Dehradun to Rishikesh

It is a short road journey from Dehradun to Rishikesh, which can be best covered by a car or taxi. You can self drive along the Ambala - Paonta Sahib - Herbertpur - Dehradun--Rishikesh national highway and reach Rishikesh in about 1 hour 20 minutes. The road distance between the two cities is 45.1 kilometres. If you are travelling from Dehradun Airport, then Rishikesh is just at a distance of 15 kilometres, and it should take less than an hour by car or taxi.

You can either choose to self drive along the NH 7 highway or rent a cab, according to your itinerary and depending on weather conditions. Savaari, getmecab, Gozo cabs etc. are your go-to places for booking a taxi. The highway and roads are well maintained, which facilitate superfluous driving. You must make sure you are an experienced driver because the roads are narrow and curvy and require a skilled hand at driving. If you are booking a cab, you must check for the cab operator's authentication and license, to have a hassle-free journey. Also, there are shared taxis too, which is a relatively cheaper option. For those of you who want to avoid booking a cab, which can be expensive can go for public transport (shared taxis) which is both convenient and safe.

The Journey

This road journey can be best experienced during monsoon or after the first showers of monsoon because the roads are nestled between green forests that look greener after being washed down by rains. The road journey feels spiritual and serene, with a myriad of small temples passing by. The mountains of Lachhiwala Ranges shield the roads all the way. Up to Nepali Farm, you can get some magnificent views of the mountains, forests and the Song River banks. If you are travelling in your personal car, you can stop and click some good pictures. Driving by the side of the river is rejuvenating. You can stop by, walk on the pebbled water banks and take a moment to soak in the beauty enroute. People also enjoy riding a bike from Dehradun to Rishikesh, as As Rishikesh nears, the traffic increases and it is a relatively lesser smooth ride.

Route Options

1. Route 1: Dehradun - Doiwala - Jolly Grant - Rishikesh

2. Route 2: Dehradun - Doiwala - Bhaniawala - Nepali Farm-Rishikesh

Road Condition from Dehradun to Rishikesh

The roads are proper, well-maintained and not so traffic prone until you enter Rishikesh city. The roads are single laned, with beautiful views emanating serenity with every turn that you take. The roads are relatively narrow and curvy, and you must drive safely on the Saat More (or Seven Curve) before Rishikesh.

Approximate Cost

If you are taking shared taxis, it will be inexpensive, whereas if you are booking a cab, a 4-seater hatchback or sedan can cost you INR 1700 while a 6-seater SUV can cost you INR 2500 or more.

Eating Options On The Way

1. Kohli Restaurant 

Located on NH7, close to the Doiwala Bridge, Kohli restaurant is where you can stop to have some quick bites.

2. Punj di Lassi

If you are a lassi lover or want to quench your thirst, you can make a stop at Punj Di Lassi, also near to Doiwala and have some creamy lassis with paranthas.

3. Eena Meena Deeka Restaurant

This is a budget friendly restaurant, known for its good service and hygienic conditions, on the Dehradun Road. You can stop here for lunch and try out the North-Indian cuisine.

4. Ganga View Restaurant

Another joint acclaimed for wholesome meals, the Ganga View Restaurant is located within walking distance from Lakshman Jhula.

There is minimal availability of direct bus from Dehradun to Rishikesh, which leaves you with the options of only taxis or cabs, or else driving your own car to reach Rishikesh. One bus operator, known as Bus wala operates a direct bus from Dehradun to Rishikesh, departing from Dehradun at 5 PM and reaching Rishikesh by 6:30 PM. It takes about 1 hour 25 minutes, and you can go ahead and book it on via.com. The price starts from ₹525. Since there are no other bus operators, it is highly recommended that you go with taxis or cabs, and not rely on buses as an option. If you wish to use public transport, you can book a prepaid taxi in Dehradun or opt for shared taxis. You can take a local bus or jeep from ISBT Dehradun to Rishikesh.