Haridwar Uttarakhand Uttaranchal, India Travel Guide
Closest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport (DED) in Dehradun, approximately 35-40 kilometers (22-25 miles) from Haridwar. This is the easiest airport for direct access to Haridwar and Rishikesh.
No direct international flights to Jolly Grant Airport (DED). International travelers typically fly into Delhi (DEL) first, then connect to DED by domestic flight, or travel to Haridwar by train or road.
Find affordable flights via Dollar Flight Club for deals or Skyscanner for broad comparisons.
Explore options for car hire at DiscoverCars.com for your journey.
Booking an aviation hub transfer through your hotel or a reputable travel agency is prudent, especially for late arrivals.
Haridwar is an internal destination withwithin India; no international border crossings are for reaching it from other Indian states.
Haridwar is an inland city; sea or significant river arrivals are not a mode of transportation for reaching the city. River transportation is restricted to small boat trips for scenic/ritual purposes near ghats.
No particular exit fees or taxes are for departing India by air; these are typically included in your international airfare. Reconfirm your flight/train details 24 hours before departure.
Haridwar Junction (HW) is the city's main rail depot and a significant rail hub in Uttarakhand. It boasts excellent connectivity to major cities across India.
Booking train tickets well in advance is needed, especially for popular paths like Delhi-Haridwar, and during peak seasons or major festivals. Take official websites or authorized travel agencies.
Both Uttarakhand Transport Corporation (UTC), a state-run service, and various private bus operators run frequent services to and from Haridwar.
An International Driving Permit (IDP) with your a driver's license from your own country is for self-driving. Driving inside India can be challenging due to chaotic traffic plus different road conditions.
No specific exit fees or taxes are for departing India by air; these are typically included in your international airfare. For domestic flights from Jolly Grant Airport (DED), arriving at least TWO hours before the flight is due to leave the time period is recommended.
For international flights from Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL), showing up at the airport at least 3-4 hours before scheduled departure time is advised. Delhi Airport is large and crowded; international check-in and security procedures could require time.
For when trains leave from Haridwar Junction, arrive at the station at least 30-45 minutes prior to the planned departure time time to find your platform and coach without rush.
Arrive at the bus stand at least 30 minutes before your public bus departure. Buses might not always depart precisely on time, but arriving early ensures you do not miss your ride.
Haridwar Junction has basic facilities. DED (Dehradun) has limited regional airport facilities. DEL (Delhi) provides comprehensive international hub facilities, including dining, retail, lounges.
National Highways connecting Haridwar to major cities (like NH334 to Delhi) are generally well-maintained and in good condition. Within Haridwar, roads can become congested, especially in market areas and near religious sites. Smaller lanes can be narrow.
Be prepared for unpredictable traffic. Defensive driving (if on your own-driving) and heightened awareness as someone walking are prudent. Stray animals like cows frequently roam the roads, calling for caution.
When traveling by train, especially in sleeper classes, secure your luggage with a chain and padlock to the seat frame.
This habit offers an added layer of security for your belongings during your trip.
It helps you relax during longer trips, especially overnight travel, knowing your bags are fastened.
Selecting a private car with a driver for the duration of your stay or for specific day trips is generally a more comfortable and less stressful option than self-driving in India.
