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Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh to Rishikesh, Uttarakhand from $4: 3 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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from
Varanasi, India
to
Rishikesh, India

How to Get from Varanasi to Rishikesh: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$4 by trainBest price
711 kmDistance
3h 49m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Varanasi to Rishikesh with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
3h  49m
Estimated price
$84-188
Recommended
Company
Indian Railways
Train
Average Duration
18h  55m
Estimated price
$4-23
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 711 km
Duration: 3h 49m

See more options

Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
11h  41m
Estimated price
$90-140
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Traveling From Varanasi to Rishikesh

Journeying from Varanasi, with its vibrant spiritual energy and bustling ghats, to Rishikesh, renowned for its serene yoga retreats and soothing landscapes, offers a fascinating shift in atmosphere and adventure.

Best Neighbourhoods in Rishikesh

Rishikesh boasts charming neighborhoods, each offering a distinct vibe for travelers.

Laxman Jhula
• Famous for its iconic suspension bridge.
• Lively shops and cafes line the streets.
Swarg Ashram
• Known for its peaceful atmosphere and ashrams.
• A hub for yoga and meditation enthusiasts.
Tapovan
• Close to nature with stunning views of the Ganges.
• Offers numerous yoga retreats and wellness centers.

Best Times To Visit Rishikesh's Attractions

Timing your visit can enhance your experience at Rishikesh's key spots.

Triveni Ghat
Visit early morning for a tranquil atmosphere and beautiful views of the Ganges.
Laxman Jhula
Go in the late afternoon to enjoy sunset scenes without large crowds.
Swarg Ashram
Explore in the early evening to participate in peaceful Ganga Aarti rituals.

Rishikesh Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Rishikesh experiences a temperate climate with hot summers, cool winters, and a monsoon season that brings refreshing rain. The best times to visit are between October and March when the weather is pleasant, allowing for comfortable exploration and outdoor activities.

Dining Recommendation in Rishikesh

Try the local favorite, Aloo Paratha, served at the popular restaurant Chotiwala, where the flavors burst through with fresh ingredients and spices unique to the region. Unlike the street food of Varanasi, dining in Rishikesh offers a relaxed atmosphere, often accompanied by scenic views of the river and mountains, enhancing your culinary experience.

Varanasi - Rishikesh operators

Explore transport companies operating between Varanasi and Rishikesh, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Plane Show flights
Website
goindigo.in

Plane from Varanasi (VNS) to Dehra Dun (DED)

Average Duration
3h 51m
Estimated price
$70-840

Plane from Varanasi (VNS) to Dehra Dun (DED)

Average Duration
3h 49m
Estimated price
$80-190

Plane from Varanasi (VNS) to Dehra Dun (DED)

Average Duration
3h 49m
Estimated price
$80-190
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
14646
Website
indianrail.gov.in

Train from Varanasi Jn to Yog Nagari Rishikesh

Average Duration
18h 55m
Estimated price
$4-23

Varanasi to Rishikesh: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Varanasi and Rishikesh offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on a scenic journey from Varanasi to Rishikesh by car, spanning 497 miles of diverse landscapes and picturesque views. Enjoy a leisurely drive that takes approximately 11 hours and 41 minutes, filled with moments of adventure and tranquility. 💵 The cost of this road trip adventure ranges between $90 to $140, offering a budget-friendly option for travelers seeking an immersive experience through the heart of India. With varied price options, you can choose the one that best suits your preferences and travel style.
Average price
$90 - $140
🚂 Traveling from Varanasi to Rishikesh by train is a convenient option, with a direct train departing once daily from Varanasi Jn to Yog Nagari Rishikesh. The journey duration is approximately 18 hours and 55 minutes. 🌄 🛤️ Prices for the train journey between Varanasi and Rishikesh range from $4 to $23, offering a cost-effective way to reach the spiritual city of Rishikesh. Sit back, relax, and immerse yourself in the beautiful landscapes during this 18-hour adventure by rail. 🚞
Departure Point
Varanasi Jn station
Arrival Point
Yog Nagari Rishikesh station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard catering services vary depending on the train, but most trains from Varanasi to Rishikesh offer meal options for both vegetarian and non-vegetarian diets. You can expect snacks, lunch, or dinner provided either by catering partners or a pantry car service. It's advisable to check the specific service of your train on the Indian Railways website or through the railway catering partner, IRCTC, before your journey.
• The trains operating on this route typically offer several seating options, including Sleeper Class, AC 3 Tier, and AC 2 Tier. Sleeper Class is economical and quite popular, while AC 2 Tier and AC 3 Tier provide more comfort and air conditioning. If you're looking for a more comfortable ride, consider booking either AC 2 Tier or AC 3 Tier for a well-air-conditioned environment.
• Multiple operators run trains from Varanasi to Rishikesh, including Indian Railways (IRCTC). You can check schedules and book your tickets through their official site: irctc.co.in Other helpful links include checking local connections in Rishikesh at rishikeshtourism.org and reviewing station maps at indianrail.gov.in
🛫 Flying from Varanasi to Rishikesh involves a stopover as there are no direct flights between the two airports. The quickest route takes about 3 hours and 10 minutes. 🌄 Airlines such as Air India Limited, Vistara, and IndiGo offer flights from Varanasi Airport to Dehra Dun Airport, which is the closest airport to Rishikesh. The total travel time from Varanasi to Rishikesh by plane is approximately 3 hours and 49 minutes. 💸 The prices for flights between Rishikesh and Varanasi can range from $84 to $188, depending on the airline, time of booking, and availability of seats.
Departure Point
Varanasi Airport
Arrival Point
Dehra Dun Airport. The quickest flight takes 3h 10m and has one stopover
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Be prepared for a layover when traveling from Varanasi to Rishikesh; flights usually connect through Delhi, which can be busy, so plan to allow at least an hour for the transfer to your next flight.
• Upon arrival at Dehra Dun Airport, signposts in English will guide you to baggage claim and taxi services; expect to pay around ₹800 to ₹1200 for a taxi ride to central Rishikesh, and make sure to agree on the fare beforehand.
• For a smoother travel experience, check flight options from Varanasi via Air India, Vistara, and IndiGo on their respective websites; consider bringing snacks onboard, as meal options can be limited due to the short duration of the flights: Air India (airindia.in), Vistara (airvistara.com), and IndiGo (goindigo.in).

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Varanasi to Rishikesh.

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The distance between Varanasi and Rishikesh is approximately 442 miles, with a road distance of about 497.4 miles. Travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. It takes around 18 hours and 55 minutes to travel by train from Varanasi to Rishikesh, 4 hours and 9 minutes by plane, 11 hours and 41 minutes by car, and 24 hours and 13 minutes by bus.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Varanasi to Rishikesh is by train, with tickets costing between $4 and $23. However, this mode of transportation takes 18 hours and 55 minutes. If you are looking for a quicker option, flying is the best choice. Flight tickets cost between $80 and $190 and the journey takes only 4 hours and 9 minutes.
When traveling from Varanasi to Rishikesh, the prices for a train ticket can range from $4 to $23. Alternatively, if you choose to travel by bus from Rishikesh to Varanasi, the prices can range from $26 to $48. It is advisable to check with the specific train or bus operator for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.
To travel from Varanasi to Rishikesh without using public transportation, you can consider driving by car. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 497 miles, and it takes around 11 hours and 41 minutes to complete the journey. The approximate cost for the car ride ranges from $90 to $140.
The best way to travel from Varanasi to Rishikesh without a car is by train, which takes approximately 18 hours and 55 minutes and costs between $4 and $23. An alternative option is to take a flight, which takes about 4 hours and 9 minutes and costs between $80 and $190. Additionally, there is the option of taking a bus, which takes about 24 hours and 13 minutes and costs between $26 and $50.
Yes, there is a direct link between Varanasi and Rishikesh in India. Indian Railways operates a daily train service from Varanasi Jn to Yog Nagari Rishikesh, with a travel time of approximately 18 hours and 55 minutes. This provides a convenient and direct transportation option for travelers between these two cities.
The flight duration between Varanasi and Rishikesh typically takes around 3 hours and 30 minutes, including one stopover. However, it is important to note that there are no direct flights available between Varanasi Airport and Dehra Dun Airport. The cost of a flight between Rishikesh and Varanasi can range from $84 to $188, depending on various factors such as airline, booking class, and time of travel.
There are plenty of accommodation options available near Rishikesh with over 876 hotels to choose from. Prices for hotels start at $15 per night, making it possible to find affordable accommodation. Whether you are looking for luxury resorts, budget-friendly guesthouses, or backpacker hostels, there is something to suit every traveler's preference and budget in Rishikesh.

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