Home › Destinations › Badrinath › Routes › Haridwar to Badrinath

Haridwar to Badrinath

The journey from Haridwar to Badrinath is a sacred 320-kilometer pilgrimage route that takes approximately 10-11 hours by road. Passing through the holy towns of Rishikesh, Devpray

320 kmDistance

10-11 hrsDuration

Overview

The journey from Haridwar to Badrinath is a sacred 320-kilometer pilgrimage route that takes approximately 10-11 hours by road. Passing through the holy towns of Rishikesh, Devprayag, Srinagar, and Joshimath, this route follows the Alaknanda River upstream, offering breathtaking views of the Garhwal Himalayas. The road is well-maintained but winding, with several ghat sections and landslide-prone areas. Pilgrims can choose between private cars, state-run buses, or a combination of train and road travel. The route is dotted with temples, confluence points, and scenic viewpoints, making it a spiritually enriching and visually stunning journey. It is advisable to start early to avoid traffic and reach Badrinath before dusk, as the temple closes in the evening. The best time to travel is between May and June or September and October, when the weather is pleasant and the roads are clear.

Route Map

Interactive Route Map

Enable location to see route from your current position

Transport Options

By Car

Driving your own car or hiring a private taxi offers the most flexibility and comfort. The route is scenic but requires careful driving on hilly terrain, especially between Joshimath and Badrinath.

Distance: 320 kmDuration: 10-11 hours

Highlights

Scenic drive along the Ganges and Alaknanda rivers
Stop at Devprayag to see the confluence of Alaknanda and Bhagirathi
Panoramic views of snow-capped peaks near Joshimath
Flexibility to stop at any temple or viewpoint

Private Taxi Fare

Hiring a private taxi from Haridwar to Badrinath is common. The fare depends on the vehicle type and season.

Standard sedan (e.g., Dzire): ₹8,000 - ₹10,000 one-way
SUV (e.g., Innova): ₹12,000 - ₹15,000 one-way
Round trip with waiting: ₹20,000 - ₹25,000
Fuel and toll charges are usually included in the fare

Self-Drive Costs

If driving your own car, budget for fuel, tolls, and possible parking fees.

Fuel cost (approx.): ₹3,500 - ₹4,500 (petrol) or ₹2,500 - ₹3,000 (diesel)
Toll charges: ₹200 - ₹300 for the entire route
Parking at Badrinath: ₹100 per day
Roadside assistance and emergency numbers are available

By Train

The nearest major railway station is Haridwar, but for a more convenient onward journey, you can take a train to Rishikesh (Yoga Nagari) and then continue by road. This option combines rail comfort with road adventure.

Distance: 320 km (by road after Rishikesh)Duration: 10-11 hours (excluding train time)

Highlights

Comfortable overnight train options from Delhi to Haridwar
Rishikesh railway station is closer to the highway
Scenic train journey through the foothills
Easy access to taxis and buses at the station

Train Fares (Delhi to Haridwar/Rishikesh)

Fares vary by class and train. Overnight trains are popular.

Sleeper class: ₹300 - ₹500
AC 3-tier: ₹800 - ₹1,200
AC 2-tier: ₹1,200 - ₹1,800
Executive class (if available): ₹2,000 - ₹3,000

Road from Rishikesh

After alighting, you need to cover the remaining 295 km by road.

Shared taxi per person: ₹1,200 - ₹1,500
Private taxi from Rishikesh: ₹8,000 - ₹12,000
State bus from Rishikesh: ₹700 - ₹900
Total journey time from Rishikesh: 9-10 hours

By Bus

Uttarakhand Roadways operates regular buses from Haridwar to Badrinath, especially during the Yatra season. This is the most economical option, though it takes longer due to stops.

Distance: 320 kmDuration: 12-14 hours

Highlights

Very affordable travel option
No need to worry about driving or navigation
Opportunity to interact with fellow pilgrims
Buses are equipped with basic amenities

State Bus Fares

Fares are set by Uttarakhand Transport Corporation.

Ordinary bus: ₹600 - ₹800
Deluxe bus: ₹800 - ₹1,000
Volvo AC bus (if available): ₹1,200 - ₹1,500
Children (below 5 years): free

Private Bus Operators

Private operators also run buses during peak season.

Semi-sleeper: ₹1,000 - ₹1,500
AC sleeper: ₹1,500 - ₹2,000
Pickup from Haridwar or Rishikesh
Booking online available

Stopovers En Route

Rishikesh

25 km from Haridwar

The Yoga Capital of the World, Rishikesh is a spiritual hub with numerous ashrams and the iconic Laxman Jhula. It's a perfect first stop to stretch your legs and seek blessings.

Restaurants and cafesATMs and medical storesParking and washrooms

Devprayag

74 km from Rishikesh

A sacred confluence where the Alaknanda and Bhagirathi rivers merge to form the Ganges. The ancient Raghunathji Temple offers a serene atmosphere and beautiful views.

Small eateriesTemple complex with washroomsPhotography points

Joshimath

74 km from Karnaprayag (approx. 250 km from Haridwar)

A major halt for pilgrims, Joshimath is known for the Shankaracharya Math and the Narsingh Temple. It also serves as the winter seat of Badrinath deity. Many travelers stay overnight here to acclimatize.

Hotels and guesthousesMedical facilities and oxygen cylindersRestaurants and tea stalls

Travel Tips

Start your journey early (around 5-6 AM) to avoid traffic and reach Badrinath before evening.

Carry essential documents like ID proof and vehicle papers, as there are multiple checkpoints.

Keep warm clothing, even in summer, as temperatures drop significantly at higher altitudes.

Stay hydrated and carry light snacks; altitude sickness can occur above 3,000 meters.

Use verified taxi services and negotiate fares beforehand to avoid surprises.

Check road conditions and weather forecasts before starting; landslides are possible during monsoon.

Budget Estimate

road

Standard sedan (e.g., Dzire): ₹8,000 - ₹10,000 one-way

SUV (e.g., Innova): ₹12,000 - ₹15,000 one-way

Driving your own car or hiring a private taxi offers the most flexibility and comfort. The route is scenic but requires careful driving on hilly terrain, especially between Joshimath and Badrinath.

train

Sleeper class: ₹300 - ₹500

AC 3-tier: ₹800 - ₹1,200

bus

Ordinary bus: ₹600 - ₹800

Deluxe bus: ₹800 - ₹1,000

Uttarakhand Roadways operates regular buses from Haridwar to Badrinath, especially during the Yatra season. This is the most economical option, though it takes longer due to stops.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the best time to travel from Haridwar to Badrinath?

The best time is from May to June and September to October, when the weather is pleasant and the roads are clear. Avoid monsoon season (July-August) due to landslides and heavy rains.

2. Is it possible to do the journey in one day?

Yes, the journey takes 10-11 hours by car, so it is possible to complete in a day if you start early. However, many prefer to break the journey at Joshimath to acclimatize and avoid fatigue.

3. Are there any altitude sickness risks?

Badrinath is at 3,300 meters, and altitude sickness can occur. Symptoms include headache and nausea. It is advised to ascend gradually, stay hydrated, and avoid strenuous activity on the first day.

4. Do I need to book accommodation in advance?

During peak yatra season (May-June and Sep-Oct), it is highly recommended to book hotels in advance, especially in Badrinath and Joshimath. Off-season, you can find walk-in options.

5. Are there ATM and fuel stations along the route?

Yes, there are ATMs and fuel stations in major towns like Rishikesh, Srinagar, Rudraprayag, and Joshimath. However, it's wise to carry cash and keep your vehicle tank full before leaving Haridwar.