Traveling from Varanasi to Nainital by train is convenient and budget-friendly. While Nainital does not have its own railway station, a well-planned combination of train and local road connections will take you comfortably to the heart of Uttarakhand’s famous lake town.
Distance Overview
- Rail Distance (Varanasi to Lal Kuan/Kathgodam): ~540–620 km (depending on the train and route)
- Lal Kuan/Kathgodam to Nainital by road: 34–40 km
Step 1: Varanasi to Lal Kuan (or Kathgodam) by Train
Main Route and Train Options
The nearest major railheads to Nainital are Lal Kuan (LKU) and Kathgodam (KGM). Several express trains depart from Varanasi Junction (BSB), taking you close to Nainital.
Popular Direct Train:
- Howrah–Lal Kuan Weekly SF Express (12353)
- Departure: Varanasi Jn at around 7:10 PM (check current schedules)
- Arrival: Lal Kuan (LKU) at 6:55 AM next morning
- Duration: 11h 45m
- Days: Weekly
- Fare: Sleeper class starting from ₹385; AC 3-tier and 2-tier options available
Other Train Options:
- Triveni Express (15075/15073)
- Departs late evening from Chunar (27 km from Varanasi Jn)
- Arrives at Khatima, 56 km from Kathgodam/Lal Kuan (requires further taxi/bus connection)
- Duration: 16h 37m
- Trains via Varanasi City or alternative stations
- For more flexibility, consider connecting options at junctions like Varanasi City, Lucknow, or change en route at Bareilly.
Booking and Timings:
- Reserve tickets in advance, especially in peak tourist or holiday seasons.
- Double-check running days and current schedules on IRCTC or major train booking platforms.
Step 2: Last Mile – From Lal Kuan/Kathgodam to Nainital
Distance:
- Lal Kuan to Nainital: ~40 km (1.5–2 hours by road)
- Kathgodam to Nainital: 34 km (1–1.5 hours by road)
Available Transport:
- Taxi: Readily available outside both stations, both private and shared (per seat)
- Fare: ₹200–₹1,000+ depending on sharing/private and vehicle type
- Bus: Regular government (UTC) and private buses run frequently during the day
- Fare: ₹70–₹200
- Shared Jeep/Maxi Cab: Quick and economical, especially for solo or budget travelers
Travel Tip:
Most accommodations in Nainital can arrange pick-up if requested in advance.
Quick Summary Table
| Segment | Distance | Travel Time | Mode | Estimated Fare |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Varanasi – Lal Kuan | ~539–620 km | 11–13 hours | Train | ₹385–₹4,500+ |
| Lal Kuan – Nainital | ~40 km | 1.5–2 hours | Taxi/Bus | ₹70–₹1,000 |
| Kathgodam – Nainital | ~34 km | 1–1.5 hours | Taxi/Bus | ₹70–₹1,000 |
Practical Tips
- Book tickets early: Trains to Kathgodam/Lal Kuan are in demand, especially in summer and holidays.
- Train food: Pack snacks and water or pre-order meals for the train ride, as onboard catering options may be limited.
- Avoid last-minute arrivals: If your train arrives late at night or very early, confirm onward taxi/bus options, or pre-arrange hotel transfer.
- Travel light: Easier for frequent transfers (especially bus or shared cab segments).
- Weather: In monsoon and winter, check for any route advisories affecting road travel up to Nainital.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is there a direct train to Nainital?
A: No, you need to get down at Lal Kuan or Kathgodam, then continue by road.
Q: What is the fastest train from Varanasi to Nainital?
A: Howrah–Lal Kuan Weekly SF Express (12353) is the fastest and most direct weekly train.
Q: Are taxis and buses readily available at Lal Kuan/Kathgodam?
A: Yes, both stations are major gateways to Nainital and have frequent taxis, shared cabs, and government/private buses throughout the day.
Q: Can I book train tickets online?
A: Yes, use IRCTC or major travel portals like MakeMyTrip, GoIbibo, or ixigo for bookings.
Conclusion
Take a direct train from Varanasi to Lal Kuan (or Kathgodam) for a comfortable overnight journey, then board a taxi, bus, or shared jeep for the scenic hill drive to Nainital. With regular trains and easy last-mile options, this is the most reliable and affordable way to reach the lake town from Varanasi by train.
