How to Reach Nainital from Howrah by Train

Traveling from Howrah (Kolkata) to Nainital by train is popular and straightforward, combining a long-distance train to the Uttarakhand foothills with a short drive up to the lake town.

Main Route Overview

• Direct trains go from Howrah to Kathgodam or Lal Kuan, which are the nearest railheads to Nainital.
• Nainital itself does not have a railway station.
  You must complete the final stretch by taxi or bus (34 km from Kathgodam, 40 km from Lal Kuan).

Major Train Options

1. Howrah–Lal Kuan Weekly SF Express (12353)

• Departs: Howrah (HWH) at 08:15 AM (Weekly, usually Friday—always check running schedule)
• Arrives: Lal Kuan (LKU) at 06:55 AM (next day)
• Duration: ~22 hours 40 minutes
• Distance: ~1,141 km
• Fare: From ₹595 (Sleeper class and above)
• Classes: Sleeper, 3AC, 2AC, 1AC usually available

2. Bagh Express (13019)

• Departs: Howrah (HWH) at 09:45 PM (Runs daily)
• Arrives: Kathgodam (KGM) at 09:15 AM (second day)
• Duration: ~35 hours 30 minutes
• Distance: ~1,152 km
• Fare: From ₹625 (Sleeper class)
• Classes: Sleeper, 3AC, 2AC

Note: Bagh Express is slower but runs daily, while the Lal Kuan Express is faster and weekly.

Step-by-Step Itinerary

1. Book your train from Howrah to Kathgodam (preferred) or Lal Kuan.
   • For the fastest journey, choose 12353 HWH–LKU Weekly SF Express (Friday departure).
   • For daily travel, choose 13019 Bagh Express.
2. Arrival at Kathgodam or Lal Kuan:
   • Kathgodam: 34 km from Nainital.
   • Lal Kuan: 40 km from Nainital.
3. Final Leg – Kathgodam/Lal Kuan to Nainital:
   • By taxi: Regular private/shared taxis, ₹200–₹1,000; takes 1–1.5 hours.
   • By bus: Frequent government and private buses operate during the day, fare ₹70–₹200.
   • Both are available at the railway station exit for onward journey.

Quick Comparison Table

Booking & Travel Tips

• Reserve tickets well in advance, especially for travel near holidays or summer.
• Bring food and water: Long-haul trains may have pantry service, but options can run out.
• For overnight arrivals: Shared taxis are usually available even early; pre-book if arriving late at night.
• Luggage: Travel light for easier transfer to bus/taxi at Kathgodam or Lal Kuan.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Q: Is there a direct train from Howrah to Nainital?
  A: No. Nearest station is Kathgodam or Lal Kuan; after that, proceed by taxi/bus.
• Q: Which train is fastest?
  A: Howrah–Lal Kuan Weekly SF Express (12353) covers the route in about 22.5 hours.
• Q: How to book onward taxi or bus?
  A: Available at the railway station; no advance booking needed for most taxis and buses.

Summary

• Take the HWH–Lal Kuan Express (weekly) or Bagh Express (daily) from Howrah to Kathgodam/Lal Kuan, then continue by taxi or bus for the final scenic 1–1.5 hour journey to Nainital.
  This route is convenient, cost-effective, and widely used by travelers from Kolkata and eastern India.