Is there a direct train to Nainital?

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

Which is the best month to visit?

March to June is ideal for pleasant weather, while October to November offers clear skies.

Are there shared taxis available?

Yes, shared taxis are available from Kathgodam railway station to Nainital.

How long is the drive from Gajana?

The drive takes approximately 9 to 10 hours depending on road conditions.

Is the road safe for driving?

Yes, the roads are well-maintained but require caution due to narrow mountain curves.

Nainital

Bus Driving

Gajana to Nainital

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from Gajana to Nainital spans approximately 320 kilometers through the scenic Kumaon foothills. You will primarily navigate via NH 34 and transition to NH 109 near Haldwani. The route involves significant elevation gain as you climb toward the lake city. Expect a travel time of 9 to 10 hours depending on traffic near the Kathgodam bottleneck. This route is best traversed during daylight hours to enjoy the mountain vistas.

Total Distance: 320 km by road, 210 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Private taxi via NH 34, taking approximately 9 hours.

Cheapest Way

UTC Bus service from Haldwani to Nainital after reaching Haldwani via shared cab, costing roughly 800 INR.

Compare Gajana to Nainital Routes

	Bus Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	11 hours	9 hours
Avg Price	800-1200 INR	4000-6000 INR
Operator	UTC Bus	Private Taxi
Route	Gajana to Haldwani via bus, then local taxi to Nainital	Gajana - Najibabad - Moradabad - Haldwani - Nainital
Tip	UTC buses from Haldwani ISBT run every 30 minutes to Nainital.	Start early from Gajana to avoid heavy truck traffic on the Moradabad bypass.

Travel Tips

Carry Motion Sickness Pills
The final stretch from Kathgodam to Nainital involves sharp hairpin bends that can cause nausea.
Book Hotels in Advance
Nainital is a high-demand tourist destination; always secure your accommodation before arriving.
Check Weather Forecast
Landslides are common during the monsoon season; check local updates before starting your journey.
Carry Cash
While digital payments are common, small shops and local taxis in the hills often prefer cash.
Pack Layers
Temperatures drop significantly at night even during summer, so keep a light jacket handy.

Safety Tips

Avoid Night Driving
Driving on mountain roads after dark is risky due to poor visibility and lack of street lighting.
Stay Hydrated
High altitude can cause dehydration; keep drinking water throughout the journey.
Keep Emergency Numbers
Save the local police and hospital contact numbers for Nainital before you leave.
Check Vehicle Condition
Ensure your car brakes and tires are in top condition before attempting the steep climb.