Chandigarh to Rishikesh — Distance, Route & Travel Guide

Chandigarh to Uttarakhand · Compare flights, trains, buses & driving options

Chandigarh
Chandigarh
Rishikesh
Uttarakhand
160 km
aerial distance (straight line)
99 miles · Road distance: ~216 km
How to get from Chandigarh to Rishikesh
By Flight
No direct flights
Nearest to Rishikesh: Dehradun (DED)
🚆
By Train
~3.9 hrs
216 km · Multiple daily trains
View Trains
🚌
By Bus
~5.4 hrs
216 km · AC/Non-AC available
Search Buses
🚗
By Car
~4.3 hrs
216 km via highway
Quick facts
Aerial distance
160 km (99 mi)
Road distance
~216 km
Fastest mode
Train (~3.9 hrs)
Cheapest mode
Bus
📍 Chandigarh to Rishikesh distance overview

The straight-line (aerial) distance from Chandigarh to Rishikesh is approximately 160 km (99 miles). By road, the distance increases to approximately 216 km due to the terrain, highways, and road networks connecting Chandigarh to Uttarakhand.

160 kmAerial distance
~216 kmBy road
~3.9 hrsFastest route
✈️ Reaching Rishikesh by air
No direct airport

Rishikesh does not have its own commercial airport. The nearest airport is Dehradun (DED). Travellers typically fly to the nearest airport and then continue their journey by road or rail.

Search Flights to Nearest Airport
🚆 By train — Chandigarh to Rishikesh
~3.9 hours ~216 km Multiple daily trains

Indian Railways connects Chandigarh and Rishikesh with multiple daily services. The journey takes around 3.9 hours — Rajdhani and Shatabdi express trains are faster, while mail and passenger trains make more stops.

AC First Class (1A)Premium, 2-berth cabins
AC 2-Tier (2A)Curtained berths, comfortable
AC 3-Tier (3A)Popular, good value
Sleeper Class (SL)Budget, non-AC

Book in advance through IRCTC, especially during festivals and holidays when seats fill up quickly.

Check Trains on IRCTC
🚌 By bus — Chandigarh to Rishikesh
~5.4 hours ~216 km Most affordable

Bus travel is a popular and affordable option. The journey takes approximately 5.4 hours covering ~216 km. Both government and private operators service this route.

Volvo ACPremium comfort, reclining seats
AC SleeperFull-length beds, ideal for overnight
AC SeaterAir-conditioned, mid-range
Non-ACBudget-friendly, basic comfort

Night buses are especially popular for this distance — travel while you sleep and arrive fresh at your destination.

Search Chandigarh to Rishikesh Buses
🚗 By car — Chandigarh to Rishikesh
~4.3 hours ~216 km

A road trip from Chandigarh to Rishikesh covers approximately 216 km and takes around 4.3 hours. Actual time depends on traffic, road quality, and stops along the way.

Start early to avoid city traffic and use daylight hours, especially on mountainous or rural terrain. Ensure your vehicle is in good condition and carry sufficient fuel for remote stretches.

💡 Travel tips for Chandigarh to Rishikesh
📅
Book early
Book flights and trains 2-3 weeks in advance during peak season (Oct-Mar) for better prices and availability.
🌧️
Check weather
Avoid monsoon (Jun-Sep) for road trips. Road conditions can deteriorate and flights may face delays.
💳
Carry valid ID
Aadhaar, Passport, or Voter ID is required for train travel and recommended for bus journeys.
Where to stay in Rishikesh
Budget to luxury hotels from ₹999/night. Compare prices on FareEagle.
View Rishikesh Hotels
🔗 Useful travel resources

For official travel information, regulations, and booking services:

IRCTC — Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation — Book train tickets online

Airports Authority of India — Airport information and flight status

DGCA — Directorate General of Civil Aviation — Indian aviation regulator

Incredible India — Official tourism portal of India

Frequently asked questions
What is the distance from Chandigarh to Rishikesh?
The aerial (straight-line) distance from Chandigarh to Rishikesh is approximately 160 km (99 miles). The road distance is approximately 216 km, which takes about 4.3 hours by car.
What is the fastest way to travel from Chandigarh to Rishikesh?
The fastest option is by train, taking approximately 3.9 hours. Rishikesh does not have a major airport, so flying requires reaching the nearest airport at Dehradun (DED).
Are there buses from Chandigarh to Rishikesh?
Yes, multiple bus operators run services on the Chandigarh to Rishikesh route. The journey takes approximately 5.4 hours. You can search and book bus tickets on FareEagle with AC Sleeper, AC Seater, and Non-AC options.
What is the best time to travel from Chandigarh to Rishikesh?
The best time to travel depends on the weather at your destination. Generally, October to March offers the most pleasant weather across most of India. Avoid monsoon season (June-September) if travelling by road, as heavy rains can cause delays and road closures. For hill stations, summer (April-June) is peak season.
How long does the train take from Chandigarh to Rishikesh?
The train journey from Chandigarh to Rishikesh takes approximately 3.9 hours. Express trains like Rajdhani and Shatabdi are faster, while mail/passenger trains take longer with more stops. Check train schedules and availability on IRCTC.
Can I book Chandigarh to Rishikesh travel on FareEagle?
Yes! FareEagle lets you compare and book bus tickets, and hotels for the Chandigarh to Rishikesh route. Compare prices across operators, get instant confirmation, and enjoy transparent pricing with no hidden charges.
Routes from Chandigarh