Weekend Trip from Delhi to Rishikesh
How to do Rishikesh in a weekend from Delhi: getting there, a day-by-day plan and what to skip.
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Weekend route
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February to April and September to November
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Updated
October 2026
Rishikesh from Delhi: is it a weekend trip?
Rishikesh is about 240 km from Delhi, a five to six hour drive. That makes it doable in two days if you leave early on Saturday, though a Friday-night start gives you a longer first day.
The weekend suits two kinds of travellers: those who want rafting and an easy adventure, and those who want a calm riverside stay with the evening aarti.
Getting there
By road
The usual route runs via Meerut, Muzaffarnagar and Roorkee to Haridwar and then Rishikesh. Start early to beat traffic and the Haridwar bypass.
By train and taxi
Fast trains run to Haridwar and Dehradun, with a taxi onward to Rishikesh. Check timings; this can be easier than driving.
A weekend plan
| When | Plan |
|---|---|
| Friday night or Saturday early | Leave Delhi. Check in and rest. |
| Saturday | Rafting in the morning if the season allows, lunch by the river, Laxman Jhula and the evening aarti at Triveni Ghat. |
| Sunday | Yoga session or a Beatles Ashram visit, an early lunch and the drive back by afternoon. |
Where to stay and what to skip
- Stay near Laxman Jhula or Tapovan for cafes, or at a riverside camp for rafting.
- Book rafting through a registered operator, and check season and water levels.
What you can skip on a short trip:
- Neelkanth Mahadev temple, which needs extra time.
- Multiple adventure activities in one day.
Frequently asked questions
Is rafting available all year?
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No. It is restricted in the monsoon. Check current rules.
Is Rishikesh too far for a weekend?
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It is possible with an early start; a long weekend is more comfortable.
Is alcohol available?
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The town is largely vegetarian and restricts alcohol in many areas.
Can an agent arrange this weekend trip?
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Yes. Post your dates on QuoteMyTrip and agents can quote Rishikesh with the stay, cab or train transfers and activities.
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