Delhi to Rishikesh
The journey from Delhi to Rishikesh, the Yoga Capital of the World, is a classic Indian road trip that combines spiritual heritage with scenic Himalayan foothills. Covering approxi
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 Delhi to Rishikesh, the Yoga Capital of the World, is a classic Indian road trip that combines spiritual heritage with scenic Himalayan foothills. Covering approximately 240 kilometers, the route typically takes 6-7 hours by road, passing through the bustling city of Haridwar before reaching the serene banks of the Ganges. Travelers can choose between a scenic drive on the well-maintained NH-58 (now part of NH-34), direct trains, or comfortable buses from Delhi's ISBT Kashmere Gate. Along the way, you'll witness the transition from urban sprawl to lush green landscapes, with the holy city of Haridwar serving as a perfect midway stop. Rishikesh offers a blend of adventure sports, ashrams, and the iconic Laxman Jhula, making it a popular weekend getaway and a spiritual retreat for visitors from around the globe.
Route Map
By Car: Delhi to Rishikesh
240 km · ~5h 8m · About 5h of driving, plus stops.
- Start from Delhi
An early start keeps you ahead of city and highway traffic.
150 km · 3h drive from previous stop
Rest & refuel near MuzaffarnagarAbout 150 km in — 15–20 minutes for tea, food, fuel and a stretch.
90 km · 1h 48m 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: Delhi to Rishikesh
240 km · ~5h 20m · Buses on this route are usually available as direct services. Operators and departure times vary — check live availability.
- Board at Delhi
Go to the main bus stand / ISBT in Delhi. Overnight buses usually leave in the evening; book a seat in advance for sleeper and Volvo services.
- Delhi → Rishikesh
AC Seater / Volvo · ~240 km
~5h 20m|Tentative fare ₹260–₹720
Usual tea / meal halts: Manglaur (~170 km)
- 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: Delhi to Rishikesh
Nearest railway stations: New Delhi for Delhi, 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 Delhi to Rishikesh.
- Meerut70 km from Delhi from Delhi
Known for sports goods manufacturing and historical monuments.
Food courtsFuel stationsATM - Haridwar214 km from Delhi from Delhi
The neighbouring pilgrimage city, a natural stop before the final 24km stretch to Rishikesh.
RestaurantsFuel stationsHotels
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
240 km
6-7 hours
Driving from Delhi to Rishikesh is a convenient and flexible option, especially for families or groups. The route via NH-58 (now NH-34) is well-maintained and offers scenic views as you approach the foothills.
train
Taxi fare from Haridwar to Rishikesh is approximately ₹500-₹800
Shared autos are available for ₹50 per person
Trains from Delhi to Haridwar or Rishikesh are a comfortable and budget-friendly option, with several daily departures. The journey offers a glimpse of rural Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand.
bus
240 km
6-7 hours
Buses from ISBT Kashmere Gate to Rishikesh are a reliable and economical choice, with both government and private operators. The journey offers a comfortable ride with AC and sleeper options.
Extend Your Trip
Add a nearby place to your Rishikesh trip and see the full Delhi → Rishikesh → next stop route.
Plan My Trip: Delhi to Rishikesh
Pick how you want to travel and we'll send a complete plan with transport, hotel and sightseeing — on WhatsApp and a call back.
Frequently Asked Questions
The best time is from September to November and March to April when the weather is pleasant. Avoid monsoon (July-August) due to landslides and heavy rains.
Yes, Rishikesh is generally safe for solo travelers, including women. However, avoid isolated areas after dark and be cautious when participating in adventure activities.
Yes, some trains like the Yoga Express (19031) run directly from Delhi to Rishikesh, but many terminate at Haridwar. Check the IRCTC schedule for direct options.
A one-way taxi from Delhi to Rishikesh typically costs ₹3,500-₹5,000, depending on the cab type and booking platform. Round trips may be cheaper per day.
Don't miss Triveni Ghat, Laxman Jhula, Ram Jhula, Parmarth Niketan Ashram, and the Beatles Ashram. Adventure activities like river rafting and bungee jumping are also popular.
Related Tour Packages
Other Routes
Popular routes around Rishikesh
More routes from Delhi
Explore More of Rishikesh
Destination Hub
Rishikesh Overview