How to Reach Dehradun: Travel Guide & Best Options

By - September 11, 2025 - Uttarakhand
How to Reach Dehradun

Dehradun, the capital of Uttarakhand, is one of North India’s most charming destinations. Tucked away in the Doon Valley, with the Ganga on one side and the Yamuna on the other, it’s not just a city—it’s a gateway to the Garhwal Himalayas. Whether you are heading to the famous hill station of Mussoorie, seeking spiritual solace in Rishikesh, or beginning your trek to the Char Dham shrines, Dehradun is the hub you’ll pass through.

But before you can wander down Rajpur Road or sip chai in a colonial-era café, you need to figure out how to get there. That’s where this guide comes in. Here, we’ll explore in detail every possible way to reach Dehradun—by air, by train, and by road—so you can plan the journey that suits your budget, time, and travel style.

Where is Dehradun?

Dehradun lies about 250 kilometers north of Delhi, and its location makes it an easy access point for both domestic and international travelers. It’s bordered by:

  • Mussoorie: About 35 km away, a quick ride to the “Queen of Hills.”
  • Rishikesh: Around 45 km, known for yoga, rafting, and spirituality.
  • Haridwar: 55 km away, one of India’s holiest cities.

The city itself is well-connected to the rest of India thanks to its airport, railway station, and highway links. Let’s dive into each mode of transport in detail.

Reaching Dehradun by Air

Jolly Grant Airport (DED)

The fastest way to get to Dehradun is to fly. The city’s airport, Jolly Grant Airport (DED), lies around 25–30 km from the city center, near Rishikesh. Though not as large as Delhi or Mumbai airports, it’s modern and efficient, handling thousands of passengers each day.

Domestic Flight Connectivity

Dehradun is directly connected to several Indian cities. Popular routes include:

  • Delhi to Dehradun: A short flight, usually under 1 hour.
  • Mumbai to Dehradun: Around 2.5 hours.
  • Bangalore/Hyderabad/Chennai to Dehradun: About 3–4 hours, mostly direct flights.
  • Ahmedabad, Jaipur, Lucknow: Direct or connecting flights available.

Airlines like IndiGo, Vistara, Air India, and SpiceJet operate frequent flights.

International Travelers

There are no direct international flights to Dehradun yet. If you’re flying from abroad, the best way is to land at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) and then take a short domestic flight to Dehradun.

Airport to City Transfers

Once you land, you’ll need transport to the city:

  • Taxi/Private Cabs: ₹900–₹1200, 45–60 minutes depending on traffic.
  • App-based cabs (Ola/Uber): Limited availability, best to pre-book.
  • Shared cabs: Available outside arrivals, cheaper but less comfortable.
  • Hotel Transfers: Some hotels arrange pick-ups—worth confirming in advance.

Who Should Choose Air Travel?

  • Travelers coming from far-off cities like Mumbai, Bangalore, or Kolkata.
  • International tourists short on time.
  • Families with kids or senior citizens who prefer comfort.

Top Uttarakhand Tour Packages to Explore:

Reaching Dehradun by Train

Dehradun Railway Station (DDN)

Located in the heart of the city, Dehradun Railway Station is one of the most convenient entry points. It’s well connected to northern and central India, with both express and superfast trains.

Major Train Options

  • Dehradun Vande Bharat Express (from Delhi’s Anand Vihar Terminal): About 4.5–5 hours, India’s modern semi-high-speed train.
  • Shatabdi Express (Delhi–Dehradun): Leaves in the morning, about 6 hours.
  • Mussoorie Express: Overnight journey, budget-friendly.
  • Nanda Devi Express: Overnight service, convenient for business travelers.

Trains also connect Dehradun to Lucknow, Varanasi, Allahabad, and even Mumbai (though longer routes can take 24+ hours).

Approximate Travel Times by Train

  • Delhi → Dehradun: 5–7 hours.
  • Lucknow → Dehradun: 12–14 hours.
  • Varanasi → Dehradun: 20+ hours.
  • Mumbai → Dehradun: 30+ hours.

Tips for Train Travel

  1. Book in advance: Indian Railways tickets sell out quickly during summer holidays and festivals.
  2. Check classes: AC Chair Car or Executive Class for comfort; Sleeper Class for budget.
  3. Arrival time: Choose trains that arrive during daylight hours for convenience.
  4. Station facilities: The station has waiting rooms, food stalls, and prepaid taxi counters.

Who Should Take the Train?

  • Budget travelers.
  • Those who enjoy scenic train journeys.
  • People traveling from nearby states like Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, or Punjab.

Reaching Dehradun by Road

Delhi to Dehradun

One of the most popular routes, Delhi to Dehradun is about 250 km.

  • By Car: 5–7 hours depending on traffic. The new Delhi–Dehradun Expressway (partly operational) will cut travel time to around 3 hours once completed.
  • By Bus: State-run and private buses operate from Delhi ISBT Kashmere Gate and Anand Vihar ISBT. Options include ordinary, semi-deluxe, Volvo, and luxury sleeper buses.

Haridwar/Rishikesh to Dehradun

  • Haridwar: 50–55 km, about 1.5 hours.
  • Rishikesh: 45 km, about 1–1.5 hours.
    Frequent buses and shared taxis run between these cities.

Chandigarh to Dehradun

  • Distance: 170 km.
  • By car: 4–5 hours via Saharanpur.
  • By bus: Chandigarh ISBT has regular services to Dehradun.

Road Conditions

  • The roads are generally good, but traffic can be heavy near towns.
  • During the monsoon (July–September), landslides can delay travel.
  • Winter fog may cause low visibility on highways.

Driving or Car Rentals

  • Car rentals from Delhi are available with or without drivers.
  • Taxis are also an option, costing around ₹4000–₹6000 for a one-way trip from Delhi.
  • Self-driving is fine, but the hilly stretches near Dehradun require cautious driving.

Who Should Travel by Road?

  • Adventure seekers who love road trips.
  • Budget travelers using buses.
  • Groups of friends or families who want flexibility to stop at roadside dhabas.

Comparing the Options

Mode Time Cost (Approx) Comfort Level Best For
Air 1–4 hours + 1 hr road ₹2000–₹7000 High Travelers short on time
Train 5–30 hours ₹400–₹2500 Moderate–High Budget & mid-range travelers
Road (Car/Bus) 1.5–7 hours ₹300–₹5000 Moderate Adventure lovers, flexible trips

Getting Around in Dehradun

Once you reach, moving around is simple:

  • Local Buses: Cheap, connect major areas.
  • Auto-Rickshaws: Good for short distances.
  • Cabs: Available via Ola, Uber, or local operators.
  • Car Rentals: Great for exploring Mussoorie, Rishikesh, Haridwar.
  • Walking: Some areas like Rajpur Road are pleasant to explore on foot.

Related Reads:

Best Time to Travel to Dehradun

  • Summer (March–June): Pleasant, best for sightseeing.
  • Monsoon (July–September): Lush greenery, but roads can be tricky.
  • Autumn (October–November): Clear skies, great views.
  • Winter (December–February): Cold but charming, especially if you’re heading to Mussoorie.

Practical Travel Tips

  1. Check weather forecasts before planning road trips.
  2. Keep cash handy for small taxis and roadside eateries.
  3. Book tickets early during summer and festive seasons.
  4. Plan ground transfers from airport or railway station in advance.
  5. Carry essentials: warm clothes in winter, raincoat/umbrella in monsoon.

Conclusion

Dehradun is not just a city but the starting point of countless journeys—to the hills, rivers, and spiritual centers of Uttarakhand. Luckily, reaching here is easier than ever. If you’re coming from far away, fly. If you’re on a budget, take the train. If you want flexibility, hit the road.

Whichever option you choose, the journey itself will be memorable. And once you arrive, you’ll be rewarded with cool mountain air, delicious local food, and a taste of the laid-back Doon lifestyle.

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