Traveling from Lucknow to Nainital by train is direct and convenient, though you will end your rail journey at the nearest railway station—Kathgodam or Lal Kuan—before a short road transfer up to Nainital.
Step 1: Lucknow to Kathgodam/Lal Kuan by Train
Nearest Railway Stations to Nainital
- Kathgodam (KGM): 34km from Nainital
- Lal Kuan (LKU): 55km from Nainital
Main Trains from Lucknow
| Train Name | No. | Departure (Lucknow) | Arrival (Kathgodam/Lal Kuan) | Duration | Days Run | Typical Fare (₹) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bagh Express | 13019 | 00:30 (LKO) | 08:45 (KGM) | 8h 15m | Daily | 225–600+ |
| Kathgodam Garib Rath Express | 12209 | 08:05 (LJN) | 15:55 (KGM) | 7h 50m | Typically daily | 405–1200+ |
| LJN KGM Express | 15043 | 23:25 (LJN) | 08:05 (KGM) | 8h 40m | Daily | 225–800+ |
| HWH LKU Express | 12353 | 01:05 (LKO) | 06:55 (LKU) | 5h 50m | Weekly | 245–1200+ |
| KGM Garib Rath | 12255 | 06:15 (LJN) | 14:39 (KGM) | 8h 24m | Weekly | 405–1200+ |
- Booking: Use IRCTC, or trusted portals such as MakeMyTrip and Goibibo; book in advance for best seats, especially in season.
- Duration: Trains typically take 7–9 hours to reach Kathgodam/Lal Kuan from Lucknow.
Departure Stations in Lucknow
- LKO: Lucknow Junction
- LJN: Lucknow NER
Step 2: Kathgodam/Lal Kuan to Nainital by Road
- Distance:
- Kathgodam to Nainital: 34km
- Lal Kuan to Nainital: 55km
- Transport Options:
- Boarding: Taxis and shared jeeps are available outside both stations; buses leave from the adjacent stands.
Sample Itinerary
- Board Train in Lucknow (Choose departure convenient to your timing; overnight or day options available).
- Arrive at Kathgodam or Lal Kuan.
- Hire taxi/bus/shared jeep to Nainital. The road is hill-climbing and scenic, taking just over an hour.
| Step | Mode | Typical Time | Fare (₹) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lucknow → Kathgodam | Train | 7–9 hr | 225–1,200+ | Book ahead for AC coaches |
| Kathgodam → Nainital | Taxi/Jeep/Bus | 1–1.5 hr | 70–2,000 | Frequent day departures |
Essential Tips
- Book train tickets early during holidays and peak summer for best availability.
- Travel light for easier hill transfer by shared jeep or bus.
- Arriving late? Taxis are generally available; buses/jeeps may slow down after 7–8 PM.
- Weather: Monsoon and winter may delay hill travel—factor in buffer time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is there a direct train from Lucknow to Nainital?
A: No direct train to Nainital; disembark at Kathgodam or Lal Kuan, then go by road.
Q: Which train is fastest?
A: HWH LKU Express (12353) and Kathgodam Garib Rath (12209) are among the fastest.
Q: Are taxis easily available at Kathgodam/Lal Kuan?
A: Yes, taxis and shared jeeps are on standby for all major train arrivals.
Q: Is advance booking required for the last road leg?
A: Not necessary for taxis/jeeps, but advisable for late arrivals or hotel pickups.
With these convenient train options and reliable onward connections, reaching Nainital from Lucknow is straightforward, comfortable, and scenic.
