Explore Rishikesh Airport in India and How to Get there

Rishikesh lies on the banks of the holy Ganges River.  It is one of Uttarakhand’s most famous spiritual and adventurous  destinations. Frequently  known as the “Gateway to the Himalayas,” it boasts excellent air connectivity to other parts of India through a comprehensive network of flights, trains, and buses.  There are many flights operate between Rishikesh airport and all major airports of India, like Delhi, Chennai, Bangalore, Mumbai, Kolkata etc.

Teen Dhara near Rishikesh
Teen Dhara near Rishikesh

 Rishikesh Airport Name

Jolly Grant Airport near Rishikesh India is known as also the Dehradun Airport , which is approximately 22 km away from Rishikesh city center, while Rishikesh Railway Station serves as the closest railhead.

Airport near Rishikesh India

Additionally, many state-run and private bus services connect Rishikesh to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai , Kolkata , Chennai and towns in the region, making it easily accessible for travelers from any parts of the world.

The nearest Airport for Rishikesh

The nearest airport for Rishikesh  is Jolly Grant airport at Dehradun  which is about 22  kilometres away. by road Popular running airlines are   Air India, Spice Jet and  Indigo, they have everyday  flights from New Delhi and all majors cities of India.

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Airport near Rishikesh India
Airport near Rishikesh India

Rishikesh in India

Rishikesh is a beautiful city located by the banks of the holy Ganges River. It is one of the most important spiritual and adventurous  places in Uttarakhand and is frequently called the Gateway to the Himalayas. Getting to Rishikesh is really easy and comfortable because it has great airport links, including flights, trains, and buses.

By Air: Rishikesh Airport

The nearest airport of Rishikesh is Dehradun Airport, also known as Jolly Grant Airport, which is about 22 km away. Many airlines, like Air India, SpiceJet, and Jet Airways, have flights from New Delhi every day. When you arrive at the airport, you can take a taxi or catch a bus to reach Rishikesh, which will take you to Rishikesh in less than 30- 40 minutes by road.

Another airport you can use is Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi, which is further away at 250 km. This airport is connected to many cities around the world, and you can find prepaid taxis, cabs, and buses that go to Rishikesh.

By Road: Rishikesh Airport

Rishikesh has a great link of buses that connect it to nearby cities and towns of India. You can find both luxury and general seating buses from New Delhi’s ISBT Kashmiri Gate at regular times. Many weekend travelers prefer to travel by bus because it’s more affordable and comfortable, takes only 5 -6 hours . If you want to drive, you can take NH 58 from Delhi and other cities right to Rishikesh!

By Train: Rishikesh Airport

Rishikesh has its own but small railway station, but it now connects to many major cities, like  Haridwar, Delhi, Kolkata , Puri, Lucknow , Jaipur , Jammu , Chandigarh, Jodhpur etc.

The nearest really big train station is in Haridwar, which is well-connected to cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Lucknow, and Varanasi. Some most popular fastest  trains you can take from Delhi to Haridwar include Vande Bharat,  Shatabdi Express, Jan Shatabdi, and Nanda Devi Express.

Haridwar railway station is just 25 km away from Rishikesh, and you can easily find taxis and buses running every 30 minutes from there, which will take you to Rishikesh bust stand in less than 40 minutes.

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2 Days Trip in Rishikesh
Rishikesh Uttarakhand India

How to Commute Within Rishikesh

Getting in and out of Rishikesh is easy and fun! There are several ways to travel around the Rishikesh’s city, whether you prefer taxis, autorickshaws, ferries ( motor boat ), or just walking. Here’s how you can do it:

By Local Taxi/Jeep Rishikesh Airport

Taking a taxi is a convenient way to get around Rishikesh. You can hire one from local tour operators or find them at the taxi stand in the parking of the Ram Jhula Bridge or Laxman Jhula bridge or Tapovan Tiraha or  Swarg Ashram.

Another option is to take a local jeep called Bolero here , which you can share with other passengers. The jeep stand is located at Lakshman Jhula, Ram Jhula, Tapovan Tiraha, and behind Parmarth Niketan Ashram.

By Local Auto / Tuk Tuk Rishikesh Airport

In Rishikesh, autorickshaws are commonly called Vikrams here in Rishikesh. You can hire them either for yourself or share with others. These autos don’t have meters, so they often have not fixed fares. Before your ride, it’s smart to ask about the fare to avoid surprises!

Don’t forget to bargain a bit with shop keepers; it can be fun, and you might save some money. You can find autorickshaws ( Tuk Tuk ) all over the city, and they’re great for reaching the bus stand, railway station, or popular spots like Lakshman Jhula, Ram Jhula, Sivananda Ashram, Tapovan etc.

Rishikesh to Laxman Jhula
Rishikesh to Laxman Jhula

By Ferry ( Motor Boat) Rishikesh Airport

If you want to visit the eastern bank of the Ganga River, you can take a ferry from Ram Jhula. It’s a beautiful way to cross the river! Alternatively, you can also walk across the Ram Jhula or Lakshman Jhoola bridges if you feel adventurous.

By Walking / Hiking Rishikesh Airport

Many of the religious and spiritual attractions in Rishikesh are close to each other, making walking or hiking a great option. You can explore the town on foot, which allows you see all the sights up close.

Although some areas might be a bit steep and hilly,  but the paths are easy to navigate. Plus, walking / hiking through the  lanes gives you a chance to experience the beauty and charm of Rishikesh in a unique way!

So, whether you choose to take a taxi, an auto, a ferry, or just walk, getting around Rishikesh is enjoyable and allows you to soak in the local atmosphere!

3 Days Rishikesh Trip Itinerary From New Delhi
Rishikesh Panoramic View

Rishikesh: A Panoramic View

A Unique Atmosphere Rishikesh Airport
The beauty of Rishikesh lies in its picturesque location along the banks of the Ganges, surrounded by pre-Himalayan hills.

The city has an atmosphere that fosters relaxation and meditation, with its ashrams and sacred rituals taking place along the river. The vegetarian laws and the absence of alcohol contribute to creating a serene and contemplative environment, perfect for those seeking to connect with themselves and spirituality.

Sangam Rishikesh at Triveni Ghat Rishikesh
Triveni Ghat Rishikesh

What to See and Do in Rishikesh

Rishikesh South: Central Market and Triveni Ghat

Central Market: Located a few kilometers from the tourist area of Laxman Jhula, the market offers an authentic experience and reasonable prices for fabrics, spices, and other items. A stroll through its colorful streets is a must.

Triveni Ghat: Here, religious ceremonies and the Ganga Aarti take place at sunset, a rite of gratitude to the sacred river. It is a spiritually enriching experience.

Rishikesh North: Lakshman Jhula and Ram Jhula

Suspension Bridges: Lakshman Jhula and Ram Jhula are iconic and connect the two banks of the Ganges, surrounded by temples and ashrams. Walking along these banks, one can discover shops, restaurants, and places for meditation.

Trayambakeshwar Temple: This temple, with its unique multi-tiered architecture, is a sacred place to visit, offering spectacular views of the river.

Outdoor Activities and Adventures

Trekking and Hiking: Rishikesh is surrounded by unspoiled nature, with trails and hills to explore, perfect for those who love to walk.

Ganges Rafting: An exciting experience for adventurers, rafting along the Ganges offers a unique way to admire the landscapes and enjoy the rapids.

Yoga Retreats Himalayas India

Where to Practice Yoga

Ashrams and Courses
Rishikesh is the World Capital of Yoga and offers a wide range of ashrams where one can practice and study various forms of yoga. Among the most notable are:

Parmarth Niketan Ashram: With tranquil gardens and a welcoming environment, it is ideal for practicing yoga and attending courses. Rishikesh Airport

The Beatles Ashram: A historic place that hosted the Beatles, now partly in ruins, offers a unique and suggestive atmosphere for meditative practices and photography. Rishikesh Airport

Rishikesh airport, Rishikesh airport 

Author

Namaste! I am Om. I am a licensed Tourist Guide ( Approved by Ministry of Tourism, Government of India), I’m originally from Varanasi. Now, I am living in Rishikesh. I set up this blog to share my tips and experiences for traveling to inspire and help you to travel more. Hari Om

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