How to Reach Indore from Haridwar

Here’s a breakdown of the different ways to travel:

1. By Air (Fastest and Most Convenient Option)

This is typically the quickest way to get from Haridwar to Indore, combining a short drive to the airport with a flight.

Steps:

Haridwar to Dehradun Airport (Jolly Grant Airport – DED): Your journey begins with a taxi ride from Haridwar to Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun. This road trip covers about 37-41 km and usually takes around 1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutes. Taxi fares typically range from ₹1,250 to ₹2,800.
Dehradun (DED) to Indore (Devi Ahilyabai Holkar Airport – IDR): From Dehradun, you can catch a flight to Indore.
- Flight Duration: There are no direct flights from Dehradun to Indore. All flights involve at least one stop, usually in New Delhi. Connecting flights typically take anywhere from 3 hours 55 minutes (shortest) to over 10 hours, depending on the layover duration.
- Airlines: IndiGo and Air India are major airlines operating connecting flights on this route.
- Ticket Price Estimates: One-way flight fares can vary significantly based on how far in advance you book, the airline, and demand. As of early July 2025, one-way fares can start from around ₹4,900 to ₹7,000, but prices can go higher during peak travel times or for last-minute bookings.
Indore Airport (IDR) to Indore City: Devi Ahilyabai Holkar Airport (IDR) is well-connected to the city center, located about 8-10 km away. You can easily find pre-paid taxis, app-based cabs (Ola/Uber), or auto-rickshaws to reach your final destination in Indore. Travel time can be 20-40 minutes, depending on traffic.

Total Journey Time (approx.): The entire journey, including travel to Dehradun airport, flight time with a layover, and transfer within Indore, can be completed in approximately 6 to 12 hours.

Pros: Significantly reduces travel time compared to other modes. Offers comfort for a long journey.

Cons: Generally the most expensive travel option. Requires transfers between different modes of transport and potential waiting times at airports. All flights are connecting, adding to travel time.

Tips: Book your flights as early as possible to secure better prices. Be mindful of layover times when choosing your flight for the most efficient travel.

2. By Train (Recommended for Budget and Experience)

Train travel is a very popular and economical choice for long distances in India, offering a chance to relax and experience the journey.

Journey Time: Direct trains from Haridwar to Indore (Lakshmibai Nagar or Indore Junction BG) typically take around 22 hours 20 minutes to 22 hours 55 minutes.

Train Stations:

From Haridwar: Haridwar Junction (HW) is the main station.
To Indore: Lakshmibai Nagar (LMNR) or Indore Junction BG (INDB) are the main railway stations in Indore. Lakshmibai Nagar is very close to Indore Junction.

Frequency: There are a couple of direct weekly trains from Haridwar (or nearby Yog Nagari Rishikesh) to Indore, such as the YNRK LMNR EXP (14318) and UJJAINI EXP (14310). Some routes might involve changes at other major junctions like New Delhi or Bhopal.

Types of Trains: You can choose from various classes, including Sleeper (SL), AC 3-tier (3A), AC 3 Tier Economy (3E), AC 2-tier (2A), and AC First Class (1A).

Ticket Price Estimates: Fares can vary significantly based on the class: from approximately ₹505-₹650 (Sleeper Class) to ₹1,310-₹3,300 (AC classes) or more.

Pros: Generally more economical than flying. Allows for comfortable overnight travel. You get to see various landscapes of India.

Cons: Long journey duration (over 22 hours). Tickets, especially for AC classes, can be in high demand and require booking well in advance.

Tips: Check the Indian Railways (IRCTC) website or other popular travel platforms (like RailYatri, ConfirmTkt, MakeMyTrip) for the most current train schedules, availability, and fare options. Book well in advance, especially for AC classes.

3. By Road (Long and Challenging Drive)

Driving from Haridwar to Indore is a very long journey and is generally not recommended as the primary mode of travel unless you specifically enjoy extremely long road trips or are traveling with a group and multiple drivers.

Distance: Approximately 940-1,330 kilometers. Some sources indicate a driving distance of around 943 km, while others suggest 1160 km or more, depending on the exact route taken.

Journey Time: A continuous drive could take at least 12-20 hours, not including significant stops for food, rest, and sleep. This trip would realistically require at least one, and more likely two, overnight stops.

Routes: Common routes involve driving south from Haridwar towards Delhi, then heading south-west through states like Rajasthan or Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh to Indore. Using a reliable GPS with real-time traffic updates is essential.

Self-Drive:

Pros: Ultimate flexibility to stop anywhere and anytime. Can be cost-effective for a group if vehicle running costs are shared.
Cons: Extremely long and tiring drive. Requires multiple drivers. High fuel costs and numerous toll charges. Risk of fatigue.

Hiring a Taxi/Cab:

Pros: Convenient as you don’t have to drive. Door-to-door service.
Cons: Very expensive due to the long distance and the need for the driver to return or be compensated for the return journey. Can be very tiring even as a passenger.
Price Estimates: A one-way private taxi could cost upwards of ₹12,000 to ₹25,000 or more, depending on the vehicle type and service provider.

Tips: If choosing this option, plan your stops carefully, ensure you have multiple drivers, and factor in sufficient rest periods. Check road conditions and safety advisories for all states you will pass through.

4. By Bus (Long and Less Convenient)

While there are bus services connecting Haridwar to Indore, it’s generally a very long and less comfortable option compared to trains or flights for such a significant distance.

Journey Time: A direct bus could take anywhere from 19 to 22 hours or more. This is a continuous journey with limited stops for breaks.

Operators & Types: You might find private bus operators offering AC Sleeper or AC Seater buses on this route (e.g., Babu Travels, Shri Krishna Travels, Ravina Travels).

Ticket Price Estimates: Fares can range from approximately ₹1,200 to ₹2,500 depending on the bus operator and type of bus.

Pros: Generally more economical than flights. Some buses offer sleeper berths for overnight travel.

Cons: Very long travel time. Can be less comfortable than train travel, especially for long hours. Fewer amenities compared to trains or flights.

Tips: If opting for a bus, choose an AC Sleeper bus for better comfort on this long route. Book your tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons. Verify boarding and dropping points clearly.

For a balance of comfort and time, taking a train is a solid choice for traveling from Haridwar to Indore. If speed is your priority and budget allows, flying (with a connecting flight) is the fastest way to reach your destination.

How to Reach Indore from Haridwar

Distance Between Haridwar and Indore