Murthal is a popular town located in the Sonipat district of Haryana, just north of Delhi. It is famous for its highway dhabas and is a common weekend getaway for Delhi residents. This route is frequently traveled for food trips, quick outings, and cultural visits.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to travel from Delhi to Murthal using trains, buses, cars, and taxis. You will also find practical travel tips, step-by-step plans, and advice on what to expect upon arrival.

Getting from Delhi to Murthal – Main Options

Train

Taking a train is a convenient and affordable option for traveling from Delhi to Murthal. It suits travelers who prefer comfort and want to avoid road traffic.

• Murthal has its own railway station on the Delhi–Ambala line, about 45 km from Delhi; trains from New Delhi Railway Station or Old Delhi Railway Station take roughly 1 to 1.5 hours.

• Trains like the Delhi–Kalka Passenger and local MEMU trains run frequently, with fares typically between ₹20 and ₹50 depending on the class and train type.

• Train travel is comfortable and less affected by traffic jams, but delays can occur during foggy winter mornings or heavy monsoon rains.

• Booking tickets via IRCTC or at station counters is straightforward; unreserved tickets are common for short-distance travel but can get crowded during weekends and holidays.

• Murthal station is small, so plan for local transport or auto-rickshaws to reach dhabas or nearby areas after arrival.

Bus

Buses are a popular and economical choice for traveling between Delhi and Murthal, especially for those who want direct access to highway dhabas.

• State transport buses operated by Haryana Roadways and private operators run frequently from ISBT Kashmiri Gate and other Delhi bus terminals to Murthal, with travel times around 1.5 to 2 hours.

• Bus fares range from ₹40 to ₹80 depending on the type of bus (ordinary or deluxe) and operator.

• Buses use NH44 (formerly NH1), which is a well-maintained highway but can get congested during weekends and festivals, causing delays.

• Frequent stops along the highway allow passengers to visit popular dhabas like Amrik Sukhdev and others directly from the bus.

• During monsoon season, buses may slow down due to slippery roads and occasional waterlogging near toll plazas.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Delhi to Murthal is the fastest and most flexible option, ideal for groups or families wanting to explore at their own pace.

• The distance from central Delhi to Murthal is about 45 km via NH44, and the drive typically takes 1 to 1.5 hours depending on traffic conditions.

• Using a private car or self-drive rental allows you to stop at dhabas and rest points along the highway, enhancing your travel experience.

• Toll plazas on NH44 require payment in cash or FASTag; expect toll charges around ₹50 to ₹100 one way.

• Traffic congestion is common during weekends, public holidays, and early mornings due to heavy tourist inflow to Murthal dhabas.

• Parking is available near dhabas but can be crowded during peak times; arriving early is advisable to avoid parking hassles.

Taxi / Cab

Hiring a taxi or app-based cab from Delhi to Murthal offers comfort and door-to-door service, suitable for travelers who prefer hassle-free rides.

• Ola and Uber cabs are available from most parts of Delhi to Murthal, with fares typically ranging from ₹800 to ₹1,200 one way depending on vehicle type and demand.

• Taxi rides take about 1 to 1.5 hours via NH44, but fares may increase during peak hours, weekends, or festival seasons.

• Prepaid taxi counters at Delhi railway stations and airports can arrange fixed-price rides to Murthal, providing fare certainty.

• Cab drivers often wait at Murthal for return trips, but booking a round trip in advance is recommended to avoid waiting time.

• Using app-based cabs offers real-time tracking and cashless payments, enhancing safety and convenience for travelers.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This step-by-step plan is designed for first-time travelers going from Delhi to Murthal, helping you prepare and enjoy a smooth journey.

• Decide your preferred mode of transport based on budget, comfort, and schedule; trains and buses are economical, while cars and cabs offer flexibility.

• Book your train tickets in advance via IRCTC or check bus timings online or at ISBT Kashmiri Gate to avoid last-minute rush, especially on weekends.

• If driving, plan your route on NH44 using GPS apps like Google Maps, and check real-time traffic updates to avoid congestion.

• Pack light and carry water and snacks, but also plan to try local dhaba food upon arrival, which is a major attraction in Murthal.

• On arrival at Murthal railway station or bus stop, use local auto-rickshaws or walk to your chosen dhaba or hotel; negotiate fares beforehand for autos.

• For return trips, pre-book cabs or check train and bus schedules to ensure timely departure back to Delhi, especially if traveling late evening.

Practical Travel Tips

• Carry a bottle of water and avoid drinking tap water in Murthal; prefer packaged water or beverages from trusted dhabas to prevent stomach issues.

• Book train tickets early via IRCTC during weekends and holidays as trains can get crowded with food tourists visiting Murthal.

• Use prepaid taxi counters or app-based cabs for safer and fixed-price rides, avoiding unmetered autos or taxis that may overcharge.

• Wear comfortable clothes and shoes if you plan to explore dhabas and nearby areas on foot; roads can be dusty and uneven.

• During monsoon, carry rain gear and check weather forecasts as NH44 can have waterlogging or slow traffic due to heavy rains.

• Keep your luggage light and secure, especially if traveling by train or bus, as crowding can increase the risk of misplacing bags.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Delhi to Murthal is during the cooler months from October to March when the weather is pleasant and suitable for highway dining.

Avoid traveling during peak summer months (April to June) due to extreme heat and dust, which can make the journey uncomfortable. Also, plan ahead during major festivals when traffic increases significantly.

• Avoid weekends and public holidays if possible, as Murthal dhabas attract large crowds causing traffic jams and parking difficulties.

• Winter fog in December and January can delay trains and reduce visibility on NH44, so allow extra travel time during early mornings.

• Monsoon rains from July to September may cause slippery roads and occasional slowdowns on the highway, so drive carefully.

• Early morning departures from Delhi help avoid city traffic and reach Murthal before dhaba rush hours, enhancing your experience.

Arrival at Murthal & What to Expect

When you arrive at Murthal, you will find a small railway station or bus stops close to the highway. Local transport options like auto-rickshaws and cycle rickshaws are readily available to take you to famous dhabas or nearby hotels.

Most visitors come to Murthal for the dhaba experience, so expect lively roadside eateries with a variety of North Indian snacks and meals. Accommodation options are limited but available near the highway and railway station. Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs can be booked for return trips or onward travel.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to reach Murthal from Delhi depends on your priorities. Trains offer an affordable and comfortable option, while driving or hiring a cab provides flexibility and convenience. Buses are a good budget choice but may take longer during traffic peaks.

Planning your trip with advance bookings, checking traffic and weather conditions, and knowing local transport options will ensure a smooth journey. With this guide, you can confidently travel from Delhi to Murthal and enjoy the famous highway dhaba culture without stress.