Traveling from Dehradun, the capital of Uttarakhand, to Nainital, the famous lakeside hill station, is straightforward and offers a variety of transport options for all budgets and comfort levels. Here’s a detailed, practical guide suitable for solo travelers, families, groups, and road trippers.
Dehradun to Nainital Distance
- By Road: 250–285 km depending on the route chosen
- By Train (to Kathgodam): ~336 km by rail, then 34 km by road to Nainital
- Aerial (straight-line): 173–179 km
| Mode | Distance | Typical Travel Time |
|---|---|---|
| Road | 250–285 km | 6–8 hours |
| Rail+Road | 336 km +34 km | 8–10 hours |
Main Travel Options from Dehradun to Nainital
1. By Road (Car, Taxi, Bus)
A. By Private Car or Taxi
- Direct, comfortable, and flexible
- Distance: 250–285 km (usually via NH734/Haridwar-Kashipur-Haldwani route)
- Travel Time: 6–8 hours
- Popular Routes:
- Dehradun → Haridwar → Najibabad → Kashipur → Haldwani → Nainital
- Dehradun → Haridwar → Moradabad → Haldwani → Nainital
- Taxi Fare: ₹4,500–₹7,000 for a one-way journey (varies by vehicle and season)
- Cab Booking: Through local agents, hotels, or online platforms
Benefits: Full flexibility, stops for sightseeing and meals, door-to-door service
Tips: Start early in the day to reach before dark and avoid evening hill road traffic
B. By Bus
- Government (Uttarakhand Transport Corporation) and Private buses run on this route
- Types: Ordinary, Volvo AC sleeper, non-AC deluxe, and semi-sleeper options
- First bus: ~2:50 AM
- Last bus: ~11:00 PM
- Duration: 7–11 hours depending on type, season, and stops
- Bus Fare: ₹489–₹3,000 (most AC Volvo options ₹899–₹1,400)
- Boarding: Dehradun ISBT, with arrivals at Nainital bus stand
| Operator Type | Bus Fare | Typical Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Government (UTC) | ₹489–₹1,100 | 7–10 hours |
| Private (AC/Volvo) | ₹899–₹3,000 | 6.5–11 hours |
Booking: Easily available online (RedBus, MakeMyTrip, GoIbibo) or offline at bus stations
Facilities: AC, charging ports, reading lights, reclining seats (amenities vary by bus)
2. By Train
There is no direct train to Nainital; you must travel via Kathgodam (KGM), the nearest major railway station.
Main Steps:
- Step 1: Take a train from Dehradun to Kathgodam
- Step 2: Kathgodam to Nainital (34 km)
- Shared Jeep/Taxi: ₹300–₹1,000, 1–1.5 hours
- Bus: ₹70–₹200, similar duration
| Segment | Distance | Duration | Fare |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dehradun–Kathgodam | 336 km | 7 hr 40 min | ₹225–₹1,200 |
| Kathgodam–Nainital | 34 km | 1–1.5 hours | ₹70–₹1,000 |
Booking: IRCTC, MakeMyTrip, GoIbibo; last-mile cabs available at Kathgodam station
3. By Flight (Dehradun to Pantnagar + Road)
- Nainital does not have its own airport.
- Nearest airport: Pantnagar (PGH), 70 km away
- Dehradun to Pantnagar flights: No daily direct flights; most require layover in Delhi (total time: 4–9 hours, one-way fare: ₹6,000–₹13,000)
- Pantnagar to Nainital: 1.5–2 hours by taxi, fare ₹1,500–₹2,500
Air travel is generally not recommended unless you find a well-timed connecting flight.
Quick Comparison Table
| Mode | Route | Duration | Fare (Approx.) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Car/Taxi | Direct, via Najibabad/Haldwani | 6–8 hr | ₹4,500–₹7,000 | Flexible; most comfortable |
| Bus | Dehradun–Nainital | 6–11 hr | ₹489–₹3,000 | Daily; bookable online |
| Train+Taxi/Bus | Dehradun–Kathgodam–Nainital | 8–10 hr | ₹225–₹1,200+ | Most budget-friendly |
| Flight+Taxi | Dehradun–Pantnagar–Nainital | 7–11 hr | ₹6,000–₹15,500 | Only for well-timed flights |
Essential Travel Tips
- Book in advance (especially summer and holiday seasons) for trains, buses, and cabs.
- Luggage: Pack light for easier transfers, particularly on buses and last-mile cabs.
- Weather check: Monsoon (July–September) can delay travel; winter nights are cold—carry warm clothing.
- Snacks & Hydration: Bring your own, especially for overnight journeys.
- Arrivals: Buses and trains drop at central points; taxis/cabs can be booked to your hotel.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the fastest way to reach Nainital from Dehradun?
A: By car or taxi, direct to Nainital, taking about 6 hours if you start early.
Q: What is the most economical way?
A: Take a train from Dehradun to Kathgodam, then a shared jeep or bus to Nainital (total fare often under ₹1,000).
Q: Are there direct buses from Dehradun to Nainital?
A: Yes, both government and private operators offer daily direct services.
Q: What are the key train options?
A: DDN KGM Express (overnight, daily), DDN Janshatabdi Express (evening, select days).
Conclusion
Reaching Nainital from Dehradun is simple, flexible, and suitable for every budget. You can drive or book a taxi for a direct connection, use budget-friendly direct buses, or combine a train to Kathgodam with a shared cab for comfort and savings. Book in advance, plan your route based on your schedule and preferences, and enjoy a smooth journey from the Doon valley to the lakes and pines of Nainital.
