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
Tentative Fare Estimate
Round trip · incl. driver allowance & GST
Tentative estimate only, based on typical Indian public-transport tariffs (state transport bus fares, IRCTC sleeper/AC class rates, standard outstation taxi per-km rates) — not a live quote from any operator.
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
By Car: Chandigarh to Rishikesh
225 km · ~4h 50m · About 5h of driving, plus stops.
- Start from Chandigarh
An early start keeps you ahead of city and highway traffic.
150 km · 3h drive from previous stop
Rest & refuel near Kalesar National ParkAbout 150 km in — 15–20 minutes for tea, food, fuel and a stretch.
75 km · 1h 30m drive from previous stop
Arrive in RishikeshRishikesh, Uttarakhand
Stops are typical for this road, not a fixed itinerary. Timings assume about 50 km/h on average — traffic, tolls and road conditions vary.
By Bus: Chandigarh to Rishikesh
225 km · ~5h · Buses on this route are usually available as direct services. Operators and departure times vary — check live availability.
- Board at Chandigarh
Go to the main bus stand / ISBT in Chandigarh. Overnight buses usually leave in the evening; book a seat in advance for sleeper and Volvo services.
- Chandigarh → Rishikesh
AC Seater / Volvo · ~225 km
~5h|Tentative fare ₹250–₹680
- Arrive in Rishikesh
Rishikesh, Uttarakhand
Halts and change points are typical for this route, not a specific operator’s schedule — check live availability and timings when booking.
By Train: Chandigarh to Rishikesh
Nearest railway stations: Chandigarh for Chandigarh, Raiwala for Rishikesh.
Direct trains
Other options with a change
1 change · 5h 50m in total
Change trains at Dukheri — about 1h 41m wait
1 change · 5h 55m in total
Change trains at Laksar Jn — about 1h 34m wait
1 change · 6h 10m in total
Change trains at Dukheri — about 2h 11m wait
Waits assume each train runs daily — the timetable data has no running days, so check the days for every train before you plan a change.
Train details come from a 2015 railway timetable snapshot — newer trains, changed timings and running days are not included, so confirm on IRCTC before you plan around a train.
Stops & Places Along the Route
Good places to break the journey from Chandigarh to Rishikesh.
- Haridwar210 km from Chandigarh (approx. 5 hours drive) from Chandigarh
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) from Chandigarh
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
Hotels in Rishikesh
Treebo hotels in Rishikesh. Tell us your dates and we'll get you a rate.
Itsy Hotels Nv, Tapovan
Rishikesh
Treebo Ak Residency
Rishikesh
Things to Do in Rishikesh
Attend Ganga Aarti at Parmarth Niketan
Join the nightly ceremony at Parmarth Niketan, where hundreds of lamps are lit and offered to the Ganges, accompanied by chanting and hymns. The atmosphere is deeply…
1-2 hours
River Rafting on the Ganges
Raft the exhilarating rapids of the Shivpuri-Kaudiyala stretch, offering grades II to IV. The season runs from mid-September to mid-June, with options for both…
2-4 hours
Walk Across Laxman Jhula
Cross the iconic suspension bridge, built in 1929, and enjoy panoramic views of the Ganges and the surrounding hills. Legend says Lakshmana crossed the river here on a…
30-45 minutes
Yoga Class in an Ashram
Take a yoga or meditation class at one of the many ashrams, such as Parmarth Niketan or Sivananda Ashram. Classes are typically held in the morning and are suitable for…
1-2 hours
Explore the Beatles Ashram
Visit the abandoned ashram where The Beatles stayed in 1968, now a heritage site with vibrant murals and graffiti. It's a fascinating blend of rock history and…
1-2 hours
Day Trip to Neelkanth Mahadev Temple
Drive 32 km into the hills to this ancient temple dedicated to Shiva, where he is said to have consumed the poison from the churning of the ocean. The winding road…
Half-day
Suggested Rishikesh Itinerary
Day 1Day 1
- Cross Laxman Jhula (1929 suspension bridge) and take in views of the Ganges.
- Explore the Beatles Ashram (Chaurasi Kutia) and its colorful murals and meditation cells.
- Visit Swarg Ashram's vegetarian-only zone and browse its shops and cafes.
Day 2Day 2
- Drive to Shivpuri (about 30 min) and do a 16 km rafting stretch (Grade II-III, season mid-Sep to mid-Jun).
- Stop at a sandy beach for a cliff jump and swim (if water levels permit).
- Walk across Ram Jhula (1986) and visit the nearby ghats and temples.
Day 3Day 3
- Drive or take a shared taxi to Neelkanth Mahadev Temple (32 km) and offer prayers at the shrine associated with Shiva's…
- Return to Rishikesh and visit Triveni Ghat for a morning dip or just to watch the rituals.
- Optional: Head to Mohanchatti for bungee jumping at Jumpin Heights (if you have a few extra hours).
Travel Tips
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.
Extend Your Trip
Add a nearby place to your Rishikesh trip and see the full Chandigarh → Rishikesh → next stop route.
Rishikesh → Devprayag
About 40 km by road
Rishikesh → Dehradun
About 50 km by road
Rishikesh → Mussoorie
About 55 km by road
Plan My Trip: Chandigarh to Rishikesh
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Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, the road is well-maintained, mostly four-lane highways. The stretch from Haridwar to Rishikesh is a bit narrow but in good condition.
October to March is ideal for pleasant weather. Avoid monsoon season due to potential landslides, and summers can be hot.
Yes, some private and state buses operate direct, but many go via Haridwar. It's best to check schedules online.
A one-way taxi typically costs ₹3,500-₹5,000 depending on the car type and booking platform.
It's possible but tiring, as it's a 5.5-hour drive each way. It's recommended to stay at least one night to enjoy Rishikesh.
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