Varanasi to Rishikesh: A Complete Travel Guide for Foreign Tourists

Traveling from Varanasi to Rishikesh is a journey from India’s ancient spiritual heart to its modern yoga capital. For many international travelers, this route is part of a longer spiritual circuit that includes the Ganga ghats of Varanasi, the holy city of Haridwar, and the Himalayan calm of Rishikesh.

If you’re a foreign tourist planning this trip, understanding distances, transport options, ticket prices, and local travel apps will make your journey smooth and stress-free.

Varanasi to Rishikesh Distance

The Varanasi to Rishikesh distance is approximately 750–800 km by road, depending on the route taken.

• Distance from Rishikesh to Varanasi is the same (just the reverse direction).

• Because of the long distance, most travelers prefer train or flight + road rather than a direct bus.

Varanasi to Rishikesh by Flight (Fastest Option)

There are no direct flights between Varanasi and Rishikesh.

How it works:

• Fly from Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport, Varanasi (VNS) to Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (DED)

• Usually one stop, most commonly via Delhi

Travel Time:

• 5 to 7 hours total (including layover)

Best for:

• Foreign tourists short on time

• Travelers who prefer comfort over long journeys

👉 This is the most practical Varanasi to Rishikesh flight option available.

Varanasi to Rishikesh Train (Most Popular Choice)

Taking the train is the most common and authentic way for both Indians and foreign tourists.

Train Route:

• From Varanasi Junction (BSB) or Banaras (BSBS)

• To Haridwar Junction (HW) or Yog Nagari Rishikesh (YNRK)

Travel Time:

• 14 to 20 hours depending on the train

Recommended Classes for Foreign Tourists:

• AC 2-Tier (2A) – comfortable and quiet

• AC 3-Tier (3A) – best value for money

Ticket Prices (Approximate):

• Varanasi to Haridwar train ticket price

  • Sleeper: ₹450–600

  • 3A: ₹1,200–1,600

  • 2A: ₹1,800–2,400

• Varanasi to Dehradun train ticket price

  • Sleeper: ₹500–650

  • 3A: ₹1,300–1,700

  • 2A: ₹2,000–2,600

💡 From Haridwar or Dehradun, Rishikesh is just 25–45 km by taxi.

Varanasi to Rishikesh Bus (Budget but Long)

Yes, buses do run—but this is the least recommended option for foreign travelers.

Travel Time:

• 18 to 24 hours

Types:

• Government buses

• Private sleeper buses (limited availability)

Why avoid?

• Very long journey

• Frequent stops

• Less comfort compared to trains

👉 If budget is your priority, take a train instead of a bus.

How to Go to Rishikesh from Varanasi (Best Routes Summary)

Arrival in Rishikesh: Local Transport for Foreign Tourists

Is there Uber in Rishikesh?

👉 No, Uber does NOT operate in Rishikesh.

What works instead:

• Local taxis (booked via hotel or travel desk)

• Ola – limited availability, mostly from Haridwar/Dehradun

• Auto-rickshaws & shared jeeps (short distances)

💡 For airport or railway transfers, pre-book a taxi—it’s safer and easier.

Helpful Tips for Foreign Travelers

• Book trains early using IRCTC or platforms like 12Go Asia

• Carry passport copies when traveling

• Night trains save hotel costs

• Avoid monsoon months (July–August) due to landslides near Rishikesh

• Best time: October to March

Why This Journey Is Special

Varanasi shows you life and death on the ghats.
Rishikesh teaches you stillness, yoga, and breath.

Traveling Varanasi to Rishikesh is not just moving across India—it’s moving inward, following the sacred flow of the Ganga from the plains to the Himalayas.

Quick FAQ

• Is Varanasi to Rishikesh safe for foreigners?
  Yes, very safe—just plan transport in advance.

• Best option overall?
  👉 Train to Haridwar + taxi to Rishikesh

• Distance from Rishikesh to Varanasi?
  Around 750–800 km