Distance & Travel Time:
The distance from Varanasi to Rishikesh is approximately 800–820 km, and the travel time varies between 14 to 16 hours, depending on the mode of transport and road conditions.

Travel Options

1. By Air (Fastest Option)

• The nearest airport to Rishikesh is Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun), approximately 21 km away.
• Direct flights are not available from Varanasi to Dehradun, but connecting flights operate via Delhi or Lucknow.
• Total travel time (including layovers) is around 4 to 6 hours, followed by a short 45-minute drive to Rishikesh.

2. By Train (Economical & Comfortable)

• There is no direct train from Varanasi to Rishikesh. However, trains are available to Haridwar Junction, which is 25 km from Rishikesh.
• Some popular trains on this route include:
  • Doon Express (13009) – Overnight journey (approx. 18 hours).
  • Kashi Vishwanath Express (15127) – Takes around 20 hours.
• From Haridwar, taxis, buses, and auto-rickshaws are available for the final stretch to Rishikesh.

3. By Road (Scenic & Adventurous)

• Route: Varanasi → Prayagraj → Kanpur → Lucknow → Bareilly → Haridwar → Rishikesh.
• Total Distance: Around 800 km.
• Travel Time: Approximately 14–16 hours by private vehicle.
• Bus Services: Private and government buses operate between Varanasi and Haridwar. From Haridwar, local transport is available to Rishikesh.

Best Time to Visit

• The ideal time to travel is between September and April, as the weather is pleasant.
• The monsoon season (July–August) can make road travel challenging due to heavy rainfall.

Key Attractions in Rishikesh

• Triveni Ghat – Sacred bathing spot and Ganga Aarti.
• Lakshman Jhula & Ram Jhula – Iconic suspension bridges.
• The Beatles Ashram – A spiritual retreat with artistic graffiti.
• Neelkanth Mahadev Temple – A revered Hindu temple.
• Adventure Activities – River rafting, bungee jumping, and trekking.

Conclusion

Varanasi to Rishikesh offers multiple travel options catering to different budgets and preferences. Whether you prefer the speed of air travel, the comfort of trains, or the scenic beauty of a road trip, each mode provides a unique experience.