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Lucknow to Rishikesh

The journey from Lucknow to Rishikesh, the gateway to the Himalayas and a renowned yoga capital, spans approximately 405 kilometers and typically takes 8 hours by road via Haridwar

405 kmDistance

8 hrsDuration

Overview

The journey from Lucknow to Rishikesh, the gateway to the Himalayas and a renowned yoga capital, spans approximately 405 kilometers and typically takes 8 hours by road via Haridwar on NH-58 (now NH-34). This route offers a seamless transition from the plains of Uttar Pradesh to the foothills of Uttarakhand, passing through historic cities and lush landscapes. Rishikesh, situated 24 kilometers past Haridwar, is famous for its ashrams, the iconic Laxman Jhula, and the Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat. Whether you choose to drive, take a train, or board a bus, the journey is well-connected and offers scenic views, especially as you approach the holy town. This guide provides detailed options, stopovers, and practical tips to ensure a smooth and memorable pilgrimage or wellness retreat.

Route Map

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Transport Options

By Car

Driving offers flexibility and comfort, allowing you to stop at scenic spots along the way. The route is well-maintained, with the final stretch from Haridwar to Rishikesh being particularly picturesque.

Distance: 405 kmDuration: 8 hours

Highlights

Scenic drive through the Yamuna Expressway
Stop at Haridwar for a holy dip or Ganga Aarti
Beautiful views of the Shivalik Hills near Rishikesh
Flexibility to explore roadside dhabas and local eateries

Fuel and Tolls

Approximate fuel cost for a sedan is ₹3,500-₹4,500, and tolls total around ₹1,000-₹1,500.

Total tolls: ~₹1,200 (Lucknow to Delhi via Yamuna Expressway and Delhi to Rishikesh on NH-334)
Fuel cost: ~₹3,500 for a petrol car (assuming 12 km/l and ₹100/liter)
Keep cash or FASTag for tolls; FASTag is mandatory on most highways

Road Conditions and Stops

The route is mostly four-lane and in good condition, with frequent rest stops.

Yamuna Expressway is a smooth, controlled-access road
NH-334 from Delhi to Haridwar is wide but can be busy near Meerut and Muzaffarnagar
Plan stops at Karnal, Roorkee, or Haridwar for meals and rest

By Train

Trains from Lucknow to Haridwar are frequent, and from Haridwar, Rishikesh is a short 25 km drive or bus ride. This option is cost-effective and comfortable, with several overnight trains available.

Distance: 405 km (by road from Haridwar station)Duration: 8-10 hours (train + road)

Highlights

Comfortable overnight trains save hotel costs
Scenic views of the Ganges as you approach Haridwar
Haridwar station is well-connected to Rishikesh
Ideal for budget travelers

Recommended Trains

Popular trains include the Dehradun Express and the Jan Shatabdi, with fares varying by class.

Dehradun Express (Train 19031): Departs Lucknow ~20:15, arrives Haridwar ~04:55; Sleeper fare ~₹500, AC 3-tier ~₹1,300
Jan Shatabdi (Train 12017): Departs Lucknow ~15:05, arrives Haridwar ~22:40; Chair car ~₹700, AC Chair ~₹1,200
Check availability on IRCTC; book in advance during peak seasons

Haridwar to Rishikesh

From Haridwar, you can take a shared auto, bus, or taxi to Rishikesh, which takes about 45 minutes.

Shared auto: ₹50-₹80 per person
Local bus: ₹30-₹50 per person
Private taxi: ₹800-₹1,200

By Bus

State-run and private buses connect Lucknow to Rishikesh, with both day and overnight services. This is the most economical option, though travel time is longer due to multiple stops.

Distance: 405 kmDuration: 10-12 hours

Highlights

Budget-friendly with fares as low as ₹800
Overnight buses save time and accommodation costs
Direct buses to Rishikesh are available from some operators
Opportunity to mingle with locals and pilgrims

Bus Services

UPSRTC and private operators run daily buses from Lucknow to Rishikesh and Haridwar.

UPSRTC Ordinary bus: ₹800-₹1,000, travel time ~12 hours
Private Volvo AC bus: ₹1,500-₹2,500, travel time ~10 hours
Book via RedBus or UPSRTC online portal

From Haridwar to Rishikesh

If your bus terminates at Haridwar, you can take a local bus or shared taxi to Rishikesh.

Local bus from Haridwar bus stand: ₹40-₹60
Shared auto: ₹50-₹80
Taxi: ₹800-₹1,000

Stopovers En Route

Haridwar

380 km from Lucknow (approx. 25 km from Rishikesh)

Haridwar is a major pilgrimage city and the gateway to the Char Dham Yatra. The Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri is a mesmerizing experience, and you can also visit the Mansa Devi Temple via cable car.

Parking and restrooms near Har Ki PauriNumerous restaurants and street food stallsATMs and medical facilities available

Roorkee

330 km from Lucknow (approx. 70 km from Rishikesh)

Roorkee is known for the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) and the Solani River. It's a good place for a quick lunch break, with several highway-side dhabas offering local Kumaoni and Garhwali cuisine.

Fuel stations and repair shopsHighway restaurants and dhabasPublic restrooms and basic amenities

Travel Tips

Start early (by 6 AM) to avoid traffic and reach Rishikesh by afternoon.

Carry cash for tolls and small purchases; many rural areas may not accept cards.

Check weather and road conditions before starting, especially during monsoon (July-August).

Book train or bus tickets in advance, especially during peak pilgrimage seasons (April-June, September-November).

If driving, ensure your vehicle has a spare tire and emergency kit.

Respect local customs and dress modestly when visiting temples and ashrams.

Budget Estimate

road

Total tolls: ~₹1,200 (Lucknow to Delhi via Yamuna Expressway and Delhi to Rishikesh on NH-334)

Fuel cost: ~₹3,500 for a petrol car (assuming 12 km/l and ₹100/liter)

train

Dehradun Express (Train 19031): Departs Lucknow ~20:15, arrives Haridwar ~04:55; Sleeper fare ~₹500, AC 3-tier ~₹1,300

Jan Shatabdi (Train 12017): Departs Lucknow ~15:05, arrives Haridwar ~22:40; Chair car ~₹700, AC Chair ~₹1,200

Trains from Lucknow to Haridwar are frequent, and from Haridwar, Rishikesh is a short 25 km drive or bus ride. This option is cost-effective and comfortable, with several overnight trains available.

bus

UPSRTC Ordinary bus: ₹800-₹1,000, travel time ~12 hours

Private Volvo AC bus: ₹1,500-₹2,500, travel time ~10 hours

State-run and private buses connect Lucknow to Rishikesh, with both day and overnight services. This is the most economical option, though travel time is longer due to multiple stops.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the best time to travel from Lucknow to Rishikesh?

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 winter (December-February) can be cold but manageable.

2. Is it safe to drive on this route?

Yes, the route is generally safe and well-maintained. However, drive cautiously on the Yamuna Expressway and NH-334, especially at night. Keep your vehicle in good condition and follow traffic rules.

3. Are there direct buses from Lucknow to Rishikesh?

Yes, some private operators run direct buses to Rishikesh. UPSRTC buses typically go to Haridwar, from where you can take a local bus or taxi to Rishikesh (25 km).

4. How far is Rishikesh from Haridwar?

Rishikesh is about 24-25 kilometers from Haridwar, which takes approximately 45 minutes by road via NH-334.

5. What are the must-see attractions in Rishikesh?

Key attractions include Laxman Jhula, Ram Jhula, Triveni Ghat, Parmarth Niketan Ashram, and the Beatles Ashram. Adventure activities like river rafting on the Ganges are also popular.