Nainital to Dehradun Complete Travel Guide 2026
Planning a trip from Nainital to Dehradun? This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the 285km journey. Watch the interactive route animation above to visualize your journey, then explore detailed information about travel options, costs, attractions along the way, and insider tips to make your trip memorable.
analytics Travel Comparison: Nainital to Dehradun
| Mode | Duration | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|
| directions_car Private Car | 7h 30m | ₹2,722 Fuel & Tolls |
| train Train | 12h – 16h | ₹247 – ₹765 |
| bus Bus | 12h – 16h | ₹406 – ₹3,146 |
How to Travel: Nainital to Dehradun
Compare different travel modes to find the best option for your budget, schedule, and preferences.
By Car
Flexibility, scenic stops, family trips
lightbulb Our Recommendation
At 285km, both driving (7h 30m) and trains are excellent options. Choose driving for flexibility and scenic stops, or trains for comfort and relaxation.
Before You Leave Nainital
Fuel up with these authentic local dishes before hitting the road:
Local Specialties
- local_dining Momos - Try them at the Tibetan Market for authentic flavors.
- local_dining Thukpa - A hearty noodle soup, perfect for cold weather.
- local_dining Bal Mithai - A local sweet made from roasted khoya and coated with sugar balls.
Machan • Mall Road
Worth Stopping: Cities Along Your Route
These cities are within 50km of your Nainital to Dehradun route and offer excellent attractions worth a brief detour:
Lansdowne
Lansdowne is a quiet hill station in Uttarakhand, India, known for its serene atmosphere and colonial-era charm. It is a cantonment town, home to the Garhwal Rifles regiment, offering a peaceful escape from the bustling city life.
attractions Top Attractions
Tip N Top View Point
Tip N Top is a popular viewpoint offering panoramic views of the surrounding Shivalik hills. It's also known as Tiffin Top.
St. Mary's Church
St. Mary's Church is a historic church dating back to the British colonial era. It's an example of pre-independence architecture.
Bhulla Tal
Bhulla Tal is a small artificial lake maintained by the Indian Army. It's a popular spot for boating and relaxing.
restaurant Must Try Local Food
Aloo ke Gutke - A local potato dish seasoned with spices (try at local restaurants)
Rishikesh
Rishikesh, nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas in Uttarakhand, is renowned as the 'Yoga Capital of the World'. The holy Ganges River flows through it, making it a significant spiritual hub. It's also a popular destination for adventure sports enthusiasts.
attractions Top Attractions
Lakshman Jhula
Lakshman Jhula is an iconic iron suspension bridge across the Ganges. It connects Tapovan to Jonk. Legend says that Lord Lakshmana crossed the Ganges here on a jute rope.
Ram Jhula
Ram Jhula is another suspension bridge across the Ganges, located a few kilometers downstream from Lakshman Jhula. It connects Shivananda Ashram to Swarg Ashram.
Triveni Ghat
Triveni Ghat is a sacred bathing ghat on the banks of the Ganges. It's believed to be the confluence of three holy rivers: Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati.
restaurant Must Try Local Food
Chole Bhature - A popular North Indian dish of spicy chickpeas and fried bread (try at any local restaurant).
Paonta Sahib
Haldwani
Mussoorie
Mussoorie, often called the "Queen of Hills," is a popular hill station in Uttarakhand, India. It's known for its colonial architecture, scenic beauty, and pleasant climate. The town is a gateway to several other Himalayan destinations and is easily accessible from Dehradun.
attractions Top Attractions
Kempty Falls
Kempty Falls is a popular waterfall located a short drive from Mussoorie. The falls cascade down several tiers, creating a refreshing pool at the bottom. It's a popular spot for swimming and picnicking.
Gun Hill
Gun Hill is the second highest point in Mussoorie, offering panoramic views of the Himalayan range. A cannon was fired from this location at noon during the British Raj to signal the time.
Lal Tibba
Lal Tibba is the highest point in Mussoorie, offering stunning views of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks. It's located in Landour, a quieter and more charming part of Mussoorie.
restaurant Must Try Local Food
Momos - try them at Kalsang Friends Corner
Explore Dehradun
Dehradun offers a unique travel experience. For detailed information about local attractions, dining options, accommodations, and insider tips, visit our comprehensive destination guide.
Frequently Asked Questions: Nainital to Dehradun
Related Routes from Nainital
Planning to explore more destinations? Check out these popular routes from Nainital:
Other Routes to Dehradun
Traveling to Dehradun from a different city? Explore these alternative routes:
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