Dehradun, the charming capital of Uttarakhand, is known for its beautiful Doon Valley, pleasant weather, and proximity to popular hill stations like Mussoorie. If you’re traveling from the sacred city of Haridwar to Dehradun, you’ll find the journey to be relatively short and convenient, with excellent road and rail connections.
Distance Between Haridwar and Dehradun
The distance between Haridwar and Dehradun is quite manageable:
- By Road: Approximately 50-60 kilometers.
- By Train: Around 50-55 kilometers.
How to Reach Dehradun from Haridwar
Given the short distance, road and rail are the most practical and popular ways to travel between Haridwar and Dehradun.
1. By Road (Flexible and Scenic)
Traveling by road is a popular choice for this route, offering flexibility and scenic views as you travel through the plains and enter the Doon Valley.
- Journey Time: The drive usually takes about 1 hour to 1 hour 45 minutes, depending on traffic and the mode of transport.
- Routes: The main route is via NH34 (the Haridwar-Dehradun Highway). The road is generally well-maintained and offers pleasant views.
a. By Bus (Most Economical and Frequent)
Buses are a very common and budget-friendly way to travel between Haridwar and Dehradun, with frequent services available throughout the day.
- Journey Time: Buses typically complete the journey in around 1 hour 15 minutes to 2 hours.
- Operators: Both state-run buses (like Uttarakhand Transport Corporation – UTC and Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation – UPSRTC) and various private operators ply this route.
- Types of Buses: Options range from basic non-AC buses to more comfortable AC Seater/Sleeper buses.
- Ticket Price Estimates: Fares are very affordable, usually starting from around ₹100-₹200 for ordinary buses and going up to ₹300-₹500 for AC/premium buses.
- Pros: Very frequent departures from Haridwar Bus Stand, highly economical, and available throughout the day.
- Cons: Non-AC buses might be less comfortable, especially during peak summer. Can be crowded during rush hours.
- Tips: Head to the main Haridwar Bus Stand. You can often buy tickets directly at the counter or from the bus conductor. For AC buses or specific timings, booking online via platforms like MakeMyTrip, RedBus, EaseMyTrip, or Goibibo is a good idea.
b. By Taxi/Cab (Most Comfortable and Direct)
Hiring a private taxi or cab offers the most convenience, especially if you’re traveling with luggage, a family, or prefer a direct, comfortable ride.
- Pros: Door-to-door service, privacy, and flexibility to stop if needed for a quick break or photo opportunity. HillZet Taxi guarantees on-time pickups and drop-offs for the airport (though Haridwar does not have an airport, this reflects a commitment to timely service for other travel needs).
- Cons: More expensive than public transport options.
- Price Estimates: A one-way private taxi could cost anywhere from ₹1,200 to ₹2,000, depending on the car type (hatchback, sedan, SUV) and the taxi service. Toll charges are usually extra or included in fixed rates, so confirm beforehand.
- Tips: You can find local taxi stands in Haridwar, near the railway station or popular ghats. App-based services like Uber (Uber Intercity) or local taxi aggregators are also available. Always confirm the total fare, including any tolls, before starting your journey.
c. Shared Autos/Jeeps (Local and Very Economical)
For a truly local and very budget-friendly experience, shared auto-rickshaws or jeeps are a popular choice for short distances like Haridwar to Dehradun.
- Pros: Extremely cheap and frequent. You can usually find them near the Haridwar railway station or the main bus stand area. They are a common mode for locals.
- Cons: Can be crowded, less comfortable, and might not follow strict schedules, waiting until full.
- Price Estimates: Fares are typically very low, often around ₹150-₹250 per person.
- Tips: This option is best if you’re traveling light, on a tight budget, and are comfortable with a more casual, shared travel style.
2. By Train (Reliable and Scenic)
Train travel is a comfortable and reliable option, offering a pleasant journey through the lower Himalayas.
- Journey Time: Trains typically take around 1 hour 15 minutes to 2 hours.
- Train Stations:
- From Haridwar: Haridwar Junction (HW) is your departure point.
- To Dehradun: Dehradun Terminal (DDN) is the main arrival station.
- Frequency: Several trains run daily between Haridwar and Dehradun. Popular options include the Jan Shatabdi Express (12053) and Mussoorie Express (14041).
- Types of Trains: You can choose from various classes, including Chair Car (CC), Second Seating (2S), Sleeper (SL), AC 3-tier (3A), and AC 2-tier (2A).
- Ticket Price Estimates: Fares are very affordable, ranging from around ₹80 (for 2S/Chair Car) to ₹300-₹500 (for AC classes).
- Pros: Generally very punctual, comfortable, and you avoid road traffic. It’s a scenic route as you pass through tunnels and bridges.
- Cons: Tickets for popular trains, especially AC classes, can sell out quickly during peak season.
- Tips: Check the Indian Railways (IRCTC) website or other popular travel platforms for the latest schedules and to book your tickets in advance.
3. By Air (Not Applicable)
There are no direct flights between Haridwar and Dehradun. Given the very short road and rail distance, flying is not a practical or logical option for this route. Dehradun itself has Jolly Grant Airport (DED), which serves as the nearest airport for Haridwar travelers to other cities, but not for travel between these two towns.
For the short and picturesque journey from Haridwar to Dehradun, buses and trains are the most practical and frequently used options. Buses offer greater flexibility in terms of departure times, while trains provide a comfortable and often quicker journey. A private taxi is ideal for maximum comfort and convenience.