India

How to get from Delhi to Nainital

Compare all transport options: bus, ferry, train, flight. Prices, durations and tips from a local expert.

⏱
FASTEST
3h 37min
💶
From
8€
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Distance
235 km
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There are 1 way(s) to get from Delhi to Nainital

Select an option below to see the route details and compare prices. Secure booking via our partner 12go.asia.

🚌 Departure from Delhi
📍Most buses to Nainital depart from Delhi's Anand Vihar ISBT (Inter State Bus Terminal). This is a major hub primarily serving routes to Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand. It offers basic amenities including waiting areas, food stalls, and restrooms.
🚇Anand Vihar ISBT is well-connected by Delhi Metro (Pink Line, Anand Vihar station). A metro ride from central Delhi costs around €0.50-€1 and takes 30-45 minutes. Taxis and ride-sharing apps (Uber, Ola) are also readily available, costing €5-€10 for a 45-60 minute ride.
⏰Buses for Nainital run frequently throughout the day, with departures typically every 1-2 hours from early morning until late evening. Overnight services are also common, usually departing between 8 PM and 11 PM.
💸 Transport from 8€ per person
⚡ Fastest: 3h 37min
🗓 Book now Secure payment · via 12go.asia

Practical tips

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Book AC Coaches in Advance

Especially for hill stations and during peak seasons, AC Volvo or similar coaches fill up quickly. Booking 3-5 days ahead ensures you get a comfortable seat and avoid sold-out situations or less comfortable alternatives.

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Opt for Overnight Buses Wisely

Overnight AC sleeper coaches can save you daylight travel time and accommodation costs. Check reviews for punctuality and comfort before booking, especially for long hill routes, to ensure a good night's rest.

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Confirm Departure Points

Delhi has multiple bus terminals (ISBT Kashmere Gate, Anand Vihar, Majnu Ka Tila). Always double-check your ticket for the exact departure point to avoid last-minute rush and confusion.

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Travel Light for Buses

While buses have luggage compartments, managing heavy bags can be cumbersome, especially when boarding or disembarking at multiple stops. Pack efficiently to ease your journey.

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Bring Snacks and Water

Although buses often make stops, having your own snacks and sufficient water is always a good idea, especially on longer journeys to hill stations where options might be limited.

🛣️ The journey experience

Navigating India's vast transportation network can feel overwhelming, especially when planning a route to a hill station like Nainital. Unlike major cities that are often connected by an extensive rail network, many beautiful destinations in the Himalayan foothills are exclusively accessible by road. This means knowing when to prioritize an AC bus over a train or flight is key to a comfortable and efficient journey. For your trip from Delhi to Nainital, the bus is definitely your go-to option.

Direct bus services from Delhi to Nainital offer a practical and cost-effective solution. You can expect the journey to take around 8 hours, with ticket prices starting from approximately €8. Numerous private operators run comfortable AC Volvo coaches, which are highly recommended for this route, especially for overnight travel. These buses often depart from Delhi's Anand Vihar or ISBT Kashmere Gate, arriving directly in Nainital.

To ensure a smooth trip, booking your bus ticket a few days in advance is advisable, particularly if you're traveling during peak season or weekends. While trains are excellent for many inter-city routes in India, for destinations like Nainital that lack a railway station, a comfortable AC coach is unequivocally the best choice. It balances cost, duration, and convenience, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenic climb without the worry of missed connections or grueling non-AC travel.

Frequently asked questions — Delhi → Nainital

✨ Why visit Nainital?

  • ✓ Boat ride on Naini Lake, admiring the surrounding hills and colonial architecture.
  • ✓ Trek to Tiffin Top (Dorothy's Seat) for panoramic views of Nainital and the Himalayas.
  • ✓ Explore the vibrant local Bada Bazaar for handicrafts, candles, and unique souvenirs.
  • ✓ Visit Naina Devi Temple, a revered Hindu pilgrimage site on the northern shore of Naini Lake.
  • ✓ Enjoy a scenic cable car ride to Snow View Point for breathtaking mountain vistas.
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Recommended stay
2 to 3 nights — ideal for exploring the lake, viewpoints, and local markets at a relaxed pace.

☀️ When to visit Nainital?

SUBTROPICAL HIGHLAND CLIMATE

March to June & October to November — pleasant weather for outdoor activities before monsoon or winter chill.

Jan 😞
Feb 😞
Mar 😐
Apr 😊
May 😐
Jun 😞
Jul 😞
Aug 😞
Sep 😐
Oct 😊
Nov 😐
Dec 😞
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In Nainital — Plan your stay
Accommodation, activities and tips selected for you
🏨 Accommodation
Hotels in Nainital
Compare the best rates available
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What to do in Nainital?

Local experiences, must-see sights and activities selected for you

INCONTOURNABLE
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Naini Lake Boating & Promenade
Explore the heart of Nainital with a serene boat ride on Naini Lake, surrounded by hills. The flat promenade, known as 'The Mall Road,' is perfect for an evening stroll, offering vibrant street life and local eateries. Aim for early morning for the calmest waters, boat rentals typically start around 3-5€ for an hour.
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Ropeway to Snow View Point
Take the aerial ropeway to Snow View Point for panoramic views of the Himalayas and Nainital town. On clear days, you can spot snow-capped peaks like Nanda Devi. It's a quick, scenic ascent. Best visited in the morning for clearest views before haze sets in, ticket prices are around 2-3€ return.
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Tiffin Top (Dorothy's Seat) Hike
Hike to Tiffin Top, also known as Dorothy's Seat, for another stunning vantage point. It offers spectacular 360-degree views of Nainital and the surrounding Kumaon hills. The trail is moderately easy and can be done on foot or pony. Allow 2-3 hours for the round trip, including enjoying the views.
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Naina Devi Temple Visit
Located on the northern shore of Naini Lake, the Naina Devi Temple is a revered Hindu pilgrimage site dedicated to Goddess Sati. Its vibrant atmosphere and spiritual significance make it a must-visit. Respect local customs; remove your shoes before entering. Best visited outside of peak puja times to avoid crowds.
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Aryabhatta Research Institute
Visit ARIES (Aryabhatta Research Institute of Observational Sciences) for a unique experience. While primarily a research facility, they often host public viewing sessions through their powerful telescopes, especially in the evenings. Check their website for public viewing schedules; a small donation might be requested. It’s a fascinating insight into astronomy.
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Pangot and Kilbury Bird Sanctuary
Escape the main town to the serene Pangot and Kilbury Bird Sanctuary, a haven for birdwatchers. Located about 15 km from Nainital, it boasts over 250 species of birds, including various pheasants. Hire a local guide for the best spotting opportunities. An early morning visit is crucial for optimal bird activity.
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Explore Gurney House, Jim Corbett's Home
Visit Gurney House, the former residence of the famous hunter and conservationist Jim Corbett. This colonial bungalow offers a glimpse into his life and times, with period furniture and memorabilia. It's privately owned but often open for visitors. Check locally for visiting hours, as they can vary; a small entry fee may apply, around 1-2€.
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Savour Kumaoni Local Cuisine
Indulge in the authentic flavours of Kumaoni cuisine. Seek out local eateries away from the main tourist strip for dishes like Bhatt ki Churkani (black soyabean curry), Aloo ke Gutke (spiced potatoes), and Bal Mithai (a local sweet). Look for small, family-run restaurants for the most genuine experience; a meal typically costs around 5-10€ per person.

⏱️ How long to visit Nainital?

3 to 4 days

For independent travelers, 3-4 days are ideal to explore Nainital and its surroundings. This allows for boating on Naini Lake, hiking to Tiffin Top, and visiting nearby Bhimtal or Sattal. Less than 2 days is too rushed; aim for a minimum of three to truly soak in the tranquility.

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