Jolly Grant Airport is located about 25 kilometers southeast of Dehradun city in Uttarakhand. It serves as the main airport for the region, connecting Dehradun to major Indian cities. Many travelers use this route to catch flights or arrive from the airport to Dehradun.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to travel from Dehradun to Jolly Grant Airport. You will learn about different transport options, travel times, fares, and useful tips to make your journey smooth and hassle-free.

Getting from Dehradun to Jolly Grant Airport – Main Options

Taxi

Taxis are the most popular and convenient way to reach Jolly Grant Airport from Dehradun. They offer door-to-door service and flexibility with luggage. Taxis are available throughout the day and night.

• Prepaid taxis are available at Dehradun city and railway station; fares range from ₹600 to ₹900 depending on the vehicle type and time of day.

• The journey covers about 25 km via NH 72 and takes roughly 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on traffic conditions.

• Ola and Uber cabs operate in Dehradun and can be booked via mobile apps; fares are similar to prepaid taxis but may surge during peak hours.

• Night travel may cost more due to higher taxi fares and limited availability; booking in advance is recommended for late flights.

• Taxi drivers usually wait at the airport arrival area, making return trips convenient for travelers landing at Jolly Grant Airport.

Bus

Buses are the cheapest way to reach Jolly Grant Airport but are less frequent and less comfortable than taxis. Suitable for budget travelers with light luggage.

• Local buses run from Dehradun ISBT (Inter State Bus Terminal) towards Jolly Grant area, but none go directly to the airport; you may need to take a shared auto or taxi for the last 5 km.

• Bus fares range from ₹30 to ₹50, making it an economical option for solo travelers or students.

• Bus frequency is limited, especially early morning and late evening; check timings in advance to avoid long waits.

• During monsoon season, buses may face delays due to slippery roads and occasional landslides on NH 72.

• Bus stops near the airport are not well marked; it is advisable to ask locals or the conductor about the nearest stop to the airport.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving yourself from Dehradun to Jolly Grant Airport gives you full control over your schedule and stops. The route is straightforward and well-maintained.

• The drive covers around 25 km via NH 72, taking about 45 minutes under normal traffic conditions.

• Parking is available at the airport for self-drive vehicles, but charges apply; check airport website for current rates.

• Fuel stations and rest stops are available along the highway, including popular spots near Raiwala and Premnagar.

• During peak tourist seasons, expect moderate traffic near Dehradun city and on the highway; plan extra time accordingly.

• Driving in foggy winter mornings can be challenging; use headlights and drive cautiously on the highway.

Flight

Since Jolly Grant Airport is the destination airport, flights are not applicable for this route. Travelers arriving at other airports like Delhi or Chandigarh must use ground transport to reach Dehradun and then Jolly Grant Airport.

• N/A for this route as Jolly Grant is the local airport serving Dehradun.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This step-by-step plan is designed for first-time travelers going from Dehradun city to Jolly Grant Airport. It covers preparation, booking, and travel tips to ensure a smooth journey.

• Step 1: Decide your mode of transport based on budget and convenience; taxis are best for comfort, buses for economy, and self-drive for flexibility.

• Step 2: If choosing taxi, book prepaid taxi counters at Dehradun railway station or use Ola/Uber apps to avoid overcharging and ensure reliable service.

• Step 3: For bus travelers, check the latest bus timings at Dehradun ISBT and plan to leave early to accommodate last-mile travel from bus stop to airport.

• Step 4: Pack your luggage considering the transport mode; taxis and self-drive allow more luggage, while buses require lighter bags for ease of boarding.

• Step 5: Leave at least 2 to 3 hours before your flight departure to account for traffic, check-in, and security at the airport.

• Step 6: On arrival at Jolly Grant Airport, follow signboards to the terminal, and use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs for onward travel into Dehradun city.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always confirm taxi fares before starting the journey to avoid being overcharged; prepaid taxi counters provide fixed rates for airport trips.

• Carry bottled water and light snacks if traveling by bus, as food options along the route are limited and stops are brief.

• Book your taxi or cab in advance during festival seasons like Diwali or Holi when demand spikes and availability drops.

• Use local auto-rickshaws cautiously for last-mile travel from bus stops to the airport; agree on fares beforehand to avoid disputes.

• Keep your luggage secure and avoid leaving valuables unattended, especially in crowded bus stands and taxi queues.

• Check weather forecasts before travel; heavy monsoon rains can cause roadblocks and delays on NH 72 leading to the airport.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Dehradun to Jolly Grant Airport depends on weather and traffic conditions. Avoiding peak hours and bad weather ensures a smoother journey.

Monsoon season from July to September can cause delays due to slippery roads and occasional landslides. Winter mornings may have fog, reducing visibility on the highway.

• Avoid traveling during early morning fog hours between November and January to reduce risk of accidents and delays.

• Festival periods like Navratri and Diwali see increased traffic on NH 72; plan extra travel time during these days.

• Mid-morning to early afternoon (9 AM to 3 PM) is usually the best time to travel with lighter traffic and better visibility.

• Monsoon months require checking weather updates and road conditions before starting your journey to avoid unexpected delays.

Arrival at Jolly Grant Airport & What to Expect

Upon arrival at Jolly Grant Airport, you will find a small but well-maintained terminal handling domestic flights. The airport is located in a semi-rural area with limited public transport options directly outside.

For onward travel into Dehradun city, prepaid taxis and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber are available at the airport exit. Auto-rickshaws are rare and not recommended for airport pickups. Nearby hotels and guesthouses are located mostly in Dehradun city, about 25 km away.

Conclusion

Traveling from Dehradun to Jolly Grant Airport is straightforward with several options to suit different budgets and preferences. Taxis offer the most comfort and convenience, while buses provide an economical choice for budget travelers. Self-driving is also feasible for those who prefer flexibility.

Planning your trip with attention to timing, booking your transport in advance, and preparing for seasonal weather will help ensure a smooth journey. With this guide, you can confidently reach Jolly Grant Airport from Dehradun without stress or confusion.