How to Reach Nainital from Faridabad

How to Reach Nainital from Faridabad

Traveling from Faridabad to Nainital is direct and well-supported by multiple options including car, taxi, bus, and train. Here’s a practical, step-by-step guide with all major modes, routes, fares, and relevant tips.

Faridabad to Nainital Distance

  • By Road: 250–321km (depending on the specific route)
  • By Train: ~327km (to nearest railway station)
  • Typical Travel Time: 6–8.5 hours (road); 7–9 hours (bus/train).

Main Travel Options from Faridabad to Nainital

1. By Taxi or Private Car

  • Distance: 299–320km (via NH9 through Moradabad and Haldwani)
  • Travel Time: 6–8 hours
  • Typical Fares:
    • Hatchback/Sedan: ₹2,683–₹4,900 (one-way, depending on car type and operator)
    • SUV: ₹4,056–₹6,480
  • Where/How to Book: Major online portals like MakeMyTrip, GoIbibo, Savaari, Uber Intercity, or local agencies. Multiple vehicle options and rates available; round trips cost more but may offer discounts.
  • Benefits: Door-to-door convenience, flexibility for family/groups, can stop en route for meals or sightseeing.

2. By Bus

  • Direct buses operate daily between Faridabad and Nainital.
  • Distance: 235–299km (road route varies)
  • Travel Time: 7–8 hours (express/overnight); up to 10 hours for slower buses
  • Bus Fares:
    • Ordinary/Non-AC: from ₹215
    • AC/Sleeper/Volvo: ₹625–₹1,099; some premium services up to ₹5,000
  • First Bus: 1:20AM; Last Bus: 11:55PM (multiple departures through the day)
  • Where to Book: GoIbibo, RedBus, Paytm, Cleartrip, Yatra provide online bookings, schedules, and operator reviews.
  • Notes: Buses board at ISBT Kashmiri Gate (Delhi) or local Faridabad stands and terminate at Mall Road or Nainital main bus stand.

3. By Train

  • No direct train to Nainital.
    The nearest railway station is Kathgodam (KGM), about 34km from Nainital.
  • Route:
    • Board from Faridabad to Kathgodam (direct/connecting via Ghaziabad/New Delhi)
    • Popular trains include KGM Shatabdi (12040) and Purangiri Jan Shatabdi (12036), both departing early morning, journey 5.5–7 hours
    • From Kathgodam, take a taxi, shared jeep, or bus for the last 1–1.5 hours uphill
  • Total Duration: 7–9 hours (train + road)
  • Fares: Train: ₹300–₹1,200; Taxi/shared jeep Kathgodam–Nainital: ₹200–₹1,000
  • Booking: IRCTC, MakeMyTrip, GoIbibo, or Yatra train platforms.

4. By Flight (Not Recommended)

  • No airport in Nainital.
    • Nearest is Pantnagar (PGH), ~70km away; fly via Delhi only if you require an air journey.
    • From Pantnagar: taxi to Nainital (1.5–2 hours)

Quick Comparison Table

ModeTotal DistanceDurationFare (Approx.)Notes
Taxi/Car299–320km6–8 hr₹2,683–₹6,480+Comfortable, flexible, door-to-door
Bus235–299km7–8 hr₹215–₹1,099+Many daily options, budget-friendly
Train + Taxi~327km rail +34km road7–9 hr₹500–₹2,000+Easy transfer from Kathgodam
Flight + Taxi345–390km6–10 hr₹5,000–₹15,000+Only if requiring fast air travel

Practical Tips

  • Book in advance for better fares and guaranteed seat availability, especially on weekends or holidays.
  • Pack light for easier transfers, particularly on train/bus/shared vehicle segments.
  • Start early in the day to avoid late-night hill travel and arrive with daylight.
  • Weather: Monsoon may cause delays; winters are cold—carry a jacket.
  • Last Leg: Taxis, buses, and shared cabs are always available at Kathgodam station and Nainital’s entry points.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the fastest way from Faridabad to Nainital?
A: By taxi or private car—approx. 6–7 hours in good traffic.

Q: What is the cheapest way?
A: Bus, with fares starting from ₹215; train + shared taxi also economical.

Q: Is there an overnight bus?
A: Yes, multiple overnight AC sleeper and semi-sleeper buses run daily.

Q: Can I get a direct train to Nainital?
A: No; board to Kathgodam then a short road journey to Nainital.

Q: Are there taxis at Kathgodam?
A: Yes, both prebooked and on-demand taxis/shared jeeps and buses are frequent.

Travel from Faridabad to Nainital is flexible and reliable—choose a car for speed, a direct bus for low cost and simplicity, or a train for comfort plus a beautiful last-mile hill drive.

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