Traveling from Howrah (Kolkata) to Nainital by train is straightforward and comfortable, connecting the east to Uttarakhand’s hills with direct long-distance trains. Since Nainital does not have a railway station, the journey involves traveling by train to a nearby station—either Kathgodam or Lal Kuan—and then covering the final stretch by road.
Step 1: Board a Train from Howrah to Kathgodam or Lal Kuan
Major Train Options
A. Howrah–Lal Kuan Weekly Superfast Express (12353)
- Departure: Howrah Junction (HWH) at 08:15 AM (Fridays)
- Arrival: Lal Kuan (LKU) at 06:55 AM next day
- Duration: 22 hours 40 minutes
- Distance: ~1,141 km
- Runs: Weekly (generally every Friday)
- Classes: Sleeper, 3AC, 2AC
- Fare: Starting from ₹595 (Sleeper)
B. Bagh Express (13019)
- Departure: Howrah Junction (HWH) at 09:45 PM (Daily)
- Arrival: Kathgodam (KGM) at 09:15 AM (second day)
- Duration: 35 hours 30 minutes
- Distance: ~1,152 km
- Runs: Daily
- Classes: Sleeper, 3AC, 2AC
- Fare: Starting from ₹625 (Sleeper)
| Train Name | Departs (HWH) | Arrives (LKU/KGM) | Duration | Runs | Fare (Sleeper) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| HWH LKU Express (12353) | 08:15 AM | 06:55 AM (LKU) | 22h 40m | Weekly (Fri) | ₹595 |
| Bagh Express (13019) | 09:45 PM | 09:15 AM (KGM) | 35h 30m | Daily | ₹625 |
Note: Both Lal Kuan (LKU) and Kathgodam (KGM) are popular railheads serving Nainital. Lal Kuan is ~55 km and Kathgodam is ~34 km from Nainital.
Step 2: Last Mile Connectivity – Lal Kuan/Kathgodam to Nainital
- From Lal Kuan (LKU):
- Distance: ~55 km
- By Taxi: 1.5–2 hours | ₹1,500–₹2,000
- By Bus/Shared Jeep: Available at station; more economical options
- From Kathgodam (KGM):
- Distance: 34 km
- By Taxi: 1–1.5 hours | ₹800–₹1,500
- By Bus/Shared Jeep: Frequent and budget-friendly
Both taxi and bus services are readily available outside the railway stations throughout the day. Prebook taxis in high season for smooth travel.
Booking & Travel Tips
- Book tickets in advance (especially for HWH LKU Express, which is weekly).
- Check train seat availability and timings closer to your departure, as schedules can change.
- In peak tourist seasons (summer, festivals), prearrange your onward taxi or hotel pick-up from Lal Kuan/Kathgodam.
- Plan light luggage for easier transition to hill transport.
- Carry some snacks and water for the long ride, as train food options may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is there a direct train from Howrah to Nainital?
A: No. Travel to Lal Kuan or Kathgodam by direct train, then go by road to Nainital.
Q: Which is the fastest train from Howrah for Nainital?
A: The weekly Howrah–Lal Kuan SF Express (12353) is the fastest, taking about 22 hours 40 minutes.
Q: Are onward taxis and buses available at Lal Kuan/Kathgodam?
A: Yes—both stations are major gateways to the Kumaon hills and have frequent taxis, jeeps, and buses for Nainital all day.
Summary Table
| Segment | Distance | Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Howrah–Lal Kuan (12353) | 1,141 km | 22h 40m | Fastest, weekly (Fri) |
| Howrah–Kathgodam (13019) | 1,152 km | 35h 30m | Daily, slower |
| Lal Kuan–Nainital | 55 km | 1.5–2 hrs | Taxi/Bus/Jeep |
| Kathgodam–Nainital | 34 km | 1–1.5 hrs | Taxi/Bus/Jeep |
In summary:
Take the direct HWH LKU Express or Bagh Express from Howrah to Lal Kuan or Kathgodam, then complete the final leg to Nainital by taxi, bus, or shared jeep for a scenic journey into Uttarakhand’s hills.
