Nainital does not have its own railway station or commercial airport, so every journey includes a final road transfer. The easiest option for most travellers is to take a train to Kathgodam Railway Station and continue to Nainital by taxi, shared cab, or bus.
You can also reach Nainital by road from Delhi, Haldwani, and other North Indian cities. If you’re flying, Pantnagar Airport is the nearest airport, followed by a road journey to Nainital.
The official Nainital district website lists regular road transport connections with cities including Delhi, Agra, Dehradun, Haridwar, Lucknow, Kanpur, and Bareilly.
This guide covers the main ways to reach Nainital by train, road, bus, and flight, along with approximate travel times and practical tips to help you choose the best option for your trip.
| Travel Mode | Best Option | Approx. Journey |
|---|---|---|
| Train | Kathgodam + Taxi/Bus | ~1–1.5 hours by road |
| Road | Direct Bus/Car | Depends on starting city |
| Flight | Pantnagar + Taxi | ~2 hours by road |
| Budget | Bus/Shared Taxi | Usually the cheapest option |
| Comfort | Private Taxi/Car | Most convenient |
Note: Road distance between Kathgodam and Nainital varies slightly by source, usually around 34–37 km. The exact distance depends on the route and your drop-off point in Nainital, so it’s better to treat this as an approximate range rather than a fixed figure.
How to Reach Nainital by Train
Nainital does not have its own railway station. Kathgodam Railway Station is the main railhead used by travellers heading to Nainital and is the most convenient option for most visitors.
Haldwani and Lalkuan are other nearby railway stations, but Kathgodam is generally the better choice because of its closer location and convenient road connections to Nainital.
How to Reach Nainital from Kathgodam Railway Station
Getting from Kathgodam Railway Station to Nainital is straightforward, with taxis, shared cabs, and buses available near the station.
- Taxi: The fastest and most convenient option. Taxis are available near the station and usually take around 1–1.5 hours in normal traffic.
- Shared taxi: A cheaper option for solo travellers or those on a budget. You may share the vehicle with other passengers and make additional stops.
- Bus: Government and private buses are available from the nearby roadways area, with services heading towards Nainital via Bhowali.
- Travel time: The journey usually takes 1–1.5 hours, but can take longer during busy weekends, holidays, or heavy traffic.
- Where to find transport: Taxi stands and bus services are located close to Kathgodam Railway Station, making the transfer convenient for first-time visitors.
For train schedules, fares, and connections from Delhi and other cities, see our guide: Nearest Railway Station to Nainital.
How to Reach Nainital by Road
Nainital is well connected by road with Delhi, Haldwani, Kathgodam, and other cities across North India. Regular government and private buses also operate on several routes, making road travel one of the easiest ways to reach the hill station.
- Private car: Gives you the most flexibility and makes it easier to stop at viewpoints or nearby places along the way.
- Taxi: Taxis are readily available from Kathgodam, Haldwani, and Pantnagar, making them a convenient choice if you aren’t driving.
- Bus: Government and private buses connect Nainital with Delhi and other regional cities. They are usually the most economical option.
- Self-drive: Suitable for confident hill drivers, but expect winding roads, sharp curves, and occasional narrow sections.
- Mountain-road conditions: The road becomes more winding after Haldwani as it climbs into the hills. Drive carefully during monsoon rain, winter fog, or icy conditions, and avoid driving unfamiliar mountain routes late at night when possible.
Delhi to Nainital by Road
Route: Delhi → Hapur/Meerut → Moradabad → Rampur → Haldwani/Kathgodam → Nainital
This is one of the most commonly used road routes from Delhi to Nainital. The journey is roughly 275–320 km, depending on your starting point and the route you take.
Driving time can vary considerably because of traffic, particularly on weekends, holidays, and during the summer peak season. It’s best to keep some extra time in your schedule rather than relying on a fixed arrival time.
Traffic restrictions: During May, June, and October, heavy vehicles are prohibited from entering during 8:00 AM–10:30 AM and 2:30 PM–10:30 PM. Light vehicles are restricted from 6:00 PM–10:00 PM, while cycle rickshaws are restricted from 6:00 PM–9:00 PM.
For a detailed breakdown of the route, travel time, and estimated costs, see our dedicated guide: Delhi to Nainital.
Nainital by Bus
Buses are one of the most affordable ways to reach Nainital, with regular services from Delhi, Haldwani, and Kathgodam.
- Government buses: Uttarakhand Roadways and other state operators run services to Nainital from major cities and nearby transport hubs.
- Private buses: AC and Volvo services are available on some routes, particularly between Delhi and Nainital.
- From Delhi: Daytime and overnight buses are available, making it possible to choose between saving travel time or enjoying the route.
- From Haldwani/Kathgodam: Frequent local buses and shared transport make both places convenient starting points after arriving by train.
- Overnight vs daytime: Overnight buses can save daytime travel hours, while daytime services let you enjoy the mountain scenery along the route.
How to Reach Nainital by Flight
Nearest Airport to Nainital
Pantnagar Airport is the nearest airport to Nainital, located roughly 70 km away. The Nainital district administration identifies Pantnagar as the nearest airport, while Uttarakhand Tourism also recommends it for travellers flying to the region.
Flights from Delhi provide the main air connection, after which you can continue to Nainital by taxi, cab, or bus. The road journey from Pantnagar to Nainital usually takes around 2–3 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
Flight schedules can change, so check the latest availability before booking your trip.
Pantnagar Airport to Nainital
Once you arrive at Pantnagar Airport, you’ll need to continue to Nainital by road. A taxi or pre-booked cab is usually the simplest option.
- Taxi: Available at or near the airport and the most convenient choice for most travellers.
- Pre-booked cab: Useful for families, groups, or travellers arriving late in the day who want a vehicle arranged in advance.
- Bus/road connection via Haldwani: A more budget-friendly option, although it requires changing transport before continuing to Nainital.
- Journey time: Around 2 hours by road in normal conditions, although traffic and weather can make the trip longer.
- Is flying the fastest option? Not always. Pantnagar has fewer flight connections than major airports, mainly serving routes from Delhi. For travellers already in North India, taking a train to Kathgodam can be similarly convenient and may offer more frequent travel options.
For airport details, routes, and transport options, see our guide: Nearest Airport to Nainital.
How to Reach Nainital from Haldwani
Haldwani is an important transport hub for travellers heading to Nainital. Many visitors arrive here by long-distance bus or train before continuing into the hills.
- Haldwani Bus Stand: Regular buses to Nainital operate from the Haldwani Roadways Bus Stand, with frequent services during the day.
- Taxi: Taxis are widely available around the bus stand and railway station areas and offer a direct journey to Nainital.
- Shared taxi: A more affordable option for solo travellers and budget-conscious visitors. Shared cabs are commonly available around the main transport areas.
- Private car: The road journey is roughly 40 km, depending on the exact route and destination in Nainital.
- Route: Haldwani → Kathgodam → Bhowali → Nainital is the usual road route into the hill station.
Travel time can increase during summer weekends, holidays, and heavy traffic, so allow some extra time when planning your arrival.
How to Reach Nainital from Kathgodam
Route: Kathgodam → Bhowali → Nainital
Kathgodam is the most convenient transfer point for travellers arriving by train, with taxis, shared cabs, and buses available for the onward journey into the hills.
- Taxi: The fastest and most direct option, with taxis available near Kathgodam Railway Station.
- Shared taxi: A cheaper alternative for solo travellers and those on a budget. Vehicles may leave once enough passengers have arrived.
- Bus: Regular buses operate from the nearby roadways area towards Nainital, generally via Bhowali.
- Why Kathgodam is convenient: It is the main railhead serving Nainital and has good onward road connections, making it the natural transfer point for most train travellers.
Best Way to Reach Nainital
| Traveller | Best Option |
|---|---|
| Budget traveller | Bus + shared taxi |
| Family | Private car or taxi |
| Couple | Train + taxi |
| Solo traveller | Train + shared taxi |
| From Delhi | Train or direct road |
| From another state | Train to Kathgodam + road transfer |
| International traveller | Flight to Delhi + train or road |
For most travellers, train to Kathgodam followed by a taxi or bus offers the best balance of convenience, cost, and travel time.
Nainital Travel Route Map
The main approaches to Nainital converge around Haldwani, Kathgodam, and Bhowali before the final climb into town.
- From Kathgodam: Kathgodam → Bhowali → Nainital
- From Haldwani: Haldwani → Kathgodam → Bhowali → Nainital
- From Delhi: Delhi → Moradabad → Haldwani/Kathgodam → Bhowali → Nainital
- From Pantnagar Airport: Pantnagar → Haldwani → Kathgodam → Bhowali → Nainital
Route and travel times can vary with traffic, weather, and road conditions, especially during the monsoon and winter.
How Much Does It Cost to Reach Nainital?
| Mode | Cost Level |
|---|---|
| Bus | Low |
| Shared Taxi | Low–Moderate |
| Train + Taxi | Moderate |
| Private Taxi | High |
| Flight + Taxi | Highest |
Actual fares vary based on season, vehicle type, booking method, and demand. Prices can rise noticeably during peak travel periods such as April–June, around holidays, and on busy weekends.
For the best deal, compare fares across a few transport options before booking rather than relying on a single fixed price.
Best Time to Travel to Nainital
March–June: The most popular travel season, with generally pleasant weather for sightseeing and road journeys.
July–September: Monsoon brings frequent rain, which can affect road conditions and visibility. Check the latest weather and road conditions before travelling.
October–November: A pleasant shoulder season with clearer skies and generally lighter crowds than the summer peak.
December–February: Winter brings colder weather, with occasional snowfall possible in the higher hills. Road conditions can change quickly during snow or heavy fog.
For a full seasonal breakdown, see our guide: Best Time to Visit Nainital.
Travel Tips for Reaching Nainital
- Start early from Delhi to avoid city traffic and reduce the chance of reaching the hills after dark.
- Allow extra time for hill traffic, especially on weekends, holidays, and during peak season.
- Check the weather before travelling, particularly during the monsoon and winter months.
- Avoid tight travel schedules, as traffic, weather, and winding mountain roads can add unexpected delays.
- Book accommodation in advance during peak season, when demand can rise quickly.
- Carry some cash for local transport, as smaller taxi stands may not always accept digital payments.
- Plan your Kathgodam transfer in advance if you’re arriving by train, especially later in the evening.
- Check road conditions before the final hill journey during heavy rain, snowfall, or fog, as conditions can change quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I reach Nainital by train?
Take a train to Kathgodam Railway Station, the main railhead for Nainital, and continue by taxi, shared cab, or bus. The road journey usually takes around 1–1.5 hours.
Which is the nearest railway station to Nainital?
Kathgodam Railway Station is the main railway station used for Nainital. Haldwani and Lalkuan are additional nearby railway terminals.
How far is Kathgodam from Nainital?
Kathgodam is approximately 34–37 km from Nainital by road, depending on the route and your destination in town. The journey usually takes around 1–1.5 hours in normal traffic.
How can I reach Nainital from Delhi?
You can travel by train to Kathgodam followed by a taxi or bus, drive directly via Moradabad and Haldwani, or take a direct bus from Delhi.
Is there a direct train to Nainital?
No. Nainital does not have its own railway station. You need to travel to Kathgodam and complete the journey by road.
Can I reach Nainital by flight?
Yes, indirectly. Fly to Pantnagar Airport, then continue to Nainital by taxi or other road transport. The road journey generally takes around 2–3 hours, depending on traffic and conditions.
Which is the nearest airport to Nainital?
Pantnagar Airport is the nearest airport, roughly 70 km from Nainital by road.
How can I reach Nainital from Pantnagar Airport?
A taxi or pre-booked cab is the most convenient option. Budget travellers can also use public transport via Haldwani, followed by onward transport to Nainital.
Are buses available from Haldwani to Nainital?
Yes. Regular buses operate from the Haldwani Roadways Bus Stand, and shared taxis are also available.
Is it better to travel to Nainital by train or car?
Both are practical. Train + taxi avoids most long-distance road travel, while a car offers greater flexibility if you’re planning to visit other destinations in Kumaon.
How many hours does it take to reach Nainital from Delhi?
A direct road journey generally takes around 7–9 hours, depending heavily on traffic. Train to Kathgodam + road transfer can take roughly 6–8 hours in total, depending on the train schedule and connection time.
