Leaving the spiritual banks of the Ganges in Haridwar for the cool, mountain-fringed valley of Dehradun marks a shift from ancient pilgrimage rituals to the colonial charm of Uttarakhand's capital. This short journey is a staple for travelers heading deeper into the Himalayas or those visiting the prestigious schools and institutions that define Dehradun. While the distance is modest, the transition from the bustling ghats to the leafy avenues of the Doon Valley is one of the most common routes in northern India.
Because these two cities are so close, you have a wealth of options ranging from quick local buses to comfortable express trains. Whether you are catching a morning connection or a late-night sleeper, the route is well-served throughout the day and night. You can easily browse and book your preferred tickets for this journey on GoAsia.cc to ensure a smooth transition between these two iconic Indian cities.
Haridwar to Dehradun by Bus
Buses are arguably the most flexible way to make this trip, with departures happening almost every hour. The journey can take anywhere from 45 minutes to 4 hours depending on the traffic and the specific route the bus takes through the Rajaji National Park area. Prices for a bus seat start at approximately $5 and can go up to $31 for premium luxury services.
AC Seater and Semi Sleeper
For such a short distance, the AC Seater and Semi Sleeper options are excellent choices. These buses are designed for comfort without the need for a full bed. They are perfect for daytime travel when you want to watch the changing landscape of the Shivalik Hills. These services are frequent and provide a reliable way to reach the Dehradun ISBT (Inter State Bus Terminus).
AC Sleeper
While a sleeper bus might seem unnecessary for a trip that can be as short as 45 minutes, many of these buses are long-distance services coming from Delhi or other major hubs that stop in Haridwar on their way to Dehradun. If you are arriving in Haridwar in the middle of the night, these AC Sleeper coaches provide a comfortable, climate-controlled environment to finish your journey.
Haridwar to Dehradun by Train
The train journey from Haridwar to Dehradun is a classic Indian rail experience. It is often faster than the bus during peak traffic hours, with travel times ranging between 1 hour 25 minutes and 3 hours 10 minutes. Prices are very affordable, starting at $5 for basic classes and reaching about $20 for the highest level of comfort.
AC Chair Class (CC)
The AC Chair Class is the most recommended option for this specific route. Since the journey is short, a comfortable seat in an air-conditioned carriage is ideal. It allows you to sit upright, enjoy the view through large windows, and avoid the dust of the road. This is a popular choice for business travelers and tourists alike.
Sleeper Classes (1A, 2A, 3A, 3E, and SL)
If you are catching a train that has traveled from further away, you might find yourself booking a sleeper berth. Options range from the basic Sleeper Class (SL), which is non-AC and open to the breeze, to the high-end AC First Class (1A) which offers the most privacy. The AC 2-Tier (2A) and 3-Tier (3A/3E) are great middle-ground options if you prefer air conditioning but don't need a private cabin for such a short hop.
Comparing Your Options
| Mode | Price (USD) | Duration | Comfort |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bus | $5 - $31 | 45min - 4h | Standard to High |
| Train | $5 - $20 | 1h 25min - 3h 10min | Standard to Premium |
Tips for Traveling from Haridwar to Dehradun
- Watch the Traffic: Road travel between Haridwar and Dehradun can be unpredictable during festival seasons (like Kumbh Mela or Kanwar Yatra) or weekends when Delhi locals head to the hills. If traveling during these times, the train is a much more reliable choice.
- Station Locations: Haridwar Junction is centrally located, making it easy to reach from the ghats. In Dehradun, the railway station is in the heart of the city, while the ISBT (bus station) is a bit further out, so factor in a short rickshaw ride to your hotel.
- Book in Advance: While there are many options, trains to Dehradun often fill up quickly as it is the gateway to Mussoorie. Secure your seat a few days ahead if possible.
- Scenery: If you take the train, try to get a window seat. The track passes through beautiful forested areas and small villages that offer a glimpse of rural Uttarakhand.
- Luggage: If you have heavy bags, the AC Chair Class on the train or an AC Sleeper bus will usually provide the most convenient storage space compared to crowded local transport.
Timetable
| Bus Haridwar - Dehradun $ 5.54–31.50 45m – 4h | |
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| Train Haridwar - Dehradun $ 5.01–13.44 2h – 2h 10m | |
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Frequently Asked Questions
You can book train, bus, flight, taxi, van, and ferry tickets from Haridwar 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 either bus or train, with prices starting as low as $5. Both modes offer very affordable entry-level tickets for budget-conscious travelers.
The fastest way is typically by bus, which can complete the journey in as little as 45 minutes depending on traffic. Some express trains also make the trip in about 1 hour and 25 minutes.
The journey duration varies by transport type. Buses take between 45 minutes and 4 hours, while trains generally take between 1 hour 25 minutes and 3 hours 10 minutes.
The train is often more comfortable and avoids road congestion, which can be heavy. However, buses run much more frequently throughout the day, providing more flexibility if you haven't booked a ticket in advance.
Yes, both buses and trains offer air-conditioned services. You can choose from AC Seater or Sleeper buses, or AC Chair Class and various AC Sleeper tiers on the train.
Most buses depart from the main Haridwar Bus Stand, which is located conveniently near the railway station. Private operators may have their own pick-up points nearby.