Lucknow, the capital city of Uttar Pradesh, is known for its rich history, culture, and delicious Awadhi cuisine. Dehradun, the capital of Uttarakhand, is a gateway to the Himalayas and a popular destination for nature lovers and spiritual seekers. Traveling between these two cities is common for tourists, students, and professionals alike.

This guide covers all practical ways to travel from Lucknow to Dehradun, including trains, buses, self-drive options, and flights. You will find detailed information on routes, timings, costs, and tips to make your journey comfortable and hassle-free.

Getting from Lucknow to Dehradun – Main Options

By Train

Train travel is a popular and economical choice for this route, connecting Lucknow and Dehradun with direct and connecting services. Indian Railways offers several options catering to different budgets and schedules.

• Key stations:

  Trains depart from Lucknow Charbagh (LKO) and arrive at Dehradun Railway Station (DDN), centrally located in the city. Both stations are well connected to local transport.

• Duration and distance:

  The rail distance is approximately 450 km, with journey times ranging from 9 to 12 hours depending on the train type and route taken.

• Ticket costs and classes:

  Tickets range from ₹300 for sleeper class to ₹1,200 for AC 3-tier. Booking via IRCTC or authorized agents is recommended to secure preferred classes.

• Frequency and comfort:

  Daily trains like the Lucknow-Dehradun Express and Doon Express run regularly, offering sleeper and AC coaches. Early booking is advised during peak seasons like summer and festivals.

• Travel tips:

  Night trains are convenient to save daytime hours, but carry water and snacks as pantry services may be limited. Arrive early to avoid rush and confirm platform details on arrival.

By Bus

Bus travel is a flexible and budget-friendly option, with government and private operators running services between Lucknow and Dehradun. It suits travelers looking for direct road connectivity.

• Bus types and operators:

  Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (UPSRTC) and private Volvo and non-AC buses operate on this route, offering various comfort levels.

• Route and travel time:

  Buses cover approximately 470 km via NH9 and NH334, taking around 10 to 12 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.

• Ticket prices:

  Prices range from ₹400 for non-AC to ₹900 for Volvo AC buses. Booking online through UPSRTC or private portals is recommended.

• Departure points:

  Buses depart from Lucknow’s Kaiserbagh and Charbagh bus stands. Confirm the exact boarding point when booking to avoid confusion.

• Travel advice:

  Night buses are common and help save daytime. Avoid traveling during monsoon due to slippery roads in hilly sections near Dehradun.

By Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Lucknow to Dehradun offers flexibility and the chance to explore en route. The journey covers diverse landscapes, making it a rewarding road trip.

• Route details:

  The most common route is via NH9 and NH334, covering around 470 km. The drive typically takes 9 to 11 hours depending on traffic.

• Road conditions:

  National highways are mostly well-maintained, with toll plazas at regular intervals. Watch for traffic congestion near major towns like Moradabad.

• Rest stops and amenities:

  Frequent dhabas and fuel stations are available along the route, especially near towns. Popular stops include Rampur and Kashipur for meals and refreshments.

• Driving tips:

  Start early to avoid city traffic in Lucknow and Dehradun. Avoid night driving in hilly areas after Haridwar due to limited street lighting and winding roads.

• Car rentals:

  Self-drive cars can be rented from Lucknow through providers like Zoomcar or local agencies. Ensure valid documents and check vehicle condition before departure.

By Flight

Although there is no direct flight between Lucknow and Dehradun, air travel is possible with connecting flights via Delhi or other hubs. This option suits travelers prioritizing speed over cost.

• Airports:

  Lucknow’s Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport (LKO) and Dehradun’s Jolly Grant Airport (DED) serve the region. No direct flights connect these airports.

• Connecting flights:

  Common connections are via Delhi (DEL), with total travel time including layovers ranging from 4 to 7 hours.

• Ticket costs:

  Airfares vary widely, typically between ₹3,000 and ₹7,000 one-way depending on booking time and airline.

• Convenience:

  Flights save time but require transfers and additional local travel to/from airports, which are located outside city centers.

• Booking tips:

  Book early to get better fares and check baggage policies carefully. Use airline apps or portals like MakeMyTrip for best deals.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This simple itinerary helps first-time travelers plan their journey from Lucknow to Dehradun efficiently, minimizing stress and delays.

• Book your tickets in advance:

  Whether by train, bus, or flight, secure your tickets early through IRCTC, UPSRTC, or airline websites to avoid last-minute hassles.

• Reach the departure point early:

  Arrive at Lucknow Charbagh station or bus stand at least 30 minutes before departure to navigate crowds and find your platform or bus bay comfortably.

• Pack essentials:

  Carry water, snacks, and a power bank, especially for long train or bus journeys. Keep your ID and ticket handy for verification.

• Use local transport on arrival:

  At Dehradun Railway Station or airport, use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs like Ola and Uber for safe and reliable transfers to your accommodation.

• Plan for last-mile connectivity:

  If arriving late, pre-book a cab or check for hotel shuttle services to avoid waiting in unfamiliar areas.

• Stay informed about weather and road conditions:

  Check forecasts and traffic updates before starting your journey, especially during monsoon or winter fog seasons.

Practical Travel Tips

• Safety first:

  Always use authorized prepaid taxis or app-based cabs in Dehradun to avoid overcharging and ensure secure travel.

• Food and water:

  Carry bottled water and avoid street food during travel to prevent stomach issues. Opt for trusted dhabas or station eateries with good hygiene.

• Booking strategy:

  Use IRCTC for train tickets and official UPSRTC or reputed private portals for bus bookings. Avoid agents charging extra fees.

• Local commute in Dehradun:

  Auto-rickshaws are common but negotiate fares beforehand. Ola and Uber services are available and convenient for tourists.

• Luggage handling:

  Keep valuables close and avoid overpacking. Use lockable bags and carry a small daypack for essentials during local sightseeing.

• Seasonal travel warnings:

  Monsoon rains can cause roadblocks and delays, especially near hilly stretches. Winter fog may affect early morning travel.

Best Time & Conditions

The best time to travel from Lucknow to Dehradun depends on weather and traffic conditions. Avoiding peak hours and seasons ensures a smoother journey.

Summer and post-monsoon months are ideal for comfortable travel with pleasant weather in Dehradun. Winters can be cold with fog causing delays, while monsoon requires caution on roads.

• Avoid traveling during festival weekends like Diwali and Holi to escape heavy traffic and booked accommodations.

• Start early in the morning to bypass city traffic in Lucknow and reach Dehradun before evening.

• Check weather forecasts during monsoon (July-September) as landslides or roadblocks may occur near the hills.

• Winter fog (December-January) can reduce visibility on roads and rail tracks; plan accordingly with extra travel time.

Arrival at Dehradun & What to Expect

Dehradun Railway Station is centrally located, making it easy to access popular hotels and city attractions. The station has prepaid taxi counters and auto stands for convenient onward travel.

Jolly Grant Airport is about 25 km from the city center, with taxis and app-based cabs available. Nearby attractions include Robber's Cave, Sahastradhara, and the Forest Research Institute. Popular stay areas include Rajpur Road and Clock Tower vicinity.

Local buses and autos are plentiful but may be crowded during peak hours. For comfort and safety, prefer prepaid taxis or Ola/Uber rides, especially if arriving late in the day.

Conclusion

Among the options, train travel offers the best balance of cost, comfort, and convenience for most travelers between Lucknow and Dehradun. It provides a direct connection with reasonable travel time and multiple daily departures.

For those prioritizing speed, flights with a Delhi connection are faster but costlier and less direct. Road travel by bus or car is flexible and scenic but requires careful planning around weather and traffic. With this guide, you can confidently choose the mode that suits your needs and enjoy a smooth journey to the beautiful city of Dehradun.