Having personally done this journey by road, train, and flight more than three times in the last two years, I’ve created this practical, 2025-ready guide to help you understand the exact Delhi to Rishikesh distance and choose the safest, fastest, and most budget-friendly way to reach Rishikesh from Delhi.
How Far is Rishikesh from Delhi?
Rishikesh is around 240 to 260 kilometres from Delhi, depending on your exact route and mode of travel. By road, it usually takes 5.5 to 6.5 hours. If you’re going by train, the journey covers roughly 225 to 240 km and takes about 5 to 7 hours, depending on the train type. Buses take around 6 to 8 hours, while flights, via Dehradun, offer the fastest route with a total travel time of 4 to 5 hours, including airport transfer.
Delhi to Rishikesh Distance by Road (My Personal Experience)The
The best road route in 2025 is via the Meerut Expressway and NH334. The drive is smooth and well-maintained. I recently completed this drive in March 2024, taking under 6 hours with short breaks.
Here’s the most recommended route:
Delhi → Meerut Expressway → Muzaffarnagar → Haridwar → Rishikesh
The total fuel cost (petrol) for a one-way trip is around ₹1,600 to ₹1,900, and you’ll encounter toll charges of ₹250 to ₹350. The roads are four-lane highways, making it a pleasant and safe drive even for solo travellers and families.
Suggested Stops During the Drive:
- Cheetal Grand (near Khatauli): Great place for food and clean restrooms.
- Meerut Toll Plaza: Reliable fuel and snacks.
- Haridwar: A beautiful stop for Ganga darshan before the final stretch to Rishikesh.
In July 2023, I experienced light waterlogging near Haridwar during the rains. If you’re traveling in the monsoon, start early and expect slower speeds.
Delhi to Rishikesh Distance by Train (With Station Tips)
Trains are a comfortable and affordable option for many travellers. While Rishikesh has a small station, most major and faster trains go to Haridwar, which is only 25 km from Rishikesh. You can easily find a taxi or shared vehicle from Haridwar to reach Rishikesh in under 45 minutes.
Best Train Options (Based on My Travel):
- Yoga Express runs directly from Old Delhi to Rishikesh and takes about 7 hours.
- Mussoorie Express travels from Old Delhi to Haridwar, taking around 6.5 hours.
- Shatabdi Express departs from New Delhi and reaches Haridwar in just 5 hours, the fastest option.
My pick is the Shatabdi Express, not just for its speed, but also the comfort, punctuality, and onboard meals.
Delhi to Rishikesh Distance by Bus (Budget Option)
For travellers looking for budget options, buses from Delhi to Rishikesh run almost every hour. This is ideal for solo backpackers, night travellers, or last-minute planners.
You’ll find different types of buses like:
- AC Volvo Sleepers, comfortable and slightly expensive.
- Non-AC UPSRTC buses, basic but reliable.
- Private operators like Zingbus or SmartBus, mid-range, and easy to book via apps.
Most buses depart from ISBT Kashmere Gate, Majnu Ka Tila, and RK Ashram. Travel time is usually between 6 to 8 hours, and the fare ranges from ₹350 to ₹1,000 depending on the bus type and seat.
In my last journey with Zingbus, I boarded around 10 PM and reached Tapovan by 4:45 AM, great for early check-ins at hostels.
Delhi to Rishikesh Distance by Flight (via Dehradun)
Although Rishikesh doesn’t have its airport, the nearest one is Jolly Grant Airport (DED) in Dehradun, which is only 20 km from Rishikesh. You can fly from Delhi to Dehradun in about 50 minutes, and then take a taxi or cab to Rishikesh, which takes another 40-45 minutes.
The total cost for this journey would be:
- Flight fare: Between ₹1,800 to ₹3,500 (depending on the airline and time)
- Cab fare from airport to Rishikesh: Around ₹800 to ₹1,200
I’ve used this method once when I had only one day to spare, saved time, and enjoyed a riverside lunch by noon.
Best Time to Travel the Delhi to Rishikesh Distance
The best time to visit Rishikesh depends on what you’re looking for.
- Winter (October to February) offers cool weather and clear skies, perfect for yoga retreats and riverside walks. Carry warm layers.
- Summer (March to June) is the best time for rafting and outdoor cafés. Days are warm, but evenings by the Ganges are pleasant.
- Monsoon (July to September) brings lush greenery and fewer tourists. However, road travel requires caution due to rain and occasional landslides.
Tip: The International Yoga Festival happens every year in February/March and attracts yogis from around the world.
Where to Stay in Rishikesh (My Verified Picks)
I’ve personally stayed at and reviewed several places in Rishikesh. Here are some of the best options based on budget, comfort, and location:
For Budget Travelers & Backpackers:
- Zostel Tapovan: Clean, social atmosphere, perfect for digital nomads.
- The Hosteller Rishikesh: Great for solo travellers near Laxman Jhula.
- Shiv Shakti Hostel: Safe and well-located.
For Mid-Range Travelers:
- Live Free Café & Stay: Affordable and friendly vibe.
- Hill Top Swiss Cottage: Classic charm and foreigner-friendly.
- Green Hills Cottage: Peaceful, tucked away from noise.
For Workations or Wellness Seekers:
- Neemrana Glasshouse on the Ganges: Perfect mix of comfort and spirituality.
- Shaantam Resort & Spa: Yoga, spa, and a peaceful vibe.
- Anand Lok Retreat: Riverside property offering silence and healing.
During my last stay at Zostel, the rooftop view of the Ganga valley made working online an absolute joy!
Travel Tips for 2025
Here are some tips I’ve learned from my journeys between Delhi and Rishikesh:
- Start early from Delhi (before 7 AM) to avoid traffic in Ghaziabad and Meerut.
- Avoid late-night solo arrivals, especially if it’s your first time.
- Carry reusable water bottles, ORS, dry snacks, and a power bank.
- Be cautious during monsoon, especially near the Haridwar-Rishikesh bypass.
- Always keep a digital and printed copy of your ID when checking into hostels or booking buses.
FAQs About Delhi to Rishikesh Distance
How much time does it take to travel from Delhi to Rishikesh Distance by car?
Usually 5.5 to 6.5 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
Is there a direct train from Delhi to Rishikesh?
Yes, Yoga Express goes directly. Others like Shatabdi stop at Haridwar, from where Rishikesh is just 25 km away.
What’s the cheapest way to reach Rishikesh?
The non-AC UPSRTC bus is the cheapest option, with fares starting from ₹350.
Is Rishikesh safe for solo women travellers?
Yes, especially in areas like Tapovan, Laxman Jhula, and Swarg Ashram. Stick to known hostels, avoid deserted paths at night, and follow basic safety practices.
Final Thoughts on the Best Way to Cover the Delhi to Rishikesh Distance
If you’re traveling with family, I recommend a self-driving car for flexibility and comfort.
For solo or spiritual travellers, the train to Haridwar, followed by a cab, is ideal.
Backpackers can take an overnight bus, while those in a hurry can opt to fly to Dehradun and take a taxi.
Author’s Note (Trust & Authenticity)
This article is based on my personal travel experiences between 2022 and 2024. I’ve verified train times, driven the road myself, stayed in the hostels, and even taken the early morning flight to Dehradun.
I’ve also spoken with local travellers and staff to bring you the most practical and updated information for 2025.
