How to get from New Delhi to Haridwar

India · Religious & Pilgrimage · Urban & Cultural · Haridwar · India · New Delhi

From the bustle of New Delhi to the sacred ghats of Haridwar, this guide walks you through every realistic way to travel between the two, from budget buses to comfy trains and private cars.

At A Glance (New Delhi to Haridwar)

Mode Duration Best For
🚆 Train (New Delhi / Hazrat Nizamuddin → Haridwar Jn) ~3.5–6h (train & season-dependent) Most travellers; comfort, speed & value
🏷️ Cost: ~INR 150–1,000 one-way (unreserved → AC chair/3A). » compare train options | book on IRCTC (official)
🚌 Government & Private Bus (Delhi ISBT / Anand Vihar → Haridwar) ~5–7h (traffic-dependent) Late-night departures, budget travellers
🏷️ Cost: ~INR 300–1,400 (non-AC → Volvo/AC sleeper). » UTC government buses | compare Delhi–Haridwar buses
🚖 Private Taxi / Car with Driver (Door-to-door) ~4.5–6.5h by road Families, groups, lots of luggage
🏷️ Cost: Roughly INR 4,000–8,000 per car one-way depending on vehicle and date. » prebook long-distance transfer | Delhi airport & city pickups
🚗 Self-drive Car or Motorcycle (NH334) ~5–7h (including breaks) Confident drivers wanting flexibility
🏷️ Cost: From ~INR 2,500–4,000/day for car rental (fuel extra). » car rental near Delhi airport | compare motorcycle rentals
✈️ Flight via Dehradun (DEL → DED) + Road to Haridwar ~1h flight + 1–1.5h road transfer Those already flying into/out of Delhi
🏷️ Cost: Flight ~INR 3,000–6,000 + INR 1,500–3,000 taxi. » search Delhi–Dehradun flights | prebook airport transfers
🕉️ Organised Day Tour / Multi-day Trip (Delhi ↔ Haridwar) Long day (14–18h) or 2–4 days Hands-off planning, guided experience
🏷️ Cost: From ~INR 4,000–10,000+ per person depending on inclusions. » see Haridwar & Rishikesh tours | Haridwar/Rishikesh trips from Delhi

Which Option or Route Should You Choose?

How to Book and Practical Tips

  • Book trains early: Popular express trains to Haridwar fill up fast, especially on weekends and during pilgrimage seasons. Create an account and book directly on IRCTC, or use an easier interface via 12Go Asia if you’re happy to pay a small service fee.
  • Choose the right train class: For daytime trips, AC Chair Car (CC) or 2nd Sitting (2S) are good value. For overnight or very early departures, AC 3‑tier (3A) or Sleeper (SL) can be more comfortable if available.
  • Use official bus portals for government buses: For safer, regulated buses, check timetables and book seats on the Uttarakhand Transport Corporation (UTC) portal or the UPSRTC site. You can also compare government and private buses using multi‑operator platforms like 12Go.
  • Compare private taxis and transfers: For door‑to‑door comfort, especially with family or big luggage, compare fixed‑price quotes on GetTransfer or Welcome Pickups, and also check approximate fares on ride‑hailing apps (Uber, Ola) within Delhi.
  • Consider self‑drive only if you’re confident: Traffic exiting Delhi and on NH334 can be hectic. If you’re comfortable, rent a car through services such as Booking.com Car Rentals and, for two‑wheelers, international platforms like BikesBooking combined with local Indian bike‑rental brands.
  • Store extra luggage safely: If you’re doing a quick side‑trip to Haridwar and don’t want to haul big bags, you can use luggage‑storage networks in Delhi, for example around New Delhi Railway Station via Radical Storage, and then travel light.
  • Monsoon & festival buffer time: In monsoon (roughly July–September) and during big festivals or Kumbh‑related events, road and rail traffic can be slower or crowded. Build in extra buffer time if you have a same‑day flight or onward train.
  • Always confirm departure points: Delhi has multiple railway stations and bus terminals; double‑check whether your service leaves from New Delhi (NDLS), Old Delhi (DLI), Hazrat Nizamuddin (NZM), Anand Vihar, Kashmere Gate ISBT, or another point before you set out.

🚆 Option #1 — Train (Fast, Comfortable, Very Popular)

Great value Frequent departures Advance booking needed

  • Overview: Direct trains run from New Delhi (NDLS), Old Delhi (DLI) and Hazrat Nizamuddin (NZM) to Haridwar Junction (HW). Fast express trains can take around 3.5–5h, while slower passenger trains may take up to ~6h.
  • How to book (with price): Standard reserved fares are roughly INR 150–300 for 2S/Sleeper and INR 400–1,000 for AC classes (CC/3A/2A). Book directly through IRCTC, via the official apps, or use a user‑friendly interface like 12Go that shows multiple trains and classes in one place.
  • Pros: Comfortable, relatively quick, safer than buses at night, toilets on board, and you avoid road traffic jams.
  • Cons: Tickets can sell out early in peak seasons; station platforms can be crowded; very early‑morning or late‑night departures may be less convenient for families.

Step-by-step: Train from New Delhi to Haridwar

  1. Pick your station and train: Check which station is most convenient (NDLS is central and connected by metro; NZM is handy for south/central Delhi). On IRCTC or 12Go, search for trains between “New Delhi” or “Delhi” and “Haridwar Jn” for your preferred date and time.
  2. Choose class and seat/berth: For daytime trains, AC Chair Car (CC) or 2nd Sitting (2S) is usually ideal. For early‑morning or overnight options, consider Sleeper (SL) or AC 3‑tier (3A) for more comfort.
  3. Book your ticket: Register and pay on IRCTC (cards, UPI, wallets) or pay through 12Go using international cards if you don’t have Indian payment methods.
  4. Travel to the station: Use Delhi Metro, auto‑rickshaws, or cabs (Uber/Ola, hotel taxis, or prebooked transfers) to reach your departure station at least 30–45 minutes before departure, a bit earlier in busy seasons.
  5. Board the train: Check the electronic boards for your coach position and platform. Coaches are marked on the side; find your seat or berth and settle in with water and snacks.
  6. Arrival in Haridwar: At Haridwar Junction, follow signs for the main exit. Auto‑rickshaws and cycle rickshaws are available just outside for rides to Har Ki Pauri, hotels and ashrams, or prearrange a hotel pickup using platforms like Booking.com Hotels or Trip.com.

Getting to the main embarking points (New Delhi / Old Delhi / Hazrat Nizamuddin)

  • By Delhi Metro: For New Delhi Railway Station, use the Yellow Line (New Delhi station) or Airport Express (New Delhi). For Old Delhi, use Chandni Chowk or Kashmere Gate. Hazrat Nizamuddin is reachable via the Pink Line (Hazrat Nizamuddin station) then a short auto‑rickshaw ride.
  • By auto‑rickshaw or taxi: From most central neighbourhoods, autos and prepaid taxis know the railway stations well. Agree on a fare in advance for autos, or use the meter where enforced.
  • By ride‑hailing app: Use Uber or Ola to get a live fare estimate and GPS navigation. This can be easier with luggage and during odd hours.
  • Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚌 Option #2 — Government & Private Buses (Budget-Friendly, Many Departures)

Low cost 24/7 departures Road traffic dependent

  • Overview: Frequent buses run from Delhi (mainly Kashmere Gate ISBT and Anand Vihar) to Haridwar throughout the day and night. You can choose between government buses (UTC/UPSRTC) and a wide range of private non‑AC, AC, sleeper and Volvo coaches.
  • How to book (with price): Expect roughly INR 300–600 for non‑AC and INR 700–1,400 for AC Volvo/sleeper coaches. For government buses, book via the Uttarakhand Transport Corporation portal or UPSRTC. To compare many operators, you can also check Delhi–Haridwar buses on 12Go.
  • Pros: Very frequent, many night options, cheap seats, and a wide range of comfort levels.
  • Cons: Slower and less comfortable than trains on bumpy stretches; night buses may be tiring; some private buses have variable safety and punctuality standards, so check reviews.

Step-by-step: Bus from Delhi to Haridwar

  1. Choose your terminal and bus type: Most government and many private buses leave from Kashmere Gate ISBT or Anand Vihar ISBT. Decide if you prefer a day bus (more scenic, safer for nervous travellers) or a night bus (saves a night’s accommodation).
  2. Book tickets: For UTC government services, search and book seats on the official UTC online portal. To compare multiple private and government operators, check aggregators like 12Go Asia and similar multi‑operator sites.
  3. Arrive early: Reach the bus terminal at least 30–45 minutes before departure. Terminals can be busy; allow extra time to find the correct platform or bay.
  4. Keep essentials handy: Carry water, snacks, a light jacket (AC buses can be cool), and any medication. On overnight services, bring an eye mask and earplugs.
  5. Arrival in Haridwar: Buses usually drop you at the main bus stand, from where autos and e‑rickshaws can take you to Har Ki Pauri or your hotel/ashram.

Getting to the main embarking points (Kashmere Gate ISBT / Anand Vihar)

  • By metro: Take the Red Line or Yellow Line to Kashmere Gate for ISBT; the station is directly connected. For Anand Vihar ISBT, use the Blue Line (Anand Vihar) and follow signs to the bus terminal.
  • By taxi or ride‑hailing: Book an Uber or Ola, or use local taxis/prepaid cabs from your hotel. Factor in peak‑hour traffic, as reaching the terminals can take longer during rush hours.
  • By auto‑rickshaw: Shorter hops from nearby neighbourhoods can be done by auto; agree the fare before the ride.
  • Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚖 Option #3 — Private Taxi / Car with Driver (Door-to-Door Comfort)

Door-to-door Flexible timing Higher cost

  • Overview: A private taxi or car with driver picks you up from your hotel, home or Delhi Airport and drops you directly at your hotel or ashram in Haridwar. The usual driving time is around 4.5–6.5 hours depending on traffic and breaks.
  • How to book (with price): A one‑way sedan from Delhi to Haridwar typically costs roughly INR 4,000–8,000 depending on car type, date, and operator. Compare quotes and prebook via GetTransfer or similar services, or arrange an airport/city pickup using Welcome Pickups in Delhi. As an alternative, check fare estimates on ride‑hailing apps like Uber and Ola for part or all of the route.
  • Pros: Maximum comfort and privacy, no need to navigate stations or bus stands, and easier with children, elderly travellers, or heavy luggage.
  • Cons: The most expensive surface‑transport option; you’ll still be affected by road traffic and possible congestion near Meerut and Roorkee.

Step-by-step: Private Car or Taxi from Delhi to Haridwar

  1. Decide pickup point and time: Choose whether you want to leave from your hotel, a central landmark, or directly from Delhi Airport. Early morning departures often avoid the worst traffic.
  2. Compare providers and book: On GetTransfer, enter Delhi as your pickup and Haridwar as your destination, then compare vehicles and prices. If you prefer, arrange a tailored airport or city transfer via Welcome Pickups, or check long‑distance cab options shown by ride‑hailing apps.
  3. Confirm route and inclusions: Make sure the quote includes tolls, state taxes and parking, and clarify any waiting‑time or night‑surcharge policies.
  4. Enjoy the drive: The main route follows NH334 past Meerut and Roorkee. Plan rest stops at dhabas for chai and meals; carry snacks and water if you prefer fewer stops.
  5. Arrival in Haridwar: Ask the driver to drop you as close as possible to your accommodation or to Har Ki Pauri if you’re staying nearby or visiting the evening aarti.

Getting to the main embarking points (Your Hotel / Delhi Airport)

  • From Delhi hotels: Your driver will usually collect you from the lobby; confirm the time and share live location if needed.
  • From Delhi Airport (DEL): Meet your prebooked driver in the arrivals area with a name board, or use airport pickup options via long‑distance transfer platforms and ride‑hailing apps. If you’re landing late at night, confirm that the operator is comfortable driving overnight to Haridwar.
  • Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚗 Option #4 — Self-drive Car or Motorcycle (Scenic & Flexible)

Flexible Scenic route For confident drivers

  • Overview: Driving yourself from Delhi to Haridwar (around 220–230 km by the usual NH334 route) lets you stop where you like and explore en route. Expect 5–7h including fuel and food stops.
  • How to book (with price): Self‑drive rental cars around Delhi generally start from about INR 2,500–4,000 per day (plus fuel and deposits). Compare offers around the city and airport on Booking.com Car Rentals. For motorcycles/scooters, look at global platforms like BikesBooking alongside local Indian rental brands.
  • Pros: Maximum freedom over departure time and stops, great for pairing Haridwar with nearby destinations like Rishikesh or Rajaji National Park.
  • Cons: Indian highways can be stressful if you’re not used to local driving; you must watch for trucks, animals, and unexpected obstacles, especially at night or in fog.

Step-by-step: Self-drive from Delhi to Haridwar

  1. Arrange your vehicle: Reserve a car or bike in advance, ensuring you have the correct licence (and International Driving Permit if required). Confirm insurance, daily kilometre limits and deposit rules.
  2. Plan your route: Most travellers follow NH334 via Meerut and Roorkee. Save offline maps from Google Maps or OpenStreetMap in case of patchy mobile data.
  3. Time your departure: Leaving early in the morning helps avoid heavy traffic leaving Delhi and around Meerut.
  4. Drive cautiously: Keep to reasonable speeds, watch for speed breakers and local traffic, and avoid night driving if you’re not experienced with Indian roads.
  5. Park safely in Haridwar: Many central guesthouses have limited parking; confirm parking availability when you book your stay through sites like Booking.com Hotels or Trip.com.

Getting to the main embarking points (Car/Bike Rental Locations)

  • From the airport: Many rental desks are clustered around Delhi Airport; follow signs or prebook and have the provider meet you at arrivals.
  • From central Delhi: Some providers will deliver the vehicle to your hotel (for a fee), or you can pick up from their city office using metro, taxi or auto‑rickshaw.
  • Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

✈️ Option #5 — Flight via Dehradun + Road to Haridwar

Good for flight connections Avoids some road time Usually higher cost

  • Overview: Although Delhi–Haridwar isn’t far by road, you might prefer to fly if you’re already at Delhi Airport or connecting from another flight. You fly from Delhi (DEL) to Dehradun’s Jolly Grant Airport (DED), then take a taxi the ~40 km to Haridwar.
  • How to book (with price): One‑way Delhi–Dehradun economy fares commonly start around INR 3,000–6,000 depending on season and airline. Search and compare on Booking.com Flights or similar flight portals. A taxi from Jolly Grant Airport to Haridwar usually costs roughly INR 1,500–3,000; you can prebook via GetTransfer or arrange a cab on arrival.
  • Pros: Useful if you’re combining Haridwar with other destinations in Uttarakhand or if road conditions are poor.
  • Cons: More expensive and not necessarily faster door‑to‑door than a direct train, once airport transfers and check‑in time are included.

Step-by-step: Flight via Dehradun

  1. Book your flight: On Booking.com Flights or your preferred platform, search for Delhi (DEL) to Dehradun (DED) and pick flights with comfortable connection times.
  2. Plan your airport transfer in Dehradun: Prebook a car with GetTransfer, or be ready to hire a taxi from the airport taxi counter for the drive to Haridwar.
  3. Fly and connect: After landing, collect your bags, meet your driver, and drive the final stretch to Haridwar (about 1–1.5h depending on traffic).
  4. Check in and explore: Once you reach Haridwar, drop your bags at your hotel and head to the ghats or temples in time for the evening Ganga Aarti if possible.

Getting to the main embarking points (Delhi Airport / Jolly Grant Airport)

  • Reaching Delhi Airport (DEL): Use the Airport Express Metro line from New Delhi station, prebooked transfers like Welcome Pickups, or app‑based cabs (Uber, Ola).
  • From Dehradun Airport (DED) to Haridwar: Walk to the taxi area or meet your prebooked driver and follow the main road towards Haridwar; the drive is relatively straightforward.
  • Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🕉️ Option #6 — Organised Tour from Delhi (Guided & Hassle-free)

Guided experience Door-to-door Less schedule freedom

  • Overview: Many operators offer same‑day or 2–4‑day private tours from Delhi that include transport, sightseeing in Haridwar (and often Rishikesh), and a guide. Transport is usually by private car or minivan.
  • How to book (with price): Expect prices starting around INR 4,000–10,000+ per person depending on group size and inclusions. Browse reviews and itineraries on providers like GetYourGuide and Klook.
  • Pros: No need to plan transfers or timings yourself; includes commentary from a guide, hotel pickup and drop‑off, and curated stops.
  • Cons: Less flexibility; you follow the tour schedule, and it may be pricier than planning simple train or bus journeys yourself.

Step-by-step: Joining an organised tour

  1. Compare itineraries: Decide whether you want a long day trip or a more relaxed 2–4‑day tour that includes Haridwar and Rishikesh. Check inclusions (meals, entry fees, aarti visits) and cancellation policies.
  2. Book online: Reserve your preferred tour date on a platform like GetYourGuide or Klook, and confirm pickup location/time.
  3. Meet your driver/guide: Be ready in your hotel lobby or at the agreed meeting point at the scheduled time; most tours leave Delhi early in the morning.
  4. Enjoy the sights: Sit back while your guide and driver handle logistics from Delhi to Haridwar and back, usually with time for the Ganga Aarti and major temples.

Getting to the main embarking points (Hotel Pickup / Central Meeting Points)

  • Hotel pickups: Most premium tours collect you from central Delhi hotels; confirm if pickups from Aerocity or Gurgaon are included or charge extra.
  • Central meeting points: If your tour uses a common meeting point, use metro, taxi or ride‑hailing apps to reach there 15–20 minutes before departure.
  • Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

FAQ (New Delhi to Haridwar)

How long does it take to travel from New Delhi to Haridwar?
Most direct trains take around 3.5–5 hours, while buses and cars usually need about 5–7 hours depending on traffic and roadworks. If you fly from Delhi to Dehradun and then drive, expect roughly 3–4 hours total including transfers.

What is the cheapest way to get from New Delhi to Haridwar?
The cheapest realistic options are government or basic private buses and lower‑class train tickets. Non‑AC buses and 2S/Sleeper class train tickets can often be found in the INR 300–600 range if booked in advance.

What is the most comfortable way to travel?
For most travellers, a reserved seat on an express train in AC Chair Car or 3A offers the best blend of comfort and value. For maximum comfort and privacy, especially with family or lots of luggage, a private taxi or car with driver from Delhi to Haridwar is ideal.

Is it safe to travel overnight between Delhi and Haridwar?
Many people safely use night trains and buses on this route. However, if you’re not used to Indian highways, trains are generally considered more comfortable and predictable at night than buses. If you do take a night bus or taxi, choose reputable operators, wear your seatbelt, and avoid very tight connections with early‑morning flights.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s wise to book trains and popular buses in advance, especially on weekends, during school holidays, or around major festivals and pilgrimage seasons. Private cars and tours should also be reserved ahead during busy times to lock in better prices and availability.

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