How to Reach Haridwar by Train, Flight & Road – Complete Tourist Guide

If you’re planning a trip and wondering how to reach Haridwar, the holy city is easily accessible by train, road, and air. Located just 220 km from Delhi, Haridwar connects smoothly through frequent trains, highways, and the nearest airport at Dehradun. This travel guide explains the distances, train timings, road options, and airport details, perfect for families, senior citizens, and first-time visitors.

Why Haridwar is Easy to Reach?

Haridwar is one of the most accessible cities in Uttarakhand, located at the edge of the plains before the Himalayan hills begin. It is well connected by highways, trains, and flights, making travel simple for pilgrims and tourists alike. Whether coming from Delhi, Dehradun, or nearby towns, the journey is straightforward and offers multiple options to suit every traveler.

• By Road: 220 km from Delhi, around 5–6 hrs.
• By Train: Frequent trains from Delhi, Varanasi, Kolkata, and Mumbai.
• By Air: Dehradun airport is just 35 km away.
• By Nearby Routes: Quick access from Rishikesh, Mussoorie, and Dehradun.

How to Reach Haridwar by Train, Flight, and Road

Haridwar is well connected by all major travel modes, making it easy for visitors from Delhi, Dehradun, Rishikesh, and other parts of India. You can take a train from Delhi (4.5–6 hrs), drive down the smooth NH334 highway (5–6 hrs), or fly into Dehradun Airport, which is just 35 km away. Each option has its own advantage, depending on your budget, comfort, and travel time.

• By Train: Multiple daily trains including Shatabdi, Jan Shatabdi, and Mussoorie Express.
• By Road: 220 km from Delhi, 5–6 hrs via Meerut, Muzaffarnagar, and Roorkee.
• By Flight: Nearest airport – Jolly Grant, Dehradun (35 km, 1–1.5 hrs by taxi).

Delhi to Haridwar Distance & Travel Options

Delhi to Haridwar distance is about 220 km, which usually takes 5–6 hours by road via NH334. Being the national capital, Delhi offers the maximum connectivity to Haridwar with frequent trains, buses, and highway routes. This is the most common route chosen by pilgrims, families, and tourists starting their Uttarakhand journey.

• Delhi to Haridwar Distance: ~220 km
• Travel Time: 5–6 hours by car/taxi
• Route: Delhi – Meerut – Muzaffarnagar – Roorkee – Haridwar
• Best For: Families, private groups, and senior citizens who want comfort

Delhi to Haridwar Distance by Train

Delhi to Haridwar distance by train is around 220 km, and most trains take 4.5–6 hours. Trains are the most popular and affordable way to reach Haridwar, with daily services from New Delhi, Old Delhi, and Hazrat Nizamuddin stations. The journey is convenient for both pilgrims and tourists, offering comfort, reliability, and budget-friendly fares.

• Travel Time: 4.5–6 hours
• Popular Trains: Shatabdi Express, Jan Shatabdi, Mussoorie Express
• Boarding Points: New Delhi, Old Delhi, Hazrat Nizamuddin
• Best For: Budget travelers, solo visitors, and groups

Delhi to Haridwar Distance by Bus

Delhi to Haridwar distance by road is about 220 km, and buses usually take 5–7 hours depending on stops. Volvo and state transport buses run regularly from Delhi ISBTs (Kashmiri Gate, Anand Vihar), with both daytime and overnight options available. Overnight buses are preferred by travelers who want to save time and reach Haridwar early in the morning.

• Distance: ~220 km
• Travel Time: 5–7 hours depending on stops
• Options: Uttarakhand Roadways, UPSRTC, Private Volvos
• Best For: Budget travelers and those without personal vehicles

Delhi to Haridwar Distance by Flight

Though Haridwar doesn’t have its own airport, the nearest one is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, about 35 km away. From Delhi, flights take just 45–50 minutes, and taxis are easily available from the airport to Haridwar.

• Flight Duration: ~50 minutes from Delhi to Dehradun
• Airport to Haridwar Distance: 35 km (1–1.5 hours by taxi)
• Best For: NRIs, senior citizens, and travelers short on time

Haridwar Nearest Airport – Jolly Grant (Dehradun Airport)

Haridwar nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport (DED) in Dehradun, about 35 km away as the city does not have its own airport. This small yet busy airport is well connected to Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Bangalore, and other major cities. From the airport, Haridwar can be reached easily by taxi or bus within 1–1.5 hours. For senior citizens and international visitors, this is the most convenient option.

• Best For: NRIs, elderly travelers, families with kids, and those short on time
• Haridwar Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport (DED), Dehradun
• Distance from Haridwar: ~35 km (1–1.5 hours by taxi)
• Flights Available: Daily flights from Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Bangalore & Pune
• Transport Options: Prepaid taxis, shared cabs, and state buses to Haridwar

Haridwar to Dehradun Distance & Travel Routes

Haridwar to Dehradun distance is about 50 km, which takes around 1.5–2 hours by road via Raiwala and Doiwala. Many travelers prefer this route as Dehradun has the nearest airport to Haridwar and serves as a gateway to Mussoorie and other hill stations. The two cities are well connected by road and rail, making travel convenient for both locals and tourists. Many travelers stay in Haridwar for pilgrimage and then continue to Dehradun for flights or to extend their trip towards Mussoorie or hill stations of Garhwal.

Haridwar to Dehradun Distance By Road

Haridwar to Dehradun distance by road is around 50 km, which takes around 1.5–2 hours and the most common route is via NH 7. Roads are mostly smooth, with a few busy patches near Haridwar town and Doiwala. Taxis, buses, and shared jeeps are easily available.

• Haridwar to Dehradun Distance: ~50 km
• Travel Time: 1.5–2 hours (depending on traffic)
• Route: Haridwar → Raiwala → Doiwala → Dehradun
• Best For: Families and groups looking for a short, direct journey

Haridwar to Dehradun Distance By Train

Haridwar to Dehradun distance by train is around 40+ kilometers and takes 1.5-2 hours, runs frequently and are budget-friendly. The intercity trains and passenger services are useful for daily commuters as well as tourists.

• Travel Time: 1.5–2 hours by train
• Popular Options: Dehradun Intercity Express, Shatabdi (Delhi–Dehradun via Haridwar)
• Boarding Point: Haridwar Junction (HW)
• Best For: Budget travelers, solo pilgrims, and students

Why This Route Matters

• Ideal for those flying in/out of Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun).
• Serves as a connecting leg for onward journeys to Mussoorie, Rishikesh, and Char Dham Yatra routes.
• Short and comfortable, making it suitable even for elderly travelers.

Haridwar to Rishikesh Distance & Connectivity

Haridwar to Rishikesh distance is about 20–25 km, taking 40–50 minutes by road via Raiwala. Rishikesh is the closest spiritual twin city to Haridwar and is often visited on the same trip. Located on the banks of the Ganga and surrounded by hills, it is famous for yoga ashrams, adventure sports, and the evening Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat. The short distance and smooth road make it one of the easiest routes in Uttarakhand.

Haridwar to Rishikesh Distance By Road

Haridwar to Rishikesh distance is about 20–25 km, taking 40–50 minutes and directly connected by NH 58. The drive is short and pleasant, passing through Raiwala. Taxis, shared jeeps, and frequent buses make travel flexible for all budgets.

• Haridwar to Rishikesh Distance: ~20–25 km
• Travel Time: 40–50 minutes by road
• Route: Haridwar → Raiwala → Rishikesh
• Options: Private taxis, state buses, shared jeeps, autos
• Best For: Pilgrims, yoga seekers, and families combining both cities in one trip

Haridwar to Rishikesh Distance By Train

Haridwar to Rishikesh distance by train is around 20+ kilometers and takes 1 hour. While Rishikesh has a small railway station, most long-distance trains stop at Haridwar. Only a handful of passenger trains go directly to Rishikesh, making road travel the more practical choice.

• Travel Time: ~1 hour by train (limited services)
• Station: Rishikesh Railway Station (few trains)
• Best For: Budget travelers who want a direct but slower option

Why This Route Matters

• Many visitors stay in Haridwar for pilgrimage and take a day trip to Rishikesh for yoga or adventure activities.
• The route is senior-friendly due to the short distance.
• Perfect for those continuing further to the Char Dham Yatra starting points in Uttarkashi or Kedarnath routes.

How Families, Seniors & Tourists Prefer to Reach Haridwar

Choosing the right way to reach Haridwar depends on who you’re traveling with and what kind of comfort or budget you prefer. While road trips and trains are common, flights via Dehradun are best for those short on time. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide:

Families – Most families choose private taxis or self-drive cars from Delhi. It gives flexibility for food breaks, restroom stops, and managing kids or elderly members. Trains like the Shatabdi are also popular because they’re fast, reliable, and comfortable.

• Why it works: Easy with luggage, flexible timing, safe for children and elders.

Senior Citizens – Long road trips can be tiring for seniors, so a short train journey from Delhi or a flight to Dehradun followed by a 1–1.5 hour cab ride is often the most comfortable choice.

• Why it works: Shorter travel time, less stress, smooth connections.

NRIs & Foreign Tourists – For international visitors, the easiest option is flying directly to Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun, then taking a cab to Haridwar. This avoids the long Delhi road journey and makes the trip much easier after a long flight.

• Why it works: Saves time, less tiring, more convenient with heavy luggage.

Budget Travelers – Students and backpackers usually prefer buses or passenger trains. State transport buses run day and night, while overnight trains are affordable and widely available.

• Why it works: Cheapest option, frequent services, and minimal planning needed.

Adventure Seekers – Those who want to combine pilgrimage with activities often prefer road travel. Many continue onwards to Rishikesh for rafting or Mussoorie for a hill station break, making the road journey more flexible.

• Why it works: Scenic drives, chance to stop for adventure activities.

Travel Tips Before Reaching Haridwar

Reaching Haridwar is simple, but a little planning makes the journey smoother. The city gets crowded during peak yatra season and festivals, so it’s best to be prepared. These tips will help you avoid last-minute stress and enjoy your trip comfortably.

• Book Early: Trains and hotels fill up quickly during Char Dham Yatra (May–June, Sept–Oct), Kanwar Yatra, and festivals. Reserve tickets in advance.
• Travel Time: Keep buffer time in your schedule, especially if you have connecting flights or trains. Highways can get congested on weekends and during pilgrim season.
• Pack Light: Haridwar’s lanes are busy, and carrying heavy luggage around the ghats is difficult. Stick to essentials.
• Senior-Friendly Travel: If traveling with elders, avoid late-night buses. Opt for daytime trains or flights to Dehradun.
• Weather Check: Summers can be hot, while winters get chilly at night. Pack accordingly.
• Local Transport: Shared autos and cycle rickshaws are the easiest way to move around once you arrive.

Frequently Asked Questions