Leaving behind the chaotic energy of Delhi for the misty foothills of the Himalayas feels like a deep breath for the soul. Dehradun serves as the gateway to the mountains, a place where the air grows noticeably cooler and the horizon begins to ripple with the rising silhouettes of the Shivalik range. It is a transition from the historic sandstone of the capital to a lush valley known for its prestigious schools and fragrant basmati rice.
The journey northward is one of the most popular escapes for city dwellers and international travelers alike. Whether you are heading to Dehradun to start a trek, visit the nearby spiritual hub of Rishikesh, or simply enjoy the colonial charm of the Doon Valley, you have a wealth of transport options. You can zoom through the clouds in less than an hour, settle into a rhythmic train journey, or join the locals on the highway via a comfortable bus. You can easily compare these options and book your tickets on GoAsia.cc to ensure a smooth transition from the plains to the peaks.
Delhi to Dehradun by Flight
For those who value time above all else, flying is the most efficient way to reach the valley. Flights depart from Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) and land at Jolly Grant Airport (DED), which is located about 30 kilometers from the Dehradun city center. The flight time is remarkably short, typically between 45 minutes and 1 hour, making it possible to have breakfast in Delhi and be breathing mountain air by lunchtime.
Economy class tickets generally range from $71 to $97. While this is the most expensive way to travel, it saves you nearly a full day of transit. Once you land, you will find pre-paid taxi counters at the airport to take you into the city or directly to Mussoorie and Rishikesh.
Delhi to Dehradun by Train
The Indian Railways offer a classic experience on this route, with several iconic trains connecting the two cities. Train travel is highly recommended for its reliability and the comfort of being able to move around. Prices for the train range from $5 to $22, depending on the speed of the train and the class of service you choose.
Daytime Express Services
If you prefer to travel during the day, the Shatabdi Express and Vande Bharat services are excellent choices. These trains feature AC Chair Class (CC) and Executive Class (EC), where meals are often served at your seat. These are perfect for watching the North Indian countryside roll by through large windows. The fastest day trains take approximately 5 hours and 45 minutes.
Overnight Sleeper Trains
For those looking to save on a night of accommodation, several overnight trains operate on this route. These offer various sleeper classes: AC First Class (1A), AC 2-Tier (2A), AC 3-Tier (3A), and the non-AC Sleeper Class (SL). These journeys can take up to 10 hours and 40 minutes, allowing for a full night of rest before arriving in Dehradun early in the morning.
Delhi to Dehradun by Bus
Buses are the backbone of travel between Delhi and Dehradun, offering the most frequent departures throughout the day and night. The journey typically takes between 4 hours and 15 minutes to 7 hours and 40 minutes, depending on traffic and the number of stops. Prices are very flexible, ranging from a budget-friendly $5 to $63 for premium luxury coaches.
There are several types of buses available:
- AC Seater: The most common option, featuring reclining seats and climate control.
- AC Semi Sleeper: Offers more legroom and a deeper recline, ideal for mid-day trips.
- AC Sleeper: These buses feature actual berths where you can lie down completely, which is a great choice for late-night departures.
Comparing Your Options
| Mode | Price (USD) | Duration | Comfort |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flight | $71 - $97 | 45m - 1h | High |
| Train | $5 - $22 | 5h 45m - 10h 40m | High |
| Bus | $5 - $63 | 4h 15m - 7h 40m | Medium |
Tips for Traveling from Delhi to Dehradun
- Book Train Tickets Early: The Delhi to Dehradun rail route is incredibly popular, especially on weekends and during school holidays. Tickets can sell out weeks in advance.
- Check the Arrival Station: While most trains arrive at Dehradun Terminal (DDN), some may stop at Haridwar or Rishikesh first. Ensure you stay on until the final stop if your destination is Dehradun city.
- Airport Transit: Jolly Grant Airport is a bit of a drive from the city. Factor in an additional 45 to 60 minutes for the taxi ride from the airport to your hotel.
- Pack for Temperature Changes: Even if Delhi is scorching, Dehradun can be significantly cooler, especially in the evenings. Keep a light jacket or sweater accessible.
- Hydration and Snacks: While the premium trains provide food, bus travelers should carry water and snacks, as highway rest stops can sometimes be limited in their offerings.
Timetable
| Flight Delhi - Dehradun $ 36.78–81.89 45m – 1h | |
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| Bus Delhi - Dehradun $ 5.08–49.11 4h 50m – 7h 40m | |
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| Train Delhi - Dehradun $ 5.31–21.60 5h 45m – 10h 40m | |
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Frequently Asked Questions
You can book train, bus, flight, taxi, van, and ferry tickets from Delhi to Dehradun directly on GoAsia.cc. Use the booking tool on this page to compare all available options and prices in real time.
The cheapest way to travel is by bus or train. Bus tickets start as low as $5 for basic AC services, while Second Sitting (2S) train tickets are also available for around $5.
The fastest way is to fly. Flights from Delhi to Dehradun take only 45 minutes to 1 hour, significantly cutting down the travel time compared to land transport.
Travel time varies by mode: flights take about 1 hour, buses take between 4 and 8 hours, and trains take anywhere from 5 hours and 45 minutes to over 10 hours for overnight routes.
Yes, there are several overnight sleeper trains and AC sleeper buses. These typically depart Delhi late in the evening and arrive in Dehradun early the following morning.
Most major trains to Dehradun depart from New Delhi Railway Station (NDLS) or Old Delhi Railway Station (DLI). Always check your ticket carefully to confirm the specific departure station.
Trains are generally more comfortable and provide more space to move around, but buses offer much more frequent departures. If you haven't booked a train in advance, a luxury AC bus is a reliable alternative.