How to Reach Rishikesh – By Road, Train, Air
Reaching Rishikesh, the serene and spiritual town located in the northern part of India, is an adventure in itself. Whether you’re a spiritual seeker, an adventure enthusiast, or simply looking to unwind in the lap of nature, Rishikesh has something for everyone. To help you plan your journey, here’s a comprehensive guide on how to reach Rishikesh, complete with a route map and distances from major cities.
Route Map to Rishikesh
1. From Delhi:
- Distance: Approximately 240 kilometers
- Time by road: 5-7 hours (depending on traffic and road conditions)
- Route: The most common route from Delhi is to take NH58 via Meerut and Muzaffarnagar. The drive takes you through the picturesque landscapes of Uttarakhand. You’ll pass through towns like Haridwar before reaching Rishikesh.
2. From Dehradun:
- Distance: Approximately 45 kilometers
- Time by road: 1-2 hours
- Route: Rishikesh is a short drive away from the capital city of Uttarakhand, Dehradun. You can take NH7 or the Rishikesh-Dehradun Road to reach Rishikesh quickly.
3. From Haridwar:
- Distance: Approximately 20 kilometers
- Time by road: 30 minutes to 1 hour
- Route: Haridwar is the nearest major city to Rishikesh, and the two towns are well-connected. You can take NH34 or the Haridwar-Rishikesh Road to reach Rishikesh in no time.
4. From Chandigarh:
- Distance: Approximately 230 kilometers
- Time by road: 5-7 hours
- Route: The most common route from Chandigarh is to take NH44 via Ambala and Saharanpur. This route offers scenic views of the Shivalik Hills and takes you through lush green forests before reaching Rishikesh.
5. From Jaipur:
- Distance: Approximately 540 kilometers
- Time by road: 9-11 hours
- Route: To reach Rishikesh from Jaipur, you can take NH48 via Behror and Aligarh. This is a relatively long journey, so plan your stops accordingly.
6. From Lucknow:
- Distance: Approximately 538 kilometers
- Time by road: 9-11 hours
- Route: If you’re coming from Lucknow, you can take NH27 via Sitapur, Bareilly, and Najibabad to reach Rishikesh. This route offers diverse landscapes along the way.
Transportation Options to Reach Rishikesh
1. By Air:
The nearest airport to Rishikesh is the Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, located approximately 35 kilometers away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a pre-paid taxi service to Rishikesh. Several domestic airlines operate flights to and from this airport, making it a convenient option for those traveling from major Indian cities.
2. By Train:
Rishikesh has its own railway station, known as Rishikesh Railway Station (IR station code: RKSH). It’s well-connected to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Varanasi. Some of the popular trains to Rishikesh are the Shatabdi Express, Jan Shatabdi Express, and Haridwar-Rishikesh Passenger. From the railway station, you can easily find taxis and auto-rickshaws to reach your destination in Rishikesh.
3. By Road:
Rishikesh is well-connected by road to major cities and towns in North India. The road journey to Rishikesh is an exciting experience as it takes you through scenic landscapes and winding roads. You can choose to drive yourself, hire a taxi, or take a bus.
- Self-Driving: If you plan to drive to Rishikesh, make sure your vehicle is in good condition, and you are familiar with the hilly terrain. The roads are generally in good condition, but it’s essential to drive cautiously, especially in the hilly areas.
- Bus Services: Several government and private bus operators run regular bus services to Rishikesh from cities like Delhi, Dehradun, Haridwar, and others. Deluxe and semi-deluxe buses are available, offering varying levels of comfort.
- Taxi Services: You can also hire a taxi or a cab from nearby cities like Dehradun, Haridwar, or even Delhi. This is a more comfortable option, especially if you’re traveling with family or a group of friends.
Distances from Major Cities to Rishikesh
Here are the approximate distances from some major cities in North India to Rishikesh:
- Delhi to Rishikesh: Approximately 240 kilometers
- Dehradun to Rishikesh: Approximately 45 kilometers
- Haridwar to Rishikesh: Approximately 20 kilometers
- Chandigarh to Rishikesh: Approximately 230 kilometers
- Jaipur to Rishikesh: Approximately 540 kilometers
- Lucknow to Rishikesh: Approximately 538 kilometers
Tips for a Smooth Journey
Check Road Conditions: Before embarking on your road trip, it’s advisable to check the road conditions and weather updates, especially during the monsoon season.
- Travel Light: If you plan to explore Rishikesh and its surroundings, pack light. You may have to walk or trek to reach some destinations.
- Carry Essentials: Ensure you have essentials like a first-aid kit, water, snacks, and a mobile charger during your journey.
- Book Accommodation in Advance: Rishikesh can get crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons. It’s a good idea to book your accommodation in advance to avoid any last-minute hassles.
- Respect Local Customs: Rishikesh is a sacred place, and it’s essential to respect the local customs and traditions. Dress modestly when visiting temples or ashrams.
- Stay Hydrated: The climate in Rishikesh can be hot during summers and cold during winters. Carry water with you to stay hydrated, regardless of the season.
- Follow Traffic Rules: If you’re driving to Rishikesh, follow traffic rules diligently, especially on the winding mountain roads.
Conclusion
Reaching Rishikesh is an adventure that offers travelers beautiful vistas, spiritual experiences, and a chance to explore the natural beauty of the Himalayan foothills. Whether you choose to travel by air, train, or road, this guide provides you with the necessary information to plan your journey.
Suggested to Read:
