Planning a trip to Nainital from Bareilly? This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know — the best route, travel time, pit stops, what to pack, and tips for a comfortable journey to the beautiful lake city of Uttarakhand.
Route Overview
The journey from Bareilly to Nainital covers approximately 150 kilometers and takes around 4 hours by car. The route passes through the plains of Uttar Pradesh before ascending into the Kumaon hills.
Recommended Route:
Bareilly → Rudrapur (45 km) → Haldwani (30 km) → Kathgodam (5 km) → Nainital (35 km)
Best Time to Travel
The best time to visit Nainital is from March to June for pleasant weather and September to November for clear skies and lake views. Avoid the monsoon season (July-August) due to landslide risks on mountain roads.
- Summer (Mar-Jun): 10-27°C, ideal for boating and sightseeing
- Monsoon (Jul-Aug): Heavy rainfall, road closures possible
- Autumn (Sep-Nov): 10-20°C, clear views, fewer crowds
- Winter (Dec-Feb): 0-15°C, possible snowfall, cold nights
Road Conditions
The route is well-maintained for most of the journey:
- Bareilly to Haldwani: Excellent highway, flat terrain, 4-lane roads
- Haldwani to Kathgodam: Good condition, light traffic
- Kathgodam to Nainital: Mountain road with hairpin bends, well-maintained but requires careful driving
Suggested Pit Stops
- Rudrapur (45 km from Bareilly)
Good for a tea break. Multiple dhabas and restaurants available.
- Haldwani (75 km from Bareilly)
Last major town before hills. Stock up on snacks, use restrooms, fuel up.
- Kathgodam (80 km from Bareilly)
Gateway to Kumaon. Railway station here if returning by train.
What to Pack
- Light woolens (even in summer, evenings are cool)
- Rain jacket or umbrella (weather changes quickly)
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Motion sickness medicine (for the ghat section)
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
- Camera for scenic views
- Snacks and water bottles
Taxi vs Self-Drive
While you can self-drive to Nainital, hiring a taxi has several advantages:
- Experienced hill drivers: Our drivers know the mountain roads well
- No parking hassle: Parking in Nainital is limited and expensive
- Relaxed journey: Enjoy the scenic views without driving stress
- Local knowledge: Drivers can recommend good stops and restaurants
Book Your Nainital Trip
One-way taxi from Bareilly to Nainital starts at just ₹1,650 for Sedan. SUV available for family trips.
Call +91 8077230221