Rishikesh Uttarakhand Uttaranchal, India Travel Guide
Jolly Grant Airport (DED) in Dehradun is the closest airport, about 20 km from Rishikesh. It handles domestic flights. Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) in Delhi is India's main international gateway, about 250 km from Rishikesh.
Jolly Grant Airport (DED) offers basic facilities: baggage, food stalls, pre-paid taxi counters. Renting a car with a driver is often recommended for foreign visitors from DED.
Flight prices to Dehradun increase during peak season (Oct-Apr) and major Indian festivals. Booking 2-3 months in advance often secures better fares.
Dollar Flight Club and Skyscanner are helpful for finding deals and comparing prices.
For car rentals, DiscoverCars.com offers options, though a car with driver is often preferred in India.
Haridwar Junction (HW) is the nearest major railway station (25 km from Rishikesh). Rishikesh has a small station (RKSH) with fewer connections. Haridwar links to Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata.
Direct buses from Delhi (ISBT Kashmiri Gate), Haridwar, Dehradun, and Chandigarh. Services range from basic government to comfortable AC Volvo/Mercedes buses.
Not recommended for first-time visitors due to chaotic roads. An International Driving Permit (IDP) and national license are needed if you choose to drive.
Rishikesh is a landlocked town in the Himalayan foothills. It has no access to the sea or any major navigable rivers for long-distance ferry or cruise services.
The Ganges River is central to Rishikesh, used for religious activities and white-water rafting. However, it does not serve as a mode of long-distance transportation to Rishikesh itself.
Arrive at Haridwar or Rishikesh railway station 30-45 minutes before departure.
Arrive at Rishikesh bus stand 30-45 minutes before bus departure time.
Be ready for multiple security checks at airports and railway stations. Keep documents accessible.
Roads leading to Rishikesh from major cities are generally good, especially national highways. However, mountainous sections can be winding. During monsoon (July-September), landslides can block roads, causing delays.
Driving in India calls for extreme caution and defensive driving techniques. Expect unexpected maneuvers from other drivers. You will encounter a mix of vehicles, pedestrians, and livestock.
Confirm your flight departure time and gate information. Check for any delays or cancellations.
Have your passport, visa, and boarding pass readily accessible for checks.
Confirm your taxi or bus booking to the airport or station.
