Travelers planning a trip to Rishikesh, the Yoga Capital of the World, often find themselves landing at Dehradun’s Jolly Grant Airport (DED). The journey from Dehradun Airport to Rishikesh is not just a transition from one destination to another—it’s a scenic drive through the foothills of the Himalayas that sets the tone for a spiritual and adventurous experience ahead.
In this detailed guide, we explore every essential detail a traveler needs to know about traveling from Dehradun Airport to Rishikesh, including transport options, taxi fares, timings, distances, and local tips for a seamless journey.
About Dehradun Jolly Grant Airport
Jolly Grant Airport (DED) is the primary airport serving Dehradun, Rishikesh, and Haridwar. Located approximately 21 kilometers from Rishikesh, it connects major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, and Ahmedabad via direct flights.
Airport Code: DED
Location: Airport Road, Jauligrant, Dehradun, Uttarakhand
Facilities: ATMs, Prepaid Taxi Booths, Wi-Fi, Lounge, Restrooms, Cafeteria
Airlines Operating: IndiGo, SpiceJet, Alliance Air, Vistara
Distance Between Dehradun Airport and Rishikesh
Total Distance: Approximately 20 to 22 kilometers
Travel Time by Road: Around 35 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic and time of day
Route: Dehradun Airport → Bhaniawala → Rishikesh via Rishikesh Road or Haridwar Road
The road condition is smooth and scenic, making this short trip extremely comfortable for solo travelers, families, and pilgrims alike.
Taxi Fare from Dehradun Airport to Rishikesh
Hiring a taxi is the most convenient and fastest option to reach Rishikesh. Below is the estimated fare chart based on the type of vehicle and route taken:
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Bus Services from Dehradun Airport to Rishikesh
There are no direct government or private buses from the airport itself. However, you can:
1. Take an auto or taxi to Rishikesh Road/Bhaniawala (about 5 km).
2. From there, board a shared auto or bus to Rishikesh ISBT.
Cost Estimate:
Auto to Bhaniawala – ₹100
Shared Bus – ₹50-₹100
This option is budget-friendly but might not be convenient for those with luggage or arriving at odd hours.
Shared Auto and Local Transport
Shared autos (Vikram, Tuk-Tuks) run frequently on the Dehradun-Rishikesh highway, especially during the day.
Fare: ₹50–₹70 per person
Availability: 7 AM to 8 PM
Pick-up Point: Outside the airport gate or nearby intersections
Shared autos are perfect for budget travelers, though comfort and space may be compromised.
3-Day Rishikesh-Haridwar Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival at Dehradun Airport – Transfer to Haridwar & Spiritual Tour
Morning
1. Arrival at Dehradun Jolly Grant Airport (DED)
2. Pickup by private cab and direct transfer to Haridwar (approx. 45–60 minutes drive)
3. Check-in to hotel near Har Ki Pauri
4. Freshen up and have breakfast
Midday
1. Visit Mansa Devi Temple via ropeway
2. Explore Chandi Devi Temple (use ropeway combo ticket)
3. Enjoy lunch at a local vegetarian restaurant
Evening
1. Attend the Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri, a divine spectacle on the Ganges
2. Walk along the ghats and explore the bustling local markets
Night
1. Dinner at Big Ben Restaurant or Hoshiyarpuri
2. Overnight stay in Haridwar
Day 2: Transfer to Rishikesh – Adventure & Ashrams
Morning
1. Early morning check-out and drive to Rishikesh (approx. 25 km / 45 min)
2. Check-in at hotel in Tapovan or Lakshman Jhula area
3. Breakfast at Pure Soul Cafe or Little Buddha Cafe
Midday
1. Visit iconic spots: Lakshman Jhula, Ram Jhula, and Gita Bhawan
2. Explore Parmarth Niketan Ashram for spiritual serenity
3. Optional visit to Beatles Ashram (Chaurasi Kutia) inside Rajaji National Park
4. Adventure lovers: Try river rafting (pre-booking required)
Evening
1. Attend the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat
2. Explore local markets for yoga accessories, rudraksha, and souvenirs
Night
1. Dinner at Chatsang Cafe or Freedom Cafe
2. Overnight stay in Rishikesh
Day 3: Morning Exploration & Drop-Off
Morning
1. Optional visit to Neelkanth Mahadev Temple (approx. 3–4 hour round trip)
2. Or enjoy morning yoga, meditation, or a walk by the Ganga ghats
3. Breakfast at hotel
Midday
1. Check-out from hotel
2. Shopping for Ayurvedic products, woollens, spiritual books
3. Drop-off at Dehradun Airport or Haridwar/Rishikesh railway station for return journey
Inclusions If Pickup is From Dehradun Airport
1. Airport pickup in private cab
2. Transfers between Dehradun Airport, Haridwar, and Rishikesh
3. All sightseeing covered by cab
4. Customizable drop location: Dehradun, Haridwar, or Rishikesh
Travel Tips for Rishikesh-Haridwar Journey
1. Best travel time: All Weather
2. Carry light woolens during winter
3. Book rafting in advance during peak season
4. Keep buffer time when returning to Dehradun Airport (1 hour travel)
5. All major mobile networks work well in Rishikesh & Haridwar
Places to Visit After Reaching Rishikesh
Once you arrive in Rishikesh, don’t miss the spiritual and adventure hotspots:
1. Lakshman Jhula & Ram Jhula
2. Parmarth Niketan Ashram
3. Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat
4. River Rafting & Bungee Jumping in Shivpuri
5. Beatles Ashram (Chaurasi Kutia)
Final Words
Whether you’re a pilgrim, an adventure seeker, or a peace lover, the journey from Dehradun Airport to Rishikesh is your first step toward serenity. With multiple travel options, affordable taxi services, and scenic routes, your transition is bound to be smooth and refreshing.
For the best experience, plan ahead, book your transport in advance, and enjoy the tranquil beauty that begins right from the airport road.
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