Traveling from Kanpur to Nainital is a great way to move from the heart of Uttar Pradesh to the serene hillside charm of Uttarakhand. Whether you prefer train, bus, taxi, or a combination, there are several comfortable options available. Here’s a straightforward, up-to-date guide covering all routes, distances, duration, fares, and useful practical tips.
Kanpur to Nainital Distance
- By Road: 390–420 km, depending on the route taken.
- By Train: About 415–462 km to Kathgodam, then 34 km by road to Nainital.
- Aerial (Straight Line): Around 306 km.
| Mode | Distance | Journey Time |
|---|---|---|
| By Road (Direct) | 390–420 km | 7–10 hours |
| Train (Kanpur–Kathgodam) | 415–462 km | 8.5–10.5 hours |
| Bus | 390–420 km | 12–13 hours |
Main Travel Options from Kanpur to Nainital
1. By Train (Kanpur to Kathgodam + Short Road Trip)
This is one of the most comfortable and cost-effective routes.
- Direct Train: The KGM Garibrath Express (12209), runs weekly from Kanpur Central (CNB) to Kathgodam (KGM), the nearest railway station to Nainital.
Last Mile Connectivity:
- Kathgodam to Nainital: About 34 km; taxis, shared jeeps, and buses are easily available right outside the station.
- Duration: 1–1.5 hours by road
- Fare: ₹150–₹600, depending on vehicle and mode
Tips:
- Book train tickets in advance during tourist season.
- Night trains are available in some weeks; check latest schedule for convenience.
2. By Bus
Regular government and private buses connect Kanpur to Nainital every day.
- Departure: Buses usually depart in the evening (first bus around 7:30–8:00 PM), and travel overnight.
- Duration: 12–13 hours, depending on stops, route, and road conditions.
- Fare: ₹999–₹1,999 (as of 2025), fares vary by operator, bus class (AC sleeper, Volvo, deluxe, non-AC)
- Boarding Points: Main Kanpur bus stands and selected locations per operator.
- Arrival: Nainital bus stand, close to Mallital/Tallital.
Advantages:
- Good for overnight travel, saves on hotel night.
- Book buses online for best rates and timing assurance.
Tips:
- Compare amenities—AC, sleeper, charging points, water bottles, etc.
- Carry a light blanket and neck pillow for overnight comfort.
3. By Taxi or Private Car
Perfect if you want a flexible and direct trip, especially for families or groups.
- Distance: 390–420 km (could go up to 415 km by some routes)
- Duration: 7–10 hours, depending on driving speed, breaks, and traffic
- Fare: One-way fares typically start from ₹7,100–₹8,600 for a sedan, up to ₹12,300 for SUVs (exclusive of tolls, taxes for some providers).
- Booking: Local Kanpur taxi operators, travel websites.
- Advantages:
- Door-to-door convenience
- Flexible stops for meals, refreshment, sightseeing (e.g., Haldwani, Jeolikote)
- Tips:
- Sanitize and confirm driver’s ID before journey.
- For peak season, book cabs at least a few days in advance.
4. By Flight (Via Pantnagar)
Not a practical option for most, but possible if you need to save days:
- Step 1: Take a flight from Kanpur to Pantnagar (PGH), with possible layovers (there are no direct flights).
- Step 2: Taxi from Pantnagar to Nainital (70 km, 1.5–2 hours, prebook as flights are limited).
Time & Cost:
- Total journey 7–10+ hours, ₹5,000–₹10,000+ for the combined flight and taxi segments.
- Only recommended when train or bus tickets are unavailable, or if you require air travel for personal reasons.
Kanpur to Nainital Route Options (By Road)
- Via Bareilly/Haldwani: Kanpur – Fatehpur – Bareilly – Haldwani – Kathgodam – Nainital (scenic, mostly highway, used by most taxis/buses)
- Via Shahjahanpur: Kanpur – Hardoi – Shahjahanpur – Bareilly – Haldwani – Nainital
Most travelers use the Bareilly/Haldwani route for better road conditions and facilities.
Quick Comparison Table
| Mode | Distance | Duration | Cost Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Train + Taxi | 415–462 km | 9–11 hours | ₹700–₹1,600 | Weekly direct trains to Kathgodam |
| Bus | 390–420 km | 12–13 hours | ₹1,000–₹2,000 | Several nightly departures |
| Cab/Private Car | 390–415 km | 7–10 hours | ₹7,100–₹12,300+ | Comfortable, door-to-door |
| Flight + Taxi | ~600 km | 7–10+ hours | ₹7,500–₹12,000+ | Indirect, only if all else unavailable |
Essential Travel Tips
- Book early for trains and buses during festival and summer peak seasons.
- Carry snacks and water for night journeys; highway amenities are limited after midnight.
- Kanpur weather: Hot in summer; Nainital can be cool even in May and cold in winter.
- For road travel: Take medicine if prone to motion sickness due to hill roads after Kathgodam.
- Luggage: Travel light if using shared vehicles or bus.
- Monsoon (July–September): Check for potential road delays; landslides can occasionally affect the hilly stretch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the cheapest way to reach Nainital from Kanpur?
A: Train to Kathgodam and then a shared taxi or bus to Nainital is usually the most economical option.
Q: Which is the fastest way?
A: By taxi or private car, you can reach in about 7–9 hours, depending on traffic.
Q: Can I get a direct bus from Kanpur to Nainital?
A: Yes, several overnight bus options are available; booking online is recommended for best seat choices.
Q: Are there direct trains from Kanpur to Nainital?
A: Direct trains run weekly from Kanpur to Kathgodam (about 9 hours); last mile is by road (taxi or bus).
Q: Which route is best for driving?
A: Kanpur–Bareilly–Haldwani–Kathgodam–Nainital is preferred for road quality and highway amenities.
Conclusion
Reaching Nainital from Kanpur is smooth and offers a travel style to suit every need and budget. By train, get down at Kathgodam and take a short taxi ride to the hills. Buses and cabs offer overnight convenience, and drivers will find good roads most of the way. Plan your booking and travel times in advance, and get ready for a delightful break by the lakes of Nainital.
