How to Reach Rishikesh: A Simple Guide for Travelers

Rishikesh, known as the “Yoga Capital of the World,” is a beautiful town nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas. It is famous for its spirituality, yoga retreats, adventure sports like river rafting, and scenic beauty. Whether you are looking for peace, adventure, or a spiritual experience, Rishikesh has something for everyone.

This guide will help you understand the easiest ways to reach Rishikesh, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey.

1. Reaching Rishikesh by Air

The nearest airport to Rishikesh is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun. This airport is about 21 kilometers from Rishikesh, making it the most convenient option if you are traveling by air.

• Domestic Flights: Jolly Grant Airport has good connectivity with major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and others. Airlines such as IndiGo, SpiceJet, and Air India offer regular flights to Dehradun.
• International Flights: For international travelers, the best option is to take a flight to Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi, which is about 250 kilometers away from Rishikesh. From Delhi, you can take a domestic flight to Dehradun or explore other transportation options, such as trains or buses.

Once you land in Dehradun, you can easily reach Rishikesh by hiring a taxi or using a bus service. The drive from the airport to Rishikesh takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour.

2. Reaching Rishikesh by Train

Rishikesh has its own railway station, but it is a small one with limited train services. Most travelers prefer using Haridwar Railway Station, which is a major station located just 25 kilometers from Rishikesh.

• From Delhi: You can board a train from New Delhi Railway Station or Hazrat Nizamuddin Railway Station to Haridwar. There are multiple trains that operate daily on this route, such as the Shatabdi Express, Jan Shatabdi, and Mussorie Express.
• From Other Cities: Haridwar is well connected to several other major cities, including Mumbai, Kolkata, and Varanasi. Trains like Mumbai-Dehradun Express and Howrah-Dehradun Express serve this route.

Once you arrive at Haridwar Railway Station, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach Rishikesh. The journey from Haridwar to Rishikesh by road takes about 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic.

• Rishikesh Railway Station: If you happen to find a train that directly reaches Rishikesh Railway Station, you will arrive closer to the town center. However, the station is not very well connected, so Haridwar remains a better choice for most train travelers.

3. Reaching Rishikesh by Road

Rishikesh is well connected by road to many major cities in India. Whether you prefer to travel by bus, car, or even a rented bike, the journey offers stunning views of the mountains and the Ganges River.

a) By Bus:

Several government-run buses and private buses operate on the Delhi to Rishikesh route, offering both AC and non-AC options. The Uttarakhand Transport Corporation operates regular bus services from ISBT Kashmere Gate in Delhi to Rishikesh.

• From Delhi: Buses from Delhi to Rishikesh take about 6 to 7 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. These buses operate throughout the day, but night buses are more popular among travelers as they allow you to reach Rishikesh early in the morning.
• From Other Cities: If you are traveling from other nearby cities like Chandigarh or Jaipur, you can find several buses that will take you to Rishikesh via Haridwar.

b) By Car or Taxi:

If you enjoy road trips, traveling to Rishikesh by car can be a pleasant experience. The roads are well maintained, and you can enjoy scenic views of the countryside as you approach the Himalayas.

• From Delhi: The distance from Delhi to Rishikesh by road is about 240 kilometers. The journey takes about 5 to 6 hours if you travel by car. The most common route is via the NH 334, which passes through Ghaziabad, Meerut, Muzaffarnagar, and Haridwar.
• Hiring a Taxi: If you don’t want to drive, you can hire a taxi from Delhi to Rishikesh. Several taxi services offer rides, and the cost can vary depending on the type of car you choose. You can book a taxi in advance through online platforms or ask your hotel in Rishikesh to arrange a taxi for you.

c) By Bike:

For adventure lovers, renting a bike and riding to Rishikesh is a thrilling experience. Several bike rental companies in Delhi offer motorcycles for rent. Riding through the hilly terrain with cool mountain air is an exciting way to reach Rishikesh.

4. Reaching Rishikesh from Haridwar

Since Haridwar is only 25 kilometers from Rishikesh, many travelers use it as a stopover point before heading to Rishikesh. You can easily find local buses or shared taxis from Haridwar to Rishikesh, which operate frequently and are affordable.

• By Auto-Rickshaw or Taxi: You can also hire an auto-rickshaw or a private taxi for a more comfortable ride. Taxis are readily available near Haridwar Railway Station and bus stands.
• By Local Bus: Local buses between Haridwar and Rishikesh run regularly and cost very little. They are a good option if you are traveling on a budget.

5. Reaching Rishikesh by Private Tour Packages

If you prefer not to worry about transportation details, several travel agencies offer private tour packages to Rishikesh. These packages often include transportation, accommodation, and guided tours of the town’s main attractions. This is a convenient option if you want a hassle-free experience without the need to plan every detail of your trip.

6. Best Time to Travel to Rishikesh

The best time to visit Rishikesh depends on what you want to do:

• March to June: This is the ideal time for adventure sports like river rafting, trekking, and camping. The weather is pleasant, and you can enjoy outdoor activities without feeling too cold.
• July to September: The monsoon season brings heavy rains to Rishikesh, which might not be suitable for adventure sports. However, the town looks lush and green, making it a great time for nature lovers.
• October to February: Winter months are perfect for those seeking a peaceful and spiritual retreat. The cool weather adds to the town’s charm, and yoga enthusiasts flock to Rishikesh for meditation and spiritual practices.