Nainital is a beautiful hill station located in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, known for its scenic lake and pleasant weather. Bareilly, a major city in western Uttar Pradesh, serves as a common starting point for travelers heading to Nainital due to its connectivity and proximity.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to travel from Bareilly to Nainital, covering trains, buses, cars, and taxis. You will also find practical advice on planning your journey, local transport, and what to expect upon arrival.

Getting from Bareilly to Nainital – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train is a convenient option if you prefer a relaxed journey with scenic views. However, there is no direct train to Nainital, so you will need to combine train and road transport.

• You can take a train from Bareilly Junction (BE) to Kathgodam Railway Station, the nearest railhead to Nainital, which is about 34 km away. Trains run frequently, and the journey takes around 2 to 3 hours, with fares ranging from ₹100 to ₹300 depending on class.

• From Kathgodam, you can hire a taxi or take a shared jeep to Nainital. The road journey takes about 1 to 1.5 hours, with taxi fares typically between ₹400 and ₹700. Shared jeeps are cheaper but less comfortable.

• Trains can be crowded during weekends and holidays, so booking tickets in advance via IRCTC is advisable, especially in peak tourist seasons like summer and winter holidays.

• Monsoon season may cause delays due to landslides or track maintenance, so check train running status before departure. Early morning trains offer cooler travel conditions and less crowding.

Bus

Buses are a popular and affordable way to reach Nainital from Bareilly. Both government and private operators run services on this route.

• Uttarakhand Transport Corporation (UTC) and Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (UPSRTC) operate regular buses from Bareilly Bus Stand to Nainital. The journey covers approximately 150 km and takes around 5 to 6 hours.

• Bus fares typically range from ₹150 to ₹300 depending on the type of bus, such as ordinary, deluxe, or Volvo AC coaches. Volvo buses are more comfortable but less frequent.

• Buses depart mostly in the morning and evening, with higher frequency during weekends and holidays. Booking tickets online or at the bus stand a day in advance is recommended to avoid last-minute rush.

• Road conditions on NH 530 and NH 309 can be challenging during monsoon due to slippery patches and occasional landslides. Avoid traveling at night during heavy rains for safety.

• There are several rest stops along the route offering local snacks and tea, such as at Rampur and Haldwani, which are good for breaks during the journey.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Bareilly to Nainital gives you flexibility and comfort, especially if you want to explore nearby attractions along the way.

• The distance between Bareilly and Nainital is about 150 km via NH 530 and NH 309, and the drive usually takes 4 to 5 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.

• The route passes through towns like Rampur and Haldwani, where you can stop for refreshments or sightseeing. Toll plazas on this route may charge small fees, so keep cash handy.

• Driving during early morning hours helps avoid city traffic in Bareilly and Haldwani, making the journey smoother and faster.

• Monsoon season can make the roads slippery and prone to landslides, so check weather and road conditions before starting your trip. Carry a physical map or GPS device as network coverage may be patchy in hilly areas.

• Fuel stations are available along the highway, but it is wise to fill up in Bareilly or Rampur to avoid inconvenience in remote stretches.

Taxi

Hiring a taxi or cab from Bareilly to Nainital is a comfortable and hassle-free option, especially for groups or families.

• Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber are available in Bareilly, but for Nainital trips, it is better to book a local taxi or private cab service that offers fixed rates for hill station travel.

• The taxi fare for Bareilly to Nainital typically ranges from ₹2500 to ₹3500 depending on the vehicle type and negotiation. The journey takes about 4 to 5 hours.

• Taxis offer door-to-door service, allowing you to stop at scenic spots or rest areas along the way, making the trip more enjoyable.

• Booking a taxi in advance during peak tourist seasons like summer vacations and festivals is advisable to avoid last-minute price surges and availability issues.

• Ensure the taxi driver is experienced with hill driving and the vehicle is well-maintained for a safe journey through winding mountain roads.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This step-by-step plan is designed for first-time travelers from Bareilly to Nainital, helping you organize your trip smoothly.

• Book your train or bus tickets online in advance through IRCTC or state transport websites to secure your seat and avoid last-minute hassles.

• Pack light but include essentials like water bottles, snacks, and a light jacket, as weather in Nainital can be cooler than Bareilly, especially in the mornings and evenings.

• Reach Bareilly Junction or bus stand at least 30 minutes before departure to navigate crowds and find your platform or bus easily.

• If traveling by train, arrange for a taxi or shared jeep from Kathgodam to Nainital beforehand to avoid waiting long hours at the station.

• Carry some cash in small denominations for tolls, local transport, and food stalls, as digital payments may not be accepted everywhere on the route.

• Use a reliable navigation app or offline map during self-drive trips, and check weather updates to avoid travel disruptions caused by fog or rain.

Practical Travel Tips

• Keep your belongings secure and avoid displaying expensive items openly, especially at crowded stations and bus stands, to prevent theft or loss.

• Drink only bottled or filtered water during your journey and avoid street food if you have a sensitive stomach to prevent travel sickness.

• Book tickets early during holiday seasons like summer vacations and Diwali to ensure availability and better fares.

• In Nainital, use local shared taxis or rented scooters for short distances, as parking is limited and traffic can be congested near the lake area.

• Carry a small backpack with essentials rather than large suitcases, as some transport modes and taxis have limited luggage space.

• During monsoon, carry rain gear and check road conditions regularly, as landslides and roadblocks can cause delays or detours.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Bareilly to Nainital depends on weather and tourist seasons. Summer months from March to June offer pleasant weather and clear roads, making travel comfortable.

Winter months from November to February are cold but less crowded, though fog can cause delays on roads and trains. Monsoon season from July to September brings heavy rain, increasing the risk of landslides and slippery roads.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Diwali and Christmas when traffic to Nainital peaks, causing longer travel times and crowded transport.

• Early morning departures help avoid city traffic and offer cooler, safer driving conditions, especially in summer and winter.

• Monsoon rains can cause roadblocks and train delays, so plan extra travel time and check weather forecasts before starting your journey.

• Winter fog may reduce visibility on highways and rail routes, so allow for slower travel and prefer daytime journeys.

Arrival at Nainital & What to Expect

When you arrive in Nainital, you will likely reach the town via the main road from Kathgodam or the bus stand. The town center is compact, with narrow roads and limited parking.

Local transport options include shared taxis, auto-rickshaws, and battery-operated rickshaws that connect popular spots like Mall Road, Naini Lake, and the market areas. Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs are less common but available in some parts.

Popular areas to stay include Mallital, Tallital, and the vicinity of Naini Lake, which offer easy access to attractions and dining. Booking accommodation in advance is recommended during peak seasons to secure good rates and availability.

Be prepared for uphill walks and crowded streets near the lake, especially on weekends and holidays. Carry comfortable footwear and stay hydrated while exploring.

Conclusion

Traveling from Bareilly to Nainital offers several options depending on your budget, comfort, and time. Taking a train to Kathgodam followed by a taxi is efficient and popular among tourists, while buses provide an economical alternative. Self-driving or hiring a taxi offers flexibility and convenience for groups or those wanting to explore en route.

Planning ahead by booking tickets early, checking weather conditions, and arranging local transport from Kathgodam will help you have a smooth and enjoyable journey. With practical preparation, you can confidently experience the scenic beauty and pleasant climate of Nainital starting from Bareilly.