Book Bus Tickets to and from Nainital

Nainital bus booking on zingbus connects the lake city of Uttarakhand to Delhi, Haldwani, Moradabad, and other key destinations across North India. Located in the Kumaon hills at an altitude of approximately 2,084 metres, Nainital is famous for the Naini Lake, colonial-era architecture, and dense oak forests. Through zingbus, Nainital bus booking is available on 2 daily buses from Delhi with Ashok Leyland AC Seater/Sleeper and Bharat Benz AC Semi-Sleeper/Sleeper coaches operating on the Kumaon corridor.

zingbus runs Ashok Leyland AC Seater/Sleeper (44 Seats) and Bharat Benz AC Semi-Sleeper/Sleeper (with washroom) coaches on the Nainital corridor. Nainital bus booking on zingbus covers the Delhi route with GPS tracking, trained marshals, and verified drivers, making it the preferred choice for families, couples, solo travellers, and weekend getaway travellers heading to the Kumaon hills.

For group travel, school trips, or corporate outings to Nainital, zingbus provides bus rental services that can be arranged for any route or group size.

Why Choose zingbus for Your Nainital Bus Travel?

• Live GPS Tracking: You can track your bus in real time via the zingbus app throughout the journey to or from Nainital.
• Safety First:
  • CCTV, FDSS fire suppression, fire retardant interiors, and 10 kg extinguishers on every coach.
  • AIS 119 compliant with 4 exits: emergency door, 2 roof hatches, side exit.
  • Window hammers are placed at each berth. Collapsible steps are fitted on the side exit door.
  • Safety exits are visible on the seat map before you book.
• Verified Crew: Professional drivers and trained marshals are on board every trip to and from Nainital.
• On Time Guarantee: You receive a 50% refund coupon if your bus is delayed by 45+ minutes.
• Female Friendly: Women only seating is available on select routes. Solo female travellers can book women only seats at checkout.
• 24/7 Support: WhatsApp assistance is available at +91 82870 09889 before, during, or after your journey.
• Premium Lounges: Check the zingbus app for lounge availability at your departure point, including the Delhi ISBT Kashmere Gate lounge.

Types of Buses Available for Nainital Travel

Bus Type	Best For	Amenities
Ashok Leyland AC Seater/Sleeper (44 Seats)	Comfortable hill travel	Reclining seats/berths, AC, charging ports, water bottle, blanket
Bharat Benz AC Semi-Sleeper/Sleeper (with washroom)	Overnight Kumaon journeys	Berths/seats, onboard washroom, charging ports, blanket

Explore All the Verticals of zingbus

zingbus offers diverse coach categories tailored for different travel preferences:

1. zingbus Plus: Premium coaches with more legroom, priority boarding, and upgraded amenities.
2. zingbus Maxx: Seven star luxury fleet featuring airline style seating and exceptional onboard service.
3. ValueBus: Budget friendly option with reliable service and essential comfort.
4. zingbus Electric (EV): Sustainable travel with zero emissions and modern amenities.

Whether you prioritise luxury or budget, zingbus ensures a high quality travel experience across all coach categories.

Popular Boarding and Dropping Points in Nainital

Boarding Points

• New Bus Stand, Tallital (Pickup by Cab): This is the primary zingbus boarding point in Nainital, located at the southern end of Naini Lake in the Tallital area, from where a cab pickup is arranged to the bus.
• New Bus Stand, Nainital: This boarding point at Nainital’s main bus stand serves travellers coming from the Mallital and central market areas of the city.
• Kathgodam: This boarding point at Kathgodam serves travellers connecting from the Kathgodam railway station, the nearest major rail head to Nainital.
• Haldwani Honda Showroom: This boarding point in Haldwani is accessible from the city centre and serves passengers on the Nainital corridor connecting through Haldwani.

Dropping Points

All boarding points in Nainital also serve as dropping points for buses arriving from Delhi and other cities. Buses arriving in Nainital drop passengers at New Bus Stand, Nainital. For Delhi bound trips departing Nainital, dropping points include Anand Vihar ISBT and Kashmere Gate ISBT.

For other bus stops, refer to the booking page of the respective route you are looking for on the zingbus app or website.

Door-to-Door Pickup & Drop

zingbus offers door-to-door cab service in select cities, making your journey smoother from start to finish. You can get picked up from your doorstep to your boarding point, or book a drop from your arrival point to your destination.

Service availability depends on the city and route. Check the zingbus app or website while booking.

Nainital Bus Routes and Duration

Route	Distance	Duration	Daily Buses	Bus Types Available
Delhi to Nainital	304 km	~6h 4m	2	Ashok Leyland AC Seater/Sleeper, Bharat Benz AC Semi-Sleeper/Sleeper (Washroom)
Nainital to Delhi	309 km	~6h 22m	2	Ashok Leyland AC Seater/Sleeper, Bharat Benz AC Semi-Sleeper/Sleeper (Washroom)
Nainital to Moradabad	~170 km	~5h 30m	AC Sleeper	Bharat Benz AC
Moradabad to Nainital	~170 km	~5h 30m	AC Sleeper	Bharat Benz AC

Note: Durations and distances are approximate and may vary based on traffic, weather, and road conditions. For confirmed pricing and real time seat availability, check the zingbus app or website.

Best Time to Visit Nainital

March to June | 10 to 25 degrees C

• The weather is clear and pleasant, making it ideal for boating on Naini Lake, cable car rides to Snow View Point, and walks on the Mall Road. This is the peak season for families and couples.

July to September | 15 to 25 degrees C

• The monsoon brings heavy rainfall and lush greenery to the Kumaon hills, making it a good time for nature lovers and photographers, although landslides can occasionally affect road access to Nainital.

October to November | 8 to 18 degrees C

• Post-monsoon Nainital is clear, cool, and less crowded. The lake reflects the surrounding hills and the air is crisp, making it one of the best periods for solo travellers and budget travellers.

December to February | 0 to 10 degrees C

• Winter brings occasional snowfall to Nainital, transforming the town into a quiet retreat. Honeymooners and couples visit for the snow-dusted views, but travellers should carry warm clothing and check road conditions before departure.

What to Expect on the Nainital Bus Journey

Nainital sits in the Kumaon hills of Uttarakhand, and the road journey from Delhi covers both highway and mountain stretches.

• Delhi to Nainital corridor: The 304 km route takes approximately 6 hours 4 minutes, covering the NH 9 highway stretch before the climb into the Kumaon hills via Haldwani and Kathgodam.
• Mountain terrain section: The final 39 km section from Haldwani to Nainital involves winding hill roads with gradient climbs, which are navigated by experienced mountain route drivers.
• Departure timings: Delhi to Nainital buses depart between 10:30 PM and 11:15 PM, arriving in Nainital in the early morning, which is well timed for a full day of sightseeing.
• Onboard washroom: Select Bharat Benz coaches on this route come equipped with an onboard washroom, eliminating concerns about restroom stops on the mountain stretch.
• All coaches include: AC, water bottles, blankets, and charging ports throughout the journey.

All coaches have charging ports, so your phone stays ready for navigation and live bus tracking on the mountain stretch.

Pro Tips for Nainital Bus Travel

zingbus operates on the Delhi to Nainital corridor via Haldwani and Kathgodam. Here are the essentials for a smooth journey:

• Advance Booking: Nainital is one of the most visited hill stations in North India, and summer season buses fill up 7 to 10 days in advance. It is advisable to book early during May, June, and long weekends.
• Road Conditions: The mountain section from Haldwani to Nainital can experience delays during monsoon months due to rain and landslides. It is recommended to check road and weather conditions before travel between July and September.
• Boarding Point Access: The New Bus Stand in Nainital is located at Tallital. Cab pickup is arranged from the city to the actual boarding point, so coordinate with the zingbus marshal via WhatsApp if needed.
• Warm Clothing: Nainital temperatures can drop sharply at night and in winter months. It is advisable to carry a jacket or heavy woolens even if you are travelling from a warm city.
• Carry Cash: ATMs are available in Nainital’s Mallital and Tallital areas, but some market stalls and boat operators on Naini Lake accept only cash. It is advisable to carry some cash when you arrive.
• Track Your Bus: The zingbus app shows live GPS location and estimated arrival time for all departures on the Nainital route.

These preparations make the difference between a relaxed hill getaway and a stressful journey.

Why Nainital Over Other Uttarakhand Hill Stations?

Nainital offers a distinct combination of natural beauty, accessibility, and facilities that many other hill stations in Uttarakhand do not match in one place.

• Naini Lake Access: Nainital is one of the few Uttarakhand hill towns where you can boat on a natural lake in the middle of the city. Mussoorie and Lansdowne do not offer this.
• Closer by Road from Delhi: At approximately 304 km, Nainital is reachable overnight from Delhi with a morning arrival. Ranikhet and Munsiyari require significantly longer travel times.
• Year-Round Appeal: Nainital receives summer visitors, monsoon trekkers, and winter snow seekers, making it a viable destination across all four seasons unlike some single-season hill stations.
• Better Connectivity: Kathgodam, just 35 km from Nainital, is a major railway junction on the Delhi to Kathgodam Shatabdi route. Nainital has better multimodal access than Chakrata or Chaukori.
• Tourist Infrastructure: Hotels, restaurants, and shopping on the Mall Road are well established, making Nainital more suitable for first-time hill travellers and families compared to offbeat Kumaon destinations.

Nainital works well as a 2 to 3 day quick getaway from Delhi, a combined trip with Bhimtal and Sattal, or a base for exploring the wider Kumaon region.

Chyll by zingbus: Tour Packages from Nainital

Chyll by zingbus is the tour packages service from zingbus, offering all inclusive group trips to select Himachal destinations.

Packages currently cover Jibhi and Manali, with more destinations being added. You can view the full list of available packages and upcoming departure dates at zingbus.com/tour-packages.

Places Near Nainital Worth Exploring

• Bhimtal (22 km): A quieter alternative to Naini Lake with the Bhimtal Lake, Bhimeshwara Temple, and Bhimtal Island Aquarium, making it a good half-day trip from Nainital.
• Sattal (22 km): A cluster of seven interconnected freshwater lakes surrounded by oak and pine forests, popular with birdwatchers and nature photographers from across India.
• Mukteshwar (51 km): A hill town known for the Mukteshwar Temple (dedicated to Lord Shiva), the Chauli Ki Jali rock face, and apple orchards with long range Himalayan views.
• Kausani (117 km): A hilltop town offering a panoramic view of the Himalayan peaks including Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Panchachuli, often called the Switzerland of India.
• Ranikhet (60 km): A former British hill station with a 9-hole golf course, Jhula Devi Temple, and wide Himalayan vistas. It is a good extension from Nainital for travellers with extra days.
• Corbett National Park (67 km): One of India’s oldest national parks and a Project Tiger reserve, offering jeep safaris and wildlife viewing in the Kumaon foothills.

A Traveller’s Guide to Nainital

Getting Around Nainital After Arriving by Bus

Nainital is a compact hill town and most attractions are within walking distance of the Mall Road and Naini Lake. Auto rickshaws and shared taxis are available from the bus stand to hotels in Mallital and Tallital. The Nainital Ropeway (cable car) connects Mallital to Snow View Point and is the quickest way to reach the viewpoint.

Top Attractions in Nainital

• Naini Lake: The pear-shaped lake at the centre of Nainital is the city’s defining landmark. Boating is available at the Mallital boat house with pedal boats, rowboats, and sail boats at approximately Rs. 150 to Rs. 450 per 30 minutes.
• Snow View Point: The highest easily accessible viewpoint in Nainital at 2,270 metres, offering clear views of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks including Nanda Devi on clear days. The ropeway ride takes approximately 4 minutes each way.
• Naina Devi Temple: Located at the northern edge of Naini Lake, this temple dedicated to Goddess Naina Devi is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas and is the most visited religious site in Nainital.
• The Mall Road: The central promenade running along the northern bank of Naini Lake, lined with shops, restaurants, and colonial buildings. It is closed to vehicles in the evenings and is the main area for an evening walk.
• Eco Cave Gardens: A network of natural caves connected by walkways, located near the ropeway station. The caves are named after animals based on their shape and are suitable for families and children.
• Tiffin Top (Dorothy’s Seat): A viewpoint at 2,290 metres reached by a 4 km trek from Ayarpatta. It offers wide views of Nainital town, the lake, and the surrounding oak forests.

Hidden Gems in Nainital

• Hanuman Garhi (3.5 km from Mall Road): A small temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman situated on a hilltop at 1,951 metres, reached by a short trek. The sunset views from here look directly over the Nainital valley and are less frequented by tourists.
• St. John in the Wilderness Church: A 19th-century Anglican church located near Naini Lake, built in 1846 and housing the tombstone of the Baron Kilmorey who perished in the Nainital landslide of 1880. The Gothic stone structure is architecturally significant.
• Khurpa Tal (12 km): A small lake surrounded by apple orchards and strawberry farms at a lower altitude than Nainital. It is rarely visited by mainstream tourists and offers a peaceful half-day excursion.

Religious and Spiritual Places

• Naina Devi Temple: One of the 51 Shakti Peethas in India, located at the northern tip of Naini Lake. The temple sees large crowds during Nanda Ashtami (August) and Navratri festivals.
• Hanuman Garhi Temple: A hilltop temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, located approximately 3.5 km from the Mall Road and accessible by road or a short trek.
• Mukteshwar Dham (51 km): A Shiva temple dating to the 17th century, perched at 2,286 metres, considered one of the most significant religious sites in the Kumaon region.
• Garjia Devi Temple (39 km, near Corbett): A riverside temple dedicated to Goddess Garjia, situated on a rock outcrop in the Kosi River, visited by pilgrims from the Kumaon and Terai regions.

Where to Shop in Nainital

Nainital’s shopping is concentrated on the Mall Road and Bazar (Tibetan Market) in the Mallital area.

• Mall Road Shops: Woolen shawls, carved wooden items, and Kumaoni jewellery are available from shops along the Mall Road. Approximately Rs. 200 to Rs. 2,000 depending on item and quality.
• Tibetan Market: Located near the Mallital bus stand, this market sells Tibetan handicrafts, thangka paintings, prayer beads, and warm woolens at prices that are generally lower than the Mall Road shops.
• Nainital Candles: The city is known for decorative candles shaped like Naini Lake and Himalayan peaks, sold in shops near the Mall Road. Approximately Rs. 100 to Rs. 500 per piece.
• Kumaoni Cuisine Products: Local products such as Pahadi dal, Buransh (rhododendron) juice, and Kumaoni spice mixes are available in grocery stores near the Tallital area.

Most shops on the Mall Road operate from 9 AM to 9 PM.

Food and Street Eats

Nainital’s food scene includes both North Indian hill cuisine and British-era café culture from its colonial heritage.

• Bal Mithai and Singori: These are the signature sweets of Kumaon. Bal Mithai is a dark fudge made from roasted khoya coated in white sugar balls, and Singori is a cone-shaped sweet made from khoya wrapped in maalu leaf. Approximately Rs. 200 to Rs. 400 per kg.
• Aloo Ke Gutke: A Kumaoni dish of spiced roasted potatoes with local herbs and chilli, served as a snack across dhabas and small restaurants near the Mall Road. Approximately Rs. 60 to Rs. 100 per plate.
• Café Sheetal on Mall Road: A longstanding Nainital café serving hot chocolate, pasta, and sandwiches at prices ranging from approximately Rs. 120 to Rs. 350, popular with families and couples.
• Thukpa and Momos: Available near the Tibetan Market and at stalls on the Mall Road. Tibetan noodle soup and steamed dumplings are popular hill snacks. Approximately Rs. 80 to Rs. 150 per plate.
• Chole Bhature: A staple breakfast option at dhabas near the Tallital bus stand and Mallital area. Approximately Rs. 60 to Rs. 100 per plate.

All prices are approximate and may vary by season.

Cultural and Festive Events

• Nanda Devi Mahotsav (August to September): A major religious and cultural festival dedicated to Goddess Nanda Devi, celebrated with processions, folk music, and traditional Kumaoni dance at the Naina Devi Temple. It draws large crowds of pilgrims and tourists from across Kumaon.
• Winter Carnival (December to January): An annual festival organised to promote winter tourism in Nainital, featuring folk performances, adventure activities, and food stalls on the Mall Road. It is particularly popular with honeymooners and family groups during Christmas and New Year.
• Uttarayani Mela (January): A traditional Kumaoni fair held at the confluence of rivers in the Kumaon region during Makar Sankranti. Nearby Bageshwar hosts the main fair, but Nainital sees cultural celebrations across the town during this period.

Why zingbus Is Best for the Kumaon Hill Routes

• Mountain Route Expertise: zingbus drivers on the Nainital corridor are experienced on the winding Haldwani to Nainital hill section, which requires steady driving on gradient roads.
• Washroom Coaches Available: Select Bharat Benz coaches on the Nainital route include an onboard washroom, which is particularly valuable on the 6-hour overnight journey from Delhi.
• Two Driver Policy: On routes of 6 hours or longer, two drivers rotate to prevent fatigue, ensuring alert driving through both the highway and the hill sections.
• GPS on All Routes: Live tracking remains active throughout the journey, including the mountain section, so your family can monitor your position in real time.
• Delhi to Nainital Direct: The 2 daily buses from Delhi operate a direct overnight service, arriving in Nainital in the morning without intermediate city stops that would add to journey time.
• Kathgodam and Haldwani Boarding Options: Travellers arriving at Kathgodam by train can board a zingbus from Kathgodam, making multimodal travel to Nainital straightforward and convenient.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. How do I book a bus to Nainital on zingbus?

A: Visit zingbus.com or the app, select Nainital, choose a date, pick a seat, and pay online.

Q2. What types of buses does zingbus run to Nainital?

A: Ashok Leyland AC Seater/Sleeper (44 Seats) and Bharat Benz AC Semi-Sleeper/Sleeper with washroom.

Q3. How many daily buses run from Delhi to Nainital?

A: 2 buses operate daily from Delhi to Nainital, departing between 10:30 PM and 11:15 PM.

Q4. Where is the main boarding point in Nainital?

A: New Bus Stand, Tallital, at the southern end of Naini Lake, with cab pickup arranged.

Q5. Is Nainital safe for solo and female travellers?

A: Yes, Nainital is one of Uttarakhand’s most visited and well-policed hill towns with established tourist infrastructure.

Q6. What is the best time to visit Nainital?

A: March to June for summer weather and October to November for post-monsoon clear skies and fewer crowds.

Q7. Does every Nainital bus have a washroom?

A: Select Bharat Benz coaches on the Nainital route include onboard washrooms. Check the bus type at booking.

Q8. How far is Haldwani from Nainital?

A: 39 km, approximately 1 hour 15 minutes. Connected by 2 daily zingbus services.

Q9. What is Nainital famous for?

A: Naini Lake, Snow View Point, Naina Devi Temple, colonial Mall Road, and Kumaoni sweets like Bal Mithai.

Q10. Is there a zingbus lounge in Nainital?

A: No lounge in Nainital currently. Check the zingbus app for lounge availability at Delhi departure points.

Q11. Is there a railway station near Nainital?

A: Kathgodam (35 km) is the nearest railway station, well connected to Delhi by the Shatabdi and other trains.

Q12. Does zingbus offer Nainital tour packages?

A: Chyll by zingbus currently covers Himachal destinations. Check zingbus.com/tour-packages for updates.

Q13. What should I pack for a Nainital trip?

A: Warm jacket, comfortable walking shoes, cash for market and boating, and a valid photo ID.

Q14. What is the luggage limit on zingbus to Nainital?

A: One bag up to 15 kg in the luggage compartment and one small handbag inside the bus.

Q15. Can I cancel my Nainital bus ticket?

A: Yes, you can cancel anytime before departure via the zingbus app or website.

Q16. How do I track my bus to Nainital?

A: All buses have live GPS. Track via the zingbus app or the link sent to your phone via SMS.