Mumbai, the bustling financial capital of India, lies on the west coast, while Dehradun, nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, is the capital city of Uttarakhand in northern India. This route is popular among tourists seeking a serene hill station getaway, students attending prestigious institutions, and business travelers connecting to northern India.

This guide covers all practical ways to travel from Mumbai to Dehradun, including train, bus, car, and flights. Whether you prefer scenic road trips, comfortable train journeys, or quick flights, you will find detailed insights and tips to plan your trip confidently.

Getting from Mumbai to Dehradun – Main Options

By Train

Train travel is a favored option for budget-conscious travelers and those who enjoy long-distance rail journeys. Mumbai and Dehradun are well connected by Indian Railways, offering several trains with varying travel times and comfort levels.

• Key stations:

  Trains depart from Mumbai’s major stations like Mumbai CST, LTT (Lokmanya Tilak Terminus), and Dadar, arriving at Dehradun Railway Station, centrally located in the city.

• Duration and distance:

  The rail distance is approximately 1,600 km, with journey times ranging from 28 to 36 hours depending on the train and route chosen. Ticket prices vary from ₹700 for sleeper class to ₹2,500+ for AC classes.

• Popular trains:

  The Dehradun Express and Nanda Devi Express are common choices, running daily or multiple times a week. These trains offer sleeper, 3AC, and 2AC coaches with catering services on board.

• Booking tips:

  Book tickets in advance via IRCTC or authorized agents, especially during peak tourist seasons like summer and winter holidays. Tatkal quota can be used for last-minute bookings but at a premium.

• Travel experience:

  Expect scenic views of the plains and gradual ascent towards the Himalayan foothills near Dehradun. Night travel is common; carry essentials for comfort and hydration.

• Challenges:

  Trains can be delayed by a few hours, especially during monsoon or foggy winters. Arriving early at the station helps avoid last-minute rush and confusion.

By Bus

Bus travel is less common for this long route but remains an option for budget travelers and those seeking direct road connectivity. Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) and private operators run buses connecting Mumbai to northern India, though direct Mumbai-Dehradun buses are rare.

• Route and distance:

  The road distance is about 1,700 km via NH 48 and NH 7, taking approximately 32 to 36 hours by bus depending on traffic and stops.

• Bus types:

  Private Volvo and deluxe AC buses operate on segments of this route, but a direct Mumbai to Dehradun bus is uncommon. Travelers often break the journey at Delhi or Haridwar and switch buses.

• Booking and fares:

  Tickets can be booked online on platforms like RedBus or directly at MSRTC counters. Prices range from ₹1,200 to ₹2,000 depending on bus type and operator.

• Comfort and frequency:

  Long-distance buses may be tiring; overnight buses are available but limited. Frequent stops and road conditions can affect travel time.

• Road conditions:

  NH 48 from Mumbai to Delhi is a well-maintained highway with tolls and rest stops. The stretch from Delhi to Dehradun includes hilly terrain with winding roads, requiring cautious driving.

• Travel tips:

  Break the journey into two legs if possible to avoid fatigue. Carry snacks and water, and check bus schedules carefully as timings may vary seasonally.

By Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Mumbai to Dehradun is ideal for those who enjoy road trips and want flexibility in stops and sightseeing. The route covers diverse landscapes from the western coast to the Himalayan foothills.

• Route details:

  The most common route is via NH 48 to Delhi, then NH 7 and NH 334 towards Dehradun, covering approximately 1,700 km. The drive takes around 30 to 35 hours without extended breaks.

• Road conditions:

  The Mumbai-Delhi stretch on NH 48 is a smooth, multi-lane expressway with toll plazas and plenty of fuel stations. The Delhi-Dehradun section involves hilly roads with sharp bends and occasional traffic jams near Haridwar.

• Stops and sightseeing:

  Popular stopovers include Surat, Vadodara, Udaipur, Jaipur, and Delhi. Near Dehradun, you can explore Rishikesh and Mussoorie en route.

• Vehicle and permits:

  Ensure your vehicle is serviced for a long journey. Carry valid driving license, vehicle registration, and pollution certificates. No special permits are needed for this interstate travel.

• Travel tips:

  Start early to avoid Mumbai and Delhi peak traffic. Avoid night driving in hilly areas due to fog and narrow roads. Use GPS and Indian highway apps like MapMyIndia for real-time updates.

• Fuel and tolls:

  Budget for tolls on NH 48 and NH 7, and plan fuel stops every 200-300 km. Many highway dhabas offer decent food and restrooms.

By Flight

Flying is the fastest and most convenient way to reach Dehradun from Mumbai, especially for business travelers and tourists with limited time. Dehradun’s Jolly Grant Airport connects to Mumbai with direct flights operated by multiple airlines.

• Airlines and frequency:

  Airlines like IndiGo, Air India, and SpiceJet operate daily direct flights between Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport and Dehradun’s Jolly Grant Airport.

• Flight duration and cost:

  The flight takes approximately 2.5 hours. Ticket prices range from ₹3,000 to ₹7,000 depending on booking time and season.

• Airport facilities:

  Jolly Grant Airport is about 25 km from Dehradun city center, with prepaid taxis and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber available for onward travel.

• Booking tips:

  Book flights early to get the best fares, especially during peak tourist seasons like summer and winter holidays. Use airline websites or aggregators like MakeMyTrip or Cleartrip.

• Travel tips:

  Arrive at Mumbai airport at least 2 hours before departure due to security and check-in procedures. Carry light luggage as smaller aircraft have strict baggage limits.

• Seasonal considerations:

  Flights may face delays during heavy fog in winter or monsoon storms, so keep buffer time if connecting to other transport.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This simple itinerary helps first-time travelers from Mumbai to Dehradun plan their journey efficiently, ensuring smooth transitions and comfort.

• Book your tickets early:

  Whether train, bus, or flight, secure your tickets at least 2-3 weeks in advance via IRCTC, airline websites, or bus portals to avoid last-minute price hikes and availability issues.

• Pack smartly:

  Carry layered clothing as Dehradun’s weather varies from warm days to cool nights. Include essentials like water bottles, snacks, chargers, and medicines for long journeys.

• Reach the departure point early:

  Arrive at Mumbai’s train station, bus stand, or airport at least 1-2 hours before departure to navigate crowds and security checks comfortably.

• Plan your local commute in Dehradun:

  Use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs from the airport or railway station. For budget travel, shared autos and local buses are available but less frequent.

• Keep emergency contacts handy:

  Save numbers for local taxi services, your accommodation, and emergency helplines. Also, have offline maps downloaded for areas with poor network.

• Stay hydrated and rested:

  Long journeys can be tiring; take breaks during road trips and stay hydrated. Avoid heavy meals before travel to prevent discomfort.

Practical Travel Tips

• IRCTC and ticketing:

  Use the official IRCTC website or app for train bookings to avoid scams. Check train running status on the day of travel for delays or cancellations.

• Food and water safety:

  Carry bottled water and avoid street food during travel. Opt for packaged snacks or meals from reputable dhabas or onboard catering.

• Local transport apps:

  Ola and Uber operate in Dehradun and Mumbai, offering safe and convenient rides. Prepaid taxis at airports and stations are reliable but negotiate fares beforehand if no meter is used.

• Luggage security:

  Keep valuables in carry-on bags and use lockable suitcases. Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded stations and bus stands.

• Seasonal travel advice:

  Monsoon rains can cause landslides near Dehradun; check weather updates before road travel. Winter fog may delay trains and flights; plan buffer time accordingly.

• Health precautions:

  Carry basic medicines for motion sickness and altitude adjustment. Avoid drinking tap water in Dehradun; stick to bottled water.

Best Time & Conditions

The Mumbai to Dehradun route experiences varied weather conditions, influencing travel comfort and safety. Planning your trip during favorable seasons enhances the experience.

Summer months (March to June) are ideal for visiting Dehradun, with pleasant weather and clear roads. Avoid peak festival weekends like Diwali and Holi to escape heavy traffic and fully booked accommodations.

• Avoid traveling during monsoon (July to September) due to slippery roads and potential landslides in hilly areas near Dehradun.

• Winter fog (December to February) can cause flight delays and reduced visibility on roads, so schedule extra time if traveling by air or road.

• Depart Mumbai early morning to avoid city traffic and reach Dehradun during daylight for safer road navigation.

• Plan train journeys during daytime if possible to enjoy scenic views and better station facilities.

Arrival at Dehradun & What to Expect

Dehradun welcomes travelers with its clean, green environment and a relaxed hill station vibe. The railway station and airport are well connected to the city center and nearby tourist spots.

Upon arrival, prepaid taxi counters and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber are available for hassle-free transfers to hotels or sightseeing locations. Local buses and shared autos offer budget options but may be crowded and less frequent.

Popular stay areas include Rajpur Road, Clock Tower, and near the railway station, offering easy access to markets, restaurants, and transport hubs. Nearby attractions like Mussoorie, Rishikesh, and Haridwar can be reached by local taxis or buses.

Conclusion

Among all options, flying from Mumbai to Dehradun is the most efficient and time-saving, especially for travelers with limited time. Direct flights offer convenience, comfort, and quick access to the city, making it ideal for business and leisure trips alike.

However, train travel provides an economical and scenic alternative for those who enjoy rail journeys, while self-driving allows exploration of diverse landscapes at your own pace. With proper planning and the tips shared here, you can confidently choose the best mode to reach Dehradun from Mumbai and enjoy a memorable trip.