Have you ever wondered what it feels like to wake up to mountain air, valley views and nature sounds? Known as the “Gateway to the Himalayas” Dehradun is one of the most popular destinations in Uttarakhand. A drive from Delhi to Dehradun is fully packed with adventures, beautiful landscapes, and popular en route stops. From stopping at famous dhabas for parathas to passing through towns with secrets, this drive is more than just a road trip.
And if you are someone who likes to take the road less travelled, you’ll be happy to know that not all roads from Delhi to Dehradun are the same. Some are faster, some are quieter and some, well, they’re full of secrets. So, sit back and let’s dive deeper into why this journey should be on your bucket list and the various routes you can take. In this post we’ll cover the distance, travel time, best routes, alternative travel options and top attractions that make Delhi to Dehradun a must drive for every wanderer.
Delhi to Dehradun Distance and Travel Time
Planning your trip from Delhi to Dehradun? Let’s get to the point. The distance is 243-256 km depending on the route. Now you’re thinking, “How long will it take me?” Well, the travel time is 5-6 hours but this depends a lot on traffic, road conditions and how many stops you make along the way.
A quick tip, if you’re travelling on weekends or public holidays expect more traffic, especially near Haridwar or around Murthal where the famous dhabas attract a lot of people. But starting in the early morning starts can save you a lot of time. Why sit in traffic when you could be driving through the greenery of Uttarakhand?
Why Delhi to Dehradun Road Trip is Best?
Dehradun is one of the famous places for planning a summer vacation, short trips from Delhi or a weekend trip with distance below 300 Km. For a business trips, you can also take a same day round trip via well-conditioned Highway. Once you leave Delhi, the cityscape disappears and the highways open up to miles of green fields, winding rivers and distant hills. You’ll find offbeat places like Shahpur Kalan where locals are still farming in traditional ways you won’t see in the city. And then the Himalayas start to appear as you get closer to Dehradun and the view will literally take your breath away.
But it’s not just about the views. Historical and cultural landmarks like Har Ki Pauri in Haridwar and Rishikesh also come along the way and give you a glimpse into India’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage. Ever wondered about the purity of the Ganges? Or how ancient Indian architecture still stands by the roadside? This road trip to Dehradun from Delhi lets you discover hidden gems that most tourists miss.
Many tourists take this road trip to start their Chardham yatra by helicopter. Dehradun and Haridwar are prominent places to start this religious trip. You can also book Chardham Yatra from Delhi with a stop at Dehradun to go ahead on journey.
Which Route to Take from Delhi to Dehradun by Road?
Via Delhi to Haridwar Road/ Delhi-Dehradun Expy (256 km and Approx 5 hours)
The most popular one this route is famous for its quick access to Dehradun and the scenic views along the way. From Delhi, you will drive through Ghaziabad, Meerut, Muzaffarnagar, Deoband and then Haridwar where you might want to take a detour to visit the famous Har Ki Pauri ghat. But this route can be a bit crowded, especially on weekends as people stop in Haridwar for a quick darshan. If you can avoid the peak hours this route is smooth.
Local tip: If you like spicy food then stop at the dhabas near Muzaffarnagar and try the roadside food. Aloo parathas here are a must try and will add a zing to your journey.
Start your journey from anywhere in Delhi NCR: Find Tempo Traveller Service in Ghaziabad
Via NH 709B (243 km and Approx 5.5 hours)
Looking for a less crowded road? This is the one. The road goes through Baraut, Shamli and Saharanpur, all of which have less traffic than the more popular routes. This road is not as fast as the Delhi-Haridwar road but it’s a great opportunity to experience rural India. The smooth open roads make for an easy and comfortable drive and you will have fewer traffic jams.
But be prepared for fewer food stalls and rest stops. The charm of this road lies in its isolation but you will have to plan more for food and fuel. If you love offbeat and peaceful journeys, this is the road for you.
Via Delhi Panipat Expressway (243 km and Approx. 5.5 hours)
This route is for those who enjoy speed and smooth highways. It starts with the Delhi-Murthal-Panipat stretch, where you can enjoy some of the best parathas in North India like Murthal’s Amrik Sukhdev dhabas are legendary for their morning breakfasts. Once you cross Panipat, you merge into the Saharanpur-Dehradun route, making this a quick and efficient option. However, it’s not the most scenic, and you won’t see much of the countryside until you reach the latter half of the journey.
If you’re travelling with family or in a rush, this is a solid choice, but for those seeking picturesque views and tranquillity, the other routes might suit you better.
How to Travel from Delhi to Dehradun?
By Bus
Bus is also an option many people choose for the Delhi to Dehradun trip especially if you don’t want to drive. Although this is an affordable way to travel, do consider comfort and time. Several private operators and Uttarakhand Roadways run buses including Volvo, semi-sleeper and sleeper buses. The journey takes around 6 to 7 hours.
One of the most popular boarding points in Delhi is ISBT Kashmiri Gate, buses run throughout the day and even night for those who want to make the most of their time. Early morning or late night buses are the best. You will find less traffic and have a peaceful journey.
But here’s a hidden tip: If you are taking an overnight bus, pack a light jacket or blanket. As you approach the hilly regions of Uttarakhand, the temperature drops and you need to be comfortable. The fare ranges from ₹300 to ₹1500.
By Private Vehicles
Let’s face it, no one can deny that there’s something magical about a private road trip. When you travel from Delhi to Dehradun in a Tempo Traveller like Maharaja or Urbania, you’re not just travelling you’re having a fully customised adventure. You have control over your stops, music and route. With the Private vehicle, you can stop at an offbeat location, have a snack at a dhaba or just take in the views of the Ganges flowing alongside the road. It is very easy to rent a tempo traveller from Delhi to Dehradun and enjoy flexible rental plans.
Best Time for a Delhi to Dehradun Road Trip
March to June and September to November are the best months to do the Delhi to Dehradun journey. The weather is pleasant with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 30°C making the drive comfortable. Monsoon from July to August should be avoided as heavy rains can cause waterlogging in low lying areas around Saharanpur and Muzaffarnagar and can cause traffic disruptions.
Winters from December to February are also good to visit especially if you love cold weather as Dehradun becomes a misty paradise. However, fog can be a challenge on highways, especially during early morning or late night drives. If you are planning to visit nearby hill stations like Mussoorie, remember January sees snowfall which can sometimes lead to road closures.
