Home › Destinations › Haridwar › Routes › Haridwar to Rishikesh

Haridwar to Rishikesh

Travel guide from Haridwar to Rishikesh: distance, duration and transport options.

24 kmDistance

0.75 hrsDuration

Overview

The journey from Haridwar to Rishikesh is a short but spiritually vibrant 24-kilometer drive along the banks of the Ganges, typically taking about 45 minutes by road via NH-58. This route connects two of India's holiest cities, passing through lush green landscapes, ashrams, and river ghats, making it a perfect prelude to the Himalayan foothills.

Route Map

Interactive Route Map

Enable location to see route from your current position

Transport Options

Taxi / Private Car

A comfortable and flexible option, ideal for families or groups, with the freedom to stop at viewpoints and ashrams along the way.

Distance: 24 kmDuration: 45 minutes

Highlights

Scenic drive along the Ganges canal
Passing through the Shyampur forest area
Quick stops at local tea stalls
Direct drop-off at any hotel or ashram

Taxi Fare

Prepaid taxi or app-based cab from Haridwar railway station to Rishikesh

Prepaid taxi: ₹600–₹900
App-based cab (Ola/Uber): ₹400–₹600
Private car with driver for half-day: ₹1,200–₹1,500
Toll charges: none on this stretch

Travel Time

Actual road time can vary with traffic and stops

Typical drive: 40–50 minutes
Peak season (Mar–Jun, Oct–Nov) may add 15–20 minutes
Early morning (before 8 AM) is fastest
Evening rush (5–7 PM) can be slower

State Bus (Uttarakhand Roadways)

An economical and frequent bus service connecting Haridwar and Rishikesh, with several stops along the way.

Distance: 24 kmDuration: 1 hour

Highlights

Very low cost
Frequent departures every 15–20 minutes
Local experience with pilgrims
Drop near Rishikesh bus stand (walking distance to Ram Jhula)

Bus Fare

Ordinary and express buses operated by UTC

Ordinary bus: ₹30–₹40
Express bus: ₹50–₹60
AC bus (limited): ₹80–₹100
Buy ticket at counter or on board

Schedule & Duration

Buses run from 5 AM to 10 PM

Frequency: every 15–20 minutes
Travel time: 50–60 minutes
Boarding point: Haridwar Inter State Bus Terminal (ISBT)
Alighting: Rishikesh Bus Stand (near Triveni Ghat)

Shared Auto / Tempo

A budget-friendly shared auto-rickshaw ride, popular among backpackers, offering a local and adventurous journey.

Distance: 24 kmDuration: 1 hour 15 minutes

Highlights

Cheapest motorized option
Shared ride with locals and pilgrims
Open-air experience
Flexible stops on request

Shared Auto Fare

Per-person shared fare, negotiable

Shared seat: ₹50–₹80 per person
Private auto (full vehicle): ₹400–₹600
No pre-booking needed; find at auto stands
Slightly higher during festivals

Comfort & Luggage

Limited legroom and luggage space

Max 4–5 passengers in a shared auto
Small backpacks only
Bumpy ride on some stretches
Best for light travelers

Stopovers En Route

Raiwala

10 km from Haridwar

Junction town on NH-58 close to the Rajaji National Park boundary.

Food courtsFuel stations

Muni Ki Reti

20 km from Haridwar

Entry point to Rishikesh, near Parmarth Niketan ashram.

RestaurantsAshrams

Laxman Jhula

23 km from Haridwar

Iconic suspension bridge area with cafes and shops.

RestaurantsShops

Travel Tips

Start early (before 8 AM) to avoid traffic and enjoy cooler weather.

Carry small change for tolls (though none on this route) and local eateries.

If using a taxi, negotiate a fixed price before starting the journey.

During monsoon (July–September), roads may be slippery; drive cautiously.

Budget Estimate

taxi

Prepaid taxi: ₹600–₹900

App-based cab (Ola/Uber): ₹400–₹600

A comfortable and flexible option, ideal for families or groups, with the freedom to stop at viewpoints and ashrams along the way.

bus

Ordinary bus: ₹30–₹40

Express bus: ₹50–₹60

An economical and frequent bus service connecting Haridwar and Rishikesh, with several stops along the way.

auto

Shared seat: ₹50–₹80 per person

Private auto (full vehicle): ₹400–₹600

A budget-friendly shared auto-rickshaw ride, popular among backpackers, offering a local and adventurous journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the distance between Haridwar and Rishikesh?

The distance between Haridwar and Rishikesh is approximately 24 km by road, taking about 0.75 hours depending on the mode of transport and traffic conditions.

2. What is the best way to travel from Haridwar to Rishikesh?

Travellers can choose between Taxi / Private Car, State Bus (Uttarakhand Roadways), Shared Auto / Tempo. A comfortable and flexible option, ideal for families or groups, with the freedom to stop at viewpoints and ashrams along the way.

3. What are the major stops between Haridwar and Rishikesh?

Major stops include Raiwala, Muni Ki Reti, Laxman Jhula, offering food, fuel and rest facilities along the way.

4. Is the road condition good from Haridwar to Rishikesh?

Yes, the route runs mainly along NH-58 and is well maintained with smooth highways, though traffic can build up near towns during peak pilgrimage season.

5. How much does it cost to travel from Haridwar to Rishikesh?

Costs vary by mode: taxi (Prepaid taxi: ₹600–₹900), bus (Ordinary bus: ₹30–₹40), auto (Shared seat: ₹50–₹80 per person). Choose the option that matches your budget and comfort preference.