Chandigarh to Haridwar Complete Travel Guide 2026
Planning a trip from Chandigarh to Haridwar? This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the 179km journey. Watch the interactive route animation above to visualize your journey, then explore detailed information about travel options, costs, attractions along the way, and insider tips to make your trip memorable.
analytics Travel Comparison: Chandigarh to Haridwar
| Mode | Duration | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|
| directions_car Private Car | 3h 30m | ₹1,709 Fuel & Tolls |
| train Train | 12h – 16h | ₹175 – ₹519 |
| bus Bus | 12h – 16h | ₹255 – ₹1,976 |
How to Travel: Chandigarh to Haridwar
Compare different travel modes to find the best option for your budget, schedule, and preferences.
By Car
Flexibility, scenic stops, family trips
By Train
Comfort, scenic views, budget-friendly
By Bus
Budget travel, multiple stops
lightbulb Our Recommendation
For this 179km journey, driving is your best option. The 3h 30m drive gives you flexibility to stop at attractions along the way and explore at your own pace.
Before You Leave Chandigarh
Fuel up with these authentic local dishes before hitting the road:
Local Specialties
- local_dining Butter Chicken - Try it at Pal Dhaba for a rich and creamy experience.
- local_dining Chole Bhature - A popular Punjabi breakfast, available at many street food stalls.
- local_dining Tandoori Fish - Enjoy fresh and flavorful tandoori fish at Ghazal.
Pal Dhaba • Sector 28
Worth Stopping: Cities Along Your Route
These cities are within 50km of your Chandigarh to Haridwar route and offer excellent attractions worth a brief detour:
Paonta Sahib
Rishikesh
Rishikesh, nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas in Uttarakhand, is renowned as the 'Yoga Capital of the World'. The holy Ganges River flows through it, making it a significant spiritual hub. It's also a popular destination for adventure sports enthusiasts.
attractions Top Attractions
Lakshman Jhula
Lakshman Jhula is an iconic iron suspension bridge across the Ganges. It connects Tapovan to Jonk. Legend says that Lord Lakshmana crossed the Ganges here on a jute rope.
Ram Jhula
Ram Jhula is another suspension bridge across the Ganges, located a few kilometers downstream from Lakshman Jhula. It connects Shivananda Ashram to Swarg Ashram.
Triveni Ghat
Triveni Ghat is a sacred bathing ghat on the banks of the Ganges. It's believed to be the confluence of three holy rivers: Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati.
restaurant Must Try Local Food
Chole Bhature - A popular North Indian dish of spicy chickpeas and fried bread (try at any local restaurant).
Kasauli
Dehradun
Chail
Chail is a quiet hill station in Himachal Pradesh, known for its serene environment and the historic Chail Palace. It was once the summer retreat of the Maharaja of Patiala. The town is surrounded by lush green forests and offers panoramic views of the Himalayas.
attractions Top Attractions
Chail Palace
Chail Palace is a historic building that was once the summer residence of the Maharaja of Patiala. It's known for its architecture and regal ambiance.
Chail Cricket Ground
The Chail Cricket Ground is known as the world's highest cricket ground. It was built in 1893 and is situated at an altitude of 2,444 meters.
Sidh Baba Ka Mandir
Sidh Baba Ka Mandir is a temple dedicated to a local saint. It is a popular pilgrimage site for locals and tourists alike.
restaurant Must Try Local Food
Madra - A traditional dish made with chickpeas in yogurt gravy (try at Himachali restaurants)
Top Attractions in Haridwar: What to See and Do
Once you arrive in Haridwar, explore these must-visit attractions that showcase the best of the city:
-
Har Ki Pauri
⏱ 2-3 hours • 💰 Free • 🕐 Open 24 hoursHar Ki Pauri is the most sacred ghat in Haridwar, where the Ganges River is believed to enter the plains. It is known for the evening Ganga Aarti ceremony.
Best Time to Visit: Evening for the Ganga Aarti
💡 Insider Tip: Hire a boat for a less crowded view of the Ganga Aarti from the river.
-
Mansa Devi Temple
⏱ 2-3 hours • 💰 Free • 🕐 08:00-17:00 dailyMansa Devi Temple is dedicated to the goddess Mansa Devi, believed to fulfill wishes. It is located on top of the Shivalik Hills.
Best Time to Visit: Morning to avoid long queues
💡 Insider Tip: Opt for the early morning slot to avoid the crowds and enjoy a peaceful experience.
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Chandi Devi Temple
⏱ 2-3 hours • 💰 Free • 🕐 06:00-20:00 dailyChandi Devi Temple is dedicated to the goddess Chandi Devi, known for her strength and power. It is located on top of the Neel Parvat.
Best Time to Visit: Morning for cooler temperatures
💡 Insider Tip: Combine a visit to Chandi Devi Temple with Mansa Devi Temple for a complete pilgrimage experience.
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Maya Devi Temple
⏱ 1-2 hours • 💰 Free • 🕐 07:00-19:00 dailyMaya Devi Temple is dedicated to the goddess Maya Devi, the presiding deity of Haridwar. It is one of the Shakti Peethas.
Best Time to Visit: Any time of day
💡 Insider Tip: Visit during off-peak hours to avoid the worst of the crowds.
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Bharat Mata Mandir
⏱ 1-2 hours • 💰 Free • 🕐 09:30-17:00 dailyBharat Mata Mandir is a unique temple dedicated to Mother India. It features eight floors, each dedicated to a different theme related to Indian history and culture.
Best Time to Visit: Any time of day
💡 Insider Tip: Allocate sufficient time to explore all the floors of the temple.
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Shanti Kunj Ashram
⏱ 2-3 hours • 💰 Free • 🕐 06:00-22:00 dailyShanti Kunj is a spiritual and social organization founded by Pandit Shriram Sharma Acharya. It promotes Indian culture, yoga, and spirituality.
Best Time to Visit: Any time of day
💡 Insider Tip: Check the ashram's schedule for special events and programs.
Where to Eat in Haridwar: Local Cuisine Guide
Must-Try Dishes in Haridwar
Don't leave Haridwar without tasting these local specialties:
- Aloo Puri - A classic breakfast dish, try it at Mohan Puri Wala near Har Ki Pauri.
- Chole Bhature - A popular North Indian dish, available at various restaurants and street food stalls.
- Lassi - A refreshing yogurt-based drink, try it at Mathura Walon Ki Pracheen Dukaan.
- Rabri - A sweet milk-based dessert, available at local sweet shops.
- Kachori - A savory snack, try it at local street food vendors.
Recommended Restaurants in Haridwar
Chotiwala Restaurant
North Indian • ₹₹ (₹500-700 for two)
Specialty: Thalis
A popular restaurant known for its delicious thalis and traditional Indian dishes. The atmosphere is lively and the food is of good quality.
📍 Near Har Ki Pauri
Invitation Restaurant
Multi-Cuisine • ₹₹₹ (₹800-1200 for two)
Specialty: Indian and Chinese dishes
A fine-dining restaurant offering a variety of Indian and Chinese dishes. It is known for its elegant ambiance and attentive service.
📍 Upper Road
Hoshiyarpuri
North Indian • ₹₹ (₹400-600 for two)
Specialty: Aloo Puri
A simple restaurant specializing in Aloo Puri and other North Indian snacks. It is a popular spot for breakfast and lunch.
📍 Near Railway Station
Dada Boudir Hotel
Bengali • ₹₹ (₹400-600 for two)
Specialty: Bengali Thali
Serves authentic Bengali cuisine with a homely atmosphere. Known for fresh ingredients and flavors
📍 Near Vishnu Ghat
Where to Stay in Haridwar: Accommodation Options
Budget Hotels (₹500-1500/night)
Hotel Ganga Azure
Price: ₹800-1200/night
Location: Near Har Ki Pauri
Simple and clean rooms, close to the main ghat. A good option for budget travelers seeking proximity to the river.
Hotel Le Central
Price: ₹700-1100/night
Location: Railway Road
Basic accommodation with essential amenities. Conveniently located near the railway station.
Mid-Range Hotels (₹2000-5000/night)
Hotel Park Grand
Price: ₹2000-3000/night
Location: Near Har Ki Pauri
Comfortable rooms with modern amenities and a restaurant. It provides a comfortable stay with easy access to the ghats.
Hotel Classic Residency
Price: ₹1800-2800/night
Location: Bhim Goda
Well-maintained rooms and a multi-cuisine restaurant. It's a good choice for families and couples.
Luxury Hotels (₹8000+/night)
Radisson Blu Hotel Haridwar
Price: ₹4000+/night
Location: SIDCUL
Luxurious rooms, a swimming pool, and multiple dining options. It offers a relaxing stay away from the city's hustle.
Amatra By The Ganges
Price: ₹5000+/night
Location: Rishikesh Road
Elegant rooms with river views, a spa, and fine-dining restaurants. Perfect for a luxurious and peaceful retreat.
Best Time to Travel from Chandigarh to Haridwar
Plan your trip according to the season for the best experience in Haridwar:
Best Time: October to March
Temperature: 8-25 degrees C
Weather: Pleasant and cool weather makes it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The skies are generally clear, and the humidity is low.
Why Visit: The weather is perfect for exploring temples, attending the Ganga Aarti, and practicing yoga. The crowds are manageable compared to peak pilgrimage seasons. This period avoids the monsoon rains and extreme heat.
Important Note: Book accommodations in advance, especially during weekends and holidays. Some ashrams may have limited availability.
Shoulder Season: April to June
Temperature: 25-40 degrees C
Weather: Hot and dry weather; temperatures can soar during the day. Evenings are relatively cooler.
Why Visit: Fewer crowds compared to the peak season, and you might find better deals on accommodation. However, the heat can be exhausting for outdoor activities.
Important Note: Stay hydrated and avoid strenuous activities during the hottest part of the day. Carry sunscreen and wear light, breathable clothing.
Avoid: July to September
Temperature: 22-32 degrees C
Weather: Monsoon season with heavy rainfall, leading to potential flooding and landslides. Humidity is high.
Why Visit: Avoid visiting during this period due to the risk of landslides, flooded roads, and difficulty in getting around. The heavy rainfall can disrupt travel plans.
Important Note: Some temples and ashrams may have restricted access due to weather conditions. Travel insurance is highly recommended.
Practical Travel Tips for Haridwar
💰 Money & Budget
Daily Budget: Budget: ₹800, Mid: ₹2000, Luxury: ₹4000+
ATMs: Widely available
Payment Methods: Cash is preferred for small transactions and street food. Cards are accepted at larger hotels and restaurants.
Bargaining: Expected in local markets and for auto-rickshaw fares
🏥 Health & Safety
Water: Drink bottled water or filtered water to avoid stomach problems. Avoid drinking tap water.
Food Safety: Eat at reputable restaurants and avoid street food from unhygienic vendors. Be cautious of spicy food if you are not used to it.
Common Health Issues: Altitude sickness (if traveling to higher altitudes nearby), stomach infections. Bring necessary medications.
📱 Communication
SIM Cards: Available at the airport and in the city. Jio, Airtel, and Vodafone are popular networks. Requires ID and address proof.
WiFi Availability: Available at most hotels and some restaurants.
👕 What to Wear
Dress modestly, especially when visiting temples and religious sites. Cover your shoulders and knees. Light, breathable clothing is recommended during the summer months.
Frequently Asked Questions: Chandigarh to Haridwar
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