How to get to Rishikesh from New Delhi?
Rishikesh, popularly known as the Yoga Capital of the World, is one of the leading spiritual and adventure tourism destinations in India. It is situated in the state of Uttarakhand in India, about 230–240 kilometers from New Delhi, and it attracts people seeking peace, yoga, meditation, river rafting, and Himalayan beauty. It is easy to reach Rishikesh via New Delhi, and there are various options to travel to Rishikesh depending on time, budget, and travel preferences
By Road
Travelling to Rishikesh by road is one of the most popular methods to reach Rishikesh from New Delhi. It takes approximately 6–7 hours, depending on the route and the traffic. You can call a private car/taxi or drive yourself through National Highway 334. Travellers going as a group or family may wish to book a cab as a form of comfort.
Another inexpensive option is to travel by bus. There are frequent services between Delhi and Rishikesh by government-run Uttarakhand Transport buses and by the private operators. Travelers have an option of regular, deluxe, and Volvo buses. The majority of buses start either in the evening or at night in the bus station that is Kashmiri Gate ISBT, and they drop you off in Rishikesh in the early morning hours.
By Train
Another convenient option is to travel by train. Haridwar is the closest major rail link to Rishikesh and is 25 kilometers away. Haridwar Junction is well connected to New Delhi by multiple trains, with multiple trains operating on a daily basis, including Shatabdi Express, Jan Shatabdi, and Mussoorie Express, amongst others.
When you arrive at Haridwar, there is a taxi or shared jeep ride or local bus available to Rishikesh, and this takes an estimated 45 minutes to 1 hour. However, since 2021, a few direct trains such as the Yoga Express have started operating from Delhi to Rishikesh, providing travellers with a more direct option.
Although Haridwar is still the main railhead used by most travelers, the newly developed Yog Nagri Rishikesh station now has a few direct trains from Delhi, providing a more convenient option for some travelers.
By Air
The fastest way is by air. The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, about 35 km from Rishikesh. There are a number of Indian-based carriers that run flights to Dehradun on a daily basis out of Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi. The plane journey is approximately one hour.
On arrival, taxis are readily available, and the onward journey to Rishikesh typically takes 45–60 minutes, depending on traffic. This is the best option to choose when international travels are involved or when the traveler needs a brief and comfortable experience.
By Shared Transport and Travel Packages
Delhi has numerous travel agencies and yoga centers that have direct transport to Rishikesh as tour packages. These are the often privately hired buses, vans, or “tempo travelers” (mini-bus vans popular for group tours in India) that suit small groups. It is convenient when buying a yoga retreat, adventure tour, or spiritual trip.
Conclusion
Getting to Rishikesh from New Delhi is simple and flexible, with multiple transport options available. Travel by road is easily the most popular option with budget and adventure travelers; the train via Haridwar is the other reliable option, and it is also a very scenic route.
The fastest flights to Dehradun guarantee a comfortable flight. You can choose the most suitable one, depending on the time at hand, the budget, and the comfort requirements. No matter which mode of travel you choose, the simple fact of actually getting to the destination, surrounded by the sacred Ganges River, Himalayan foothills, and a deep sense of spirituality, is worthwhile.
