Is Rishikesh near Haridwar?

Yes, it is only 20 km away from Haridwar.

Can I reach Rishikesh by flight?

The nearest airport is Jolly Grant in Dehradun.

Is alcohol allowed in Rishikesh?

No, it is a holy city and alcohol is prohibited.

What is the best month for rafting?

March to May is the peak season for river rafting.

Are there direct trains to Rishikesh?

There are limited direct trains; most travelers go via Haridwar.

Sawai Madhopur

Rishikesh

Train

Sawai Madhopur to Rishikesh

Updated: 21 May 2026

Reaching Rishikesh from Sawai Madhopur involves a combination of rail and road travel. First, take a train to Haridwar Junction, which serves as the primary rail gateway to the region. From Haridwar, you can hire a private taxi or take a local bus for the final 20-kilometer stretch to Rishikesh. The journey takes you from the desert plains of Rajasthan into the scenic foothills of the Himalayas. This route is popular among adventure seekers and yoga enthusiasts.

Total Distance: Driving distance is 600 km; straight-line air distance is 470 km.

Fastest Way

Train to Haridwar followed by a pre-booked private taxi.

Cheapest Way

Train to Haridwar followed by a local bus to Rishikesh.

Compare Sawai Madhopur to Rishikesh Routes

Train

Connecting

Duration

14 hours

Avg Price

700 - 2800 INR

Operator

Indian Railways

Route

Sawai Madhopur to Haridwar by train, then taxi to Rishikesh.

Pre-book your taxi from Haridwar station to avoid overcharging.

Travel Tips

Pack Light
If you are planning to trek or move between ashrams, a backpack is more convenient than a suitcase.
Respect Local Culture
Rishikesh is a holy city; avoid consuming non-vegetarian food and alcohol in public.
Stay Hydrated
Drink only bottled or filtered water to avoid stomach issues.
Local SIM
Ensure you have a good mobile network provider as some areas near the river have weak signals.
Footwear
Wear comfortable walking shoes as you will be doing a lot of walking on uneven terrain.

Safety Tips

Rafting Safety
Always wear a life jacket and follow the instructor's guidelines during rafting.
Night Travel
Avoid walking alone on isolated paths near the river after dark.
Monkeys
Keep your bags closed and do not feed monkeys, as they can snatch food items.
Emergency Contacts
Keep the contact details of your hotel and local emergency services handy.