Delhi to Nainital by train a Complete guide

Nainital is one of Uttarakhand’s most frequented hill stations; it is also called the “Lake District of India.” The hill station offers beautiful scenery, tranquil lakes, and a pleasant atmosphere, which makes it a preferred place for tourists throughout the year. If you plan to travel to Nainital from Delhi, one of the most comfortable and economical options is to take a train. Spending a few days in the mountains can have exponential benefits to your mental and physical well-being. Hill stations like Nainital are a perfect place for some “me-time”, and even to go with your family or friends to get some refreshing air and peaceful moments. This guide would include details about Delhi to Nainital by train, including the different train options available, major stops, and good times to visit.

The Benefits of Choosing Train from Delhi to Nainital 

Although there are several ways to travel around the country and spend a relaxing holiday in the hills, one of the modes to travel would rank higher than others. There are many benefits to travel by train from Delhi to Nainital:

• Stress-Free Travel: A train journey guarantees a smooth ride without rush-hour road traffic, while bad road conditions could ruin the perfect trip by car.

• Economical: Train tickets are generally pocket-friendly compared to flights and private taxis. You can also find some promotional offers and get a deal, at times, to lower the costs.

• An Eye-Soothing Journey: This train route encompasses the greenery of hills and the grandeur of landscapes, thus entertaining the traveler.

• Comfortably Spacious: The space created around each seat is a blessing, considering buses leave no space for legroom. The other good thing is that trains allow you to stretch your legs and move around freely.

• Environment-Friendly: Train journeys leave a lighter carbon footprint compared to road and air travel; therefore, it is an ideal choice.

Best Trains for Delhi to Nainital Journey

Kathgodam is the nearest railway station from Nainital and is well-connected to Delhi by different trains. Here are a few suggestions on how to reach Nainital from Delhi by train:

1. Ranikhet Express(15013/15014)

Departure: 10:05 PM from Old Delhi Railway Station (DLI) 

Arrival: 5:05 AM at Kathgodam (KGM) 

Travel time: ~7 hours 

Class: Sleeper (SL), AC 3-Tier, AC 2-Tier 

Ideal for: Overnight travelers who want to reach Nainital early in the morning.

2. Uttaranchal Sampark Kranti Express (15035/15036)

• Departure: Old Delhi Railway Station (DLI) at 4:00 PM
• Arrival: Kathgodam (KGM) at 10:45 PM
• Duration: ~6.5 hours
• Class Options: AC Chair Car, Sleeper
• Best For: Evening travelers looking for a quick and comfortable journey.

3. Kathgodam Shatabdi Express (12040/12039)

• Departure: New Delhi Railway Station (NDLS) at 6:20 AM
• Arrival: Kathgodam (KGM) at 11:40 AM
• Duration: ~5.5 hours
• Class Options: Executive Class, AC Chair Car
• Best For: Those who prefer a fast and luxurious journey with onboard meals.

Key Stops on the Route

You will pass through several important railway stations when you travel from Delhi to Nainital by train. Here is a list of some key stops on your way to Nainital: 

• Ghaziabad – A major railway hub near Delhi.
• Moradabad – A key junction where trains change direction towards Kathgodam.
• Rampur – Known for its rich historical significance and Mughal architecture.
• Haldwani – The gateway to the Kumaon region, located just before Kathgodam.
• Kathgodam – The last railway station, from where Nainital is just a 35 km drive away.

Ideal Travel Seasons – When to Plan Your Train Journey  Delhi to Nainital

For a comfortable journey, it’s best to book train tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons (April-June and December-January). Depending on what you are looking for, the ideal time to visit Nainital can differ:

• Summer (March to June) – Best suited for sightseeing, boating, or outdoor activities where temperatures vary from 10 degrees Celsius to 27 degrees Celsius.

• Monsoon (July to September) – Greenery galore and hardly any crowd but landslides can render your travel ineffective.

• Winter (October to February) – Calls out to snow lovers, as the temperature falls as low as -2 degrees Celsius.

• It would be wise to book train tickets in advance for a comfortable journey, especially during peak tourist seasons (April to June and December to January).

Travel, Relax, and Feast: Order Food on Your Train with Swiggy

Food must, of course, accompany any train ride. With Swiggy’s joint action with IRCTC, passengers can call for food online and have it delivered to their seats. Whether you prefer North Indian or South Indian food or fast food, you can eat fresh meals without fear of hygiene or quality. Download the Swiggy app or visit the IRCTC e-catering website to order food on train at major train stations along the route.

Conclusion

Traveling from Delhi to Nainital by train is a convenient and comfortable way to reach this beautiful hill station. It’s easy to get answers to how to go to Nainital from Delhi by train when you read this blog. With multiple train options, stunning landscapes, and hassle-free travel, a train journey enhances the overall experience. So get your calendars out and start planning for an expedition to explore one of the most heavenly hill stations of India. Hop off the snooze train and log in to the IRCTC website to get your tickets.  Whether you’re a solo traveler, a family, or a group of friends, taking a train to Kathgodam and then a short drive to Nainital is an excellent choice.

FAQ

1. Is there a direct train from Delhi to Nainital?

There is no direct train to Nainital. The nearest railway station is Kathgodam, and from there, you can take a taxi or bus to reach Nainital (35 km away).

2. What is the most affordable train option from Delhi to Nainital?

The Ranikhet Express offers the most budget-friendly option with Sleeper Class tickets available at a lower price.

3. Can I pre-order my food before the journey begins?

Yes, you can pre-order your food on Swiggy using the ‘Schedule’ option, which lets you choose a delivery time in advance—perfect for planning meals before your journey begins.