Traveling from Nainital to Mathura is straightforward, with multiple options by road, bus, taxi, and train. Here’s a step-by-step guide on the best routes, durations, costs, and practical tips.
Nainital to Mathura Distance
Main Travel Options
1. By Taxi or Private Car
- Distance: 300–404km (by main highways)
- Typical Duration: 7–8 hours (can be 6–9 hours depending on route and stops)
- Fare Range:
- How to Book: Online cab aggregators, local operators, hotel travel desks
Benefits
- Fastest and most comfortable; door-to-door service
- Flexible stops for sightseeing or food
| Vehicle Type | Approx. Distance | Fare Range | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hatchback/Sedan | 300–404km | ₹3,000–₹6,500 | 6–9 hours |
| SUV | 300–404km | ₹4,400–₹7,000 | 6–9 hours |
2. By Bus
- Bus options: AC, Non-AC, sleeper and seater buses
- Operators: Om Shiv Travels, Vijay Tour and Travels, others
- Distance: 274km (by main bus route)
- Travel Time: 8–10 hours (depending on traffic and stops)
- Fares: ₹999–₹1,599 (occasionally higher or lower by operator)
- First Bus: Leaves around 16:50 (4:50 PM)
- Last Bus: Leaves around 19:00 (7:00 PM)
- Booking: Online through bus ticket portals (RedBus, GoIbibo, Paytm)
Sample Bus Options
| Operator | Departure | Duration | Fare (₹) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vijay Tour & Travels | 16:50 (Nainital) | 10h 10m | 999 |
| Om Shiv Travels | 19:00 (Nainital) | 8h 15m | 1,599 |
Boarding Points: Nainital Main Bus Stand
Drop-off: Mathura Bus Stand or requested stop
3. By Train
- No direct train from Nainital; the journey involves a short taxi/bus from Nainital to Kathgodam or Haldwani (nearest stations, 34–40km downhill).
- Step 1: Nainital to Kathgodam by taxi/bus (1–1.5 hours; ₹200–₹1,000)
- Step 2: Kathgodam to Mathura Junction by train
- Step 3: Local transport (auto/taxi) to central Mathura as needed
Summary Table
| Segment | Distance | Time | Fare Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nainital–Kathgodam | 34–40 km | 1–1.5 hours | ₹200–₹1,000 | Taxi or bus |
| Kathgodam–Mathura | ~220–250km | 7–10 hours | ₹800–₹4,600 | Book tickets in advance |
4. Combination: Bus or Train via Delhi
- Route: Nainital → Delhi (Kathgodam–Delhi train or direct overnight bus), then Delhi–Mathura by bus or train
- Total Duration: 10–12 hours (including transfer time)
- Fare: ₹488–₹1,169+ (split over two legs, bus/train combo)
Quick Reference Table
| Mode | Distance | Duration | Fare Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Taxi/Car | 300–404km | 7–9 hours | ₹3,000–₹6,500 | Fastest, direct, most comfortable |
| Bus | 274–300km | 8–10 hours | ₹999–₹1,599 | Direct, overnight, online booking |
| Train | 252–300km | 9–12 hours total | ₹800–₹4,600 | Via Kathgodam/Haldwani, connections |
| Bus/Train (via Delhi) | 300–400km | 10–12 hours | ₹488–₹1,169+ | Cheapest, but requires transfer |
Essential Travel Tips
- Book buses and trains early, especially during holiday seasons.
- Carry snacks and water, especially if traveling by bus/train overnight.
- Travel light for easier transfer—hill taxis and buses may have limited trunk space.
- Kathgodam/Haldwani last-mile: Taxis and local buses available throughout the day for both directions.
- Weather caution: Monsoon may slow hill travel; allow buffer time.
FAQs
Q: What’s the fastest way from Nainital to Mathura?
A: By private taxi/car—about 7–8 hours direct.
Q: Cheapest way to reach Mathura?
A: By bus or train with a possible Delhi connection—fares from ₹488–₹1,200.
Q: Are direct buses available?
A: Yes, AC/seater/sleeper buses run daily, leaving between 16:50 and 19:00 from Nainital.
Q: How frequent are trains?
A: Trains from Kathgodam/Haldwani to Mathura are limited and may not be daily—check the schedule in advance .
In summary:
You can reach Mathura from Nainital most quickly by taxi (7–8 hours), economically by direct AC/sleeper bus (8–10 hours), or comfortably by train via Kathgodam (allow for connections). Book ahead, travel light, and enjoy a smooth, scenic journey from the lakes of Uttarakhand to the temples of Mathura.
