Haridwar is located in the Indian state of Uttarakhand and is one of the holiest cities for Hindus. It is famous for the Ganges River and attracts pilgrims and tourists alike. The city is well-connected, making it easier for travelers to plan their visit.
This guide will help you understand how to reach Haridwar by air, train, or road. Whether you prefer flying, taking a train, or driving, you'll find all the necessary information to make your trip smooth and enjoyable.
Quick Overview
Travel options at a glance
| Mode of Transport | Best For | Main Arrival Point |
|---|---|---|
| By Air | Fast travel | Jolly Grant Airport |
| By Train | Comfortable / budget travel | Haridwar Railway Station |
| By Road | Road trips / nearby cities | Main highways |
| By Bus | Budget intercity travel | Main Bus Stand |
How to Reach Haridwar by Air
Flying to Haridwar made easy
Haridwar does not have its own airport. The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun Airport), which is about 35 kilometers away from Haridwar. This airport mainly serves domestic flights from major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru.
From the airport, travelers can take a taxi or book a cab through apps like Uber or Ola to reach Haridwar. The drive takes around 1 to 1.5 hours depending on traffic. It’s best to arrange transportation in advance, especially during peak pilgrimage seasons.
How to Reach Haridwar by Train
Convenient train connectivity
The main railway station serving Haridwar is Haridwar Railway Station (code: HW). It is well-connected to many major cities in India, including Delhi, Kolkata, and Varanasi. Trains like the Shatabdi Express and Jan Shatabdi connect Haridwar to the capital city.
Traveling by train is a comfortable and budget-friendly option. The station is just 1-2 kilometers from the town center, and you can easily take an auto-rickshaw or taxi to get to your accommodation.
How to Reach Haridwar by Road
Driving to Haridwar
Haridwar is well-connected by road. It is accessible via National Highways 58 and 74. If you're coming from Delhi, it’s about a 5-6 hour drive, covering around 220 kilometers. Buses, taxis, and personal vehicles are popular options for road travel.
For a smooth journey, keep an eye on traffic conditions and plan your departure times accordingly. Self-driving is advisable for those who enjoy scenic views along the way.
How to Reach Haridwar by Bus
Buses for budget travelers
Haridwar has a main bus stand that connects it to several nearby cities. State-run buses from Uttarakhand Transport Corporation and private operators run services from cities like Delhi, Rishikesh, and Dehradun. The journey from Delhi takes about 7-8 hours by bus.
AC and non-AC buses are available depending on your budget. Once you arrive at the bus stand, local transport options like auto-rickshaws are easily accessible to take you to your final destination.
How to Reach Haridwar from Major Cities
Connectivity from key cities
| From | Approx. Distance | By Air | By Train | By Road |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Delhi | 220 km | 1 hour (nearest airport) | 5-6 hours | 5-6 hours |
| Dehradun | 35 km | 30 mins | 1 hour | 1 hour |
| Rishikesh | 25 km | Not applicable | 30 mins | 30 mins |
| Haridwar | 0 km | Not applicable | Not applicable | 0 km |
Local Transportation in Haridwar
Getting around the city
Once in Haridwar, moving around is easy. Auto-rickshaws are the most popular way to get around, especially for short distances. They are budget-friendly and can take you to various attractions within the city.
Taxis and app-based cabs are also available for more comfort. For those who prefer a leisurely pace, walking is a great option, especially along the Ganges. E-rickshaws are another eco-friendly alternative for local travel.
Travel Tips for Reaching Haridwar
Useful advice for a smooth journey
- Book flights or trains in advance during peak seasons.
- Check transport schedules for the latest updates.
- Keep a buffer for road traffic, especially from Delhi.
- Compare travel time and costs before booking.
- Know the final transport option from the arrival point to your hotel.
- Have booking confirmations easily accessible.
