Haridwar is a sacred city located in the northern state of Uttarakhand, known for its spiritual significance and the famous Ganga Aarti. Delhi, the national capital, lies about 220 kilometers southwest of Haridwar, making this route a popular journey for pilgrims, tourists, and weekend travelers.

This guide will help you understand the main transport options from Delhi to Haridwar, including trains, buses, cars, and flights. You will also find a step-by-step travel plan, practical tips, and advice on the best time to travel to make your trip smooth and enjoyable.

Getting from Delhi to Haridwar – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train is one of the most popular and convenient ways to reach Haridwar from Delhi. Trains connect major stations and offer a comfortable journey with scenic views.

• Haridwar Railway Station is well connected to Delhi’s New Delhi (NDLS), Old Delhi (DLI), and Anand Vihar Terminal (ANVT) stations, with direct trains running frequently throughout the day.

• The journey by train typically takes between 4.5 to 6 hours, covering approximately 220 km, with fares ranging from ₹150 for sleeper class to ₹600 for AC classes depending on the train.

• Popular trains include the Jan Shatabdi Express, Shatabdi Express, and Mussoorie Express, which offer good frequency and comfort, especially during weekends and festivals.

• Booking tickets in advance through IRCTC or authorized agents is recommended, as trains can get fully booked during peak seasons like Kumbh Mela or religious holidays.

• Trains are generally punctual but can face delays during the monsoon season due to track maintenance or fog in winter mornings, so plan accordingly.

• At Haridwar station, prepaid taxi counters and auto-rickshaws are available for last-mile connectivity to hotels or the ghats.

Bus

Bus travel is a budget-friendly and flexible option for reaching Haridwar from Delhi. Both government and private buses operate on this route with varying comfort levels.

• Delhi’s ISBT Kashmiri Gate is the main departure point for buses heading to Haridwar, with frequent services from early morning till late evening.

• The distance of about 220 km is covered in 5 to 7 hours depending on traffic and bus type, with fares ranging from ₹200 to ₹600 for ordinary to deluxe AC buses.

• State-run buses by Uttarakhand Transport Corporation and private operators offer Volvo, deluxe, and non-AC buses, with Volvo buses preferred for comfort on this route.

• Traffic congestion on NH 334 and NH 44 can cause delays, especially during weekends and festival seasons, so plan extra travel time.

• Rest stops with food stalls and washrooms are available on the highway, but quality varies, so carry water and snacks for convenience.

• At Haridwar bus stand, shared autos and cycle rickshaws are common for local travel, but prepaid taxis or app-based cabs like Ola and Uber provide safer and more reliable options.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Delhi to Haridwar offers flexibility and the chance to explore en route. The route is well connected by national highways and has good road infrastructure.

• The distance of around 220 km via NH 334 and NH 44 can be covered in 4 to 5 hours depending on traffic, with tolls at multiple plazas along the way costing approximately ₹150 to ₹250.

• Driving allows you to stop at popular places like Meerut or Roorkee for refreshments or sightseeing, making the journey more enjoyable.

• Fuel costs for a one-way trip typically range between ₹1,200 to ₹1,800 depending on your vehicle’s mileage and fuel prices.

• Road conditions are generally good, but monsoon rains can cause slippery patches and occasional waterlogging, so drive cautiously during July to September.

• Parking near Haridwar’s main ghats and temples can be challenging during festivals; it’s advisable to park in designated lots or your hotel’s parking area.

• Using GPS navigation apps like Google Maps helps avoid traffic jams and find alternate routes, especially during peak travel times or road works.

Flight

There is no direct flight between Delhi and Haridwar, as Haridwar does not have a commercial airport. The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, about 35 km from Haridwar.

• From Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL), you can take a flight to Dehradun Airport, which takes about 1 hour, with fares ranging from ₹2,000 to ₹5,000 depending on the airline and booking time.

• After arriving at Dehradun Airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Haridwar, which takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours covering around 35 km.

• Flights are limited and may not be daily, so check schedules and book in advance to avoid last-minute hassles.

• This option is suitable for travelers who want to save time on the Delhi to Dehradun leg and don’t mind the additional road journey to Haridwar.

• Taxi fares from Dehradun Airport to Haridwar typically range from ₹800 to ₹1,200, and shared cabs or buses are cheaper but less convenient.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This step-by-step plan is designed for first-time travelers from Delhi to Haridwar to help you organize your trip smoothly and avoid common pitfalls.

• Decide your preferred mode of transport based on budget, comfort, and time. Train travel is recommended for comfort and reliability, while buses are budget-friendly, and driving offers flexibility.

• Book your train or bus tickets online in advance via IRCTC or official bus portals to secure seats, especially during weekends and festival seasons when demand is high.

• Pack light but carry essentials like water, snacks, and a power bank. If traveling by train or bus, keep your tickets and ID handy for verification during the journey.

• Arrive at the departure station or bus terminal at least 30 minutes early to avoid last-minute rush and find your platform or bus easily.

• On arrival at Haridwar, use prepaid taxi counters or app-based cabs like Ola and Uber for safe and transparent local travel to your accommodation or sightseeing spots.

• Keep local emergency numbers and hotel contact details saved on your phone, and inform someone about your travel plan for added safety.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always carry a bottle of purified water and avoid drinking tap water to prevent stomach issues, especially when traveling by bus or train where food hygiene can vary.

• Use official ticket booking platforms like IRCTC for trains and government bus websites to avoid scams and inflated prices common with unauthorized agents.

• During peak pilgrimage seasons, book accommodations and transport well in advance to avoid last-minute price hikes and unavailability.

• For local travel in Haridwar, prefer prepaid taxis or app-based cabs over shared autos to ensure safety and fair pricing, especially after dark.

• Pack light luggage that is easy to carry through crowded stations and bus stands, and keep valuables close to you to avoid theft or loss.

• Be cautious during monsoon months as roads can be slippery and some bus services may be delayed; carry rain gear and check weather updates before traveling.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Delhi to Haridwar depends on weather and crowd conditions. Winters and early spring offer pleasant weather, while monsoon and summer can be challenging.

Festival seasons like Kumbh Mela and Diwali attract large crowds, causing traffic jams and fully booked transport, so plan accordingly.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals and weekends if you prefer less crowded trains and roads, as these periods see heavy pilgrim influx.

• Monsoon season (July to September) can cause road delays and slippery conditions, making train travel safer and more reliable during this time.

• Winter mornings may have dense fog causing train and road delays; mid-morning departures are preferable for smoother travel.

• Early morning or late evening departures help avoid Delhi’s peak traffic, especially when traveling by road.

Arrival at Haridwar & What to Expect

Haridwar Railway Station and bus stand are well connected to the city center and popular pilgrimage sites. Upon arrival, you will find several local transport options to reach your accommodation or the ghats.

Prepaid taxi counters and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber operate from the station and bus stand, offering safe and transparent fares. Shared autos and cycle rickshaws are available but can be crowded and less reliable.

Popular areas to stay include near Har Ki Pauri, the main ghat, and the city center, which are within easy reach of transport hubs. Many hotels offer pick-up services on request, which can be convenient for first-time visitors.

Be prepared for busy crowds during morning and evening aarti times, and plan your local travel accordingly to avoid delays.

Conclusion

Traveling from Delhi to Haridwar is straightforward with multiple transport options to suit different budgets and preferences. Trains offer a balance of comfort, speed, and affordability, making them the most efficient choice for most travelers. Buses and self-drive options provide flexibility but require more planning for traffic and road conditions.

Booking tickets in advance, traveling during off-peak hours, and using prepaid or app-based local transport in Haridwar will ensure a smooth and safe journey. With proper planning and awareness of seasonal factors, you can confidently enjoy your trip to this sacred city and experience its spiritual charm without hassle.