Nainital

How to Travel Nainital from Delhi

Traveling from Delhi to Nainital is convenient, with options for road, rail, and air travel. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you reach Nainital from Delhi:

1. Distance and Travel Time

  • Distance: Approximately 335 km from Delhi to Nainital by road.
  • Travel Time: 6-7 hours by car/bus, depending on traffic.

2. Travel Options

By Road

  • Private Car: Driving from Delhi to Nainital is popular for its flexibility. The best route is via NH9 through Ghaziabad, Moradabad, Rampur, and Haldwani. The roads are mostly well-maintained, and scenic views start appearing as you approach the hills.
  • Bus: Several state-run and private buses operate between Delhi and Nainital:
    • Uttarakhand Transport buses, available from Delhi’s Anand Vihar ISBT, include both regular and Volvo services.
    • Private Bus Operators: These buses also operate from Anand Vihar and can be booked online. Overnight buses are convenient for reaching Nainital in the morning.
  • Travel Time by Bus: Around 7-9 hours, depending on traffic and stops.

By Train

  • Train to Kathgodam: The nearest railway station to Nainital is Kathgodam, located about 34 km from Nainital. Major trains include:
    • Ranikhet Express (departing from Delhi in the evening, reaching Kathgodam in the morning)
    • Uttaranchal Sampark Kranti Express (morning departure, reaching Kathgodam in the afternoon)
  • From Kathgodam to Nainital: You can take a taxi or shared jeep from Kathgodam to Nainital, which takes about an hour.

By Air

  • Nearest Airport: The closest airport is Pantnagar Airport, about 70 km from Nainital.
  • Flights: Limited flights operate between Delhi and Pantnagar, so availability may vary.
  • Transfer from Pantnagar: From Pantnagar Airport, you can take a taxi to Nainital, which takes around 2 hours.

3. Best Time to Visit

  • March to June: Ideal for pleasant weather and sightseeing.
  • September to November: Great for a quieter experience after the monsoon.
  • Winter (December to February): Expect chilly weather and possibly snow, especially in late December and January.

4. Important Tips

  • Booking: It’s recommended to book buses and trains in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons and holidays.
  • Road Conditions: Roads can be foggy in winter and sometimes congested, especially around weekends and holidays.

Enjoy your trip to Nainital!