Naina Devi Temple is a famous Hindu shrine located in the Bilaspur district of Himachal Pradesh. It is perched on a hilltop and attracts thousands of devotees every year. The temple is well known for its spiritual significance and scenic surroundings.

This route from Delhi to Naina Devi is popular among pilgrims and tourists seeking a peaceful retreat in the mountains. This guide will help you understand the best ways to travel, including trains, buses, cars, and flights, along with practical tips for a comfortable journey.

Getting from Delhi to Naina Devi Temple – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train is a popular and economical option for reaching near Naina Devi Temple. The nearest major railway station is Una Himachal, which connects well with Delhi.

• Trains depart from New Delhi Railway Station (NDLS) to Una Himachal (UHL), covering approximately 400 km in 8 to 10 hours, with fares ranging from ₹300 to ₹800 depending on the class.

• Una Himachal station is about 40 km from Naina Devi Temple, requiring a taxi or bus for the final leg, which takes around 1 to 1.5 hours.

• Train frequency is good with several options daily, but booking in advance on IRCTC is recommended, especially during festival seasons when trains get crowded.

• Trains are generally comfortable with sleeper and AC coaches; however, delays can occur during monsoon due to landslides in the hills.

• Food options on trains are basic; it is advisable to carry snacks and water for the journey.

Bus

Buses offer a direct and affordable way to reach Naina Devi Temple from Delhi, suitable for budget travelers and those who prefer road travel.

• State-run buses like HRTC and private operators run from Delhi’s ISBT Kashmiri Gate to Naina Devi or nearby towns like Bilaspur and Una, covering around 420 km in 10 to 12 hours.

• Bus fares range from ₹400 to ₹900 depending on the type of bus, such as ordinary, deluxe, or Volvo AC coaches.

• Buses depart mostly in the evening and early morning, so choosing a night bus can save daytime for sightseeing.

• Road conditions on NH44 and NH205 are generally good, but monsoon rains can cause delays and slippery patches near the hills.

• Rest stops with food and washrooms are available at major highway points like Karnal and Ambala; however, hygiene standards vary.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Delhi to Naina Devi Temple gives you flexibility and comfort, ideal for families or groups who want to explore at their own pace.

• The distance is approximately 410 km via NH44 and NH205, taking around 9 to 11 hours depending on traffic and stops.

• Major toll plazas en route include Karnal, Ambala, and Una; toll charges can total around ₹300 to ₹500 one way.

• Good rest stops and dhabas are available along the highway for meals and breaks, such as Murthal and Rajpura.

• Driving through the hills near Bilaspur requires caution, especially during monsoon when roads can be narrow and slippery.

• Car rentals and self-drive options are widely available in Delhi through services like Zoomcar and local agencies, with daily rates starting around ₹2000.

Flight

Flying is a faster but less direct option since Naina Devi Temple does not have an airport. The nearest airport is Chandigarh, from where you can continue by road.

• Flights from Delhi to Chandigarh Airport (IXC) take about 1 hour, with multiple daily flights operated by airlines like IndiGo and Air India.

• From Chandigarh, Naina Devi Temple is approximately 120 km away, requiring a 3 to 4-hour taxi or bus ride via NH205 and NH3.

• Taxi fares from Chandigarh to Naina Devi range from ₹2000 to ₹3000 depending on vehicle type and negotiation.

• Bus services from Chandigarh ISBT to Bilaspur or Una are available but less frequent, so pre-planning is necessary.

• Flight fares vary widely but usually start around ₹1500 one way; booking early can secure better prices.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This plan is designed for first-time travelers from Delhi to Naina Devi Temple, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free journey.

• Book your train or bus tickets online via IRCTC or official bus portals at least 7 days in advance to avoid last-minute unavailability.

• If traveling by train, choose a train that arrives at Una Himachal during daylight hours to make the onward journey easier and safer.

• Arrange local transport from Una Himachal station or Bilaspur bus stand to Naina Devi Temple in advance using Ola, Uber, or local taxis to avoid waiting.

• Carry light luggage and pack comfortable clothes suitable for hill weather, including rain gear during monsoon months.

• Start your journey early in the morning if driving to avoid heavy traffic near Delhi and to reach the hills before dark.

• Keep a printed or digital copy of your tickets and ID proof handy, as these are often checked during travel in India.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always use prepaid taxi services or app-based cabs like Ola and Uber in Una and Bilaspur to avoid overcharging by local drivers.

• Drink only bottled or boiled water during your trip to prevent stomach issues common among travelers in hill regions.

• Book your train or bus tickets early, especially during festivals like Navratri or Diwali, when pilgrimage traffic peaks significantly.

• Local buses to Naina Devi Temple can be crowded and infrequent; consider sharing a taxi if traveling in a group for convenience.

• Carry a small first aid kit and any personal medicines, as medical facilities near the temple are limited.

• During monsoon (July to September), check weather and road conditions before starting, as landslides can cause delays or roadblocks.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to visit Naina Devi Temple is from March to June and September to November when weather is pleasant and roads are safer.

Winter months can be cold with fog causing visibility issues on highways, while monsoon brings heavy rains and occasional landslides, affecting travel plans.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Navratri if you prefer less crowd, as the temple and transport get very busy.

• Early morning departures from Delhi help avoid city traffic and allow you to reach the hills before evening.

• Monsoon season requires extra caution due to slippery roads and possible delays; carry rain gear and check local news.

• Winter fog on NH44 near Karnal and Ambala can slow down road travel; plan extra time if traveling between December and February.

Arrival at Naina Devi Temple & What to Expect

Upon arrival near Naina Devi Temple, you will find limited public transport options, so pre-arranged taxis or shared cabs are the most reliable way to reach the temple entrance. The temple is situated on a hilltop, so be prepared for a short uphill walk or use local pony rides available at the base.

Accommodation options are available in nearby towns like Bilaspur and Una, ranging from budget guesthouses to mid-range hotels. Local buses and auto-rickshaws operate within towns, but for temple visits, private taxis are recommended for comfort and timing flexibility.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to reach Naina Devi Temple from Delhi is by train to Una Himachal followed by a taxi ride, balancing cost, comfort, and travel time. Buses and self-drive options offer flexibility but require more planning for road conditions and stops.

Booking tickets early, planning your last-mile transport, and traveling during favorable seasons will ensure a smooth pilgrimage. With this guide, you can confidently plan your journey to experience the spiritual and natural beauty of Naina Devi Temple.