Delhi, the bustling capital of India, is a major gateway to the serene hill station of Nainital in Uttarakhand. This route is popular among tourists seeking a quick escape from the city’s heat to the cool, scenic hills. Whether for a weekend trip or a longer vacation, many travelers choose this route for its natural beauty and cultural charm.

This guide covers all practical ways to travel from Delhi to Nainital, including trains, buses, self-drive options, and flights. You’ll find detailed information on timings, costs, and travel tips to plan your journey confidently and comfortably.

Getting from Delhi to Nainital – Main Options

Train

While there is no direct train to Nainital, rail travel is still a viable option combined with road transport. The nearest railway stations are Kathgodam and Haldwani, both well connected to Delhi. Trains offer a comfortable and economical way to cover most of the distance.

• Key stations:

  Trains depart from Delhi’s Old Delhi (DLI) or New Delhi (NDLS) stations to Kathgodam (KGM), approximately 280 km from Delhi. Kathgodam is the last broad gauge station before the hills.

• Duration and cost:

  The journey takes around 6 to 7 hours. Ticket prices for sleeper class start at ₹300, while AC classes range from ₹600 to ₹1200. Booking via IRCTC is recommended for confirmed seats.

• Train frequency and comfort:

  Several trains run daily, including the Ranikhet Express and the Kathgodam Shatabdi. AC coaches provide a comfortable ride, especially in summer and monsoon seasons.

• Last-mile connectivity:

  From Kathgodam, taxis and buses to Nainital take about 1 to 1.5 hours. Shared taxis are available at reasonable rates, but pre-booked cabs offer more comfort.

• Seasonal tips:

  Trains can get crowded during peak tourist seasons (summer and holidays). Booking tickets well in advance is advisable to avoid last-minute hassles.

Bus

Buses are a popular and affordable choice for traveling from Delhi to Nainital. Both government and private operators run regular services, making it convenient for budget travelers. The route offers scenic views as you approach the hills.

• Bus types and operators:

  Uttarakhand Transport Corporation (UTC) and private Volvo buses operate daily from ISBT Kashmiri Gate in Delhi to Nainital. Volvo buses provide more comfort and cost between ₹600 to ₹900.

• Travel time and distance:

  The road distance is roughly 300 km, with travel times ranging from 7 to 9 hours depending on traffic and weather conditions.

• Departure timings:

  Buses leave early morning and late evening. Night buses are available but may be less comfortable due to hilly roads.

• Route and road conditions:

  The main route is via NH9 and NH109, passing through towns like Hapur and Rudrapur. Roads are generally good but can be slow during monsoon due to landslides.

• Booking and boarding tips:

  Tickets can be booked online on the UTC website or at ISBT. Arrive at least 30 minutes early to find your bus and avoid last-minute rush.

Car/Self-Drive

Driving from Delhi to Nainital is a favored option for those who enjoy flexibility and scenic road trips. The route is well connected by national highways and offers several interesting stops along the way.

• Route details:

  The most common route is via NH9 to Hapur, then NH109 through Rampur and Kathgodam. The total distance is about 300 km, taking 7 to 8 hours depending on traffic.

• Road conditions and rest stops:

  The Delhi to Hapur stretch is a busy highway with tolls and occasional traffic jams. After Hapur, the road ascends into the hills with winding sections. Good rest stops include Murthal for famous dhabas and Pantnagar for refreshments.

• Driving tips:

  Start early to avoid Delhi’s morning traffic. Avoid night driving in the hills due to narrow roads and limited street lighting.

• Car rentals and costs:

  Self-drive cars can be rented from Delhi with prices starting around ₹2500 per day. Fuel costs for the round trip will be approximately ₹2500 to ₹3000 depending on vehicle mileage.

• Parking in Nainital:

  Parking near Mall Road and the lake is limited and often paid. Use designated parking lots to avoid fines.

Flight

Though Nainital does not have its own airport, flying to the nearest airport followed by a road journey is a quick option. Pantnagar Airport is the closest, with limited connectivity, mainly from Delhi.

• Flight details:

  Flights from Delhi to Pantnagar take about 1 hour. Airlines like Alliance Air operate this route with daily flights, though schedules can be limited.

• Airport to Nainital:

  Pantnagar Airport is approximately 70 km from Nainital. Taxis and shared cabs are available, taking around 2 hours to reach the town.

• Cost and convenience:

  Flight tickets range from ₹1500 to ₹3500 one way. This option saves time but can be costlier than road or rail travel.

• Booking tips:

  Book flights well in advance, especially during peak seasons, as seats are limited and prices can surge.

• Seasonal considerations:

  Flights may be affected by fog in winter mornings, causing delays or cancellations.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This simple itinerary is designed for first-time travelers from Delhi to Nainital, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey.

• Book your tickets early:

  Whether by train, bus, or flight, secure your tickets at least two weeks in advance, especially during holidays and summer weekends.

• Reach the departure point early:

  Arrive at Delhi railway stations or ISBT Kashmiri Gate 30 to 45 minutes before departure to avoid last-minute rush and find your platform or bus easily.

• Pack essentials for hill travel:

  Carry light woolens, water bottles, and snacks. Weather can change quickly in the hills, so be prepared.

• Arrange last-mile transport:

  From Kathgodam or Pantnagar, pre-book a taxi or use local shared cabs to reach Nainital comfortably. Avoid unregistered taxis for safety.

• Check weather and road conditions:

  Before starting, verify weather forecasts and road status, especially during monsoon or winter fog seasons.

• Plan your arrival time:

  Aim to reach Nainital by afternoon to settle in and explore local attractions like Mall Road and Naini Lake before sunset.

Practical Travel Tips

• IRCTC and online bookings:

  Use the official IRCTC website or app for train tickets to Kathgodam. For buses, check the Uttarakhand Transport Corporation site or trusted private operators.

• Local commute in Nainital:

  Auto-rickshaws and shared taxis are common but negotiate fares beforehand. Ola and Uber services are limited in the hills.

• Food and water safety:

  Stick to bottled water and popular eateries on Mall Road to avoid stomach issues. Try local Kumaoni cuisine for an authentic experience.

• Luggage considerations:

  Pack light due to narrow roads and limited luggage space in shared taxis. Carry a daypack for hill excursions.

• Safety on hilly roads:

  Avoid night travel in the hills. If driving, be cautious on sharp bends and watch for pedestrians and livestock.

• Seasonal booking strategy:

  Summer and autumn are peak tourist times. Book accommodations and transport well in advance to avoid high prices and unavailability.

Best Time & Conditions

The best time to travel from Delhi to Nainital is during the spring (March to June) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These months offer pleasant weather and clear roads.

Monsoon season (July to August) brings heavy rainfall, which can cause landslides and roadblocks. Winter months (December to February) are cold with occasional fog affecting visibility and flights.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Diwali or Christmas when roads and trains are crowded.

• Start early in the morning to bypass Delhi’s peak traffic hours and enjoy daylight driving in the hills.

• During monsoon, check for weather updates and road conditions to avoid delays or cancellations.

• In winter, afternoon departures are preferable to avoid early morning fog and icy roads.

Arrival at Nainital & What to Expect

Upon arrival in Nainital, travelers are greeted by the picturesque Naini Lake surrounded by hills and bustling markets. The town is compact, making it easy to explore on foot or by short auto rides.

Local transport includes shared taxis and auto-rickshaws, though many prefer walking along Mall Road to enjoy the shops and eateries. Popular stay areas include Mallital and Tallital, both close to the lake and main attractions.

For late arrivals, prepaid taxis from Kathgodam or Pantnagar are recommended for safety and convenience. Several hotels offer pickup services, so confirm this option when booking your stay.

Conclusion

Among all options, taking a train to Kathgodam followed by a taxi to Nainital is often the most balanced choice, combining comfort, cost-effectiveness, and scenic travel. It avoids Delhi’s road traffic and offers a relaxed start to your hill station visit.

With proper planning and early bookings, you can enjoy a hassle-free journey from Delhi to Nainital. This guide equips you with all the practical information needed to make your trip smooth and memorable. Pack your bags and get ready to explore the beautiful hills of Nainital with confidence!