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June 6, 2025
Cradled by the gentle slopes of the Himalayas and graced by the flowing Ganges, Rishikesh is an ideal blend of calm and quiet thrill. From morning chants to riverside yoga, every nook and corner of the city is worth exploring. But you need to know how to reach Rishikesh to witness the rhythm of this soulful place firsthand.
It's easy to plan your journey with a variety of transport links to and from major cities. From flights to road trips, every way to get to Rishikesh provides a unique peek into India’s stunning landscape and dynamic culture. Read on to discover the best ways to go there.
Rishikesh can be reached through various modes of transportation, making it accessible for all kinds of travellers. Each option offers a unique experience, depending on your preference for comfort, time, or scenery.
The closest airport to Rishikesh is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun. It is located at a distance of 21 kilometres from Rishikesh. It is well-connected by daily domestic flights from Delhi, Mumbai, and other major cities across the nation. From there, you can easily take a cab to reach Rishikesh, which takes about 40 to 45 minutes.
Rishikesh does not have a direct international airport, but foreign visitors can board a flight to Delhi, from where they can travel by domestic flight to Dehradun. If you want to know how to go Rishikesh fast, flying is a convenient option.
If you are the type who enjoys scenic drives, then you may love to travel by road to Rishikesh. Rishikesh is linked by road via National Highway 34 with major towns of the country and can be reached from Delhi, Haridwar, and Dehradun.
You can take a private cab or go in your own vehicle. Besides, there are cab services and inter-city taxis that ply on this route. On the way, bask in the beautiful sights of rolling hills, dense forests, and the occasional glimpses of the Ganges and create memories that will last forever.
If you find comfort in train journeys, then Rishikesh can also be reached via Haridwar Railway Station, which is approximately 25 km away. Haridwar is mainly known for being a railhead, connecting the city with all major cities and towns of India. From Haridwar, there are taxis, local buses and even shared auto-rickshaws to make it to Rishikesh in under 45 minutes.
There is a smaller station, Rishikesh Railway Station, but local trains are the only trains it serves. Haridwar is the most convenient station to get to Rishikesh for the majority of people.
If you are wondering Rishikesh how to reach and have an authentic local experience, buses are a popular choice. Many government and private buses operate daily between Delhi, Dehradun and Haridwar to Rishikesh. Standard, deluxe, and even Volvo AC buses are available based on your level of comfort.
The drive from Delhi takes 6–8 hours, and there are overnight options as well. It is usually halted at Rishikesh ISBT (Inter State Bus Terminal), which is just near the main town of Rishikesh. While not as fast as some other methods, taking the bus can help you soak in the local culture and the changing landscape at a leisurely speed.
Thanks to its growing popularity and spiritual charm, Rishikesh is now well-connected to cities across India. No matter where you’re travelling from, there’s a convenient way to get there.
Rishikesh is approximately 240 km away from Delhi and is a very convenient weekend escape from the capital. Travellers can drive via NH 34, which takes about 6 to 7 hours. Scheduled trains leave from New Delhi Railway Station for Haridwar. From Haridwar, regular buses are available to Rishikesh, which is just a 45-minute drive.
Buses, both state-owned and private Volvos, run regularly to and from the city. You can also go by flight from Delhi to Jolly Grant Airport at Dehradun and drive to Rishikesh.
Rishikesh is at a distance of around 1,600 km from Mumbai, so air travel is the best way to reach it. Daily flights depart Mumbai for Dehradun, taking approximately 2.5 hours. Rishikesh is only a 40-minute drive from Dehradun Airport by taxi or cab.
For those who like to travel by train, there are a number of long-haul options that link Mumbai to Haridwar. The journey by train typically takes over 24 hours. Flights remain the fastest and most convenient choice for Rishikesh tour packages from Mumbai.
The best way to get to Rishikesh from Pune is by flight. Non-stop flights between Pune and Dehradun are limited, but connecting flights via Delhi or Mumbai are readily available and take around 5–7 hours, including layovers. It takes about an hour to reach Rishikesh from Jolly Grant Airport.
You can also take a train to Delhi and continue onwards by road or local transport. While train and road options are available, flying is ideal for those looking to save time on a long journey.
Rishikesh is just 200 km away from Chandigarh and is a perfect destination for road trips. The drive via NH 7 takes around 4.5 to 5.5 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. You can also opt for a train to Haridwar or Rishikesh from Chandigarh Railway Station, which offers a convenient and comfortable ride.
Buses operated by Himachal Roadways and private travel companies are also available throughout the day. Flights are not a viable option due to the short distance. Road and rail are both highly efficient ways to reach Rishikesh and some of the other best places to visit in Uttarakhand from Chandigarh.
Travelling from Kolkata to Rishikesh involves a considerable distance of about 1,400 km. The quickest way is to take a flight from Kolkata to Dehradun with a short layover in Delhi or Lucknow. The total travel time is around 5–6 hours, followed by a short drive to Rishikesh.
Rail travel is also possible from the City of Joy. The Doon Express is one of the most popular trains among tourists booking Uttarakhand tour packages from Kolkata. You can get down at Haridwar and continue with a 45-minute taxi or bus ride to reach Rishikesh. Buses are not recommended due to the journey’s length. Air travel remains the most practical and comfortable option from Kolkata.
The most convenient way to reach Rishikesh from Hyderabad is by air. Although there are no direct flights to Dehradun, several connecting options via Delhi are available and take around 5–6 hours in total. From Dehradun Airport, Rishikesh is a 40-minute drive by road.
Those interested in rail travel can board trains like the Kacheguda-Haridwar Express, which covers the distance in approximately 30–32 hours. Road travel is possible but time-consuming, given the 1,500 km distance. Flights offer the best balance of comfort and time, especially for travellers starting their spiritual or adventure journey from Hyderabad.
Travelling from Dehradun to Rishikesh is quick and easy, thanks to their close proximity—just around 45 km apart. Taxis, shared cabs, and local buses run frequently between the two towns.
The drive takes roughly one hour via NH 7 and offers lovely views of the mountains and forested roads. If you prefer public transport, buses leave from Dehradun ISBT at regular intervals. Although there is a railway line connecting both, road travel is much faster and more flexible.
Getting around Rishikesh is simple and affordable. Auto-rickshaws and shared tuk-tuks are the most common modes of transport for short distances. For exploring nearby spots or travelling at your own pace, hiring a scooter or motorbike is a popular option. Taxis are available but can be slightly costlier.
Many areas, especially near the river and ashrams, are best explored on foot, as vehicles are restricted. Local buses connect Rishikesh to nearby towns, but they may be less frequent. Whether you’re heading to the famous temples in Rishikesh or a yoga retreat, local transport is convenient and budget-friendly.
If you want to have a memorable Rishikesh trip, keep in mind the following tips:
Rishikesh blends spirituality, nature, and adventure in a way few places can. From peaceful riverbanks to adrenaline-pumping activities and soulful ashrams, it caters to every kind of traveller. With its accessible transport options and local charm, exploring this town is both easy and rewarding. Let this guide be part of your India travel planner as you chart your way to this soulful Himalayan town.
