How to Reach Rishikesh from Delhi: The Complete 2026 Travel Guide

Rishikesh—India’s Yoga Capital of the World—is one of the easiest destinations to reach from Delhi. Whether you’re a backpacker, a yoga student, or a spiritual traveller, there are multiple ways to travel from Delhi to Rishikesh: by road, train, bus, and flight.

How to Reach Rishikesh from Delhi

This guide covers every transport option, travel times, budgets, pros & cons, and tips for first-time visitors.

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⭐ 1. Delhi to Rishikesh by Road (Car / Taxi)

Best for: Foreign tourists, families, slow travellers, comfort lovers
Distance: ~240 km
Travel time: 4.5 – 6 hours

Driving from Delhi to Rishikesh is one of the most scenic and comfortable options. The route uses the newly improved Delhi–Meerut Expressway and NH-334.

🚗 Route Overview

Delhi → Ghaziabad → Meerut → Muzaffarnagar → Roorkee → Rishikesh

💰 Taxi/Private Car Cost (2025)

✔️ Pros

• Door-to-door convenience

• Best for travellers with luggage

• Scenic stops and photography

• Safer & faster than buses

❌ Cons

• More expensive than train/bus

• Traffic can slow the Rishikesh entry point

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⭐ 2. Delhi to Rishikesh by Bus (Cheapest Option)

Best for: Budget travellers, backpackers
Travel time: 5 – 7 hours

Both government buses (UTC/UPSRTC) and private Volvo buses run frequently from:

• Kashmere Gate ISBT (main departure point)

• Anand Vihar

• Delhi Airport (limited private operators)

🚌 Types of Buses & Price Range

✔️ Pros

• Cheapest travel option

• Night buses available

• Frequent departures

❌ Cons

• Comfort varies

• Not ideal for luggage-heavy foreign travellers

⭐ Travel Tip

Choose Volvo or AC buses for smooth travel and safety.

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⭐ 3. Delhi to Rishikesh by Train (Comfort + Budget)

Travel time: 4.5 – 6 hours
Nearest station: Haridwar Junction (HW) (20 km from Rishikesh)

There are only a few direct trains to Rishikesh Railway Station (YNRK), so most travellers book trains to Haridwar and then take:

• Taxi to Rishikesh (₹600 – ₹1,000)

• Bus/shared auto (₹20 – ₹50)

🚆 Popular Trains From Delhi

✔️ Pros

• Very comfortable for long luggage

• Safe for solo travellers

• Cheap compared to private taxis

❌ Cons

• Tickets sell out early

• Requires transfer from Haridwar

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⭐ 4. Delhi to Rishikesh by Flight (Fastest Option)

Nearest Airport: Dehradun – Jolly Grant Airport (DED)
Distance to Rishikesh: 20 km
Taxi fare: ₹600 – ₹1,000

✈️ Flight Time

Delhi → Dehradun: 45 minutes

✈️ Airlines Operating This Route

• IndiGo

• Vistara

• SpiceJet

• Air India

💰 Ticket Prices (2025)

₹1,500 – ₹4,000 (book early for lowest fares)

✔️ Pros

• Fastest way to reach Rishikesh

• Best for foreigners or luxury travellers

• Airport is very close to Rishikesh

❌ Cons

• Higher cost

• Flight delays during winter fog

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⭐ Which Is the Best Way to Reach Rishikesh?

👍 Best for Budget Travellers: Bus or Train

🧳 Best for Foreigners: Flight to Dehradun or Private Taxi

🧘 Best for Yoga Retreat Visitors: Flight + taxi

🚗 Best for Road Trip Lovers: Drive via Delhi–Meerut expressway

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⭐ Delhi to Rishikesh Travel Time Comparison

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⭐ Tips for First-Time Travellers to Rishikesh

• Avoid travelling on weekends and public holidays (heavy traffic).

• Book buses and trains early during peak seasons (Nov–March).

• Foreign travellers should prefer Volvo buses, Shatabdi train, or flights.

• Taxis at the airport are fixed-rate—safe and reliable.

• Do not expect alcohol in Rishikesh (it’s a dry, spiritual city).

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⭐ Final Thoughts

Getting to Rishikesh from Delhi is simple and flexible, with options for every type of traveler. Whether you want a spiritual getaway, a yoga journey, or an adventure trip, this guide covers everything you need to plan your travel smoothly.

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