Traveling from Delhi to Nainital by car is one of the most popular, scenic, and flexible ways to enjoy the hills of Uttarakhand. Here’s a comprehensive, up-to-date guide with all practical road information, routes, travel times, and tips.
Delhi to Nainital Distance
- Total Road Distance: 300–325km, depending on the chosen route
- Typical Driving Time: 6–8 hours under normal traffic conditions
- Best Time to Travel: Early morning for light traffic and clear hill views
Recommended Road Routes
1. Via NH9 (Fastest & Most Popular)
- Route: Delhi → Ghaziabad → Hapur → Moradabad → Rampur → Haldwani → Kathgodam → Nainital
- Distance: 300–319km
- Estimated Time: 6–7 hours
- Features: Smooth highways, frequent rest stops, toll roads, and reliable road conditions; best suited for families and first-time hill drivers
2. Via Bazpur & Kaladhungi (Scenic Alternate)
- Route: Delhi → Ghaziabad → Hapur → Gajraula → Moradabad → Tanda → Bazpur → Kaladhungi → Nainital
- Distance: 310–320km
- Estimated Time: 7–8 hours (may be faster if Moradabad–Rampur section is crowded or under repair)
- Features: Less traffic after Moradabad, greener countryside, slightly narrower hill roads but very picturesque
3. Via Rudrapur (Longer, for Offbeat Travelers)
- Route: Delhi → Moradabad → Rampur → Bilaspur → Rudrapur → Haldwani → Nainital
- Distance: 303–325km
- Estimated Time: 7–8 hours
- Features: More travel time and potential traffic; best if traveling from east/central Delhi
Route Comparison Table
| Route | Distance (km) | Time (hrs) | Key Towns On Route |
|---|---|---|---|
| NH9 (Main) | 300–319 | 6–7 | Ghaziabad, Hapur, Moradabad, Rampur, Haldwani |
| Via Bazpur/Kaladhungi | 310–320 | 7–8 | Gajraula, Moradabad, Bazpur, Kaladhungi |
| Via Rudrapur | 303–325 | 7–8 | Moradabad, Rampur, Bilaspur, Rudrapur, Haldwani |
Road and Driving Tips
- Start early from Delhi (5–6 AM) to avoid city traffic and afternoon hill fog.
- Check tolls: Multiple toll booths; keep change or a FASTag ready for smooth passage.
- Rest stops: Major towns like Hapur, Gajraula, Rampur, and Haldwani have food courts, petrol pumps, and washrooms.
- Last Leg: After Haldwani/Kathgodam, enjoy a winding hill drive up to Nainital (34km; about 1–1.5 hours).
- Hill driving: Maintain low gears, use horn at bends, and avoid overtaking.
- Weather: Hill roads can be misty in winter and slippery in monsoon; check weather before departure.
Sample Car Rental and Taxi Fare Estimates
| Vehicle Type | Typical One-Way Fare (₹) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Hatchback | 3,600–5,000 | Budget, up to 4 seats |
| Sedan | 4,000–6,000 | Best for families |
| SUV | 5,000–8,000+ | More space/luggage |
Fares vary by operator, booking method, and vehicle type. Online and app-based platforms offer pre-booking and fare comparison options.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is the road to Nainital safe at night?
- Yes, but daytime driving is safer for first-time hill travelers.
- Is a four-wheel drive necessary?
- No, the road is well maintained and suitable for any standard vehicle.
- Where does the hill climb begin?
- At Kathgodam or Jeolikote, 34km before Nainital.
Suggested Itinerary
- Start from Delhi before sunrise.
- Breakfast stop at Hapur or Gajraula.
- Refuel at Moradabad or Haldwani.
- Lunch/snack at Kathgodam or Jeolikote.
- Reach Nainital by afternoon, in time for lakeside strolls.
Driving from Delhi to Nainital by car is pleasant, flexible, and offers a seamless transition from urban bustle to the tranquil lake and mountains of Uttarakhand. Plan your route, start early, drive safe, and enjoy the iconic hill journey.
