Joshimath, also known as Jyotirmath, is a significant town in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, nestled amidst the majestic Himalayas. It serves as a crucial gateway to several holy shrines like Badrinath and Hemkund Sahib, as well as popular trekking destinations like Auli. The journey from Haridwar to Joshimath is a scenic drive through the Garhwal Himalayas, moving from the plains into the higher mountains.
Distance Between Haridwar and Joshimath
The journey from Haridwar to Joshimath is a considerable distance, primarily by road through hilly terrain:
- By Road: Approximately 270-280 kilometers.
How to Reach Joshimath from Haridwar
As Joshimath is a hill town, direct train or air travel to the town itself is not possible. Road travel is the only practical way to reach Joshimath, offering both public and private transport options.
1. By Road (Primary and Only Direct Way)
Traveling by road is the exclusive and most popular method to reach Joshimath from Haridwar. The route is scenic, passing through various towns and offering breathtaking views of the mountains, valleys, and rivers.
- Journey Time: A direct road journey typically takes 8 to 11 hours, depending on the mode of transport, road conditions, and traffic, especially in the hilly sections.
- Routes: The most common and direct route is via NH7. This highway connects Haridwar to Rishikesh, then continues through Devprayag, Srinagar, Rudraprayag, Karnaprayag, Chamoli, and finally to Joshimath. The road is generally well-maintained, though mountain roads can have winding turns and occasional challenges, especially during monsoons or winter.
a. By Bus (Economical and Common)
Buses are a highly popular and economical way to travel from Haridwar to Joshimath. Both government-run and private bus operators offer services on this route.
- Journey Time: Buses usually take longer than private cars, ranging from 10 to 12 hours or more, due to frequent stops and a more cautious driving pace on mountain roads.
- Operators: Uttarakhand Transport Corporation (UTC) runs regular buses from Haridwar. Private operators like Tehri Garhwal Motor Owners Corporation Pvt Ltd (TGMOC) and DevBhoomi Travels also provide services.
- Types of Buses: Most buses are non-AC seater buses, designed for comfortable travel in hilly regions. Some routes might have push-back seats.
- Ticket Price Estimates: Fares are affordable, typically ranging from ₹600 to ₹1,000 per person.
- Pros: Very economical, direct service, and a good way to experience the local journey.
- Cons: Long journey can be tiring, and comfort levels may vary. Buses can get crowded.
- Tips: Buses usually depart from the main Haridwar Bus Stand. It’s advisable to check timings and book tickets in advance, especially during peak pilgrimage seasons (like Char Dham Yatra) or holidays, through online platforms like the UTC website, RedBus, or Goibibo. Early morning departures are common to ensure arrival in Joshimath before nightfall, as driving in the hills after dark can be challenging.
b. By Taxi/Cab (Most Comfortable and Flexible)
Hiring a private taxi or cab is the most comfortable and flexible option, ideal for families, groups, or those who prefer a direct and personalized journey.
- Pros: Door-to-door service, privacy, the ability to stop for breaks or photos, and generally faster travel time than buses. HillZet Taxi guarantees on-time pickups and drop-offs for the airport (and similar punctuality can be expected for long-distance cab services).
- Cons: Significantly more expensive than bus travel.
- Price Estimates: A one-way private taxi from Haridwar to Joshimath can cost anywhere from ₹6,000 to ₹10,000 or more, depending on the car type (sedan, SUV, etc.) and the service provider. This typically includes basic tolls, but it’s always best to confirm all charges upfront.
- Tips: You can find local taxi stands near Haridwar Railway Station or major ghats. Many travel agencies in Haridwar specialize in Himalayan tours and can arrange reliable taxis. For long distances, choose a comfortable vehicle and an experienced driver familiar with mountain roads. It’s common to start this journey early in the morning to avoid heavy traffic and allow for sufficient daylight travel.
c. Shared Autos/Jeeps (For Parts of the Journey)
While direct shared autos or jeeps for the entire Haridwar to Joshimath route are unlikely, you can find shared taxis or ‘Vikrams’ for segments of the journey, particularly from Haridwar to Rishikesh, or from major towns like Rudraprayag or Chamoli towards Joshimath. This might involve multiple changes.
- Pros: Extremely economical for short segments.
- Cons: Involves multiple changes, less comfortable, and can be very crowded. Not practical for the entire long distance directly.
- Tips: This option is best for budget travelers who are flexible with time and comfortable with frequent transfers.
2. By Train (No Direct Train)
There is no direct railway line or station in Joshimath itself due to its mountainous terrain.
- Nearest Railway Station: The nearest major railway station to Joshimath is Rishikesh Railway Station (RKSH), which is about 250-260 kilometers away. Haridwar Junction (HW) is another significant railway hub, connecting to major Indian cities.
- How it works: You can take a train from your origin to Haridwar or Rishikesh. From either of these stations, you would then need to switch to road transport (bus or taxi) to complete your journey to Joshimath.
3. By Air (No Direct Flight)
Joshimath does not have its own airport.
- Nearest Airport: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport (DED) in Dehradun, which is approximately 270-280 kilometers from Joshimath.
- How it works: You can fly to Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun from major Indian cities. From the airport, you would then need to hire a private taxi or take a bus (usually via Rishikesh/Haridwar) to reach Joshimath. This option saves time on long-distance travel to Uttarakhand but still requires a significant road journey through the hills.
For your journey from Haridwar to Joshimath, traveling by road is the only direct and practical option. Depending on your budget and comfort preferences, you can choose between direct buses for an economical trip or a private taxi for a more comfortable and flexible experience. Remember to factor in the long travel time due to the mountainous terrain.