A road trip from Delhi to Nainital is one of the most scenic journeys you can take in North India. With a perfect mix of smooth highways, charming small towns, and stunning hill views, this trip is ideal for both weekend getaways and longer vacations. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a nature lover, or someone just looking to escape city life, the drive to Nainital promises an experience to remember.
In this guide, we’ll cover the Delhi to Nainital best routes, recommended stops, and travel tips to make your journey enjoyable and stress-free.
Distance and Travel Time
- Total Distance: Around 300–320 km (depending on the route)
- Travel Time: Approximately 7–8 hours (without long halts)
- Best Time to Travel: March to June for pleasant weather, and October to February if you love the winter chill.
Best Routes from Delhi to Nainital
You can choose between two main routes:
Route 1: NH9 via Moradabad and Rampur (Most Popular & Fastest)
- Delhi → Ghaziabad → Hapur → Moradabad → Rampur → Haldwani → Kathgodam → Nainital
- Approx. Distance: 315 km
- Travel Time: 7 hours (excluding stops)
- Why Choose This Route: Well-maintained highways, multiple food stops, and fewer sharp turns until you enter the hills.
Route 2: NH44 & NH734 via Meerut and Bijnor (More Scenic, Less Traffic)
- Delhi → Meerut → Bijnor → Nagina → Kashipur → Haldwani → Nainital
- Approx. Distance: 320 km
- Travel Time: 7.5–8 hours
- Why Choose This Route: Quieter roads, beautiful countryside views, and less congestion compared to NH9.
Suggested Itinerary with Stops
If you start early in the morning (around 6 AM), you can reach Nainital by afternoon with relaxed breaks. Here’s a recommended itinerary:
1. Delhi to Hapur (Breakfast Stop)
- Distance: ~60 km from Delhi
- Start your day early to avoid city traffic. Stop at a clean roadside dhaba or cafe for a hearty North Indian breakfast — think parathas, chai, and fresh curd.
2. Hapur to Moradabad (Tea & Refreshments)
- Distance: ~140 km from Delhi
- The NH9 stretch is smooth, making it a comfortable drive. You can stop for tea or quick snacks before entering busier sections.
3. Moradabad to Rampur (Scenic Drive)
- Enjoy fields and small-town views along the way. This is a good time to stretch your legs and refuel your vehicle.
4. Rampur to Haldwani/Kathgodam (Lunch Stop)
- Distance: ~260 km from Delhi
- Haldwani is the gateway to the Kumaon region. You’ll find plenty of restaurants serving both vegetarian and non-vegetarian meals.
5. Kathgodam to Nainital (Final Hill Drive)
- Distance: ~35 km from Haldwani
- This is the most beautiful part of the journey, with winding roads, pine-covered hills, and glimpses of the valleys below. Drive slowly and enjoy the views.
Travel Tips for a Smooth Road Trip
- Start Early: Leaving before sunrise helps you avoid traffic and gives you more time to enjoy Nainital in daylight.
- Fuel Up in Advance: Fill your tank before leaving the plains; fuel stations become sparse in the hills.
- Carry Essentials: Water, light snacks, a first-aid kit, and any required medicines.
- Check Vehicle Condition: Ensure your brakes, tyres, and headlights are in top shape for hill driving.
- Drive Safely in Hills: Use low gears when ascending or descending and avoid overtaking on blind curves.
- Book Accommodation in Advance: Nainital is a popular destination and hotels fill up quickly, especially in peak season.
Why This Road Trip is Worth It
The Delhi to Nainital road trip is not just about reaching your destination — it’s about enjoying the journey. From the buzzing plains of Uttar Pradesh to the serene pine forests of Uttarakhand, every kilometre has something to offer. By following the right route, making the right stops, and travelling at your own pace, you’ll turn a simple drive into an unforgettable travel experience.