Traveling from Rishikesh to Kurukshetra is not just a journey between two cities it’s an experience that connects spirituality, history, and culture. Rishikesh, known as the Yoga Capital of the World, rests on the banks of the holy Ganga in Uttarakhand, while Kurukshetra in Haryana is famous as the legendary battlefield of the Mahabharata. The distance may not be too vast, but the journey unfolds incredible stories, diverse landscapes, and a unique spiritual vibe.
In this guide, we will explore everything you need to know about traveling from Rishikesh to Kurukshetra – including distance, travel options, timings, routes, attractions, and useful travel tips.
Rishikesh to Kurukshetra Distance
The distance from Rishikesh to Kurukshetra is approximately 180 kilometers, depending on the route you take. On average, the journey takes around 5.5 to 6.5 hours by road.
1. By Car/Taxi: Around 6 hours (via NH334 and NH44).
2. By Train: Travel time varies between 5 to 7 hours.
3. By Bus: Approximately 6 to 7 hours, depending on traffic.
Best Routes from Rishikesh to Kurukshetra
This is the most common and fastest route. The roads are well-maintained, and you will pass through major towns like Haridwar, Roorkee, and Karnal before reaching Kurukshetra.
2. Rishikesh – Haridwar – Saharanpur – Yamunanagar – Kurukshetra
This route is slightly longer but less crowded. It takes you through Saharanpur and Yamunanagar, giving a more scenic countryside drive.
How to Reach Kurukshetra from Rishikesh
1. By Road (Car or Taxi)
Hiring a private cab or self-driving is one of the best ways to travel from Rishikesh to Kurukshetra. The journey allows flexibility and comfort, with plenty of places to stop for meals or sightseeing.
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Estimated Fare (One-Way Taxi)
1. Sedan (Dzire/Etios): ₹3,500 – ₹4,500
2. SUV (Innova/Ertiga): ₹5,500 – ₹6,500
3. Tempo Traveller (12-seater): ₹8,500 – ₹9,500
2. By Bus
Both government (Haryana Roadways, Uttarakhand Transport) and private operators run buses between Rishikesh and Kurukshetra. You can choose from ordinary, semi-deluxe, or Volvo services.
Duration: 6–7 hours
Fare: ₹500 – ₹1,200 depending on bus type
3. By Train
There is no direct train from Rishikesh to Kurukshetra, but you can board a train from Haridwar Junction (just 20 km from Rishikesh). Several trains connect Haridwar to Kurukshetra, including passenger and express trains.
Average Travel Time: 5–7 hours
Fare: ₹250 (sleeper class) to ₹1,200 (AC class)
By Air
The nearest airport to Rishikesh is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (DED). However, there are no direct flights to Kurukshetra. The closest airport to Kurukshetra is Chandigarh Airport (IXC). This option requires multiple transfers and is not recommended.
Places to Visit in Kurukshetra
Kurukshetra is a spiritual and historical treasure trove. Once you arrive, there are several iconic attractions to explore.
1. Brahma Sarovar: A sacred water tank believed to have been created by Lord Brahma. Bathing here during solar eclipses is considered highly auspicious.
2. Jyotisar: The place where Lord Krishna delivered the Bhagavad Gita to Arjuna. A giant banyan tree still stands here.
3. Kurukshetra Panorama & Science Centre: A unique museum showcasing the Mahabharata battle through digital light and sound effects.
4. Sheikh Chilli’s Tomb: An architectural gem from the Mughal era with beautiful gardens.
5. Sthaneshwar Mahadev Temple: Dedicated to Lord Shiva, it holds immense mythological importance.
Places to Visit En Route from Rishikesh to Kurukshetra
Your journey from Rishikesh to Kurukshetra can also be turned into a sightseeing experience with stops at key attractions:
1. Haridwar: Famous for Har Ki Pauri Ghat and the evening Ganga Aarti.
2. Roorkee: Known for the historic Indian Institute of Technology (IIT Roorkee) and the Solani Aqueduct.
3. Karnal: Visit Karna Lake, associated with Karna from the Mahabharata.
4. Yamunanagar: Home to Kalesar National Park, perfect for nature lovers.
Rishikesh to Kurukshetra 5 Days / 4 Nights Trip Plan
Day 1: Rishikesh → Haridwar → Kurukshetra
Morning
1. Depart from Rishikesh around 6:00 AM.
2. Short stop at Haridwar (30 km, 1 hour) for darshan at Har Ki Pauri and breakfast.
En Route Stops
1. Quick break at Roorkee (visit Solani Aqueduct or IIT Roorkee Gate).
2. Lunch at a highway dhaba near Karnal.
Afternoon
1. Arrive in Kurukshetra (approx. 230 km, 6–7 hrs drive total).
2. Check-in to hotel and relax.
Evening
1. Visit Brahma Sarovar for sunset and evening aarti.
2. Overnight stay in Kurukshetra.
Day 2: Explore Spiritual Kurukshetra
Morning
1. Visit Jyotisar – the sacred spot where Lord Krishna gave the Bhagavad Gita.
2. Explore Sthaneshwar Mahadev Temple.
Afternoon
1. Head to Kurukshetra Panorama & Science Centre for Mahabharata exhibits.
2. Lunch at a local restaurant.
Evening
1. Visit Sheikh Chilli’s Tomb and nearby Mughal-style gardens.
2. Optional: Evening shopping in Kurukshetra’s local market.
3. Overnight stay in Kurukshetra.
Day 3: Kurukshetra → Karnal → Chandigarh
Morning
1. Check out from Kurukshetra and drive to Karnal (40 km, 1 hour).
2. Visit Karna Lake, associated with the warrior Karna from the Mahabharata.
3. Breakfast at a famous Murthal dhaba on the highway.
Afternoon
1. Continue journey to Chandigarh (120 km, 2.5 hrs).
2. Check-in to hotel and lunch.
Evening
1. Explore Sukhna Lake and take a boat ride.
2. Walk through Sector 17 Market for shopping and dinner.
3. Overnight stay in Chandigarh.
Day 4: Discover Chandigarh
Morning
1. Visit the world-famous Rock Garden created by Nek Chand.
2. Explore Rose Garden, one of Asia’s largest.
Afternoon
1. Visit Chandigarh Museum & Art Gallery or drive to Pinjore Gardens (20 km away).
2. Lunch at a cafe in Sector 35 or 22.
Evening
1. Return to hotel and relax or enjoy nightlife at Chandigarh restaurants.
2. Overnight stay in Chandigarh.
Day 5: Chandigarh → Rishikesh (Return Journey)
Morning
1. Check out and start early for Rishikesh (230 km, 6–7 hrs drive).
2. Breakfast en route at Karnal or Panipat.
Afternoon
1. Lunch near Roorkee or Haridwar.
Evening
Arrive in Rishikesh by 6–7 PM.
Food and Refreshment Stops on the Way
The highways connecting Rishikesh and Kurukshetra are filled with dhabas, cafe, and restaurants offering delicious North Indian cuisine.
1. Amrik Sukhdev Dhaba, Murthal – Famous for stuffed parathas and lassi.
2. Bikanervala, Karnal – Perfect for a family meal.
3. Local Dhabas near Roorkee & Saharanpur – Try fresh tandoori rotis and dal fry.
Travel Tips for Rishikesh to Kurukshetra Journey
1. Start Early Morning: To avoid traffic in Haridwar and Roorkee.
2. Book in Advance: Whether it’s bus tickets, trains, or cabs, pre-booking saves time and hassle.
3. Carry Essentials: Water, snacks, medicines, and cash as ATMs may be sparse in rural stretches.
4. Stay Options in Kurukshetra: Choose from budget hotels, guesthouses, or mid-range hotels near Brahma Sarovar.
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