After flying into Jolly Grant Airport (DED) in Dehradun, reaching Haridwar is a straightforward and short journey by road. The airport is conveniently located, making the onward trip to the holy city quite easy.
Dehradun Airport to Haridwar: Distance and Travel Time
- Distance: Jolly Grant Airport is approximately 37 to 41 kilometers from Haridwar.
- Travel Time: The road journey usually takes about 1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions and the mode of transport you choose.
How to Reach Haridwar from Dehradun Airport
You have several convenient options to travel from Dehradun Airport to Haridwar, catering to different budgets and preferences.
1. By Taxi/Cab (Most Recommended)
Hiring a taxi is the quickest and most comfortable way to reach Haridwar directly from the airport.
- Availability: Taxis are readily available right outside the airport terminal. You’ll find a dedicated pre-paid taxi counter inside the airport, which is often the most reliable option for fixed rates. You can also book through app-based services like Uber or Ola (if available for outstation trips from the airport) or local taxi operators.
- Types of Taxis: You can choose from various car types, including sedans (like Dzire, Etios), SUVs (like Innova, Ertiga), and larger Tempo Travellers if you’re traveling in a big group.
- Estimated Fares:
- Hatchback/Sedan: Expect fares ranging from ₹1,000 to ₹1,800 for a private car.
- SUV: Fares typically start from ₹1,800 to ₹3,000 or more.
- Tempo Traveller: Rates will be higher, usually starting from ₹3,000 to ₹5,000+ depending on seating capacity.
- Note: These fares often include tolls and parking charges. Always confirm the all-inclusive fare before starting your journey.
- Pros:
- Convenience: Door-to-door service directly to your hotel or desired location in Haridwar.
- Speed: Fastest way to reach Haridwar from the airport.
- Comfort: Ideal if you have heavy luggage or are traveling with family or elderly individuals.
- Tips:
- Book a pre-paid taxi at the official airport counter for transparency in pricing.
- If booking through a private operator or app, confirm if tolls, parking, and driver allowance are included in the quoted fare.
- For peace of mind, consider booking your taxi in advance, especially if you’re arriving late at night or during peak season.
2. By Shared Taxi/Cab
If you’re looking for a more economical option and don’t mind sharing, shared taxis are available.
- Availability: While not as organized as private pre-paid counters, you might find shared taxis or jeeps heading towards Rishikesh/Haridwar from near the airport exit or slightly down the main highway.
- Fares: Significantly cheaper than private taxis, usually costing a few hundred rupees per person (e.g., ₹200-₹400).
- Pros: Very budget-friendly.
- Cons: You’ll need to wait for the vehicle to fill up, and it might make multiple stops along the way. Less comfortable if you have a lot of luggage.
3. By Local Bus Services
Taking a bus is the most budget-friendly option, though it requires a short initial transfer.
- Availability: There isn’t a direct bus from the airport terminal itself. You’ll need to walk or take a short auto-rickshaw ride (about 1.5 km) to the main Dehradun-Rishikesh highway (NH 34). From there, you can easily catch frequent government buses operated by UPSRTC (Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation) or UTC (Uttarakhand Transport Corporation) that run between Dehradun and Haridwar.
- Fares: Bus tickets are very affordable, typically ranging from ₹100 to ₹250 for an ordinary or semi-deluxe bus.
- Travel Time: The bus journey itself from the highway might take around 1 to 1.5 hours. Add extra time for the initial transfer from the airport to the highway and waiting for a bus.
- Pros: Extremely economical.
- Cons: Less convenient, especially with luggage, as it involves a short walk/auto-rickshaw ride and potentially waiting for a bus.
Arrival in Haridwar
Regardless of the option you choose, most taxis and buses will drop you off at or near the main Haridwar Bus Stand or the Haridwar Railway Station, both of which are centrally located. From there, you can easily find auto-rickshaws or cycle-rickshaws to reach your specific hotel or destination within Haridwar, such as Har Ki Pauri.
Choosing the right transport from Dehradun Airport to Haridwar depends on your budget, comfort preference, and how much luggage you have. No matter which you pick, you’re in for a relatively quick and easy transfer to the spiritual heart of Haridwar.
