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Meerut to Rishikesh

This guide details the journey from Meerut to Rishikesh, a spiritual town in Uttarakhand situated 24 km past Haridwar on the banks of the Ganges. The road distance is approximately

165 kmDistance

3.5 hrsDuration

Overview

This guide details the journey from Meerut to Rishikesh, a spiritual town in Uttarakhand situated 24 km past Haridwar on the banks of the Ganges. The road distance is approximately 165 km, typically covered in 3.5 hours via NH-58 (now NH-334) through Haridwar. The route offers a smooth drive with scenic transitions from the plains to the foothills of the Himalayas. Rishikesh is renowned as the 'Yoga Capital of the World' and a gateway to pilgrimage sites like Char Dham. Travelers can choose from driving, taking a train, or boarding a bus, each with its own advantages. This guide provides practical details, stopover suggestions, and essential tips for a hassle-free trip.

Route Map

Interactive Route Map

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Transport Options

By Car

Driving offers the most flexibility and comfort, allowing you to stop at scenic spots along the way. The NH-58 (NH-334) is well-maintained and generally traffic-free except near Haridwar.

Distance: 165 kmDuration: 3.5 hours

Highlights

Scenic views of the Ganges canal and Shivalik hills
Flexibility to stop at Haridwar for a quick darshan
Well-paved highway with tolls and fuel stations
Direct door-to-door travel without transfers

Tolls & Fuel

Toll charges approximately ₹200-₹250 for a car one-way. Fuel cost for a typical car (15 km/l) around ₹1,500-₹1,800 depending on fuel prices.

Toll booths at Muzaffarnagar and Roorkee
Petrol pumps available every 30-40 km
Carry cash or FASTag for toll payments

Parking in Rishikesh

Parking in Rishikesh can be challenging, especially near Laxman Jhula. Use paid parking lots or park at your hotel.

Hotel parking often free, but limited
Public parking near Triveni Ghat costs ₹50-₹100 per day
Avoid parking on narrow streets near temples

By Train

The nearest major railway station is Haridwar, well-connected from Meerut. From Haridwar, take a taxi or local bus to Rishikesh (24 km, about 45 minutes).

Distance: 165 km (road distance from Meerut to Rishikesh)Duration: 4-5 hours (including travel to Haridwar and then road)

Highlights

Avoids road traffic and driving stress
Scenic train journey through the Doon valley
Haridwar station is a major junction with many trains
Easy connection to Rishikesh via shared autos or taxis

Train Options & Fares

Several passenger and express trains run between Meerut and Haridwar. Fares are economical, but booking in advance is recommended.

Passenger train fare: ₹150-₹200 in sleeper class
Express train fare: ₹300-₹500 in AC chair car
Check train availability on IRCTC or apps

Local Transport from Haridwar

After arriving at Haridwar, you can take a shared auto (₹50-₹80 per person) or a taxi (₹800-₹1,200) to Rishikesh.

Shared autos depart from outside the station
Uber/Ola not available, but local taxis are reliable
Prepaid taxi counters available at the station

By Bus

Uttarakhand Roadways and private operators run direct buses from Meerut to Rishikesh. Buses are comfortable and budget-friendly, with AC and non-AC options.

Distance: 165 kmDuration: 4-5 hours

Highlights

Budget-friendly travel with fares starting around ₹200
No need to worry about driving or parking
Multiple departure times throughout the day
Direct buses available, some with AC

Bus Fares & Operators

Uttarakhand Roadways (UTC) and private operators like UPSRTC run services. Fares vary based on AC or non-AC.

Non-AC bus: ₹200-₹300
AC bus: ₹400-₹600
Private operators like RedBus list schedules online

Boarding Points

Buses depart from Meerut Bus Stand (Gandhi Bagh) and also from Shastri Nagar. Some private buses pick up from major chowks.

Reach the bus stand 30 minutes early
Confirm the destination 'Rishikesh' with the conductor
Buses stop at Haridwar for a short break

Stopovers En Route

Haridwar

24 km before Rishikesh

A holy city and a major pilgrimage site, famous for Har Ki Pauri ghat and the Ganga Aarti in the evening. A perfect place to stretch your legs and take a spiritual break.

Temples and ghatsRestaurants and snack stallsPublic restrooms

Roorkee

Approximately 80 km from Meerut

Known for IIT Roorkee and the Solani River aqueduct. A good point for a quick tea break and to refuel the vehicle.

Fuel stationsDhabas and cafesATM and convenience stores

Travel Tips

Start early (by 7 AM) to avoid traffic and reach Rishikesh by lunchtime.

Carry valid ID for hotel check-in and any river rafting activities.

If driving, ensure your vehicle has a FASTag for seamless toll payments.

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

Keep cash for small purchases and local transport, as some vendors don't accept cards.

Check weather before travel; the region can be rainy during monsoon (July-September).

Budget Estimate

road

Public parking near Triveni Ghat costs ₹50-₹100 per day

3.5 hours

Driving offers the most flexibility and comfort, allowing you to stop at scenic spots along the way. The NH-58 (NH-334) is well-maintained and generally traffic-free except near Haridwar.

train

Passenger train fare: ₹150-₹200 in sleeper class

Express train fare: ₹300-₹500 in AC chair car

The nearest major railway station is Haridwar, well-connected from Meerut. From Haridwar, take a taxi or local bus to Rishikesh (24 km, about 45 minutes).

bus

Non-AC bus: ₹200-₹300

AC bus: ₹400-₹600

Uttarakhand Roadways and private operators run direct buses from Meerut to Rishikesh. Buses are comfortable and budget-friendly, with AC and non-AC options.