Reaching Rudraprayag from Rishikesh? It’s about as straightforward as it gets—a smooth, scenic ride with all the charm of the mountains guiding you.
I may be from Delhi originally, but after years of back-and-forth between Rishikesh and Rudraprayag, I know this route inside out!
So, here’s what I’ve learned about getting to Rudraprayag: all the travel options, prices, travel times, scenic stops, and a few handy tips. Ready to make the trip? Let’s dive in!
Starting Point | Rishikesh |
Final Point | Rudraprayag |
Total Distance | 138 Km |
Time | 4 to 5 Hours |
Mode of Transport | Bus, Self, Maxx |
Price | Rs 350 and more |
1. Distance - 138 Km
First things first, the distance between Rishikesh and Rudraprayag clocks in at around 138 km along the main national highway route.
It’s a manageable stretch that gives you the best of both worlds—close enough for a comfortable journey but long enough to enjoy some stunning scenery and destinations.
Here’s a map to give you a clearer picture of this beautiful route ahead!
2. How to Reach Rudraprayag from Rishikesh
Now, when it comes to reaching Rudraprayag from Rishikesh, your options are pretty straightforward. Road travel is your main—and only—choice, as of 2024. There’s a railway line under construction, but until it’s complete, trains and flights are a no-go.
Here are your options -
a) Self-Driving
Driving your own vehicle? Hands down, it’s the best way to go! You’ll cover the same 138 km, but with some serious perks:
Save Time: Public transport takes around 4 to 5 hours, but in your own vehicle, it’s a breezy 3-hour drive.
Freedom to Stop: Craving a chai break or want to snap a photo? You can pull over whenever you like for food, restroom breaks, or simply to soak in the views.
Thrill of the Ride: There’s nothing quite like the thrill of a mountain road trip. Driving through hills adds an adventurous twist, especially if you’re on a bike or in a car!
That said, keep in mind a few downsides—long drives can lead to fatigue, and mountain roads have their risks, so staying alert is key.
b) Bus
While self-driving might be the best option, public transport remains a popular choice, especially with UTC and private buses considered the primary modes of transit between Rishikesh and Rudraprayag.
You can easily catch UTC buses from the Rishikesh Bus Stand, where they’re lined up and ready to go—especially in the mornings, as the routes to Rudraprayag and other Uttarakhand destinations open sharp at 4 AM.
These buses make a couple of key stops: one at Teen Dhara (or a local restaurant they’ve partnered with) and another at Srinagar. Expect the trip to take around 4 to 5 hours, allowing you to sit back, relax, and enjoy the stunning scenery without the hassle of driving!
c) Cab
Another option to reach Rudraprayag is to book a Jeep-style regional vehicle known as the "Maxx." These rugged Uttarakhand vehicles, with a capacity of around 10 people, are commonly used for local travel. They’re pricier than buses, typically costing over ₹800, but they save you time, getting you to Rudraprayag faster.
Keep in mind, that ride-hailing services like Uber and Ola don’t operate in this part of Uttarakhand beyond Rishikesh, so the Maxx is your only option if you want the convenience of a cab. Plus, you can ask the driver to stop for any emergency or quick break along the way!
d) Any other
Honestly, other than these, there aren’t many alternatives for getting to Rudraprayag. Personally, I prefer taking the bus—it’s affordable, takes a reasonable amount of time, and lets me relax since I’m not up for long drives.
3. Which mode is the best?
If you’re traveling on a budget, UTC buses are a great choice! They're affordable and pretty comfortable too—some even have recliner seats! In around 5 hours, you’ll be in Rudraprayag, relaxed and ready to explore. 🚍
But, if you have your own vehicle, driving yourself is an amazing option. The road from Rishikesh to Rudraprayag is packed with scenic views, and having your own car means you can stop anywhere for photos, snacks, or just to soak in the surroundings at your own pace. It’s perfect for a leisurely journey with nature as your backdrop.
4. Prices
Let’s take a quick look at the prices. Generally, they’re quite affordable and fixed, especially for government vehicles like UTC buses. However, it's always a good idea to negotiate a bit if you're using a private vehicle; drivers may quote higher than usual. If you mention that you found a better price elsewhere, they might just lower theirs!
Mode of Transport | Price |
Bus (Volvo) | Rs 650 and above |
Bus (UTC) | Rs 350 and above |
Cab/Maxx | Rs 800 and above |
Personal Vehicle | ₹94 per litre (fuel cost) |
5. Travel Duration
The journey from Rishikesh to Rudraprayag typically takes about 4 hours, though the exact time depends on your mode of transport, the speed of your vehicle, and how many stops you take. Here’s a quick breakdown:
Personal Vehicle: This is the fastest option, allowing you to complete the journey in around 3 hours with the flexibility to stop as often as you like.
Jeep/Maxx: A Maxx takes about 3.5 hours, making it the second fastest choice, with occasional stops.
Bus: Buses generally take at least 4 hours. However, the speed and stop duration can vary depending on the driver and traffic conditions.
Mode of Transport | Time |
Bus (UTC) | 4 hours and above |
Cab/Maxx | 3 and half hour |
Personal Vehicle | 3 hours |
6. Popular Locations along the Way
When you're heading to Rudraprayag, the route offers plenty of scenic and interesting spots that are worth a quick stop. If you’re driving your own vehicle, definitely take a moment to enjoy these gems:
Teen Dhara: A popular pit stop with small eateries and scenic views, perfect for a chai break.
Devprayag Sangam: This is where the Alaknanda and Bhagirathi rivers meet to form the holy Ganga—a breathtaking sight and a must-visit for a quick photo op.
Srinagar: Not to be confused with Kashmir’s Srinagar, this town has historical sites, charming markets, and beautiful views of the Alaknanda River.
Rishikesh: If you’re just starting out, spend a bit of time exploring this iconic town known for its temples, riverside ghats, and adventure activities.
FAQs
1. Which railway station is nearest to Rudraprayag?
Ans - Well, the nearest railway station to Rudraprayag is Rishikesh, about 150 km away. As of 2024, Uttarakhand doesn’t have a complete railway network in the upper regions, but don’t worry—the construction is underway, and trains to Srinagar may be available in the next few years!
2. Is Rudraprayag worth visiting?
Ans - Yes, absolutely! Rudraprayag has incredible landscapes, historical sites, religious temples, wildlife, hill stations, bustling markets, and so much more to explore.
3. How far is Kedarnath from Rishikesh?
Ans - Kedarnath is 138 km from Rudraprayag. So, adding another 84 km from Rishikesh to Rudraprayag gives you a total distance of 223 km between Rishikesh and Kedarnath.
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