Delhi to Nainital Trip Guide: Routes & Travel Tips
Looking for a quick escape from Delhi’s heat and chaos? Nainital’s cool breeze and calm lakes are calling your name. Imagine sipping chai by the lake, wrapped in a light sweater, while the mist rolls over the hills. Nainital, the “Lake District of India,” is one of the most scenic and peaceful hill stations in Uttarakhand. Surrounded by lush green hills, shimmering lakes, and a pleasant climate, it is a top choice for weekend getaways, family vacations, and romantic trips.
Whether you’re planning a budget-friendly solo trip, a romantic getaway for couples, or a fun-filled 3-night vacation with family, this guide covers everything—from Delhi to Nainital travel options (bus, train, cab, and flight) to ticket prices, distance, best packages, and must-visit places.
Read on to explore the best routes, stay options, and travel tips to make your Delhi to Nainital trip smooth and memorable! 🚗🏔️✨
Delhi to Nainital Trip
A Delhi to Nainital Trip is a perfect getaway for nature lovers, offering breathtaking views of hills, serene lakes, and a refreshing climate. You can travel by road (via NH9), which takes around 6-7 hours, or opt for a train to Kathgodam, the nearest railway station, followed by a short drive to Nainital. For a hassle-free journey, buses and taxis are also available. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or sightseeing, Nainital has something for everyone! 🏞️🚗🚆
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Delhi to Nainital Trip – (Distance, Cost & Packages)
Nainital, also known as the “Lake District of India,” is a breathtaking hill station in Uttarakhand, perfect for weekend getaways, family trips, and romantic escapes. Located at an altitude of 2,084 meters, this charming town is known for its serene lakes, lush green hills, and colonial-era charm.
If you’re planning a Delhi to Nainital trip, this guide covers all travel options (bus, train, cab, flight), ticket prices, travel time, and the best 2-night & 3-night trip packages to help you plan the perfect journey.
Delhi to Nainital Distance & Travel Options
Planning a Delhi to Nainital Trip? Here’s a breakdown of all travel options to help you choose the best one. 🚗🚆✈️
1️⃣ By Road – A Scenic Drive 🚗
- Distance: ~310 km
- Duration: ~7-8 hours
- Best Route: Delhi → Hapur → Moradabad → Rampur → Haldwani → Nainital
- Travel Options: Private car, taxi, or bus
- Highlights: Enjoy picturesque views, roadside dhabas, and smooth highways
- Tip: Start early to avoid traffic and enjoy a hassle-free drive
2️⃣ By Train – Comfortable & Budget-Friendly 🚆
- Nearest Railway Station: Kathgodam (34 km from Nainital)
- Train Distance: ~286 km from Delhi to Kathgodam
- Duration: ~5-6 hours (train) + ~1-hour road journey to Nainital
- Popular Trains:
- Ranikhet Express (15013) – Overnight journey
- Kathgodam Shatabdi (12040) – Fastest option
- Uttar Sampark Kranti Express (15035) – Budget-friendly
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✅ Travel Tip:
Train tickets get sold out quickly during weekends and peak seasons (especially summer & festive holidays). Book well in advance for a hassle-free trip. Check Goibibo or Makemytrip for Nainital Ticket Availibity.
3️⃣ By Air – The Fastest Way ✈️
- Nearest Airport: Pantnagar Airport (~70 km from Nainital)
- Flight Duration: ~1 hour from Delhi
- Additional Travel: ~2-hour taxi ride from Pantnagar to Nainital
- Airlines: Limited flights operated by Alliance Air
- Tip: Flights are not frequent, so check availability before planning
4️⃣ By Bus – Affordable & Convenient 🚌
- Bus Type: AC, Volvo, Sleeper, and Non-AC buses available
- Duration: ~8-10 hours (overnight options available)
- Boarding Points in Delhi: Anand Vihar ISBT, Kashmiri Gate ISBT
- Ticket Price: ₹500 – ₹1,500 (depending on bus type)
- Tip: Opt for an overnight Volvo for a comfortable journey
Final Thoughts 🌿
Your choice of transport depends on your budget, comfort, and time constraints:
✅ Fastest: Flight + Taxi 🚀
✅ Most Comfortable: Train + Taxi 🚆🚖
✅ Best for Scenic Views: Road Trip 🚗
✅ Most Budget-Friendly: Bus 🚌
No matter how you travel, Nainital’s beauty is worth the journey!
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Best Ways to Travel from Delhi to Nainital
| Mode of Transport | Travel Time | Approximate Cost |
| Bus (Govt & Private) | 7-9 hours | ₹400 – ₹1500 |
| Train (via Kathgodam) | 6-7 hours + 1 hr cab | ₹150 – ₹1000 |
| Cab (One-way from Delhi) | 6-7 hours | ₹5000 – ₹8000 |
| Flight (via Pantnagar) | 1 hour + 2 hr drive | ₹3000 – ₹7000 |
Delhi to Nainital by Bus – Timetable & Fare
Traveling from Delhi to Nainital by bus is one of the most budget-friendly and comfortable options. The Uttarakhand Transport Corporation (UTC) operates reliable services from Anand Vihar ISBT to Nainital.
🚍 Delhi to Nainital Government Bus Service (UTC)
✅ Starting Point: Anand Vihar ISBT, Delhi
✅ Departure Timings: Multiple buses between 9:00 PM – 11:30 PM
✅ Fare: ₹400 – ₹1500 (Varies for AC, Non-AC, Sleeper)
✅ Duration: 8-10 hours (Overnight journey available)
✅ Booking Options:
- UTC Official Website 🖥️
- RedBus, MakeMyTrip & Paytm 📱
💡 Pro Tip: Book in advance to secure the best seats, especially during weekends and holiday seasons! ✅
Delhi to Nainital by Train – Ticket Price & Timings
There is no direct train to Nainital, but you can take a train to Kathgodam, which is the nearest railway station (34 km from Nainital). From Kathgodam, taxis and buses are available to reach Nainital.
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🚉 Delhi to Kathgodam Train Options
| Train Name & Number | Departure | Arrival | Fare (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ranikhet Express (15013) | 10:05 PM | 5:05 AM | Sleeper: ₹200, AC: ₹600-₹1000 |
| Uttar Sampark Kranti Express (15035) | 4:00 PM | 10:45 PM | ₹150 – ₹900 |
| Shatabdi Express (12040) | 6:20 AM | 11:40 AM | ₹500 – ₹1200 |
🚕 How to Reach Nainital from Kathgodam?
✅ Cab Fare: ₹1000 – ₹1500 (One-way)
✅ Shared Taxi: ₹200 per person
✅ Bus: ₹80 – ₹100
💡 Pro Tip: Shatabdi Express is the fastest and most comfortable option, while Ranikhet Express is best for an overnight journey! ✅
Delhi to Nainital by Cab – Cost & Route
For a comfortable and hassle-free journey, booking a private cab from Delhi to Nainital is a great option. You get the flexibility of travel, scenic views, and the convenience of door-to-door service.
🚖 Delhi to Nainital Cab Fare
| Cab Type | Fare (Approx.) | Capacity |
|---|---|---|
| Sedan (Dzire, Etios, Amaze) | ₹5000 – ₹6000 | 4 passengers |
| SUV (Innova, Ertiga, Xylo) | ₹7000 – ₹8000 | 6-7 passengers |
| Luxury Cars (BMW, Audi, Mercedes) | ₹12,000+ | 4 passengers |
💡 Pro Tip: Booking in advance can get you better deals, especially during peak tourist seasons!
🛣️ Best Route from Delhi to Nainital
The journey covers 310 km and takes around 7-8 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
➡️ Route: Delhi → Ghaziabad → Hapur → Moradabad → Rampur → Haldwani → Nainital
✅ Why Choose a Cab?
✔️ Comfortable & Private Travel
✔️ Flexible Departure Time
✔️ Scenic Road Trip Experience
🚕 Book via: Ola Outstation, Uber Intercity, Savaari, or local taxi operators.
Delhi to Nainital by Air – Nearest Airport & Cost
If you’re short on time and prefer the fastest travel option, flying to Pantnagar Airport (PGH) is the quickest way to reach Nainital. However, considering the additional travel time from Pantnagar to Nainital, this option is not always the most convenient.
✈️ Flights from Delhi to Pantnagar
- Airline: Alliance Air (only direct flight option)
- Flight Duration: ~1 hour
- Ticket Price: ₹3000 – ₹7000 (varies by booking time & availability)
- Flight Frequency: Limited flights per week
🚖 From Pantnagar to Nainital
Once you land at Pantnagar Airport, you’ll need to travel 70 km by road to reach Nainital.
- Private Taxi: ₹1500 – ₹2500 (2-hour journey)
- Shared Cabs: ₹500 per person (available outside the airport)
👉 Is Flying a Good Option?
✅ Fastest Travel Time (if booked well in advance)
❌ Not budget-friendly (flights are expensive compared to train/bus)
❌ Extra travel time from Pantnagar to Nainital
💡 Recommendation: Only choose this option if you’re short on time; otherwise, trains or cabs offer a better travel experience to Nainital!
Best Delhi to Nainital Trip Packages for Couples & Families
If you’re looking for hassle-free travel, Delhi to Nainital trip packages offer transportation, stay, sightseeing, and meals.
Popular Nainital Tour Packages:
| Package | Duration | Cost (per person) | Inclusions |
| Budget Package | 2 Nights / 3 Days | ₹5000 – ₹8000 | Hotel, meals, local sightseeing |
| Luxury Package | 3 Nights / 4 Days | ₹15,000 – ₹20,000 | 4-star hotel, cab, guided tour |
| Couple’s Package | 2 Nights / 3 Days | ₹10,000 – ₹18,000 | Lake-view resort, candlelight dinner |
👉 Where to book? Makemytrip, Yatra, or direct hotel packages.
Best Time to Visit Nainital
Nainital welcomes tourists year-round, but here’s what each season offers:
- Summer (March to June) 🌸
👉 Ideal for boating, sightseeing, and escaping Delhi’s heat.
☀️ Avg Temp: 10°C – 27°C
✅ Best time for family trips and honeymooners - Monsoon (July to September) 🌧️
👉 The hills look lush but beware of landslides.
☔ Avg Rainfall: Heavy
❌ Avoid long drives – roadblocks are common - Winter (October to February) ❄️
👉 Snowfall, chilly air, cozy bonfires.
❄️ Avg Temp: -3°C to 10°C
✅ Perfect for snow-lovers and romantic getaways
Nainital Weather from Delhi – Month-wise Comparison
| Month | Delhi Avg Temp | Nainital Avg Temp | Weather Tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 6–15°C | -2–10°C | Heavy woolens |
| Apr | 20–32°C | 10–20°C | Light jacket |
| July | 28–35°C | 18–24°C | Carry rain gear |
| Oct | 22–30°C | 8–15°C | Ideal weather |
| Dec | 7–17°C | 0–8°C | Great for snowfall chasers |
Best Places to Visit in Nainital
Nainital is a paradise for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those looking for a peaceful getaway. Here are the must-visit places in Nainital:
1️⃣ Naini Lake 🌊
🚣 Why Visit? Boating, serene views, and a relaxing ambiance
📍 Location: Heart of Nainital
💰 Entry Fee: ₹160 – ₹350 (boating charges)
2️⃣ Mall Road 🛍️
🍽️ Why Visit? A bustling street for shopping, cafés, and local delicacies
📍 Location: Alongside Naini Lake
🛒 Must Buy: Woolens, candles, souvenirs
3️⃣ Snow View Point ❄️🏔️
🔭 Why Visit? Stunning Himalayan views & a cable car ride
📍 Location: 3 km from Nainital
🚡 How to Reach? Take a ropeway from Mallital
4️⃣ Tiffin Top (Dorothy’s Seat) 🌅
🥾 Why Visit? A scenic trekking spot with mesmerizing sunrise views
📍 Location: 4 km from Nainital
🎒 Best For: Adventure lovers & photographers
5️⃣ Nainital Zoo (GB Pant High Altitude Zoo) 🦅🐆
🦉 Why Visit? Home to rare Himalayan wildlife like snow leopards & red pandas
📍 Location: 2 km from Tallital Bus Stand
💰 Entry Fee: ₹50 for adults, ₹20 for kids
💡 Pro Tip: Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and get the best experience!
Delhi to Nainital Travel Itinerary (2-Day Sample)
Day 1: Explore Nature & Local Culture
- 5:30 AM – Depart Delhi
- 12:30 PM – Arrive in Nainital, check-in
- 2:00 PM – Lunch at Sakley’s Restaurant
- 3:30 PM – Visit Naini Lake (boating)
- 5:00 PM – Stroll along Mall Road, sunset view
- 8:00 PM – Dinner at Giannis Pure Veg
- Overnight stay with bonfire (if winter)
Day 2: Adventure & Views
- 7:00 AM – Breakfast
- 8:00 AM – Ropeway to Snow View Point
- 11:00 AM – Tiffin Top trek or cab
- 1:00 PM – Try momos & thukpa at Tibetan Market
- 2:30 PM – Visit Naina Devi Temple
- 4:00 PM – Leave for Delhi
- 10:00 PM – Reach home with mountain vibes 💚
🧳 Packing List for Nainital (Season-Wise)
🏖️ Summer (Mar–Jun)
- Light sweater or hoodie (evenings are cool)
- Sunglasses & sunscreen
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Umbrella (May rains possible)
❄️ Winter (Oct–Feb)
- Heavy woolens, thermals, mufflers
- Gloves, beanie cap
- Lip balm & moisturizer (dry weather)
- Warm boots or grip shoes for snow
🌧️ Monsoon (Jul–Sep)
- Waterproof shoes
- Raincoat or poncho
- Mosquito repellent
- Backup phone battery & dry pouch
🍴 Local Food to Try in Nainital
Explore the hill flavors beyond just Maggi 😋
- Momos at Mallital – Steamed goodness with spicy chutney
- Thukpa – Himalayan noodle soup, perfect for chilly evenings
- Bal Mithai – A Kumaoni sweet made with roasted khoya and sugar balls
- Chana Chat – Spicy street snack at Tibetan Market
- Aloo Ke Gutke – Local-style sauteed potatoes with bhang ki chutney
- Ras (Kumaoni dal) – Traditional pahadi lentil dish (try at a local home-cafe)
FAQs About Delhi to Nainital Trip
1. How can I go to Nainital from Delhi?
You can travel by bus, train (via Kathgodam), cab, or flight (via Pantnagar). The most popular options are bus and self-drive.
2. Can we go to Nainital by train?
Yes, the nearest railway station is Kathgodam, 34 km from Nainital. You can take a cab/bus from there.
3. Which bus is best for Delhi to Nainital?
UTC government buses from Anand Vihar ISBT and private Volvo buses are the best options.
4. How do I get to Nainital by air?
Take a flight from Delhi to Pantnagar Airport, then hire a cab to Nainital.
5. What is the cost of a Delhi to Nainital trip?
- Budget Trip: ₹5000 – ₹8000 per person
- Luxury Trip: ₹15,000 – ₹20,000 per person
- Self-Drive (own car): ₹6000 – ₹10,000 (fuel + hotel)
6. Which is the best way to reach Nainital from Delhi?
The best way to get from New Delhi to Nainital is to train which takes 6h 33m and costs ₹900.
7. Is 2 days enough for Nainital?
Yes 2 Days is enough to explore Nainital Best Places like Nainital Zoo, Nainital Lake, Himalaya Darshan Point, Naina Peak and Naina Devi Temple.
Final Thoughts
A Delhi to Nainital trip is the perfect way to escape city life and enjoy nature, adventure, and relaxation. Whether you travel by bus, train, cab, or flight, Nainital’s scenic beauty and charm will leave you mesmerized.
🚗 So, pack your bags, grab your travel buddies, and head to Nainital for an unforgettable experience! 🌿🏔️
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