How to Reach Dehradun To Ranikhet

Dehradun, the capital of Uttarakhand, is a bustling city nestled in the Doon Valley, known for its educational institutions, pleasant weather, and proximity to popular hill stations like Mussoorie. Ranikhet, often called the “Queen’s Meadow,” is a serene and picturesque hill station in the Almora district, celebrated for its sprawling golf course, charming cantonment area, and peaceful ambiance amidst pine and oak forests. Traveling from the busy city life of Dehradun to the tranquil hills of Ranikhet offers a significant journey through the diverse landscapes of Uttarakhand. This article will guide you through the best ways to reach Ranikhet from Dehradun.

Dehradun to Ranikhet Distance

The approximate road distance between Dehradun and Ranikhet is quite substantial, ranging from about 320 to 350 kilometers, depending on the specific route taken. The journey typically takes about 7 to 9 hours by road, considering the long stretches of plain roads and then the winding mountain roads. This is a full-day journey that offers changing scenery.

How to Reach Dehradun To Ranikhet

Given the long distance, road travel is the primary mode of transport. You can opt for a direct road journey or combine it with a train ride to a closer railhead.

By Road: The Most Common Way

Road travel is the most common and often the most convenient way to get from Dehradun to Ranikhet, offering flexibility and beautiful scenery as you transition from the plains to the hills.

1. Private Taxi or Car Rental

Hiring a private taxi is the most comfortable and flexible option for this long journey. You can book a cab from Dehradun through various taxi services, hotel concierges, or online platforms.

• Journey Details: The route typically involves driving from Dehradun through towns in the plains like Haridwar or Najibabad, then ascending into the Kumaon hills via towns like Ramnagar or Haldwani/Kathgodam, and finally reaching Ranikhet. The journey is long but offers a great variety of landscapes. The initial part will be on highways, transitioning to winding mountain roads as you approach Ranikhet. It is recommended to hire an experienced driver for this route. The trip takes approximately 7 to 9 hours, depending on traffic conditions, road quality, and any stops you make.
• Benefits: This option provides maximum comfort, privacy, and flexibility. You can start at your preferred time, take breaks as needed, and enjoy the scenic journey at your own pace. It’s ideal for families, groups, or those with significant luggage.
• Cost: Taxi fares for this long inter-city journey can vary significantly. You can expect fares to be anywhere from ₹7,000 to ₹12,000 or more for a one-way trip, depending on the type of vehicle (e.g., sedan, SUV) and the specific taxi service. It’s highly advisable to confirm all charges, including tolls, driver’s allowance, and any night-halt charges, before booking.

2. Bus Services

Direct bus services from Dehradun to Ranikhet are available, though they might not be as frequent as other routes. Uttarakhand Transport Corporation (UTC) and private operators run buses on this route.

• Journey Details: Buses from Dehradun typically take a long route and can have a travel duration of 10-14 hours or even more due to multiple stops and mountain road speeds. They usually depart from ISBT Dehradun.
• Benefits: This is the most economical way to travel, making it suitable for budget-conscious travelers.
• Considerations: Bus journeys for this distance can be tiring due to the long duration and winding roads. Comfort levels might be basic. It’s advisable to check the latest schedules and book tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons. You might find better comfort on an overnight sleeper bus if available.

By Train: A Combined Option

There is no direct train connectivity to Ranikhet, as it is a hill station. However, you can combine a train journey from Dehradun to a closer railhead and then complete the rest of the journey by road.

• Nearest Railway Station to Ranikhet: The nearest major railway station to Ranikhet is Kathgodam (KGM), located about 75-80 kilometers away.
• How to Travel by Train + Road:
  1. Dehradun to Kathgodam by Train: Dehradun (DDN) is well-connected by train to Kathgodam (KGM). There are direct trains like the DDN KGM EXP (14120) and JANSHATABDI EXP (12091) that run daily or frequently between Dehradun and Kathgodam. The train journey from Dehradun to Kathgodam typically takes about 7.5 to 8 hours.
  2. From Kathgodam to Ranikhet by Road: Once you arrive at Kathgodam railway station, you can easily hire a taxi or take a local bus to Ranikhet. This road segment is very scenic and takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours. Shared taxis are also available from Kathgodam.
• Benefits: This combined option can be more comfortable for the long journey compared to an all-road bus trip, especially the train leg. It breaks up the travel into manageable segments.
• Considerations: This option requires careful planning to synchronize train arrival times with your onward road journey. Ensure you have pre-booked a taxi or know the bus timings from Kathgodam to Ranikhet, especially if arriving late at night.

By Air: Not a Practical Option

Neither Dehradun nor Ranikhet has a direct airport that makes air travel practical for this route.

• Nearest Airports:
  • Jolly Grant Airport (DED) in Dehradun: This is Dehradun’s local airport.
  • Pantnagar Airport (PGH): This is the closest airport to Ranikhet, located approximately 115-120 kilometers away.
• How to Travel by Air: While you could theoretically fly from Dehradun to Pantnagar (if a direct flight were available, which is highly unlikely for this short, regional route), it would involve significant time and cost spent on transfers to and from airports. The most practical approach for air travel would be to fly from Dehradun to a major city like Delhi, and then take a connecting flight to Pantnagar. From Pantnagar, you would still need to hire a taxi to Ranikhet (a 3-4 hour drive). This makes it an overly complicated, time-consuming, and expensive route compared to direct road or train+road travel.

Important Tips for Your Journey

• Start Early: For a long journey like Dehradun to Ranikhet, starting early in the morning is highly recommended. This allows you to complete most of your travel during daylight hours, avoid potential traffic, and reach your destination comfortably.
• Check Road Conditions: Mountain roads can be subject to landslides or closures, especially during the monsoon season (July to September). It’s wise to check local road and weather reports before you start your journey.
• Be Prepared for Winding Roads: A significant portion of the journey, especially after you enter the Kumaon region, involves continuous winding mountain roads. If you are prone to motion sickness, carry appropriate medication.
• Carry Essentials: Always keep warm clothing handy, even in summer, as mountain weather can change quickly. Also, carry some snacks, water, and basic medicines.
• Enjoy the Views: The journey offers spectacular views, transitioning from the plains to the dense forests and panoramic vistas of the Kumaon Himalayas.

In conclusion, for traveling from Dehradun to Ranikhet, a private taxi offers the most comfort and flexibility for a direct road trip. Alternatively, combining a train journey to Kathgodam followed by a taxi or bus ride to Ranikhet can be a good, often more comfortable, option for the long distance.