Is there a direct train from Sattal to Roorkee?

No, there is no railway station in Sattal; you must travel to Kathgodam first.

What is the best route by road?

The route via Kathgodam and Rampur is the most standard and well-connected path.

Are taxis easily available in Sattal?

Yes, private taxis can be booked through local hotels or travel agencies.

How long does the bus journey take?

The bus journey from Kathgodam to Roorkee typically takes 7 hours.

Is it safe to travel in monsoon?

Travel is risky during heavy rains due to potential road blockages in the hills.

Roorkee

Bus Driving

Sattal to Roorkee

Updated: 21 May 2026

The journey from the serene Sattal lakes to the academic town of Roorkee covers approximately 210 kilometers. You will descend from the Kumaon hills through Kathgodam and Rampur before hitting the plains. The most practical route involves taking a local taxi to Kathgodam, followed by a bus or train toward Roorkee. Expect a travel time of roughly 6 hours depending on traffic near the plains. This route transitions from dense pine forests to the flat, industrial landscape of the Ganges canal region.

Total Distance: 210 km driving distance, 165 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Private taxi takes 5.5 hours via the bypass routes.

Cheapest Way

UTC Bus from Kathgodam to Roorkee costs approximately 600 INR.

Compare Sattal to Roorkee Routes

Bus

Connecting

Duration

7 hours

Avg Price

500-800 INR

Operator

UTC Bus

Route

Sattal to Kathgodam (Taxi), then UTC Bus to Roorkee

Book your bus ticket from the Kathgodam bus stand for better seat availability.

Driving

Direct

Duration

5 hours 30 mins

Avg Price

3500-5000 INR

Operator

Private Taxi

Route

Sattal - Bhimtal - Kathgodam - Rampur - Roorkee via NH 34

Start early at 5 AM to avoid heavy truck traffic on the Rampur-Roorkee stretch.

Travel Tips

Early Departure
Always leave Sattal before dawn to navigate the winding hill roads safely.
Motion Sickness
Carry medication if you are prone to motion sickness, as the descent from Sattal involves sharp hairpin bends.
Local Transport
Use shared cabs from Sattal to Kathgodam as they are more frequent than buses.
Connectivity
Download offline maps as mobile network signals can be intermittent in the lower Kumaon hills.
Hydration
Keep water bottles handy as the temperature rises significantly once you reach the plains.

Safety Tips

Road Conditions
Be cautious of landslides during the monsoon season between July and September.
Night Travel
Avoid driving on the hill sections after sunset due to poor visibility and fog.
Vehicle Check
Ensure your vehicle's brakes are checked before descending the steep gradients from Sattal.
Emergency Contacts
Keep the local police and emergency helpline numbers saved on your phone.