If you are planning a trip to Badrinath, Haridwar and Rishikesh are usually the two starting points most pilgrims choose. Many travellers look for the easiest and most reliable way to reach Badrinath from these cities, because selecting the right route and travel option can make the yatra much more comfortable and time-efficient.
The distance from Haridwar to Badrinath is about 320 km, and the journey takes 10–12 hours by taxi or 12–14 hours by bus via Rishikesh, Devprayag, Srinagar, Rudraprayag, Karnaprayag, Chamoli, and Joshimath.
In this detailed travel guide, you will learn how to reach Badrinath from Haridwar and Rishikesh by road, bus, and taxi, including distance, travel time, route details, road conditions, fare estimates, and practical travel tips to ensure a safe and smooth Badrinath Yatra.
What is the Best Way to Reach Badrinath from Haridwar or Rishikesh?
For most travellers, road travel is the best and most practical way to reach Badrinath from Haridwar or Rishikesh. Since there is no direct train or flight connectivity to the temple, pilgrims usually travel by bus, private taxi, or shared jeep through the scenic mountain route of the Garhwal Himalayas. The journey takes around 10–12 hours by taxi and 12–14 hours by bus, depending on traffic and weather conditions.
How to Reach Badrinath from Haridwar and Rishikesh?
Travelling to Badrinath from Haridwar or Rishikesh is mainly done by road, as the temple does not have direct train or flight connectivity. Most pilgrims begin their journey from these gateway cities and follow the mountain route through Devprayag, Rudraprayag, Karnaprayag, Chamoli, and Joshimath before reaching Badrinath.
Depending on your budget, travel comfort, and group size, there are several ways to complete this journey.
1) Haridwar/Rishikesh to Badrinath by Bus Travel
Buses are the most economical way to travel from Haridwar or Rishikesh to Badrinath. Government buses operated by Uttarakhand Transport Corporation (UTC) and some private operators run during the Char Dham Yatra season.
- Departure Point: ISBT Haridwar and ISBT Rishikesh
- Travel Time: Around 12–14 hours
- Ticket Price: Usually between ₹850 and ₹1500
- Best For: Budget travellers and solo pilgrims
However, buses may have limited stops and basic seating, which may not be comfortable for elderly travellers. Buses usually stop at places like Devprayag, Srinagar, Rudraprayag, or Joshimath for short meal and rest breaks during the journey.
Is there a direct bus from Rishikesh to Badrinath?
How to Book a Bus from Rishikesh or Haridwar to Badrinath?
- Visit the UTC website (https://utconline.uk.gov.in/)
- Enter From: Haridwar/Rishikesh and To: Badrinath
- Select your travel date
- Choose the available bus and seat
- Complete the online payment and download the e-ticket
- Visit the UTC ticket counter at the bus stand
- Ask for the Haridwar/Rishikesh to Badrinath bus
- Buy the ticket for the next available departure
What is the last bus timing from Haridwar to Badrinath?
Do buses from Haridwar or Rishikesh to Badrinath run daily?
Are AC or sleeper buses available on this route?
2) Badrinath by Private Taxi / Cab
Hiring a private taxi is one of the most comfortable and flexible ways to reach Badrinath, especially for families and senior citizens. A private cab allows travellers to take short breaks and travel at their own pace.
- Travel Time: Around 10–12 hours
- Fare: Approximately ₹6,000 – ₹14,000 depending on vehicle type
- Best For: Families, senior citizens, and groups
Common taxi options include Sedan cars (Dzire, Etios), SUVs (Innova, Crysta), and Tempo Travellers for larger groups.
Where do I get a taxi from Haridwar or Rishikesh?
Can we reach Badrinath in one day by taxi?
Expert Tips- As per the Uttarakhand Transport Department, night driving is generally not allowed on the Char Dham mountain routes for safety reasons. Vehicles are usually stopped after around 9:00 p.m., and the route opens again from about 4:30 a.m.
For example, during one of our trips from Delhi, we reached Rishikesh at 3:45 a.m. but were stopped at the Char Dham checkpoint and allowed to continue only after 4:30 a.m.. The exact timing may vary depending on weather and traffic conditions, so plan your journey accordingly.
3) Shared Jeep / Shared Taxi From Haridwar/Rishikesh to Badrinath
Shared jeeps or shared taxis are also available from Haridwar and Rishikesh. They are faster than buses and cheaper than hiring a private taxi, making them a good option for travellers looking for a balance between cost and comfort.
- Travel Time: Around 11–13 hours
- Cost: Usually ₹1200 – ₹2500 per seat depending on demand
- Best For: Small groups and travellers looking for a balance between cost and comfort
Shared vehicles usually depart once the vehicle is full and may have limited luggage space.
Shared taxis can sometimes be found at Haridwar taxi stand or Rishikesh taxi stand, but many travellers first travel to Joshimath by bus or shared vehicle and then take another shared jeep from Joshimath to Badrinath for the final stretch of the journey.
4) Tour Packages (Recommended for Hassle-Free Travel)
Another convenient way to reach Badrinath from Haridwar or Rishikesh is by choosing a well-planned Badrinath or Do Dhma Tour package. Many pilgrims prefer this option because travelling in the Himalayan region involves long road journeys, hotel availability issues during peak season, and changing weather conditions.
Based on our experience at Manchala Mushafir, where we have been organising Badrinath and Char Dham Yatra tours for more than 8 years, many travellers find it easier to travel with a pre-planned itinerary instead of arranging transport, hotels, and permits separately.
These packages are usually designed to include transportation, accommodation, driver allowances, and basic travel assistance, which helps pilgrims focus on the spiritual journey rather than travel logistics.
- Travel Time: Usually 3 days depending on the itinerary
- Best For: Families, senior citizens, and travellers looking for a more organised and comfortable pilgrimage
Some travellers also extend their trip by combining Badrinath with nearby destinations such as Kedarnath or the complete Char Dham Yatra.
Comparison of Travel Options from Haridwar/Rishikesh to Badrinath
| Travel Option | Travel Time | Approx Cost | Comfort Level | Best For |
| Bus Travel | 12–14 hours | ₹850 – ₹1500 | Basic seating, limited stops | Budget travellers and solo pilgrims |
| Private Taxi / Cab | 10–12 hours | ₹6,000 – ₹14,000 (vehicle basis) | Comfortable, flexible stops | Families, senior citizens, and groups |
| Shared Jeep / Taxi | 11–13 hours | ₹1200 – ₹2500 per seat | Moderate comfort, shared seating | Small groups and travellers balancing cost and comfort |
| Tour Package | 1-2 days (depending on itinerary) | Varies based on hotel and vehicle | Most convenient and organised | Families, senior citizens, and pilgrims wanting a hassle-free journey |
What Is The Road Route To Badrinath From Haridwar And Rishikesh?
| Stop | Distance from Previous Stop |
| Haridwar → Rishikesh | 25 km |
| Rishikesh → Devprayag | 70 km |
| Devprayag → Srinagar | 35 km |
| Srinagar → Rudraprayag | 33 km |
| Rudraprayag → Karnaprayag | 31 km |
| Karnaprayag → Chamoli | 10 km |
| Chamoli → Joshimath | 50 km |
| Joshimath → Badrinath | 45 km |
What are the road conditions on the way to Badrinath from Haridwar and Rishikesh ?
In addition, weather conditions in the Himalayas can change quickly, so having a flexible travel option with an experienced mountain driver can make the journey safer and less stressful.
Which Is Better- Haridwar Or Rishikesh?
Both Haridwar and Rishikesh are well connected by road. You can choose any city to start your jounrey to Badrinath temple. It can also vary depending upon your mode of transport.
If you are coming by train, then Haridwar is going to be the best option for you as this city have a great rail connectivity from almost all the major cities of India. If you are coming here by flight, then Rishikesh is going to the best suited option for you.
Dehradun airport is stratigically built to connect all the three cities, Haridwar, Rishikesh and Dehradun but it is closest to Rishikesh. So people travelling by flight should consider Rishikesh as the starting point of their journey to Badrinath Temple.
Here is a category-wise breakdown of travel below, showing which is better: Haridwar or Rishikesh for Badrinath.
Where Will We Stop on the Way to Badrinath?
During the journey from Haridwar or Rishikesh to Badrinath, you can take short breaks at a few towns along the route for rest, food, or sightseeing. Some of the most common stops include:
• Srinagar (Garhwal)
• Joshimath
How Many Checkpoints Are There from Haridwar to Badrinath and Where?
During the journey from Haridwar to Badrinath, travellers usually pass through multiple police and administration checkpoints, especially during the Char Dham Yatra season. These checkpoints are used to verify yatra registration, vehicle documents, and traffic flow on the mountain route.
While the exact number can vary by season and traffic control plans, travellers typically encounter 3–5 main checkpoints along the route.
Common checkpoints on the Haridwar–Badrinath route include:
- Rishikesh Checkpoint – Entry point to the Char Dham mountain route where many vehicles are checked.
- Devprayag Checkpoint – Sometimes used for traffic regulation on the way toward Srinagar and Rudraprayag.
- Rudraprayag Checkpoint – A major junction where routes for Kedarnath and Badrinath diverge, and vehicle checks may occur.
- Joshimath Checkpoint – One of the most important checkpoints before Badrinath. Traffic toward Badrinath is often controlled from here, especially during peak season.
Government Travel Guidelines By Road
Before starting the journey to Badrinath or any Char Dham destination, travellers should follow the safety guidelines issued by the Uttarakhand Transport Department to ensure a safe and smooth pilgrimage.
Important Do’s
✓ Carry all vehicle documents such as RC, insurance, permit, and pollution certificate.
✓ Ensure the vehicle is in good mechanical condition, including brakes, lights, tyres, and steering.
✓ Keep essential safety items such as a first-aid kit, torch, rope, and emergency tools in the vehicle.
✓ Wear seat belts and follow traffic rules on mountain roads.
Important Don’ts
✗ Do not travel in unauthorized vehicles carrying passengers illegally.
✗ Avoid reckless driving or overtaking on mountain bends.
✗ Do not throw garbage on the route—use designated dustbins.
✗ Avoid travelling in poor weather conditions or landslide alerts.
Emergency Helpline
- Medical Emergency: 108
- Police Assistance: 112
Check Live Vehicle Cost And Customise Your Yatra From Haridwar/Rishikesh
Planning your pilgrimage from Haridwar or Rishikesh? Instead of guessing prices, you can check the live vehicle cost and customise your journey based on your group size, travel dates, and comfort preferences.
Check Live Vehicle Cost & Customise Your Yatra
Travel Tips For Badrinath Yatra From Haridwar
Start Early: Start your journey to Badrinath from Haridwar and Rishikesh early to avoid mountain traffic.
Advance Booking: Book your hotel well in advance, especially during the pilgrimage season, to get better deals.
Warm Clothes: Badrinath's weather remains cold all year round, so pack warm clothes, including a sweater, a fleece jacket, socks, etc., even in summer. For a details list, you can check out our blog on things to pack for do Dham Yatra.
Check Badrinath weather and Road accessibility: Before travelling, check the weather and road conditions.
Registration: Do not forget to complete the Badrinath yatra registration to ensure a safe and secure yatra.
Carry snacks and water: Keep light dry snacks and a reusable water bottle with you.
Avoid Monsoon: It is the most challenging time to trek and reach the temples due to the high risk of landslides and accidents.
Kapat opening/closing: Badrinath Temple opening and closing dates are announced on the occasion of Basan Panchami and Vijyadashmi.
Badrinath From Haridwar And Rishikesh FAQ
How do I go from Rishikesh to Badrinath?
To reach Badrinath from Rishikesh, you need to cover around 295 km, which you can do by bus, taxi, or shared jeep. The journey follows NH-7 and takes 9-10 hours, depending on road conditions and traffic.
How do I travel to Badrinath from Haridwar?
Primarily, you need to travel by road from Haridwar to reach Badrinath, as there is no direct train or air connectivity. You can travel from Haridwar to Badrinath by taxi, jeep, or bus.
How much is a taxi from Rishikesh to Badrinath?
A taxi from Rishikesh to Badrinath costs around ₹6000-₹12000, depending on the type of taxi (SUV or Sedan) and the season.How far is Badrinath from Rishikesh by train?
The distance from Rishikesh to Badrinath is about 286 kilometres, but there is no train service between the two. You can travel by road, by bus, or by hiring a cab/taxi to the temple.How far is Badrinath from Haridwar by train?
There is no train available from Haridwar to Badrinath, but you can travel by road from Haridwar to Badrinath by bus or taxi/cab, covering the 308 kilometres.
Conclusion
This complete travel guide on how to reach Badrinath from Haridwar and Rishikesh. This will help you have an unbothered, smooth journey to the Badrinath temple.
Keep all the relevant information, such as the best routes to Badrinath from Haridwar and Rishikesh by road, the best time to visit, and more, including Badrinath weather, temperature, and travel tips.
If you are travelling from a distant city, you can also check our detailed guides on reaching Badrinath from Mumbai, Delhi, or Patna, which explain flight, train, and onward road connections in detail.
- How to Reach Badrinath from Mumbai
- How to Reach Badrinath from Delhi
- How to Reach Badrinath from Patna
.webp?v=15617ff41ba64410feaa36094192201f)
