How to Reach Gangotri From Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Nearby Airports

Gangotri, situated in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, is a major pilgrimage site and tourist destination. The journey to Gangotri from Haridwar and Rishikesh offers a beautiful scenic route through the scenic landscapes of northern India. Additionally, various connectivity options such as air, train, and road are available from nearby airports to reach Gangotri. In this article, we explore the best ways to reach Gangotri and provide additional tips for your visit.

Traveling from Haridwar to Gangotri

By Road

Haridwar and Gangotri are well-connected via road. Various transportation options are available including buses and taxis.

By Bus

There are frequent state-run and private buses available that take you from Haridwar to Uttarkashi, a journey that typically takes about 7-8 hours. From Uttarkashi, you can take a shared taxi or bus to Gangotri, which takes approximately 3-4 hours. However, it's advisable to check the current schedule and availability as services can sometimes be affected by weather conditions.

By Taxi

Hiring a taxi from Haridwar directly to Gangotri, via Uttarkashi, is a more comfortable option and takes about 6-7 hours, depending on road conditions. You can also opt for a direct taxi from Haridwar to Gangotri through Bhagirathiいっぱい

Traveling from Rishikesh to Gangotri

By Road

Connecting Rishikesh to Gangotri is another scenic route that offers a memorable journey through the Uttarakhand landscapes.

By Bus

Frequent buses are available from Rishikesh to Uttarkashi, covering a distance of around 6-7 hours. From Uttarkashi, you can take a shared taxi or bus to Gangotri, which takes approximately 3-4 hours. These services are convenient but timings and frequencies may vary.

By Taxi

Hiring a taxi from Rishikesh directly to Gangotri, via Uttarkashi, is more straightforward and comfortable, taking about 6-7 hours for the journey. This option can provide a private and smooth travel experience.

Nearby Airports

For those wishing to avoid the road journey, nearby airports offer an alternative to reach Gangotri.

By Air

The nearest airport from Gangotri is Jolly Grant airport in Dehradun, which is 260 kilometers away. Jolly Grant airport is a domestic airport connecting to several major cities in India, including Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Lucknow, and Thiruvananthapuram. The taxi distance from Jolly Grant to Gangotri is around 400 kilometers and costs roughly Rs. 4000. Additionally, foreign visitors can fly into the international airport in New Delhi and take a taxi to Jolly Grant, where they can then be driven to Gangotri.

By Train

Rishikesh railway station is the closest to Gangotri, located at a distance of 250 kilometers. Hiring a taxi from Rishikesh to Gangotri will cost approximately Rs. 2200. Train connections from Rishikesh are available to Puri, Amritsar, Mumbai, New Delhi, Howrah, and Varanasi, among other towns and cities in India.

Additional Tips for Your Gangotri Visit

The best time to visit Gangotri is from May to October, as the temple is closed during the winter months due to heavy snowfall. Accommodation facilities are available in and around Gangotri, including guesthouses and dharmashalas. When traveling to Gangotri, always ensure you check the weather and road conditions, as landslides are a significant concern in this region.

Traveling to Gangotri from Haridwar, Rishikesh, and nearby airports offers a scenic and memorable journey through the beautiful landscapes of Uttarakhand. Whether you prefer the comfort of a taxi or the convenience of buses, there are multiple options available to help you reach this spiritual destination.