Traveling from Nainital to Dehradun takes you from Kumaon’s scenic lake town to the gateway of the Doon Valley. Whether you’re planning a holiday, business trip, or onward hill station journey, here’s a clear guide outlining all the best travel options, distances, ticket costs, and practical advice for 2025.
Nainital to Dehradun Distance
- By Road: 250–285 km (actual road taken may vary; NH734 is commonly used)
- By Rail (via Kathgodam): 284–331 km total (including connections)
- Aerial (Straight Line): 173–179 km
Most road journeys take between 6 and 8 hours, while train connections usually require 7–8.5 hours in total.
Main Travel Options from Nainital to Dehradun
1. By Road: Car, Taxi, or Bus
A. By Private Taxi or Car
- The most flexible and direct way to travel.
- Route: Nainital → Haldwani → Bazpur/Kaladhungi → Moradabad → Najibabad → Haridwar → Dehradun
- Travel Time: 6–8 hours (between 250–285 km depending on the specific route)
- Fare: ₹4,900–₹11,000 (varies by car type and booking source)
- How to Book: Taxi stands, online travel platforms, or private operators.
B. By Bus
- Multiple private and government (UTC) buses operate daily.
- Departure Points: Tallital bus stand (Nainital), with drop-off in Dehradun at ISBT or Dehradun bus station.
- Bus Types: Non-AC, AC deluxe, and Volvo sleeper/coaches available.
- Travel Time: 7–9 hours (duration varies by traffic and type of bus)
- Fare: ₹615–₹1,500 (depending on class and operator).
- Timing: First bus around 10 AM, last bus departs by 9:15 PM. Night and early morning options available.
C. Self-Drive
- The route is scenic, especially after Moradabad.
- Plan stops for refreshments in Bazpur, Najibabad, or Haridwar.
- Ensure your vehicle is well-maintained for hill and highway stretches.
2. By Train (Via Kathgodam or Lal Kuan)
- Nainital does not have its own railway station. The nearest railheads are Kathgodam (KGM, 34 km from Nainital) and Lal Kuan (LKU, 55 km).
Step 1: Nainital to Kathgodam/Lal Kuan
- By taxi/shared jeep: 1–1.5 hours; fare ₹300–₹1,200.
- By bus: Frequent services from Tallital stand to Kathgodam.
Step 2: Kathgodam/Lal Kuan to Dehradun
- Direct train from Kathgodam to Dehradun:
- Alternative via Lal Kuan: Board a train to Moradabad and then change for a Dehradun-bound train, but this takes longer.
Note: Seats fill quickly, especially in season—book through IRCTC or trusted rail portals in advance.
Step 3: Local Transfer in Dehradun
- Auto-rickshaw, taxi, or city bus from Dehradun railway station to your hotel or onward journey.
3. By Flight (Not Common/Direct)
- No direct flights from Nainital to Dehradun.
- Option: Travel to Pantnagar Airport (70 km from Nainital) by taxi; fly Pantnagar to Dehradun (Jolly Grant Airport, DED) via Delhi; then taxi to Dehradun city.
- This option is rarely chosen due to longer connections and limited flight availability, and is generally only worth considering if schedules match your plan.
Nainital to Dehradun: Quick Comparison Table
| Mode | Total Distance | Travel Time | Fare Range | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Car/Taxi | 250–285 km | 6–8 hrs | ₹4,900–₹11,000 | Families, comfort seekers |
| Bus | 250–285 km | 7–9 hrs | ₹615–₹1,500 | Budget, solo travelers |
| Train + Taxi | 284–331 km | 7–8.5 hrs (inc. transfer) | ₹500–₹1,600 | Overnight, relaxed journey |
| Flight + Taxi | 300+ km | 8–12 hrs | ₹7,000–₹12,000+ | If suitable flights exist |
Essential Travel Tips
- Advance Bookings: Essential in holiday or peak travel seasons for trains and buses.
- Travel Light: Especially for those switching vehicles or using shared cabs/buses.
- Early Morning/Evening: Consider overnight buses or trains for efficient use of time.
- Weather Update: Monsoon can bring delays; check for road closures if raining.
- Snacks/Water: Carry for long stretches, especially if traveling by bus.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the fastest way to reach Dehradun from Nainital?
A: By private taxi—direct without changes, 6–7 hours.
Q: Cheapest travel option?
A: Buses, with fares as low as ₹615 if booked early or in non-deluxe class.
Q: What are the key train options?
A: Night DDN KGM Express and DDN Janshatabdi Express from Kathgodam are the most direct.
Q: Can I get a direct bus?
A: Yes—several direct UTC and private buses connect Nainital and Dehradun every day.
Q: Is the journey scenic?
A: Very much so—expect river valleys, forests, and hill views, especially on the Kathgodam–Dehradun rail route or the NH734 drive.
Conclusion
Reaching Dehradun from Nainital is simple and flexible, with options for every traveler. For comfort and speed, book a taxi. Trains via Kathgodam provide a relaxed overnight ride, while buses are perfect for budget-sensitive travelers. Plan and book early—your gateway to the Doon Valley is just hours from Nainital’s lakeside charm.
