Is there a direct train to Nainital?

No, the nearest railway station is Kathgodam, located 35 km away.

How long does it take to reach Nainital from Bareilly?

It typically takes 4 to 5 hours by road.

Which is the best bus service?

Uttarakhand Transport Corporation (UTC) buses are the most reliable.

Are there tolls on this route?

Yes, there are toll plazas on the highway between Bareilly and Rudrapur.

Can I hire a taxi from Bareilly station?

Yes, plenty of private taxis are available outside Bareilly Junction.

Bareilly

Nainital

Bus Driving

Bareilly to Nainital

Updated: 21 May 2026

The journey from Bareilly to Nainital covers approximately 140 km through the scenic foothills of the Kumaon Himalayas. You will primarily travel via NH 109, passing through Rudrapur and Haldwani. The ascent begins after Kathgodam, offering breathtaking views of the valley. Buses and private taxis are the most reliable modes of transport for this route. Expect a travel time of 4 to 5 hours depending on traffic at the Haldwani bottleneck.

Total Distance: 140 km by road, 115 km straight-line.

Fastest Way

Private taxi takes 4 hours, providing door-to-door convenience.

Cheapest Way

State-run bus, costing around 450 INR, is the most economical option.

Compare Bareilly to Nainital Routes

Bus

Direct

Duration

5 hours 30 mins

Avg Price

400-600 INR

Operator

UTC (Uttarakhand Transport Corporation)

Route

Bareilly Satellite Bus Stand to Nainital Tallital Bus Stand

Book your tickets at the Bareilly Satellite bus terminal counter.

Driving

Direct

Duration

4 hours

Avg Price

2500-3500 INR

Operator

Private Taxi

Route

Bareilly - Rudrapur - Haldwani - Kathgodam - Nainital via NH 109

Start early from Bareilly to avoid heavy traffic congestion in Haldwani.

Travel Tips

Carry Woolens
Even in summer, evenings in Nainital can get chilly, so keep a light jacket handy.
Avoid Peak Season
Try to visit on weekdays to avoid the massive weekend rush from Delhi and Bareilly.
Parking Issues
Parking is extremely limited in Nainital; prefer using local taxis or walking.
Motion Sickness
The road from Kathgodam to Nainital is winding; carry anti-nausea medication if prone to motion sickness.
Local Transport
Use the local rickshaws or walk to explore the town center as roads are narrow.

Safety Tips

Drive Carefully
The mountain roads are narrow and prone to landslides during the monsoon season.
Stay Hydrated
Carry bottled water, especially during the uphill drive to avoid altitude-related discomfort.
Emergency Contacts
Keep the local police and hospital numbers saved in your phone before starting the journey.
Night Driving
Avoid driving on the mountain stretch after sunset due to poor visibility and fog.