Traveling from Rishikesh to Nainital is a scenic journey through Uttarakhand, offering multiple options for every budget and preference—by road, bus, taxi, and by train (with a connection). Here’s a step-by-step guide with all the practical details you need.
Rishikesh to Nainital Distance
- By Road: 242–275 km (most routes fall in this range)
- Typical Travel Time: 6–8 hours, depending on traffic, chosen route, and stops
Main Travel Routes
Option 1: By Road (Car, Taxi, or Self-Drive)
- Route Choices:
- Distance: 242–275 km
- Time: 6–7.5 hours in normal conditions
Road Fare (Taxi):
| Vehicle Type | Capacity | Typical One-Way Fare (₹) |
|---|---|---|
| Sedan | 4 | ₹2,400–₹4,900 |
| SUV/Innova | 6–7 | ₹3,900–₹6,500 |
- Taxis available at taxi stands, hotels, and online platforms; cabs can also be booked for one-way or round-trip
- Self-drive: Highways are mostly good; plan fuel and food stops (major towns en route)
Option 2: By Bus
- Regular state and private buses run between Rishikesh and Nainital.
- Types: Ordinary, semi-deluxe, deluxe, and Volvo available
- Duration: 7–9 hours (can be longer in tourist season or monsoon)
- Fare Range: ₹700–₹1,400, varies by class and time
Booking:
You can book tickets online (RedBus, EasyMyTrip, etc.) or at the Rishikesh bus station.
Option 3: By Train (Most Budget-Friendly, Not Direct)
- No direct train to Nainital. The nearest railway station is Kathgodam (KGM), 34 km from Nainital.
- How to do it:
Popular Trains from Haridwar to Kathgodam:
- Ranikhet Express
- Uttarakhand Sampark Kranti Express
- DDN KGM Express
(Duration: ~5–7 hours by train + 1–1.5 hours by road)
No direct trains from Rishikesh to Kathgodam—Haridwar transfer is the norm.
Option 4: By Shared Jeep or Maxi Cab
- Shared jeeps and maxi cabs are occasionally available from Rishikesh (main taxi stand) to Haldwani and onwards to Nainital
- Budget-friendly (fares depend on season and negotiation)
Sample Itinerary Table
| Option | Distance | Time | Fare (Approx.) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Taxi/Car | 242–275 km | 6–7.5 hr | ₹2,400–₹6,500 | Direct, flexible, most comfortable |
| Bus | 250–275 km | 7–9 hr | ₹700–₹1,400 | Economical, prebook advised |
| Train+Taxi | 270–290 km | 7–10 hr | ₹400–₹1,600+ | Change at Haridwar, scenic |
Practical Travel Tips
- Book in advance during holidays and weekends—especially for trains and reliable bus seats.
- Travel light if using bus/shared taxi for easier transfers.
- Road Conditions: Good most of the year, but monsoon (July–September) can cause delays.
- Fuel & Snacks: Available in all major towns en route (Haridwar, Najibabad, Kashipur, Haldwani)
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the fastest way to reach Nainital from Rishikesh?
A: By private taxi/car, which takes about 6–7 hours by the best route.
Q: Most budget-friendly way?
A: By bus, or by train from Haridwar to Kathgodam, then a shared taxi/bus to Nainital.
Q: Are there direct buses from Rishikesh to Nainital?
A: Yes, with several daily state and private options.
Q: Is there a direct train from Rishikesh to Nainital?
A: No, you must travel via Haridwar and Kathgodam, then by road.
Summary
Reaching Nainital from Rishikesh is easy—choose a direct road trip by taxi or bus for maximum comfort and speed, or save with a train transfer via Haridwar and Kathgodam. All options let you enjoy scenic Uttarakhand landscapes and a pleasant Himalayan journey.
