Dehradun, the beautiful capital of Uttarakhand, is surrounded by the majestic Himalayas and rivers. It serves as a gateway to popular hill stations like Mussoorie and Rishikesh.
This guide will help you understand how to reach Dehradun by air, train, road, and explore local transport options. Whether you're traveling for leisure or business, you'll find all the information you need to plan your trip smoothly.
Quick Overview
A glance at transportation options
| Mode of Transport | Best For | Main Arrival Point |
|---|---|---|
| By Air | Fast travel | Dehradun Airport (Jolly Grant) |
| By Train | Comfortable / budget travel | Dehradun Railway Station |
| By Road | Road trips / nearby cities | NH 7 and 58 |
| By Bus | Budget intercity travel | Dehradun ISBT |
How to Reach Dehradun by Air
Flying into the capital of Uttarakhand
Dehradun has its own airport, Jolly Grant Airport (IATA: DED), located about 25 km from the city center. It offers both domestic and limited international flights. Major airlines like Air India and IndiGo operate regular services from cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru.
From the airport, you can take a taxi or cab, which usually takes around 40 minutes to reach the city center. There are also shared taxi options available, which are budget-friendly and convenient.
How to Reach Dehradun by Train
Train travel options for comfort and budget
The main railway station serving Dehradun is the Dehradun Railway Station (Station Code: DDN), which is well-connected to major cities like Delhi, Haridwar, and Lucknow. Trains such as the Nanda Devi Express and Dehradun Express provide regular services. The journey from Delhi takes about 6-7 hours.
Once you arrive at the station, you can find taxis and auto-rickshaws that can take you to your hotel or destination in the city.
How to Reach Dehradun by Road
Drive your way to the city
Dehradun is well-connected by road, making it easily accessible from nearby cities. Major highways like NH 7 and NH 58 provide smooth travel routes. For instance, it's about 260 km from Delhi via NH 9, which takes around 7-8 hours by car.
You can also hire a taxi or take a self-drive option. The roads offer beautiful views, especially as you approach the city.
How to Reach Dehradun by Bus
Affordable bus options from nearby cities
The Dehradun Inter-State Bus Terminal (ISBT) is the main bus terminal serving the city. It connects Dehradun to various cities like Delhi, Haridwar, and Rishikesh. Both state-run and private buses operate from here, offering AC and non-AC options.
The buses are budget-friendly and can be a great way to travel. After arriving, auto-rickshaws and taxis are available to take you to your destination in the city.
How to Reach Dehradun from Major Cities
Connecting Dehradun with nearby regions
| From | Approx. Distance | By Air | By Train | By Road |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Delhi | 260 km | 1 hour | 6-7 hours | 7-8 hours |
| Lucknow | 525 km | 1.5 hours | 12-13 hours | 11-12 hours |
| Haridwar | 55 km | 30 minutes | 1 hour | 1.5 hours |
| Rishikesh | 45 km | 30 minutes | 1 hour | 1 hour |
| Chandigarh | 165 km | 1 hour | 3-4 hours | 4-5 hours |
Local Transportation in Dehradun
Getting around the city
Once in Dehradun, you can use various local transport options to move around the city. Auto-rickshaws and e-rickshaws are common and affordable for short distances.
Taxis and app-based cabs like Uber and Ola are also available for convenient travel. City buses connect different parts of Dehradun, and renting bikes or scooters can be a fun way to explore. Walking is great for short distances in the city center, as many attractions are nearby.
Travel Tips for Reaching Dehradun
Helpful advice for smooth travel
- Book your flights or trains early, especially during peak seasons.
- Check live transport schedules for the latest updates.
- Keep some buffer time for traffic delays, especially on roads.
- Compare travel times and costs of different modes.
- Plan local transport in advance to avoid last-minute hassles.
- Have your booking details easily accessible throughout your journey.
