How to Reach Naina Devi Temple Himachal Pradesh – Travel Guide
Learn how to reach Naina Devi Temple in Himachal Pradesh by train, bus, car, and more with practical tips for a smooth pilgrimage journey.
Naina Devi Temple is a famous Hindu pilgrimage site located in the Bilaspur district of Himachal Pradesh. It sits atop a hill offering panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and the Govind Sagar Lake. Many devotees and tourists travel here to seek blessings and enjoy the serene environment.
This guide explains the main ways to reach Naina Devi Temple, including train, bus, car, and local transport options. You will also find practical travel tips, step-by-step plans, and advice on the best time to visit, helping you plan your trip confidently and comfortably.
Getting from Major Cities to Naina Devi Temple – Main Options
Train
Train travel is popular for pilgrims coming from northern India. The nearest major railway station is Una Himachal, well connected to cities like Delhi and Chandigarh.
Una Himachal Railway Station is about 35 km from Naina Devi Temple, connected by frequent local buses and taxis. Trains from Delhi take around 6 to 8 hours depending on the service.
From Una station, shared taxis and buses run regularly to Naina Devi, taking about 1 to 1.5 hours via NH205 and local roads.
Train fares from Delhi to Una typically range from INR 200 to 800 depending on class, with sleeper and second class being economical choices for pilgrims.
During festivals like Navratri, trains can be crowded. Booking tickets early through IRCTC is recommended to secure seats.
Monsoon season may cause occasional delays on the rail route due to landslides near the hills, so plan extra travel time from July to September.
Bus
Buses are a common and affordable way to reach Naina Devi Temple from nearby towns and cities. Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) operates regular services.
HRTC buses run from Una, Bilaspur, and Chandigarh to Naina Devi Temple area, with journey times from Una taking about 1.5 hours on hilly roads.
Private and shared buses also operate from Chandigarh and Delhi, with fares ranging from INR 150 to 400 depending on the distance and bus type.
State-run buses depart from Una Bus Stand, which is well connected by local transport from the railway station and city center.
Bus frequency is higher during the day, but fewer services run after sunset, so plan your arrival accordingly.
Road conditions on the route are generally good, but during heavy monsoon rains, landslides can cause delays and occasional route diversions.
Car / Self-Drive
Driving to Naina Devi Temple offers flexibility and comfort, especially for groups or families. The temple is accessible via well-maintained highways and local roads.
The route from Chandigarh to Naina Devi Temple covers about 110 km via NH205 and NH3, taking around 3 to 4 hours depending on traffic and stops.
From Una, the temple is approximately 35 km away, reachable via NH205 and local hill roads that are narrow but well-paved.
Toll plazas are present on NH205, so keep cash handy for toll payments along the way.
Parking is available near the temple base, but the final ascent to the temple is on foot or by local transport, as private vehicles are restricted.
During peak pilgrimage seasons, traffic congestion near the temple can increase travel time, so starting early in the morning is advisable.
Flight
The nearest airport to Naina Devi Temple is the Chandigarh International Airport, suitable for travelers coming from distant cities.
Chandigarh Airport is about 110 km from Naina Devi Temple, connected by taxis and buses. The drive takes around 3 to 4 hours.
Regular flights operate to Chandigarh from major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru, making it a convenient entry point.
From the airport, prepaid taxis and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber are available for a direct trip to Naina Devi Temple or Una town.
Flight fares vary widely depending on the season and booking time, so early reservations can save money.
During winter months, fog can cause flight delays at Chandigarh, so allow buffer time if connecting to other transport modes.
Step-by-Step Travel Plan
This step-by-step plan is designed for first-time travelers visiting Naina Devi Temple, helping you navigate the journey smoothly.
Book train or bus tickets in advance through IRCTC or HRTC websites to avoid last-minute hassles, especially during festival seasons.
Arrive at Una Himachal Railway Station or Bus Stand early in the day to secure local transport to Naina Devi Temple, as options reduce after evening.
Use prepaid taxis or shared cabs from Una to the temple base to ensure fair pricing and safety; negotiate fares beforehand if using local taxis.
Prepare for a short uphill walk or take local shuttle vehicles allowed near the temple; wear comfortable shoes as the path can be steep.
Carry water and light snacks, as food options near the temple are limited and often crowded during peak times.
Return transport may be slower due to evening rush; plan your return trip accordingly or consider staying overnight in nearby towns like Una or Bilaspur.
Practical Travel Tips
Carry a small first aid kit and any personal medicines, as medical facilities near the temple are basic and pharmacies limited.
Drink only bottled or boiled water to avoid stomach issues common in hilly pilgrimage spots.
Book transport tickets online early, especially during Navratri and summer holidays, to avoid sold-out situations.
Use Ola or Uber in Una and Chandigarh for safe and reliable local travel, avoiding unmetered taxis.
Pack light but include rain gear during monsoon months, as sudden showers are frequent in Himachal Pradesh.
Keep your valuables secure and avoid carrying large amounts of cash; use digital payments where possible in towns.
Best Time & Travel Conditions
The best time to visit Naina Devi Temple is from March to June and September to November when the weather is pleasant and roads are clear. Winters can be cold, and monsoons bring heavy rains.
Travel conditions vary with the seasons, so plan accordingly to avoid discomfort and delays.
Avoid visiting during peak festivals like Navratri if you prefer less crowded experiences, as the temple attracts thousands of devotees.
Monsoon months (July to September) often cause landslides and roadblocks on hill routes, making travel risky and slower.
Winter mornings can have dense fog on highways near Una and Chandigarh, causing visibility issues and flight delays.
Early morning departures are best to avoid traffic jams near the temple and to enjoy cooler temperatures during the uphill walk.
Arrival at Naina Devi Temple & What to Expect
Upon arrival at the temple base, you will find parking areas and local transport options like shuttle jeeps and taxis for the final ascent. Private vehicles are not allowed beyond a certain point to preserve the temple environment.
Nearby towns like Una and Bilaspur offer accommodation ranging from budget guesthouses to mid-range hotels. Local buses and taxis are available for onward travel, and prepaid taxi counters help avoid fare disputes.
Conclusion
Traveling to Naina Devi Temple is best done by train to Una followed by local transport or by self-driving from Chandigarh for flexibility. Buses offer an economical option but may take longer on hilly roads. Planning ahead with ticket bookings and early departures will make your journey smooth and enjoyable.
With clear knowledge of transport modes, seasonal conditions, and local tips, you can confidently plan your pilgrimage or visit to Naina Devi Temple. This guide aims to make your travel hassle-free, so you can focus on the spiritual and scenic experience that this beautiful Himachal Pradesh destination offers.