to Nainital.
2. Are there any direct buses from Delhi to Nainital?
Yes, both government and private operators provide direct buses from Delhi to Nainital.
3. Can I drive my own car to Nainital?
Yes, many travelers prefer driving their own cars to Nainital, but make sure you’re comfortable driving in hilly areas.
4. How far is Kathgodam from Nainital?
Kathgodam is about 34 kilometers from Nainital, and the drive takes around 1 hour.
5. Is it safe to travel to Nainital during monsoon?
It’s best to avoid traveling to Nainital during monsoon, as the roads can become slippery, and there is a risk of landslides.