Dehradun to Rishikesh
The journey from Dehradun to Rishikesh is a short and scenic drive of about 43 kilometers, typically taking 1.5 hours by road. The route follows the Dehradun-Rishikesh road, passin
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
The journey from Dehradun to Rishikesh is a short and scenic drive of about 43 kilometers, typically taking 1.5 hours by road. The route follows the Dehradun-Rishikesh road, passing through the town of Doiwala, which serves as a convenient midpoint. Travelers can choose from private cars, shared taxis, or regular buses, all offering comfortable options. The nearest airport, Jolly Grant, is located roughly midway between the two cities, making it a convenient entry point for air travelers. Along the way, you'll enjoy views of the Shivalik Hills and the Ganges River as you approach the spiritual city of Rishikesh, known for its yoga centers, ashrams, and adventure sports.
Route Map
By Car: Dehradun to Rishikesh
43 km · ~52m · About 1h of driving, plus stops.
- Start from Dehradun
An early start keeps you ahead of city and highway traffic.
43 km · 52m 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: Dehradun to Rishikesh
43 km · ~57m · Buses on this route are usually available as direct services. Operators and departure times vary — check live availability.
- Board at Dehradun
Go to the main bus stand / ISBT in Dehradun. Overnight buses usually leave in the evening; book a seat in advance for sleeper and Volvo services.
- Dehradun → Rishikesh
Non-AC or AC Seater · ~43 km
~57m|Tentative fare ₹50–₹170
- 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: Dehradun to Rishikesh
Nearest railway stations: Dehradun for Dehradun, Raiwala for Rishikesh.
Direct trains
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 Dehradun to Rishikesh.
- Jolly Grant Airport area20 km from Dehradun from Dehradun
Rishikesh's nearest airport, roughly midway on this route.
RestaurantsFuel stations - Doiwala30 km from Dehradun from Dehradun
A small highway town with roadside dhabas.
DhabasFuel stations
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
Fuel cost: approximately ₹300-₹400 for a small car
Parking in Rishikesh: ₹50-₹100 per day at most hotels
Driving from Dehradun to Rishikesh is the most flexible and comfortable option. The road is well-maintained and offers a smooth ride with scenic views.
train
Train fare: ₹50-₹150 (second class to AC)
Haridwar to Rishikesh taxi: ₹600-₹800
While there is no direct train to Rishikesh, the nearest railway station is in Rishikesh itself (since 2021). Trains from Dehradun to Rishikesh are limited, but you can take a train from Dehradun to Haridwar (about 25 km from Rishikesh) and then a taxi or bus.
bus
Fare: ₹50-₹80 per person
Fare: ₹80-₹150
Regular state-run and private buses operate between Dehradun and Rishikesh. This is the most economical option, with frequent departures from the Dehradun bus stand.
Extend Your Trip
Add a nearby place to your Rishikesh trip and see the full Dehradun → Rishikesh → next stop route.
Rishikesh → Uttarkashi
About 95 km by road
Plan My Trip: Dehradun to Rishikesh
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Frequently Asked Questions
The distance is approximately 43 kilometers by road.
By road, it takes about 1.5 hours by car or bus, depending on traffic.
Yes, there are a few direct trains to Rishikesh railway station, but most travelers take a train to Haridwar and then a taxi or bus.
Jolly Grant Airport is the nearest, located about 21 km from Rishikesh and roughly midway on the Dehradun-Rishikesh road.
Yes, shared taxis are available from Dehradun to Rishikesh, costing around ₹100-₹150 per person.
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