Dehradun to Rishikesh Complete Travel Guide 2026
Planning a trip from Dehradun to Rishikesh? This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the 45km 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: Dehradun to Rishikesh
| Mode | Duration | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|
| directions_car Private Car | 1h 15m | ₹430 Fuel & Tolls |
| train Train | 12h – 16h | ₹83 – ₹209 |
| bus Bus | 12h – 16h | ₹150 – ₹497 |
How to Travel: Dehradun to Rishikesh
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 45km journey, driving is your best option. The 1h 15m drive gives you flexibility to stop at attractions along the way and explore at your own pace.
Local Food Guide Coming Soon
We're working on adding local food recommendations for Dehradun. In the meantime, explore local restaurants and street food when you arrive!
Worth Stopping: Cities Along Your Route
These cities are within 50km of your Dehradun to Rishikesh route and offer excellent attractions worth a brief detour:
Lansdowne
Lansdowne is a quiet hill station in Uttarakhand, India, known for its serene atmosphere and colonial-era charm. It is a cantonment town, home to the Garhwal Rifles regiment, offering a peaceful escape from the bustling city life.
attractions Top Attractions
Tip N Top View Point
Tip N Top is a popular viewpoint offering panoramic views of the surrounding Shivalik hills. It's also known as Tiffin Top.
St. Mary's Church
St. Mary's Church is a historic church dating back to the British colonial era. It's an example of pre-independence architecture.
Bhulla Tal
Bhulla Tal is a small artificial lake maintained by the Indian Army. It's a popular spot for boating and relaxing.
restaurant Must Try Local Food
Aloo ke Gutke - A local potato dish seasoned with spices (try at local restaurants)
Mussoorie
Mussoorie, often called the "Queen of Hills," is a popular hill station in Uttarakhand, India. It's known for its colonial architecture, scenic beauty, and pleasant climate. The town is a gateway to several other Himalayan destinations and is easily accessible from Dehradun.
attractions Top Attractions
Kempty Falls
Kempty Falls is a popular waterfall located a short drive from Mussoorie. The falls cascade down several tiers, creating a refreshing pool at the bottom. It's a popular spot for swimming and picnicking.
Gun Hill
Gun Hill is the second highest point in Mussoorie, offering panoramic views of the Himalayan range. A cannon was fired from this location at noon during the British Raj to signal the time.
Lal Tibba
Lal Tibba is the highest point in Mussoorie, offering stunning views of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks. It's located in Landour, a quieter and more charming part of Mussoorie.
restaurant Must Try Local Food
Momos - try them at Kalsang Friends Corner
Chakrata
Haridwar
Haridwar, meaning 'Gateway to God,' is a significant pilgrimage city in Uttarakhand, India, where the Ganges River emerges from the Himalayas. It is considered one of the seven holiest places for Hindus.
attractions Top Attractions
Har Ki Pauri
Har 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.
Mansa Devi Temple
Mansa Devi Temple is dedicated to the goddess Mansa Devi, believed to fulfill wishes. It is located on top of the Shivalik Hills.
Chandi Devi Temple
Chandi Devi Temple is dedicated to the goddess Chandi Devi, known for her strength and power. It is located on top of the Neel Parvat.
restaurant Must Try Local Food
Aloo Puri - A classic breakfast dish, try it at Mohan Puri Wala near Har Ki Pauri.
Paonta Sahib
Top Attractions in Rishikesh: What to See and Do
Once you arrive in Rishikesh, explore these must-visit attractions that showcase the best of the city:
-
Lakshman Jhula
⏱ 1-2 hours • 💰 Free • 🕐 Open 24 hoursLakshman 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.
Best Time to Visit: Morning or evening to avoid crowds and heat.
💡 Insider Tip: Visit early in the morning for a more peaceful experience and better photo opportunities.
-
Ram Jhula
⏱ 1-2 hours • 💰 Free • 🕐 Open 24 hoursRam Jhula is another suspension bridge across the Ganges, located a few kilometers downstream from Lakshman Jhula. It connects Shivananda Ashram to Swarg Ashram.
Best Time to Visit: Morning or evening for pleasant weather.
💡 Insider Tip: Take a boat ride from one side of the river to the other for a different perspective.
-
Triveni Ghat
⏱ 1-2 hours • 💰 Free • 🕐 Open 24 hoursTriveni 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.
Best Time to Visit: Evening for the Ganga Aarti ceremony.
💡 Insider Tip: Arrive early to secure a good spot for viewing the Ganga Aarti.
-
Neelkanth Mahadev Temple
⏱ 3-4 hours • 💰 Free • 🕐 06:00-20:00 dailyNeelkanth Mahadev Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located about 32 km from Rishikesh. It's situated on a hill and offers scenic views.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning to avoid crowds.
💡 Insider Tip: Combine your visit with a trip to nearby waterfalls for a refreshing experience.
-
Beatles Ashram (Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ashram)
⏱ 2-3 hours • 💰 ₹150 (Indians), ₹600 (foreigners) • 🕐 09:00-17:00 dailyThe Beatles Ashram, officially known as Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ashram, is a former meditation center where the Beatles stayed in 1968. It gained fame after their visit and is now a popular tourist attraction.
Best Time to Visit: Morning or afternoon.
💡 Insider Tip: Look for the 'Beatles Cathedral,' a meditation hall with intricate stone work.
-
Gita Bhavan
⏱ 2-3 hours • 💰 Free • 🕐 07:00-21:00 dailyGita Bhavan is a large complex on the banks of the Ganges. It houses a temple, a library, and accommodation for pilgrims.
Best Time to Visit: Any time of day.
💡 Insider Tip: Attend a satsang (spiritual discourse) for a deeper understanding of Hindu teachings.
Where to Eat in Rishikesh: Local Cuisine Guide
Must-Try Dishes in Rishikesh
Don't leave Rishikesh without tasting these local specialties:
- Chole Bhature - A popular North Indian dish of spicy chickpeas and fried bread (try at any local restaurant).
- Aloo Puri - Potatoes and fried bread, a common breakfast item.
- Lassi - A yogurt-based drink, sweet or savory.
- Masala Dosa - A South Indian crepe filled with spiced potatoes.
Recommended Restaurants in Rishikesh
The Sitting Elephant
Multi-Cuisine • ₹₹ (₹800-1200 for two)
Specialty: Indian and Continental dishes
A rooftop restaurant with great views and a relaxed atmosphere. Good quality food and service. Known for its curries and pizzas.
📍 Tapovan
Ganga Beach Cafe
Indian, Continental • ₹₹ (₹700-1000 for two)
Specialty: Indian and Western
Located right on the banks of the Ganges, offering beautiful views. A good place to relax and enjoy a meal. Their pizza is surprisingly good.
📍 Near Lakshman Jhula
Little Buddha Cafe
Multi-Cuisine • ₹₹ (₹600-900 for two)
Specialty: International
A popular cafe with a relaxed atmosphere and a diverse menu. Offers vegetarian and vegan options. Known for its smoothie bowls and salads.
📍 Near Lakshman Jhula
Chotiwala
Indian • ₹ (₹400-600 for two)
Specialty: Traditional Indian Cuisine
A long-standing restaurant known for its traditional Indian dishes. It's a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. Expect a bit of a wait during peak hours.
📍 Rishikesh Town
Where to Stay in Rishikesh: Accommodation Options
Budget Hotels (₹500-1500/night)
Moustache Rishikesh
Price: ₹400-800/night
Location: Tapovan
A popular hostel with a social atmosphere and clean dorms. They offer activities and tours.
Bunk Stay Rishikesh
Price: ₹500-900/night
Location: Near Lakshman Jhula
A budget-friendly hostel with comfortable dorms and private rooms. It's close to many attractions.
Mid-Range Hotels (₹2000-5000/night)
Hotel Ishan - A Riverside Retreat
Price: ₹2000-4000/night
Location: Tapovan
A comfortable hotel with well-appointed rooms and a riverside location. It offers a peaceful and relaxing stay.
Aloha on the Ganges
Price: ₹3000-5000/night
Location: Near Lakshman Jhula
A popular hotel with great views of the Ganges River. It features comfortable rooms and a restaurant.
Luxury Hotels (₹8000+/night)
Taj Rishikesh Resort & Spa, Uttarakhand
Price: ₹15000+/night
Location: Singthali
A luxurious resort with stunning views and world-class amenities. It offers a spa, swimming pool, and multiple restaurants.
The Roseate Ganges
Price: ₹12000+/night
Location: Shivpuri
A luxurious resort nestled in the Himalayan foothills. It features elegant rooms, a spa, and a restaurant with stunning views.
Best Time to Travel from Dehradun to Rishikesh
Plan your trip according to the season for the best experience in Rishikesh:
Best Time: September to November
Temperature: 20-30 degrees C
Weather: Pleasant and sunny with clear skies. The monsoon rains have subsided, and the air is fresh.
Why Visit: Ideal weather for outdoor activities like rafting, trekking, and yoga. The Ganges is calmer and cleaner after the monsoon. This is also the time for various festivals and events.
Important Note: Peak season, so expect higher prices and more crowds. Book accommodation and activities in advance.
Shoulder Season: March to April
Temperature: 25-35 degrees C
Weather: Warm and sunny during the day, cooler in the evenings. The weather is generally dry and comfortable.
Why Visit: Good weather for outdoor activities before the summer heat sets in. Fewer crowds than the September-November period, making it a more peaceful experience.
Important Note: The Ganges may be slightly warmer, affecting the rafting experience. Some ashrams might have specific schedules.
Avoid: May to June
Temperature: 35-45 degrees C
Weather: Extremely hot and dry. The heat can be unbearable, making outdoor activities difficult.
Why Visit: Avoid due to the intense heat, which can make exploring uncomfortable. The Ganges water levels are also lower, affecting rafting conditions.
Important Note: Some businesses might close during the hottest part of the day. If you must visit, stay hydrated and seek shade.
Practical Travel Tips for Rishikesh
💰 Money & Budget
Daily Budget: Budget: ₹1000, Mid: ₹2500, Luxury: ₹5000+
ATMs: ATMs are readily available in Rishikesh.
Payment Methods: Cash is preferred for smaller establishments and street vendors. Credit cards are accepted at larger hotels and restaurants.
Bargaining: Bargaining is expected in markets and with auto-rickshaw drivers.
🏥 Health & Safety
Water: Drink bottled water or filtered water. Avoid tap water.
Food Safety: Eat at reputable restaurants and avoid street food from questionable vendors. Be cautious of spicy food if you're not used to it.
Common Health Issues: Altitude sickness is possible. Bring necessary medications.
📱 Communication
SIM Cards: Airtel and Vodafone offer good coverage. You'll need your passport and visa for purchase.
WiFi Availability: WiFi is available at most hotels and cafes.
👕 What to Wear
Dress modestly, especially when visiting temples and ashrams. Avoid revealing clothing. Light cotton clothing is best for the warm weather.
Frequently Asked Questions: Dehradun to Rishikesh
Related Routes from Dehradun
Planning to explore more destinations? Check out these popular routes from Dehradun:
Other Routes to Rishikesh
Traveling to Rishikesh from a different city? Explore these alternative routes:
Explore More of India
Discover comprehensive travel guides, hidden gems, and local insights for cities across India. Plan your perfect journey with our detailed destination guides.