Haridwar is a sacred city located in the northern Indian state of Uttarakhand. It lies on the banks of the Ganges River and is famous for its religious significance and vibrant festivals. Many travelers visit Haridwar for spiritual experiences, yoga retreats, and to witness the Ganga Aarti ceremony.

This guide explains the main ways to reach Haridwar from different parts of India. You will learn about train, bus, car, and flight options, along with practical travel tips to help you plan your journey comfortably and confidently.

Getting from Major Cities to Haridwar – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train to Haridwar is popular due to its convenience and affordability. The city is well connected to major Indian cities by direct trains, making it a preferred choice for many pilgrims and tourists.

• Haridwar Railway Station is the main railhead, located close to the city center, with good connectivity to Delhi, Dehradun, and Rishikesh. Trains run frequently, especially from Delhi, taking about 4 to 6 hours.

• Popular trains like the Jan Shatabdi and Shatabdi Express offer comfortable seating and faster travel times, with fares ranging from ₹200 to ₹800 depending on class and train type.

• Train services can get crowded during festivals like Kumbh Mela and Diwali, so booking tickets early through IRCTC or authorized agents is essential to avoid last-minute hassles.

• During monsoon season, occasional delays may occur due to track maintenance or weather conditions, so keep some buffer time in your schedule.

• Station facilities include prepaid taxi counters and auto-rickshaw stands for easy last-mile connectivity to hotels and ghats.

Bus

Buses are a cost-effective way to reach Haridwar, especially from nearby cities and towns. State-run and private buses operate regularly, catering to different budgets and comfort levels.

• Uttarakhand Transport Corporation (UTC) and private operators run buses from Delhi ISBT Anand Vihar, Dehradun, and Rishikesh to Haridwar, with journey times ranging from 4 to 7 hours depending on distance.

• Volvo and deluxe buses provide comfortable travel with air-conditioning, while ordinary buses are cheaper but less comfortable, suitable for budget travelers.

• Bus fares vary between ₹150 and ₹600, depending on the operator and bus type; tickets can be booked online or at bus depots.

• Traffic congestion near Haridwar, especially during weekends and festivals, can increase travel time, so plan your departure accordingly to avoid peak hours.

• Major bus stands in Haridwar include the Old Bus Stand near the railway station and the New Bus Stand on NH 58, both well connected to local transport options.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving to Haridwar offers flexibility and comfort, allowing you to explore nearby attractions at your own pace. The city is accessible via well-maintained national highways.

• Haridwar is connected by National Highway 58 (NH 58), linking it to Delhi (about 220 km) and Dehradun (about 54 km), with a typical drive time of 5 to 6 hours from Delhi depending on traffic.

• Self-drive car rentals and cab services like Ola Outstation and Uber are available in Delhi and Dehradun, offering convenient options for travelers who prefer private transport.

• Expect toll plazas on NH 58, with toll charges ranging from ₹100 to ₹300 depending on the vehicle type and route.

• Road conditions are generally good, but monsoon rains can cause occasional landslides and slippery patches near hilly sections, so drive cautiously during June to September.

• Rest stops with food and fuel are available along the highway, including popular dhabas offering North Indian cuisine, making breaks comfortable and enjoyable.

Flight

Haridwar does not have its own airport, but the nearest airports provide convenient access for travelers coming from distant cities.

• Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun is the closest airport, about 35 km from Haridwar, with regular flights from Delhi, Mumbai, and other major cities.

• From Dehradun Airport, you can hire prepaid taxis or book app-based cabs like Ola and Uber for a 1 to 1.5-hour drive to Haridwar, costing around ₹800 to ₹1,200.

• Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi is about 220 km away and offers more flight options; from here, you can take trains, buses, or drive to Haridwar.

• Flight fares vary widely depending on the season and booking time, so it is best to book tickets well in advance, especially during peak pilgrimage seasons.

• Keep in mind that road travel from airports to Haridwar can be affected by traffic, so plan your arrival time accordingly.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This step-by-step plan is designed for first-time travelers to Haridwar. It will help you organize your journey smoothly and avoid common pitfalls.

• Book your train or bus tickets early through official portals like IRCTC or state transport websites to secure seats, especially during festivals and holidays.

• Pack light but carry essentials like water bottles, snacks, and a power bank, as some journeys can be long and local shops may not be easily accessible en route.

• If traveling by car, check your vehicle’s condition, fuel level, and route on apps like Google Maps to avoid delays and find the best rest stops.

• Upon arrival at Haridwar railway station or bus stand, use prepaid taxi counters or trusted app-based cabs to reach your accommodation safely and at a fixed fare.

• Carry a printed or digital copy of your hotel booking and ID proof, as some guesthouses and ashrams require verification during check-in.

• Plan your daily local travel using cycle rickshaws, auto-rickshaws, or shared taxis, and always agree on fares beforehand to avoid overcharging.

Practical Travel Tips

• Haridwar is generally safe for travelers, but keep your belongings secure, especially in crowded places like Har Ki Pauri and local markets.

• Drink only bottled or boiled water to avoid stomach issues, and try local vegetarian food from reputable eateries to experience authentic flavors safely.

• Book train and bus tickets well in advance through IRCTC and official transport websites to avoid scams and last-minute unavailability.

• Use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs like Ola and Uber for local travel to ensure fair pricing and reliable service.

• Carry light luggage as many ghats and temples have steps and narrow paths, making heavy bags difficult to manage.

• During monsoon season, carry rain gear and avoid traveling at night on hilly roads due to slippery conditions and poor visibility.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to visit Haridwar is during the cooler months from October to March when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing and religious activities. Summers can be hot and humid, while monsoons bring heavy rains and occasional travel disruptions.

Festival periods like Kumbh Mela and Diwali attract large crowds, which can cause traffic jams and difficulty finding accommodation. Planning your trip outside these peak times can make your journey more comfortable.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals unless you want to experience the crowd and spiritual energy, as transport and accommodation get heavily booked.

• Monsoon rains from July to September can cause roadblocks and train delays, so check weather forecasts and travel advisories before planning your trip.

• Early morning departures from Delhi or Dehradun help avoid city traffic and ensure smoother travel to Haridwar.

• Winter mornings can be foggy, especially on highways, so drive carefully and allow extra travel time during December and January.

Arrival at Haridwar & What to Expect

When you arrive at Haridwar railway station or bus stand, you will find several transport options to reach your accommodation or the main pilgrimage sites. Prepaid taxi counters and auto-rickshaws are available outside the station, offering fixed fares to popular areas like Har Ki Pauri and the city center.

Many travelers prefer staying near Har Ki Pauri or the old city for easy access to temples and the Ganga Aarti. Budget guesthouses, ashrams, and hotels are plentiful, but booking in advance is recommended during peak seasons. Local buses and cycle rickshaws provide affordable options for short distances within the city.

Conclusion

Traveling to Haridwar is straightforward with multiple options to suit different budgets and preferences. Trains offer a balance of comfort and cost, while buses and self-drive cars provide flexibility. Flights to nearby airports add convenience for long-distance travelers.

Planning ahead by booking tickets early, choosing the right travel mode, and being aware of seasonal conditions will help you enjoy a smooth and memorable visit to this holy city. With the right preparation, you can confidently explore Haridwar’s spiritual and cultural richness without stress.