Is there a direct train to Nainital?

No, the nearest railway station is Kathgodam, 34 km away.

Which is the best month to visit?

March to June is ideal for pleasant weather.

Are there buses from Badshahithaul?

Yes, local buses connect to Rishikesh for onward travel.

How far is Nainital from Delhi?

It is approximately 300 km from Delhi.

Is it safe to drive at night?

It is generally discouraged due to fog and narrow roads.

Nainital

Bus Driving

Badshahithaul to Nainital

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from Badshahithaul to Nainital spans approximately 320 kilometers through the scenic Kumaon and Garhwal regions. You will primarily navigate via NH 109, passing through Rishikesh and Haridwar before heading toward the hills. The drive typically takes 9 to 10 hours depending on traffic near the plains. Public transport involves a combination of local buses to Rishikesh and then connecting buses to Haldwani or Nainital. This route offers a transition from the high Himalayas to the famous lake district of Uttarakhand.

Total Distance: 320 km driving distance; 185 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Private taxi via NH 109 takes 8.5 hours.

Cheapest Way

State transport bus via Rishikesh costs approximately 800 INR.

Compare Badshahithaul to Nainital Routes

	Bus Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	11 hours	8 hours 30 mins
Avg Price	800-1200 INR	4000-6000 INR
Operator	UTC Bus	Private Taxi
Route	Badshahithaul to Rishikesh, then Rishikesh to Nainital	Badshahithaul - Rishikesh - Haridwar - Najibabad - Kashipur - Nainital
Tip	Book your UTC bus ticket from the Rishikesh ISBT for better seat availability.	Start early at 5 AM to avoid heavy traffic at the Haridwar-Najibabad stretch.

Travel Tips

Carry Motion Sickness Pills
The winding roads from Kathgodam to Nainital can cause nausea for some travelers.
Check Weather
Always check the local weather forecast for landslides during the monsoon season.
Book Hotels Early
Nainital is a popular tourist hub; ensure your accommodation is booked in advance during peak season.
Local Transport
Use the local taxi union cabs for sightseeing as private vehicles have restrictions in the core town area.
Carry Cash
While digital payments are common, keep cash for small shops and remote mountain cafes.

Safety Tips

Drive Carefully
Mountain roads are narrow; avoid overtaking on blind curves.
Night Travel
Avoid driving on hilly stretches after sunset due to poor visibility and wildlife activity.
Emergency Contacts
Save the local police and hospital numbers of Nainital before starting your journey.
Stay Hydrated
Keep water and light snacks handy as shops are sparse on certain highway stretches.