Is there a direct bus?

No, you must change at Haldwani or Kathgodam.

How long does it take?

It takes about 8 hours by road.

Yes, the road is safe but requires careful driving.

You can take a train to Kathgodam, then a taxi to Nainital.

What is the best vehicle?

A reliable SUV is best for the mountain terrain.

Lansdowne

Nainital

Driving

Lansdowne to Nainital

Updated: 20 May 2026

The journey from Lansdowne to the lake city of Nainital covers approximately 240 km. You will descend to the plains via Kotdwar and then climb back up into the Kumaon hills through Haldwani. This route takes about 8 hours by road. It is a scenic drive that transitions from the Garhwal hills to the Kumaon hills. Expect a significant change in elevation and temperature.

Total Distance: 240 km driving distance; 145 km straight-line distance.

Fastest Way

Private taxi taking 8 hours via the NH 109.

Cheapest Way

Public bus from Kotdwar to Haldwani, then local bus to Nainital, costing 700 INR.

Compare Lansdowne to Nainital Routes

Driving

Direct

Duration

8 hours

Avg Price

5000-7500 INR

Operator

Private Taxi

Route

Lansdowne - Kotdwar - Najibabad - Kashipur - Haldwani - Nainital

The final climb from Kathgodam to Nainital is steep and requires a skilled driver.

Travel Tips

Motion Sickness
Carry medication if you are prone to motion sickness on winding roads.
Parking
Parking is very limited in Nainital; check if your hotel provides it.
Clothing
Carry a light jacket even in summer as evenings can get chilly.
Traffic
Expect heavy traffic near the Nainital entrance during weekends.
Booking
Book your accommodation well in advance during peak tourist season.

Safety Tips

Driving
Ensure your vehicle's brakes are in top condition for the steep climb.
Night Travel
Avoid the Kathgodam-Nainital road at night due to sharp turns and fog.
Emergency
Keep the contact details of the local tourist police handy.
Wildlife
Do not feed monkeys on the road as they can be aggressive.