Rishikesh, nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas along the banks of the sacred Ganga River, is one of the most popular spiritual and adventure tourism destinations in India. Often referred to as the “Yoga Capital of the World,” Rishikesh draws visitors from across the globe seeking peace, thrill, and natural beauty. Located approximately 240 kilometers from Delhi, it is a preferred weekend getaway as well. If you’re planning a journey from the capital to this serene town, here is a comprehensive guide on how to reach Rishikesh from Delhi using various modes of transport.
Distance Between Delhi and Rishikesh
Rishikesh is located at a convenient distance from Delhi, making it a popular destination for short trips and spiritual getaways. The average distance between the two cities is around 240 to 260 kilometers, depending on the chosen travel route. This close proximity allows travelers to reach Rishikesh within a few hours by road, train, or air.
| Distance Between Delhi and Rishikes | |||
| Mode of Travel | Starting Point | Ending Point | Distance (Approx.) |
| By Road (Car/Bus) | Delhi | Rishikesh | 240 – 260 km |
| By Train | New Delhi Railway Station | Haridwar Junction + Rishikesh | 230 km + 25 km |
| By Air | IGI Airport, Delhi | Jolly Grant Airport + Rishikesh | 210 km + 35 km |
Best Time to Travel to Rishikesh
Although Rishikesh is open to tourists all year round, the best time to visit is from September to May, when the weather remains pleasant. Summers are warm but not extreme, and winters are chilly but manageable, especially if you enjoy cooler weather. Monsoon months (July and August) witness occasional landslides and roadblocks, so travel during this period requires caution.
Also Check: How to Plan a Perfect India Trip
Options to Reach Rishikesh from Delhi
- By Road – Driving or Taking a Bus
One of the most common and scenic ways to reach Rishikesh from Delhi is by road. The road journey offers flexibility, comfort, and picturesque views as you drive through the plains of Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand.
- Self-Drive or Cab: The road trip from Delhi to Rishikesh takes about 6 to 7 hours, depending on traffic and weather conditions. The most preferred route is: Delhi – Ghaziabad – Meerut – Muzaffarnagar – Roorkee – Haridwar – Rishikesh
The roads are mostly well-maintained, and the journey becomes smoother after the Delhi–Meerut Expressway. It’s advisable to start early in the morning to avoid heavy city traffic and enjoy the peaceful countryside.
- Bus Services: Several government and private buses operate regularly between Delhi and Rishikesh. You can board a Volvo, deluxe, or ordinary bus from ISBT Kashmere Gate or Anand Vihar ISBT.
Buses are available throughout the day, but overnight buses are particularly popular among travelers who want to save time and arrive by morning.
- By Train – Fast and Convenient
Traveling by train is another efficient and budget-friendly way to reach Rishikesh. There are two major railway stations that serve the area:
- Haridwar Junction (HW) – around 20 km from Rishikesh
- Rishikesh Railway Station (RKSH) – a smaller station with fewer trains
Since Rishikesh Railway Station sees limited connectivity, Haridwar Junction is the preferred destination. From Haridwar, you can hire a taxi, take an auto-rickshaw, or board a local bus to reach Rishikesh in about 45 minutes to an hour.
Here are some popular trains from Delhi to Haridwar:
- Shatabdi Express
- Jan Shatabdi Express
- Mussoorie Express
- Nanda Devi Express
- Dehradun Express
- By Air – Fastest Option
The nearest airport to Rishikesh is Jolly Grant Airport (DED), located in Dehradun, around 35 km from Rishikesh. This option is suitable for those looking to minimize travel time.
Several flights operate daily between Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) in Delhi and Jolly Grant Airport. The flight duration is about 45 to 50 minutes.
Upon arrival at the airport, you can take a prepaid taxi or cab to reach Rishikesh. The journey from the airport takes roughly 1 to 1.5 hours.
Cost Comparison of Travel Modes
The cost of traveling from Delhi to Rishikesh varies based on the mode of transport chosen. From budget-friendly buses and trains to faster flights and private cabs, options are available for every budget.
| Cost Comparison of Travel Modes | |||
| Mode | Approximate Cost (INR) | Travel Time | Notes |
| Bus | 300 – 1200 | 7 – 9 hours | Overnight buses save time |
| Train | 200 – 1000 | 4.5 – 7 hours | Book early, especially Shatabdi |
| Cab/Taxi | 3500 – 6000 | 6 – 7 hours | Good for group or family travel |
| Flight + Taxi | 3000 – 7000 (flight) + 800 – 1200 (taxi) | 3 – 4 hours (including transfer) | Fastest but costly option |
| Self-Drive | Fuel cost (~1500 – 2000) | 6 – 7 hours | Flexibility and privacy |
Local Transport in Rishikesh
Once you arrive, getting around Rishikesh is easy. You can opt for:
- Auto-rickshaws
- E-rickshaws
- Rental scooters/bikes
- Shared jeeps and tempos
Many travelers also prefer walking, especially in the Tapovan and Laxman Jhula areas where most of the yoga ashrams, cafes, and guesthouses are located.
Popular Stops En Route (Optional Detour Ideas)
- Haridwar: If time permits, spend a few hours at Har Ki Pauri and attend the evening Ganga Aarti before heading to Rishikesh.
- Rajaji National Park: Ideal for wildlife lovers and located near Haridwar, this park offers safari experiences.
- Neelkanth Mahadev Temple: About 30 km from Rishikesh, nestled in the hills, ideal for a spiritual detour.
Reaching Rishikesh from Delhi is convenient and offers multiple travel options to suit every type of traveler. Whether you seek a quick weekend escape or a deeper spiritual retreat, the journey from Delhi to Rishikesh can be tailored to your time, budget, and comfort preferences. Buses and trains remain the most economical choices, while flights save time. A road trip, on the other hand, provides scenic beauty and freedom.
How to Reach Rishikesh from Delhi FAQs
What is the cheapest way to reach Rishikesh from Delhi?
The cheapest way to reach Rishikesh is by train or government bus. Train fares start from around ₹200, making it an affordable option for budget travelers.
How long does it take to reach Rishikesh by car from Delhi?
Traveling by car from Delhi to Rishikesh typically takes around 6 to 7 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
Is there a direct train from Delhi to Rishikesh?
Yes, there are a few direct trains to Rishikesh, but most travelers prefer trains to Haridwar Junction, which offers better connectivity and is about 25 km from Rishikesh.
Can I take a flight to Rishikesh from Delhi?
While there are no direct flights to Rishikesh, you can fly to Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is about 35 km away from Rishikesh.
Are there overnight buses available from Delhi to Rishikesh?
Yes, several overnight buses, including Volvo and sleeper services, run from Delhi’s ISBTs to Rishikesh, ideal for saving travel time.