Traveling from Chandigarh to Nainital is a journey into the heart of Uttarakhand’s hills from the lively plains of Punjab. Whether you’re seeking a lakeside escape, nature walks, or Himalayan serenity, this step-by-step guide will help you reach Nainital easily and comfortably.
Chandigarh to Nainital Distance
The distance between Chandigarh and Nainital varies slightly based on the route and mode of travel:
- By Road: Around 408–454 km
- By Rail (to Kathgodam): 409–427 km (plus a short road transfer)
- Aerial (Straight Line): Approximately 299–316 km
Travel time by road usually ranges from 8 to 11 hours, depending on stops, traffic, and weather conditions.
How to Reach Nainital from Chandigarh
There are several convenient ways to travel from Chandigarh to Nainital, each with its own advantages. Here’s a detailed breakdown of your best options:
1. By Train
Though Nainital doesn’t have its own railway station, the nearest major station is Kathgodam (about 34 km away). This is one of the most comfortable, cost-effective ways for most travelers.
Train Route Options:
- Direct trains: While there is no direct train from Chandigarh to Nainital, some trains travel from Chandigarh or nearby stations to Kathgodam, Lal Kuan, or Ramnagar.
- Popular connections:
- KGM Garib Rath Express (12208): Ambala Cantt (UMB) at 6:05 AM to Kathgodam (KGM) at 1:35 PM
- ASR LKU Express (14616): Chandigarh (CDG) at 11:00 AM to Lal Kuan (LKU) at 9:10 PM (Lal Kuan is about 21 km from Kathgodam)
- RMR CDG SF Express (12528): Chandigarh to Ramnagar, close to Nainital
After arriving at Kathgodam/Lal Kuan/Ramnagar:
- Hire a taxi or take a bus/shared jeep for the final stretch to Nainital (typically, 1–1.5 hours by road).
Travel Time: 7.5–10 hours (rail), plus 1–1.5 hours (road).
Ticket Fares: Depends on the train and class—range is typically ₹170–₹1,000 (one way).
Tip: Book train tickets well in advance, especially in tourist season.
2. By Bus
Several private and state buses connect Chandigarh to Nainital, most often with a change at Delhi or by direct overnight routes.
Key Options:
- Direct Buses: Operators like Vijay Tour And Travels run direct overnight buses. Buses typically depart at 11:20 PM.
- Travel time: Around 11–12 hours, with traffic and weather influencing timing.
- Fare: ₹1,400–₹1,600 for AC/Deluxe/Volvo options.
Where to board: Buses depart from ISBT Sector 43 or other major bus stands in Chandigarh.
Facilities: AC, sleeper, semi-sleeper, entertainment, and basic amenities depending on operator.
3. By Car or Taxi
A road journey offers flexibility and comfort, especially for families or groups.
- Route: Chandigarh → Karnal → Shamli → Muzaffarnagar → Bijnor → Kashipur → Ramnagar → Nainital (one of the popular options, avoiding Delhi congestion)
- Distance: About 408–454 km (depending on exact route)
- Travel Time: Approx. 8–10 hours, including short stops
- Cab Fare: Starts from ₹6,370 for a sedan (one way), up to ₹9,750 for premium cabs/SUVs
Self-drive tips:
- Roads are generally good, but hilly terrain comes up towards the last stretch. Drive carefully, especially in the hills.
- Plan breaks for meals and refueling in towns like Karnal, Moradabad, or Ramnagar.
4. By Air (Flight + Road)
- Nainital does not have its own airport. The nearest airport is Pantnagar (about 70 km from Nainital).
- No direct flights from Chandigarh to Pantnagar; all flights require a transfer, usually at Delhi.
- It is generally faster and easier to fly to Delhi, then take a train/taxi/bus to Nainital.
- The flight route is not recommended unless you find a suitable, time-saving connection.
Quick Comparison Table: Chandigarh to Nainital Routes
| Mode | Route & Details | Distance | Typical Time | Estimated Cost* | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Train | Chandigarh/Ambala–Kathgodam–Nainital | ~409 km rail + 34 km road | 8–12 hrs | ₹400–₹1500 | Most comfortable, budget-friendly |
| Bus | Direct overnight/private | ~408–454 km | 11–12 hrs | ₹1,400–₹1,600 | Overnight, convenient |
| Car/Taxi | Self-drive or Outstation Cab | ~408–454 km | 8–10 hrs | ₹6,370–₹9,750 | Flexible, good for families |
| Air+Road | Chandigarh–Delhi–Pantnagar–Nainital | >400 km | 8–13 hrs | ₹5,000+ (varies) | Not preferred unless urgent |
*Costs are indicative; may fluctuate with season and demand.
Key Travel Tips
- Book tickets in advance, especially for train and overnight bus routes in summer and holiday peak season.
- For train travel, the last leg from Kathgodam/Lal Kuan is scenic but winding—carry motion sickness medication if needed.
- Taxis and state buses are readily available at Kathgodam, Lal Kuan, and Ramnagar stations for the journey to Nainital.
- Start early in the day if driving, to avoid evening traffic and reach before dusk.
- During monsoons (July–August), landslides or road blocks are possible near the hills—always check the latest travel advisory.
What to Do Once You Arrive in Nainital
After reaching Nainital, you can explore:
- Naini Lake (boating, sunrise & sunset views)
- Mall Road (local shops and cafés)
- Snow View and Tiffin Top (panoramic points)
- Naina Devi Temple
- Day trips to Kainchi Dham, Bhimtal, Sattal, and Mukteshwar.
Conclusion
Reaching Nainital from Chandigarh is straightforward with multiple comfortable options: overnight trains and buses are affordable, taxis offer maximum flexibility, while the train/bus plus short road journey remains the go-to route for most travelers. Plan your journey in advance for the smoothest experience and enjoy Nainital’s fresh air, serene lake, and beautiful scenery.
