जय श्री राम जय श्री राम जय श्री राम जय श्री राम जय श्री राम जय श्री राम जय श्री राम जय श्री राम जय श्री राम जय श्री राम
How to reach Rishikesh from Delhi
How to reach Rishikesh from Delhi
Traveling from Delhi to Rishikesh is fairly easy and can be done by various modes of transport. The distance between Delhi and Rishikesh is approximately 240 kilometers (about 150 miles), and the journey can take between 5 to 7 hours, depending on the mode of transport and traffic conditions.
Here are the primary ways to reach Rishikesh from Delhi:
1. By Train (Convenient and Scenic Option)
Trains are a popular and affordable way to travel from Delhi to Rishikesh. The Indian Railway network operates several trains between New Delhi (NDLS) and Rishikesh (RKSH).
Key Trains from Delhi to Rishikesh:
- Nanda Devi Express (New Delhi to Rishikesh):
- Departure: From New Delhi Railway Station (NDLS) at 10:00 PM.
- Arrival: Reaches Rishikesh Railway Station (RKSH) at 5:10 AM (next morning).
- Duration: Approx. 7 hours.
- Haridwar Rishikesh Passenger:
- Departure: From New Delhi Railway Station (NDLS) at 5:30 AM.
- Arrival: Reaches Rishikesh Railway Station (RKSH) around 11:00 AM.
- Duration: Approx. 5 to 6 hours.
Advantages of Train Travel:
- Affordable: Trains are one of the most cost-effective travel options.
- Comfortable: Trains like Shatabdi or Nanda Devi Express offer comfortable seating, and you can travel in air-conditioned coaches or sleeper classes.
- Scenic: The journey offers views of the rural landscape, adding to the overall experience.
2. By Car (Private Taxi or Self-Drive)
If you prefer flexibility and comfort, you can hire a private taxi or drive your own car from Delhi to Rishikesh. This allows you to travel at your own pace, stop for breaks, and explore the countryside.
Duration:
- Travel Time: Approx. 5 to 6 hours, depending on the traffic and road conditions.
Route:
- The most common route is via National Highway 44 (NH 44) and NH 7.
- From Delhi, take the NH 44 towards Meerut, then continue on NH 7 to Rishikesh.
Advantages of Car Travel:
- Flexibility: You can stop wherever you want for food, sightseeing, or rest.
- Comfort: You can travel at your own pace in an air-conditioned vehicle.
- Convenient: Door-to-door service, which can be more convenient if you are traveling with luggage or a group.
3. By Bus (Economical Option)
There are both state-run and private buses that operate between Delhi and Rishikesh. These buses typically depart from the ISBT (Inter-State Bus Terminal) in Delhi.
Bus Options:
- Uttarakhand Roadways: Government buses run from ISBT Kashmere Gate to Rishikesh.
- Duration: Approx. 6 to 7 hours.
- Fare: Budget-friendly.
- Private Bus Operators: Several private operators offer AC and non-AC buses to Rishikesh.
- Duration: Approx. 6 to 7 hours.
- Fare: Usually slightly more expensive than state buses.
Advantages of Bus Travel:
- Affordable: One of the cheapest ways to travel.
- Direct: There are buses that go directly to Rishikesh without requiring transfers.
4. By Flight (To Dehradun)
While there are no direct flights from Delhi to Rishikesh, you can fly to Dehradun (Jolly Grant Airport), which is the nearest airport to Rishikesh, and then take a taxi or bus from Dehradun to Rishikesh.
Steps for Flight Travel:
- Delhi to Dehradun: Fly from Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) to Dehradun Jolly Grant Airport (DED).
- Flight Duration: Approx. 1 hour.
- Dehradun to Rishikesh: After landing at Dehradun Airport, take a taxi or bus to Rishikesh.
- Distance: Approx. 20 km.
- Duration: 30 to 45 minutes by taxi.
Advantages:
- Fast: Flying is the quickest way in terms of travel time.
- Comfortable: Convenient if you're looking to save time, but it involves an airport transfer.
5. By Shared Auto-Rickshaw or Private Shuttle (Local Option)
If you're traveling alone or with a small group, you can also opt for a shared auto-rickshaw from Delhi to Rishikesh, although this is a less common and more local option. It may not be as comfortable as other modes of transport, but it is affordable and gives you a local experience.
Duration:
- Travel Time: Approx. 6 to 7 hours.
- Availability: Shared auto-rickshaws typically operate from Majnu Ka Tila in Delhi.
Summary of Travel Options from Delhi to Rishikesh:
| Mode of Transport | Duration | Cost Range | Advantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| Train (Nanda Devi Express) | 5 to 7 hours | Moderate | Affordable, comfortable, scenic journey |
| Car (Taxi or Self-Drive) | 5 to 6 hours | High (Private) | Flexible, comfortable, door-to-door service |
| Bus (Private/State Bus) | 6 to 7 hours | Low (Budget) | Economical, direct travel, frequent services |
| Flight (Delhi to Dehradun) | 1 hour flight + 45 min by taxi | Moderate to High | Fast, but requires airport transfer from Dehradun |
| Shared Auto-Rickshaw | 6 to 7 hours | Cheapest | Very affordable, but less comfortable and local |