How to Reach Amritsar from Haridwar

How to Reach Amritsar from Haridwar

Amritsar, a city brimming with history, spirituality, and vibrant culture, is a popular destination in Punjab, especially known for the Golden Temple and the Wagah Border. Haridwar, a spiritual city in Uttarakhand, draws many pilgrims. While both are significant, traveling between them requires a bit of planning due to the distance.

Distance Between Haridwar and Amritsar

The approximate distance between Haridwar and Amritsar depends on your mode of transport:

  • By Air (via Dehradun Airport): The aerial distance between Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun, the closest to Haridwar) and Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport (Amritsar) is about 366 kilometers.
  • By Train: Approximately 406-442 kilometers.
  • By Road: Around 400-434 kilometers.

How to Reach Amritsar from Haridwar

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

1. By Air (Fastest Option, with a layover)

Flying is the quickest way to travel between these two cities, though it involves a short transfer to the airport.

  • Steps:
    1. Haridwar to Dehradun Airport (Jolly Grant Airport – DED): You’ll need to take a taxi from Haridwar to Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun. This road journey is 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.
    2. Dehradun (DED) to Amritsar (Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport – ATQ): From Dehradun, you can catch a connecting flight to Amritsar.
      • Flight Duration: There are no direct flights on this route, so flights will involve a layover, usually in New Delhi. Connecting flights typically take between 3 hours 50 minutes and 8 hours (or more for longer layovers).
      • Airlines: IndiGo and Air India are major airlines operating connecting flights on this route.
      • Ticket Price Estimates: One-way flight fares can vary significantly. As of July 2025, one-way connecting flights can start from around ₹3,100 to ₹7,000, but prices can fluctuate based on booking time and demand.
    3. Amritsar Airport (ATQ) to Amritsar City: Amritsar airport is located about 11-13 km from the city center. You can easily find pre-paid taxis, app-based cabs (Ola/Uber), or auto-rickshaws to reach your final destination. Travel time can be 20-40 minutes, depending on traffic.
  • Total Journey Time (approx.): The entire journey, including road travel to Dehradun airport, flight time with a layover, and transfer within Amritsar, can be completed in approximately 5 to 10 hours.
  • Pros: Significantly reduces travel time. Offers comfort for the long distance.
  • Cons: Generally the most expensive option. Requires transfers and potential waiting times.
  • Tips: Book your flights in advance to get better deals. Consider layover times when booking, as some can be very long.

2. By Train (Most Popular and Economical Option)

Train travel is a widely preferred and cost-effective way to commute between Haridwar and Amritsar, offering a comfortable journey.

  • Journey Time: Direct trains from Haridwar Junction (HW) to Amritsar Junction (ASR) typically take between 8 hours and 10 hours 40 minutes.
  • Train Stations:
    • From Haridwar: Haridwar Junction (HW)
    • To Amritsar: Amritsar Junction (ASR)
  • Frequency: There are a few direct trains daily and weekly on this route. Notable direct trains include:
    • ASR JANSHATABDI (12053): This is a faster option, usually taking around 8 hours. It runs most days of the week.
    • DDN ASR EXPRESS (14631): This train takes about 10 hours 40 minutes and runs daily.
    • (Other trains might run from nearby stations like Laksar or Saharanpur, which could be an option if direct Haridwar trains aren’t suitable, but would require an initial short bus/taxi ride from Haridwar).
  • Types of Trains: You can choose from various classes, including AC Chair Car (CC), AC 3-tier (3A), Sleeper (SL), and sometimes AC 2-tier (2A) and Second Seating (2S).
  • Ticket Price Estimates: Fares can range from approximately ₹195-₹290 (2S/Sleeper Class) to ₹645-₹775 (AC Chair Car/3A) or more, depending on the train type and class.
  • Pros: Generally economical. Allows for comfortable travel, especially overnight. Offers a chance to relax or sleep.
  • Cons: Journey duration is longer than flying. Tickets, especially for popular classes, should be booked well in advance.
  • Tips: Check the Indian Railways (IRCTC) website or reliable travel platforms (like redBus, ixigo, MakeMyTrip, Paytm) for the most up-to-date train schedules and availability. Booking 1-2 months in advance is advisable for confirmed seats.

3. By Road (Flexible but Long Option)

Driving from Haridwar to Amritsar offers flexibility but is a fairly long journey.

  • Distance: Approximately 400-434 kilometers.
  • Journey Time: A continuous drive would take at least 7-9 hours, not including stops for food, rest, or traffic.
  • Routes: The most common route generally involves heading west/northwest, passing through cities like Saharanpur, Ambala, Ludhiana, and Jalandhar, before reaching Amritsar. Using GPS navigation is highly recommended.
  • Self-Drive:
    • Pros: Complete flexibility for stops and sightseeing along the way. Can be cost-effective for a group sharing fuel costs.
    • Cons: Long and can be tiring for the driver. Requires knowledge of Indian road conditions and traffic. Fuel costs and tolls can add up.
  • Hiring a Taxi/Cab:
    • Pros: Convenient door-to-door service. You don’t have to drive.
    • Cons: Can be expensive due to the distance and the driver’s return journey.
    • Price Estimates: A one-way private taxi could cost upwards of ₹6,000 to ₹10,000 or more, depending on the vehicle type and service provider.
  • Tips: If driving yourself, ensure your vehicle is in good condition. Plan your route, and account for potential traffic delays, especially around major cities. Take sufficient breaks to avoid driver fatigue.

4. By Bus (Economical and Direct Option)

Several direct bus services connect Haridwar and Amritsar, offering a relatively economical way to travel.

  • Journey Time: Direct bus journeys typically take between 8 hours 10 minutes and 10 hours 30 minutes.
  • Operators & Types: Various private operators offer AC Seater/Sleeper buses on this route. Look for reputable operators like Shri Krishna Travels, Mahalaxmi Travels, Vijay Tour And Travels, and Amit Travels.
  • Ticket Price Estimates: Fares can start from around ₹800 to ₹1,500 or more, depending on the bus type (AC, Sleeper) and operator.
  • Boarding and Dropping Points: Buses usually depart from common points in Haridwar like Pantdeep Parking, Har Ki Pouri area, or near the bus stand, and drop off at various points in Amritsar, including the ISBT (Inter-State Bus Terminal), Hall Gate, or near the Golden Gate.
  • Pros: More economical than flights or private taxis. Direct services are available. Can be comfortable with sleeper options for overnight travel.
  • Cons: Journey can be long and sometimes less comfortable than a train, depending on road conditions and bus quality. Can be subject to delays due to traffic.
  • Tips: Book your bus tickets online in advance, especially for AC Sleeper buses. Check reviews of bus operators for comfort and reliability. Verify boarding and dropping points clearly.

In conclusion, for traveling from Haridwar to Amritsar, trains are often the most balanced choice for comfort and cost-effectiveness, while flying is the fastest option if time is critical. Buses offer a budget-friendly and direct road alternative.

Read More Travel Guides:

Book Your Tour Now

Blank Form (#3)