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
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
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
By Car: Meerut to Rishikesh
165 km · ~3h 18m · About 3h of driving, plus stops.
- Start from Meerut
An early start keeps you ahead of city and highway traffic.
165 km · 3h 18m 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: Meerut to Rishikesh
165 km · ~3h 40m · Buses on this route are usually available as direct services. Operators and departure times vary — check live availability.
- Board at Meerut
Go to the main bus stand / ISBT in Meerut. Overnight buses usually leave in the evening; book a seat in advance for sleeper and Volvo services.
- Meerut → Rishikesh
Non-AC or AC Seater · ~165 km
~3h 40m|Tentative fare ₹180–₹510
- 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: Meerut to Rishikesh
Nearest railway stations: Meerut City for Meerut, 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 Meerut to Rishikesh.
- Haridwar24 km before Rishikesh from Meerut
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 - RoorkeeApproximately 80 km from Meerut 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
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
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.
Extend Your Trip
Add a nearby place to your Rishikesh trip and see the full Meerut → Rishikesh → next stop route.
Plan My Trip: Meerut to Rishikesh
Pick how you want to travel and we'll send a complete plan with transport, hotel and sightseeing — on WhatsApp and a call back.
Frequently Asked Questions
The ideal time is from October to March when the weather is pleasant. Avoid monsoon (July-September) due to landslides and heavy rain.
Yes, the NH-58 is well-maintained and safe. Drive carefully near Haridwar where traffic can be heavy, especially during festival seasons.
There are no direct trains to Rishikesh; you need to get off at Haridwar and then take a taxi or bus for the remaining 24 km.
A prepaid taxi from Haridwar railway station to Rishikesh costs around ₹800-₹1,200, while shared autos cost ₹50-₹80 per person.
Yes, Uttarakhand Roadways and private operators run direct buses from Meerut to Rishikesh. The journey takes about 4-5 hours.
Related Tour Packages
Other Routes
Popular routes around Rishikesh
More routes from Meerut
Explore More of Rishikesh
Destination Hub
Rishikesh Overview