Because the distance between Haridwar and Rishikesh in Uttarkhand is only about 25 kilometres (15.5 miles), most people choose to visit both destinations. This is good because they are both very different in nature and provide distinct spiritual experiences.
However, how do you move from one to the other? Here are your choices. Travel time is approximately 45 minutes to an hour.
1. From Haridwar To Rishikesh Via Taxi Or Cab
If you’re not on a tight budget, taking a taxi from Haridwar to Rishikesh is the most comfortable and hassle-free option. Expect to pay around 1,400 rupees or more depending on the type of taxi, where you receive it, and whether or not your hotel provides it. This is the starting price for a basic air-conditioned Tata Indica or comparable small car.
2. From Haridwar To Rishikesh Via Shared Auto Rickshaws
These auto rickshaws are not your typical Indian vehicles. They are substantially larger in size and have fixed routes. They are known as vikrams (their brand name) or tempos. The ones at Haridwar and Rishikesh seat eight people and are open-sided, similar to rickshaws.
You can take a shared auto from Haridwar to Rishikesh’s Tapovan region for 40-60 rupees, or hire a complete one for around 500 rupees. However, the journey may not be as pleasant as you anticipate. Shared vehicles are quite crowded, and you will be jammed in.
Even if you bring your own car, the open sides will expose you to a lot of traffic noise, fumes, and pollution. The suspension is also not ideal. As a result, if you want to save money, taking the bus is a far better option.
Shared automobiles can be located on the south side of town, near the Haridwar Junction railway station. Alternatively, cross the river bridge and proceed to Haridwar’s main road. From the main road, shared taxis are also accessible.
3. From Haridwar To Rishikesh Via Bus
The buses that run between Haridwar and Rishikesh are ancient and run-down, but they are the most cost-effective option. They operate often (at least every half hour) and are inexpensive ($30-40 per person). Buses can be boarded at the fairly unappealing bus terminal near Haridwar Junction railway station.
The main disadvantage of taking the bus is that you will finish up in the unimpressive Rishikesh town centre. From there, you’ll need to take additional transportation (such as a shared auto) to the traveler’s area of Rishikesh, which is located around five kilometres (3.1 miles) northeast of town.
4. From Haridwar To Rishikesh Via Train
The train is another alternative for getting from Haridwar to Rishikesh. However, there are few departures during the day, and the trains are slow, taking more than an hour to arrive.
The road is actually faster! During peak season or mela (festival) times, roads get crowded and bus lines are diverted. The railway station, like the bus station, is in Rishikesh town, and you’ll need to take further transportation from there.
The majority of the trains are unreserved passenger trains, with adult tickets costing only 10 rupees. The following are the most convenient options:
- 24888 Barmer – Rishikesh Link Express Departs Haridwar daily. This is an air-conditioned train with various classes of travel from Unreserved to 3AC.
- 54483 Haridwar – Rishikesh Passenger Departs Haridwar daily.
- 54463 Bandikui – Rishikesh Passenger Departs Haridwar daily.
- 54485 Haridwar Rishikesh Passenger Departs Haridwar daily.
