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Chandigarh to Rishikesh

This road trip from Chandigarh to Rishikesh, a spiritual hub on the Ganges, covers about 225 km and takes roughly 5.5 hours via NH-58 (now NH-334) through Haridwar. The journey tra

225 kmDistance

5.5 hrsDuration

Overview

This road trip from Chandigarh to Rishikesh, a spiritual hub on the Ganges, covers about 225 km and takes roughly 5.5 hours via NH-58 (now NH-334) through Haridwar. The journey transitions from the plains of Punjab and Haryana to the foothills of the Himalayas, offering scenic views of the Shivalik range and the holy Ganges canal. Rishikesh, known as the 'Yoga Capital of the World', is a perfect destination for pilgrimage, adventure sports, and wellness retreats. The route is well-maintained with ample dining and fuel stops, making it a comfortable drive. Whether you seek the tranquility of ashrams or the thrill of river rafting, this guide provides essential details for a smooth and memorable trip.

Route Map

Interactive Route Map

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Transport Options

By Car

The most flexible and comfortable option, allowing you to stop at scenic spots and explore at your own pace. The route is straightforward via NH-334 (formerly NH-58) through Haridwar.

Distance: 225 kmDuration: 5.5 hours

Highlights

Scenic Shivalik foothills
Haridwar's Ganga Aarti (if time permits)
Stop at Chhajarsi toll plaza for a break
Rishikesh's Laxman Jhula and Ram Jhula

Tolls & Fuel

Toll charges approximately ₹500-₹600 for the entire route, with several plazas. Fuel cost for a standard car (around 12-15 km/l) will be roughly ₹2,000-₹2,500 depending on current petrol prices.

Toll from Chandigarh to Delhi (via Eastern Peripheral) ~₹300
Toll from Delhi to Rishikesh ~₹200-₹300
Total toll ~₹500-₹600

Best Departure Time

Start early (by 6-7 AM) to avoid Delhi traffic and reach Rishikesh by afternoon. This also gives you daylight for the hilly stretch after Haridwar.

Leave Chandigarh by 6 AM
Cross Delhi by 10 AM to avoid rush
Reach Rishikesh by 12:30-1 PM

By Train

Trains from Chandigarh to Haridwar are frequent, but there is no direct train to Rishikesh. From Haridwar, take a taxi or bus for the final 24 km.

Distance: Approx. 250 km (rail distance)Duration: 6-7 hours

Highlights

Comfortable overnight options
Scenic views of the Ganges canal
Haridwar railway station close to bus stand
Shared taxis to Rishikesh from Haridwar

Train Options

Several trains like the Hemkunt Express (14610) and Yoga Express (19032) run between Chandigarh and Haridwar. Fares for sleeper class start around ₹300.

Hemkunt Express: Departs Chandigarh ~04:00, arrives Haridwar ~10:30
Yoga Express: Departs Chandigarh ~22:30, arrives Haridwar ~05:00
Sleeper fare: ₹300-₹400; AC 3-tier: ₹800-₹900

Haridwar to Rishikesh

After arriving at Haridwar, you can take a state bus (₹30-₹50) or a shared auto/taxi (₹50-₹100 per person) to Rishikesh. The drive takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour.

Local bus from Haridwar bus stand every 15 minutes
Shared taxi from railway station exit
Private taxi costs around ₹800-₹1,000

By Bus

State-run and private buses operate between Chandigarh and Rishikesh, some direct and some via Haridwar. This is an economical option with frequent departures.

Distance: 225 kmDuration: 6-7 hours

Highlights

Budget-friendly fares
No driving stress
Night bus options
Direct buses to Rishikesh available

Bus Operators

HRTC (Himachal Road Transport) and UTC (Uttarakhand Transport) run buses, along with private players like UPSRTC. Fares range from ₹400 to ₹800 depending on the type.

Ordinary bus: ₹400-₹500
AC bus: ₹700-₹800
Volvo (private): ₹1,000-₹1,200

Booking

You can book tickets online via RedBus or at the Chandigarh ISBT-43. Buses leave from ISBT-43, Sector 43, and some private operators from Sector 17.

Book 2-3 days in advance during peak season
Departures every 1-2 hours from 5 AM to 10 PM
Check for direct vs via-Haridwar buses

Stopovers En Route

Haridwar

210 km from Chandigarh (approx. 5 hours drive)

The holy city of Haridwar is a major pilgrimage site and the gateway to the Char Dham. If time permits, visit Har Ki Pauri for the Ganga Aarti in the evening.

Parking near Har Ki PauriRestaurants and dhabasATMs and fuel stations

Ambala (optional)

60 km from Chandigarh (approx. 1 hour drive)

A good place for a quick break, with several highway eateries. Known for its army cantonment and the Ambala Cantt railway station.

Highway restaurants like HaveliFuel stationsPublic restrooms

Travel Tips

Start early to avoid Delhi traffic and reach Rishikesh in daylight.

Carry valid ID proofs for hotel check-ins and any permits.

Keep small cash for tolls and local purchases.

Check weather conditions, especially during monsoon (July-September) for landslides.

Book accommodation in advance during yoga festivals and peak tourist seasons.

Stay hydrated and carry snacks for the journey.

Budget Estimate

road

Toll from Chandigarh to Delhi (via Eastern Peripheral) ~₹300

Toll from Delhi to Rishikesh ~₹200-₹300

The most flexible and comfortable option, allowing you to stop at scenic spots and explore at your own pace. The route is straightforward via NH-334 (formerly NH-58) through Haridwar.

train

Sleeper fare: ₹300-₹400; AC 3-tier: ₹800-₹900

Private taxi costs around ₹800-₹1,000

Trains from Chandigarh to Haridwar are frequent, but there is no direct train to Rishikesh. From Haridwar, take a taxi or bus for the final 24 km.

bus

Ordinary bus: ₹400-₹500

AC bus: ₹700-₹800

State-run and private buses operate between Chandigarh and Rishikesh, some direct and some via Haridwar. This is an economical option with frequent departures.