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
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 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
By Car: Lucknow to Rishikesh
405 km · ~8h 46m · About 8h of driving, plus stops.
- Start from Lucknow
An early start keeps you ahead of city and highway traffic.
150 km · 3h drive from previous stop
Rest stop around km 150Look for a town or highway plaza with fuel and food.
150 km · 3h drive from previous stop
Rest stop around km 300Look for a town or highway plaza with fuel and food.
105 km · 2h 6m 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: Lucknow to Rishikesh
405 km · ~9h · Buses on this route are usually available as direct services. Operators and departure times vary — check live availability.
- Board at Lucknow
Go to the main bus stand / ISBT in Lucknow. Overnight buses usually leave in the evening; book a seat in advance for sleeper and Volvo services.
- Lucknow → Rishikesh
AC Sleeper / Volvo (overnight) · ~405 km
~9h|Tentative fare ₹450–₹1,180
- 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: Lucknow to Rishikesh
Nearest railway stations: Lucknow for Lucknow, 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 Lucknow to Rishikesh.
- Haridwar380 km from Lucknow (approx. 25 km from Rishikesh) from Lucknow
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 - Roorkee330 km from Lucknow (approx. 70 km from Rishikesh) from Lucknow
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
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
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)
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.
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.
Extend Your Trip
Add a nearby place to your Rishikesh trip and see the full Lucknow → Rishikesh → next stop route.
Plan My Trip: Lucknow to Rishikesh
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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 winter (December-February) can be cold but manageable.
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.
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).
Rishikesh is about 24-25 kilometers from Haridwar, which takes approximately 45 minutes by road via NH-334.
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.
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