Traveling from Delhi to Nainital by road is one of the most popular and scenic ways to reach Uttarakhand’s famous lake town. Here’s everything you need to know—route options, driving time, fares, tips, and essential details.
Delhi to Nainital Distance
- Road Distance: 304–325km (depending on your starting point and chosen route)
- Typical Driving Time: 6–8 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
Best Driving Route
Recommended Route (Via NH9):
Delhi → Ghaziabad → Hapur → Moradabad → Rampur → Bilaspur → Rudrapur → Haldwani/Kathgodam → Nainital
- Road Condition: Well-maintained highways with toll booths. The drive includes highways, gentle mountain climbs, and scenic forested stretches.
- Travel Tips: Use GPS/Google Maps for real-time updates and follow the NH9 for the most direct and reliable path.
Getting There: Road Travel Options
1. By Private Car or Self-Drive
- Travel Time: 6–8 hours, typical without major halts
- Route Length: 304–325km
- Toll Charges: Expect tolls en route
- Fuel Cost: Depends on vehicle, typically ₹2,000–₹2,500 (round trip for sedans)
- Perks: Flexible stops for food/fuel, door-to-door comfort, and the ability to enjoy scenic vistas along the way
2. By Taxi or Outstation Cab
- Popular for: Families, groups, travelers seeking comfort
- Estimated Fare (one way):
- Hatchback/Sedan: ₹3,200–₹4,000
- SUV: ₹4,100–₹5,700
- Premium/SUV/Tempo Traveller: ₹5,000–₹7,000+
- How to Book: Online aggregators (MakeMyTrip, GoIbibo, Uber Intercity, Savaari, RedBus Cabs)
- Duration: 6–8 hours
- Advantages: Doorstep pickup/drop, safe and comfortable with experienced drivers.
3. By Bus
- Bus Types: Ordinary, Deluxe, Volvo AC, Sleeper, Semi-sleeper
- Travel Time: 6–10 hours (varies by service, stops, and traffic)
- Fare Range:
- Government Ordinary: ₹215–₹500
- AC/Volvo/Deluxe: ₹450–₹2,500
- Departure Points in Delhi: Anand Vihar ISBT, Kashmiri Gate ISBT, various private operator depots
- Frequency: Multiple departures day and night; overnight buses popular for early morning arrival in Nainital
- Facilities: Many buses offer blankets, charging USB ports, water bottles, and reclining seats.
Sample Bus Options
| Operator | Departure | Duration | Fare (₹) | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mahadev SmartBus | 23:10 | 6h 05m | 499–999 | AC Seater/Sleeper |
| V Dhanraj | 23:05 | 7h 25m | 625–1251 | AC Seater/Sleeper |
| NAINI HOLIDAYS | 01:20 | 9h | 215 | Non-AC/Ordinary |
Note: Book in advance for better seat selection during holidays and peak seasons.
Quick Reference Table
| Mode | Distance | Duration | Typical Fare | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Self-Drive | 304–325km | 6–8 hours | ₹2,000–₹2,500* | Flexible, price for fuel |
| Taxi/Cab | 304–325km | 6–8 hours | ₹3,200–₹5,700+ | One-way, varies by vehicle |
| Bus | 304km | 6–10 hours | ₹215–₹2,500 | Ordinary/AC sleeper/Volvo |
*Fuel cost; toll extra.
Essential Travel Tips
- Start Early: Road traffic is lighter early in the morning; aim to avoid late evening arrival in the hills.
- Navigation: Use real-time maps for best route and traffic updates.
- Breaks: Popular highway stops include Hapur, Moradabad, and Rampur for food and restrooms.
- Luggage: Pack light for buses and taxis; hill transfers can involve some walking.
- Weather Note: Monsoon (July–September) may cause delays due to rain; check for route updates.
- Return Trip: Book your bus/taxi return tickets in advance during peak tourist months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the shortest route from Delhi to Nainital?
A: Via NH9 (Delhi–Ghaziabad–Hapur–Moradabad–Rampur–Haldwani–Nainital), about 304–325km, 6–8 hours.
Q: Is it safe to drive overnight?
A: Yes, but day driving is safer for those unfamiliar with hill roads.
Q: Can I book a taxi/Tempo Traveller online?
A: Yes, multiple cab platforms and travel sites offer advance bookings with transparent fares.
Q: Are there direct buses?
A: Yes, both government and private buses run frequently from Delhi to Nainital with a wide range of options.
Nainital is easily accessible by road from Delhi—choose between the flexibility of a car, the comfort of a cab, or the budget convenience of regular buses for a memorable drive up to the lakes and hills.
