Traveling from Moradabad to Nainital is quick and straightforward, making it ideal for both quick getaways and well-planned holidays. Nainital’s hills are only a short journey away from the bustling city of Moradabad. Here’s everything you need to know: distance, travel options, timings, fares, and practical tips.
Moradabad to Nainital Distance
- By Road: 100–133 km (commonly listed as 112–115 km depending on route)
- By Train (to Kathgodam): ~104–117 km, plus a short hill drive to Nainital
- Typical Travel Time: 2.5–4.5 hours depending on the mode you choose.
Main Travel Options
1. By Taxi or Private Car
- Distance: 112–115 km
- Duration: 3–3.5 hours
- How to Book: Outstation cab aggregators, local taxi stands, hotels, or online travel platforms
- Fare Range: ₹1,254–₹3,500 (varies as per car type, route, and booking source)
- Route: Moradabad → Rampur → Haldwani → Kathgodam → Jeolikote → Nainital (NH109 is the most scenic and recommended)
- Highlights: Flexible stops, direct hotel drop, more privacy and comfort
Estimated one-way taxi fares:
| Vehicle Type | Fare (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Hatchback | ₹1,254–₹2,789 |
| Sedan | ₹1,254–₹2,789 |
| SUV | ₹1,710–₹3,979 |
Rates can change depending on the season, operator, and advance booking.
2. By Bus
- Availability: Frequent private and government buses between Moradabad and Nainital
- Boarding Points: Moradabad main bus stand or operator-assigned pick-up locations
- Duration: 3–4.5 hours (can be as short as 3 hours with express buses)
- Fare: ₹757–₹1,488 (AC, Non-AC, sleeper, seater options)
- Earliest Bus: Around 12:00 AM
- Last Bus: Up to midnight
- Booking: Online (GoIbibo, MakeMyTrip, RedBus, Paytm, AbhiBus) or at bus stations
Sample Table: Bus Details
| Type | Avg. Duration | Fare Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| AC/Volvo | 3–4.5 hours | ₹757–₹1,488 | Most comfortable & fast |
| Non-AC | ~4 hours | ₹757+ | Budget, frequent options |
| Sleeper | ~4 hours | Up to ₹1,488 | Overnight available |
Buses make short refreshment stops but are otherwise direct.
3. By Train
While Nainital does not have its own railway station, the nearest station is Kathgodam (KGM), about 34 km from Nainital.
- Train Route: Moradabad → Kathgodam by train; then taxi, bus, or shared jeep to Nainital
- Number of Daily Trains: 5–18 options; check schedules for fastest and most convenient
- Fastest Train: DDN KGM Express, around 2 hours 45 minutes Moradabad to Kathgodam
- Fare Range: ₹120–₹800 (depending on class)
- Last Mile: 1–1.5 hours by taxi/bus from Kathgodam to Nainital
- Combined Journey: 3.5–5 hours total
Timings Sample:
- Earliest train: DDN KGM Express at 04:15 AM
- Last train: DDN Janshatabdi Exp at 20:20 PM
Trains are efficient for overnight travel or those who prefer rail journeys; book seats in advance during peak travel times.
Quick Comparison Table
| Mode | Distance (km) | Typical Duration | Approx. Fare | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Taxi/Car | 112–115 | 3–3.5 hrs | ₹1,254–₹3,979 | Private, flexible, comfortable |
| Bus | 91–115 | 3–4.5 hrs | ₹757–₹1,488 | Direct, budget, frequent |
| Train+Car | 104–117(+34) | 3.5–5 hrs | ₹120–₹1,800+ | Rail to Kathgodam, short drive |
Practical Travel Tips
- Book transport in advance during holidays, weekends, or peak season (summer and New Year’s).
- Nainital is cooler than Moradabad year-round; pack a light jacket even in summer.
- Travel light for easier bus/train/shared taxi transit, and quick uphill transfer from Kathgodam.
- For families or groups, taxis are most comfortable; solo travelers often prefer bus/train.
- If prone to motion sickness, carry medication for the winding hill roads after Kathgodam/Haldwani.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What’s the fastest way from Moradabad to Nainital?
A: By private taxi or car, which takes about 3–3.5 hours.
Q: What is the cheapest way?
A: Bus and train (to Kathgodam, then by local taxi) are the most budget-friendly options, starting around ₹757–₹899 for bus and about ₹120 for train fare.
Q: Do I need to change vehicles along the way?
A: Only if traveling by train, as you’ll switch from Kathgodam station to a local taxi or bus for the last stretch to Nainital. Bus and taxi options are direct to Nainital.
Q: Are buses and taxis available daily?
A: Yes, with multiple services throughout the day and night.
Conclusion
Reaching Nainital from Moradabad is easy, fast, and flexible, with several travel options available daily. Whether you prefer the privacy of a taxi, the affordability of buses, or the comfort of a train ride, you’ll find plenty of choices to fit your budget and style. Plan ahead, book early during busy seasons, and enjoy a smooth trip from the plains to Nainital’s famous lake district.
