Kathgodam to Nainital Taxi Fare and Best Tips (2026 Guide)

Introduction

Welcome to Devbhoomi Uttarakhand! If you are planning a trip to the “City of Lakes,” your train journey will likely end at Kathgodam. This small town is the gateway to Kumaon. But the big question every traveler asks me is: “What is the correct Kathgodam to Nainital taxi fare?”

You do not want to pay extra, and you definitely want a safe driver. I run Clans Stays, and I have helped thousands of tourists reach Nainital safely.

In this guide, I will tell you the exact taxi rates for 2026, the best car options, and some hidden tips that only locals like me know. Let’s make your journey smooth and happy.

Kathgodam to Nainital: Distance and Time

Before we talk about money, let’s see how long the ride takes.

• Total Distance: 35 to 40 km (approx).
• Travel Time: 1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutes.
• Road Condition: The road is very good and curvy. You will see beautiful mountains as soon as you leave the station.

Mayank’s Tip: If you have motion sickness (vomiting feeling), please take a medicine 30 minutes before the car starts. The turns can be sharp.

Kathgodam to Nainital Taxi Fare (2026 Updated List)

Here is the simple price list. Please note that prices can change a little bit during peak season (May, June) or weekends.

Car Type	Vehicle Model	Seating Capacity	Estimated Fare (One Way)
Small Car	Alto / Eon	4 Passengers	₹1,200 – ₹1,500
Sedan	Dzire / Etios	4 Passengers	₹1,800 – ₹2,200
SUV	Innova / Ertiga	6-7 Passengers	₹2,500 – ₹3,500
Tempo Traveller	Force Traveller	12+ Passengers	₹5,500 – ₹6,500

If you are looking for a cheap taxi from Kathgodam railway station to Nainital, the Alto is the best choice. For families who need comfort, I always suggest the Sedan (Dzire).

Why Book with Clans Stays?

You can find many taxis outside the station. But here is why our Kathgodam to Nainital taxi service is different:

1. No Hidden Cost: We tell you the final price first. No surprise charges for parking or driver food.
2. Clean Cars: Our cars are not smelly or dirty. We clean them daily.
3. Local Drivers: Our drivers know every turn and shortcut. They are very safe.
4. 24/7 Support: You can call me (Mayank) anytime if you have an issue.

Call us today to check the best cab price for Nainital!

3 Mistakes to Avoid at Kathgodam Station

I have seen many tourists make these mistakes. Please be careful:

1. Trusting Random Agents

When you step out of the train, many people will shout “Taxi! Taxi!”. They are often middlemen. They take a commission and give you a random driver. It is better to book with a trusted agency.

2. Not Checking the Tyres

Before you sit, just look at the car tyres. If they look very old or smooth, do not take that cab. The road to Nainital is steep, and good tyres are very important for safety.

3. Ignoring the “Shared” Option

If you are a solo traveler, you don’t need to pay full Kathgodam to Nainital cab price. You can walk out of the station to the main road. There you will find shared taxis (mostly Bolero or Sumo) that charge only ₹150 – ₹200 per seat.

Route Map: What You Will See

The drive is very scenic. Here are the main spots you will cross:

• Kathgodam Station: Your starting point.
• Ranibagh: The climb starts here.
• Jeolikote: A beautiful small village. Many people stop here for tea and Maggi.
• Nainital Entry: You will pay a small toll tax here before entering the Mall Road area.

Conclusion

Reaching Nainital is easy if you plan well. The Kathgodam to Nainital taxi fare is reasonable if you book in advance.

Don’t let booking stress spoil your holiday mood. Whether you need a small Alto or a big Innova, Clans Stays is here to help you. We treat you like family, not just customers.

Ready to book?

Reply to this blog or contact us directly to get the best taxi for Nainital today!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What is the lowest Kathgodam to Nainital taxi fare?

Ans: The lowest fare is around ₹1,200 for a small car like an Alto during the off-season.

Q2: Is it safe to drive at night from Kathgodam to Nainital?

Ans: Yes, it is safe, but we suggest avoiding travel after 9 PM if there is heavy fog or rain.

Q3: Can I get a shared taxi from Kathgodam?

Ans: Yes, shared taxis are available from the main road outside the station. They charge about ₹150-₹200 per person.

Q4: How long does the taxi take to reach Nainital?

Ans: It usually takes 1 hour and 30 minutes. On weekends, traffic might increase the time by 30 minutes.

Q5: Do I need to pay extra for AC in the taxi?

Ans: Usually, drivers switch off the AC on the hills because the engine needs power to climb. Also, the weather is cool, so you won’t need AC!

Q6: What is the best taxi for a family of 5?

Ans: For 5 people, you should book an Innova or Ertiga. A Sedan (Dzire) is only good for 4 passengers.

Q7: Can I book a taxi online for Nainital?

Ans: Yes, you can book online with trusted agencies like Clans Stays to avoid bargaining at the station.

Q8: Does the taxi drop us at the hotel in Nainital?

Ans: Yes, but some hotels on Mall Road do not allow cars during the day (Mall Road restrictions). The driver will drop you at the nearest shuttle point.