Planning a trip from Delhi to Nainital? You’re not alone. Every year, thousands of travelers escape the busy streets of Delhi to enjoy the calm lakes and cool weather of Nainital. The Delhi to Nainital distance is around 300-325 km, depending on the route you choose. This journey is not just about reaching a destination-it’s about enjoying the road, the scenery, and the experiences along the way.
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Delhi to Nainital Distance Overview
By Road (Car/Taxi): 300-325 km, 6-8 hours
By Bus: 300-320 km, 7-10 hours
By Train: Delhi to Kathgodam (nearest station, 35 km from Nainital), 5-7 hours + 1 hour road trip
By Flight: Delhi to Pantnagar Airport (65 km from Nainital), 1 hour flight + 2 hours road trip
Delhi to Nainital by Road
Driving from Delhi to Nainital by taxi is the most popular choice-the highways are smooth, and the final hill stretch offers breathtaking views.
Route 1: Via NH9 and NH109 (Fastest Route)
Distance: 300 km
Travel Time: 6-7 hours
Route: Delhi → Ghaziabad → Hapur → Moradabad → Rampur → Haldwani → Kathgodam → Nainital
Highlights: Wide roads, good food stops, faster travel.
Route 2: Via NH44 and NH87 (Scenic Route)
Distance: 340 km
Travel Time: 7-8 hours
Route: Delhi → Meerut → Bijnor → Kashipur → Ramnagar → Kaladhungi → Nainital
Highlights: Less traffic, passes near Jim Corbett National Park, great for nature lovers.
Travel Tip: Start early in the morning to avoid Delhi traffic and reach Nainital before sunset.
Suggest: Nainital Taxi
Delhi to Nainital by Bus
For budget travelers, buses are a great option.
Duration: 7–10 hours
Fare: ₹300–₹1000 depending on bus type
Departure Points: ISBT Anand Vihar, Kashmiri Gate
Types of Buses: Volvo AC, Sleeper, Uttarakhand Roadways
Delhi to Nainital by Train
There is no direct train to Nainital, but you can take a train to Kathgodam, just 35 km away.
Popular Trains:
Ranikhet Express (overnight journey)
Uttarakhand Sampark Kranti Express
Shatabdi Express (fastest, 5.5 hours)
From Kathgodam, taxis and buses are easily available to Nainital.
Suggest Read: Nainital to Kainchi Dham taxi
Delhi to Nainital by Flight
The nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport, 65 km from Nainital.
Flight Duration: 1 hour from Delhi
Airlines: IndiGo, SpiceJet, Air India
Road Transfer: 2 hours from Pantnagar to Nainital
Best Time to Visit Nainital
Summer (March-June): Pleasant weather, perfect for sightseeing and boating.
Monsoon (July-September): Lush greenery but risk of landslides.
Winter (October-February): Snowfall, cozy stays, ideal for honeymooners.
Suggest Read: Char Dham Opening & Closing Date
Things to Do in Nainital
Naini Lake: Boating and sunset views.
Naina Devi Temple: Spiritual and cultural experience.
Snow View Point: Panoramic Himalayan views.
Mall Road: Shopping, cafes, and local food.
Nainital Ropeway: Thrilling cable car ride.
Nearby Attractions: Bhimtal, Sattal, Mukteshwar, Jim Corbett National Park.
Food Stops on the Way
Haldiram’s (Gajraula): Hygienic snacks and meals.
Namaste Midway (Moradabad): Clean restrooms and good food.
Fauji Da Dhaba: Famous for authentic North Indian food.
Travel Tips
Carry valid ID, driving license, and car papers.
Keep fuel tank full before entering hill roads.
Avoid monsoon season due to landslides.
Book hotels in advance during peak seasons.
Carry light woolens even in summer.
Suggest Read: Delhi to Kedarnath Taxi
FAQs For Delhi to Nainital Distance
Q: What is the Delhi to Nainital distance by road?
Ans. Around 300-325 km, depending on the route.
Q: How long does it take to reach Nainital from Delhi?
Ans. 6-8 hours by car, 7-10 hours by bus, 5-7 hours by train (to Kathgodam).
Q: What is the nearest airport to Nainital?
Ans. Pantnagar Airport, 65 km away.
Q: How many days are enough for Nainital?
Ans. 3-4 days are ideal to explore Nainital and nearby attractions.
Conclusion
The Delhi to Nainital distance makes it a perfect weekend getaway or short holiday. With multiple travel options-road, bus, train, or flight-you can choose what suits your budget and comfort. The journey itself is scenic, and the destination offers lakes, temples, shopping, and adventure.
Sachin Kumar works as a travel content writer with SRG Holidays Pvt. Ltd. a leading company in India’s tourism and pilgrimage services. With years of experience, he creates clear and engaging travel guides that help pilgrims and travelers across the country find reliable information for their journeys.
