Traveling from Jama Masjid, Delhi, to Nainital is convenient, with direct and efficient options by car, taxi, train, and bus. Here’s a practical, step-by-step guide covering all major routes, durations, and booking points.
Jama Masjid, Delhi to Nainital Distance
- By Road: 300–320km (depending on route and exact drop point)
- Typical Journey Time: 7–9 hours (car/taxi/bus)
Travel Options
1. By Road (Private Car or Taxi)
- Route: Start near Jama Masjid, navigate through Old Delhi’s lanes, then merge onto NH9 via Ghaziabad, Hapur, Moradabad, Rampur, and Haldwani to Nainital.
- Driving Time: 7–8 hours (subject to traffic and halts)
- Taxi Fare: ₹3,000–₹6,500 (depends on car type, operator, time of day)
- Benefits: Door-to-door service, flexibility, comfort for families/groups.
- Car Rentals: Self-drive rental from Delhi or taxi from local operators, including those serving the Jama Masjid area.
2. By Train
- Nearest Station to Jama Masjid: Old Delhi Railway Station (DLI), 2–3km away.
- Route: Board a train from Old Delhi Railway Station to Kathgodam (KGM), the closest major railhead to Nainital.
- Popular Trains:
- Ranikhet Express: Overnight, direct from DLI to Kathgodam
- Uttar Sampark Kranti Express: Direct daytime/overnight service available
- Popular Trains:
- Train Duration: 5.5–7 hours
- Fare Range: ₹300–₹1,500 (varies by class)
- Next Leg: From Kathgodam, take a taxi, shared jeep, or bus (34km, 1–1.5 hours, ₹200–₹1,200) to Nainital.
3. By Bus
- Boarding Point: ISBT Kashmiri Gate, about 7–8km from Jama Masjid (accessible by metro or cab).
- Bus Types: AC Volvo, sleeper, deluxe, ordinary government (UTC)
- Travel Time: 7–10 hours (overnight or daytime services available)
- Bus Fare: ₹215–₹1,500 (depends on type and operator)
- Popular Departure Times: Multiple departures from 1:20 AM to 11:55 PM; overnight buses are common for morning arrival.
- Arrival Point: Tallital Bus Stand, main entry to Nainital.
Nearest Bus Boarding Points to Jama Masjid
- Sunehri Masjid/Red Fort Area: Some buses/pickups are possible here; check operator when booking.
- ISBT Kashmiri Gate: Main intercity bus terminal with frequent buses to Nainital and Uttarakhand towns.
Booking Tips
- Book Online: Use platforms such as GoIbibo, RedBus, MakeMyTrip, or Yatra.
- Advance Booking: Suggested in peak seasons and holidays for best seat selection.
4. By Air (Optional)
- Route: Taxi to Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) → Fly to Pantnagar (PGH) → Taxi to Nainital.
- Flight and Road Time: 4–6 hours (flight + 1.5–2 hours taxi to Nainital)
- When Useful: Only when you specifically prefer air travel; not the most economical for most travelers.
Quick Comparison Table
| Mode | Duration | Approx. Fare | Boarding Point | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Car/Taxi | 7–8 hours | ₹3,000–₹6,500 | Jama Masjid/Old Delhi | Fastest, most flexible |
| Train+Taxi | 7–9 hours | ₹500–₹2,000 | Old Delhi Railway Station | Smooth, reliable; last leg by taxi/jeep |
| Bus | 7–10 hours | ₹215–₹1,500 | ISBT Kashmiri Gate | Frequent, budget-friendly |
| Flight+Taxi | 4–6 hours | ₹5,000–₹13,000+ | IGI Airport, Delhi | Fastest only if direct flights available |
Step-by-Step Directions
- From Jama Masjid:
- Take a cab or metro to ISBT Kashmiri Gate (for bus), or Old Delhi Railway Station (for train).
- Choose Your Preferred Mode:
- Bus: Board at ISBT Kashmiri Gate; book tickets in advance.
- Train: Board at Old Delhi Railway Station; pre-book train tickets to Kathgodam, then taxi or bus to Nainital.
- Car/Taxi: Hire straight from Jama Masjid/Old Delhi for seamless door-to-door transfer.
- Final Leg:
- If taking train or bus to Kathgodam, hire a local taxi or shared jeep for the scenic uphill ride to Nainital.
Essential Tips
- Book in Advance: For best fares and guaranteed seats in peak travel times.
- Travel Early: Start in the morning for daytime arrival, especially during monsoon/winter.
- Check Road/Weather Conditions: Especially important during the monsoon (Jul–Sep).
- Keep Cash: Useful for taxis, local buses, and hill station transfer.
- Inform Hotel of Late Arrival: For smooth check-in if reaching Nainital in the evening or night.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: Are there direct buses or trains from Jama Masjid to Nainital?
A: No direct service, but ISBT Kashmiri Gate and Old Delhi Railway Station are very close and offer frequent options. - Q: Which mode is cheapest?
A: Government or ordinary buses; for comfort, sleeper/Volvo buses are budget-friendly too. - Q: What is the fastest route?
A: Direct taxi/car from Jama Masjid, or train to Kathgodam + taxi up to Nainital.
Traveling from Jama Masjid, Delhi, to Nainital is easy and flexible with car, bus, and train routes, ensuring a smooth ascent to the cool, scenic Kumaon hills.
