Exclusive Travel Guide to the Closest Airport to Rishikesh India
Jolly Grant Dehradun: The Closest Airport to Rishikesh, India
Traveling to Rishikesh, one of India’s most celebrated spiritual and adventure hubs, is smooth and convenient thanks to its proximity to Jolly Grant Airport (DED) in Dehradun. This airport acts as the main air gateway for millions of pilgrims, yoga practitioners, and adventure seekers heading to Rishikesh every year.
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Location & Accessibility
Jolly Grant Airport is located just about 21 kilometers from Rishikesh, making it the nearest and most accessible airport to the city. The scenic drive from the airport takes approximately 35–45 minutes by car or taxi, following forested roads that skirt the Himalayan foothills.
| Aspect | Information |
|---|---|
| Airport in Rishikesh | No |
| Nearest airport to Rishikesh | Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (22km) |
| Nearest major airport (international) | Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi (~240-250 km) |
| Nearest railway station | Rishikesh railway station (local), Haridwar railway station (major, 20 km) |
| Transportation from airport to Rishikesh | Taxi, private car, bus (30-45 min) |
| Availability of Uber | No ( Not available ) |
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Overview: Closest Airport to Rishikesh India
Rishikesh, nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas along the holy Ganga River, is one of India’s most spiritually significant cities. Known as the Yoga Capital of the World and a gateway to the Char Dham Yatra, Rishikesh draws thousands of domestic and international visitors every year.
Whether you’re a spiritual seeker, adventure lover, or wellness enthusiast, reaching Rishikesh easily is crucial for a smooth and fulfilling trip.
If you’re planning to visit, you’re likely wondering: Which is the nearest airport to Rishikesh, India? How far is it? How do I get there?
In this comprehensive guide, we answer all your questions about the nearest airport to Rishikesh, transportation options, travel tips, and more so you can plan your journey with confidence.
Which is the Nearest Airport to Rishikesh?
The nearest airport to Rishikesh is the Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun (DED). It is located approximately 21 kilometers from Rishikesh, making it the most accessible air travel point for reaching the city.
Quick Facts – Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (DED)
- Distance from Rishikesh: ~21 km (13 miles)
- Travel Time by Road: 35 to 45 minutes
- Location: Airport Road, Jauligrant, Dehradun, Uttarakhand
- Airport Code: DED
- Category: Domestic Airport (limited international connectivity via chartered flights)
Flight Connectivity to Jolly Grant Airport (DED)
The Jolly Grant Airport offers excellent connectivity to major Indian cities including:
- Delhi (DEL) – Daily flights from IndiGo, Vistara, and Alliance Air
- Mumbai (BOM)
- Hyderabad (HYD)
- Bangalore (BLR)
- Jaipur (JAI)
- Ahmedabad (AMD)
The airport operates nonstop flights primarily via domestic airlines such as IndiGo, SpiceJet, Alliance Air, and Vistara. While DED is a small airport, it serves a high volume of flights due to growing tourism and pilgrimage traffic.
How to Travel from Dehradun Airport to Rishikesh
Once you’ve landed at the Dehradun Airport, getting to Rishikesh is simple. Here are your main travel options:
1. Taxi Services
Hiring a prepaid taxi from the airport to Rishikesh is the most convenient option. Fares typically range from ₹1000 to ₹1,500, depending on the vehicle type and time of day.
Best for: Tourists, solo travelers, and families
Travel Time: 40–45 minutes
2. Private Cabs / Online Ride Booking
Uber, Ola are not operational in Rishikesh , only local cab aggregators operate in the area. You can easily book a cab online for pickup from the airport to your accommodation in Rishikesh.
Best for: Visitors wanting flexibility and app-based booking
Estimated fare: ₹1000–₹1,500
3. Hotel Transfers
Some hotels and ashrams in Rishikesh offer airport pick-up services on request. Make sure to check with your hotel in advance.
4. Shared Jeeps / Local Transport
Budget travelers can opt for shared jeep services or local bus connections from nearby pickup points. These are infrequent and may require switching mid-route.
Best for: Backpackers, budget travelers
Fare: ₹100–₹200/person (approx.)
Travel Time: 1–1.5 hours (depending on availability)
Why Choose Jolly Grant Airport for Your Trip to Rishikesh?
- Proximity to Rishikesh: It’s just 35–40 minutes away.
- Scenic Drive: The road from the airport to Rishikesh takes you through beautiful forested terrain and Himalayan foothills.
- Convenience: Avoid the long road journey from Delhi (approximately 6–7 hours).
- Faster Access to Char Dham Sites such as Kedarnath, Badrinath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri.
- Ideal for International Travelers: A perfect last-leg destination after landing in Delhi or Mumbai.
Nearest International Airport to Rishikesh
The nearest international airport to Rishikesh is Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) in New Delhi.
Quick Facts – Delhi Airport (DEL):
- Distance from Rishikesh: ~250 km
- Travel Time to Rishikesh by road: 6–7 hours
- Train Travel Time: 5–6 hours (via Haridwar)
- Flight Time from Delhi to Dehradun: 1 hour
International travelers typically fly to Delhi first and then:
- Take a connecting domestic flight to Dehradun (Jolly Grant Airport)
- Or travel by train or bus to Rishikesh
Alternative Travel: From Delhi to Rishikesh by Train
If you’re entering via Delhi and wish to avoid a connecting flight, Indian Railways offers multiple train options between Delhi and Haridwar or Rishikesh.
- Delhi to Haridwar: Multiple daily trains (Shatabdi, Jan Shatabdi, Mussoorie Express)
- Haridwar to Rishikesh: 40-min journey by taxi or local train
- Delhi to Yog Nagari Rishikesh Station: Several direct trains now run to this modern station.
Traveler Tips for Airport to Rishikesh Journey
- Book Tickets in Advance: Domestic flights to DED get full quickly during peak season (May–October).
- Plan Airport Transfers: Arrange your ride beforehand, especially if arriving at night.
- Choose a Morning Flight: Early flights minimize weather delays in this hilly region.
- Pack Accordingly: The airport is small with limited amenities, so keep essentials like snacks, bottled water, and medications with you.
- Stay Connected: Ensure you have a local SIM or access to the internet for booking cabs post-arrival.
Rishikesh Airport Distance Recap
| Airport Name | Type | Distance to Rishikesh | Travel Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jolly Grant Airport (DED) | Domestic | 21 km | 35–45 mins |
| Delhi IGI Airport (DEL) | International | 250 km | 6–7 hrs |
FAQ: Airport and Connectivity Near Rishikesh, Uttarakhand
Q1: Does Rishikesh have its own airport?
A: No, Rishikesh does not have an airport within the city limits.
Q2: What is the nearest airport to Rishikesh?
A: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport (DED) located in Dehradun, approximately 20-25 km from Rishikesh. Travel time from the airport to Rishikesh is about 30 to 45 minutes by road.
Q3: How can I reach Rishikesh from Jolly Grant Airport?
A: Options include:
- Hiring a private taxi with fares around INR 1500
- Taking state buses from the main road near the airport (fare approx. INR 50–80)
- Rickshaws to reach bus stops (short walk of about 1.5 km from airport terminal).
Q4: Is Uber available in Rishikesh for local transportation?
A: No, Uber operates in Rishikesh,
Q5: Which airport is closest to Taj Rishikesh and AIIMS Rishikesh?
A: Both Taj Rishikesh and AIIMS Rishikesh are near the city center, so Jolly Grant Airport remains the closest airport at roughly 20-25 km distance.
Q6: How far is the nearest railway station from Rishikesh?
A: Rishikesh has its own railway station. The major nearby station is Haridwar Railway Station, about 20 km away, which has better connectivity to major cities.
Q7: What is the nearest airport to Rishikesh from Mumbai?
A: There are no direct flights from Mumbai to Rishikesh’s region; the typical route is:
- Fly from Mumbai to Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun) with connecting flights via Delhi
- Then travel by taxi or bus from Dehradun airport to Rishikesh (20-25 km).
Q8: Are there direct flights to Jolly Grant Airport?
A: Jolly Grant Airport has regular daily flights to & from Delhi. From Delhi, connecting flights to many cities, including Mumbai and others, are available.
This summarizes key transport info to and from Rishikesh, highlighting that Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun is the primary air gateway. Taxis, buses, and Uber rides provide convenient local connectivity.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re planning a meditation retreat in the Himalayas, registering for a yoga teacher training course in Rishikesh, or embarking on a spiritual pilgrimage to the Char Dham, getting to Rishikesh is surprisingly convenient with the Jolly Grant Airport nearby.
By choosing the nearest airport to Rishikesh, you significantly reduce travel time and begin your spiritual escape more comfortably. With easy taxi services, online cab bookings, and direct domestic flights, your serene journey starts the moment you land.
Book your flight, arrange your ride, and get ready to soak in the aura of the Himalayas in Rishikesh—India’s sacred yoga capital
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