Comparing train, bus and car from Delhi to Haridwar for the Kumbh 2027—time, comfort, cost and what to expect on snan days, plus a weekend plan from Delhi.
Delhi is the starting point for most Haridwar Kumbh pilgrims. The good news: Haridwar is only about 220 km away. Here is how the options compare.
Quick comparison
| Train | Bus | Car / taxi | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Time | 4–5 hrs (fast trains), longer for others | 6–7 hrs | 5–6 hrs (more on snan days) |
| Comfort | High in chair car or AC classes | Moderate | High |
| Snan-day hassle | Low: the station is close to the ghats | Medium: bus stands may move | High: parking far from the ghats |
| Best for | Most pilgrims | Budget travellers | Families with seniors, groups |
By train
- Fast day trains on the Delhi–Dehradun route stop at Haridwar, with others from New Delhi, Old Delhi and Hazrat Nizamuddin.
- Book early. Snan weeks sell out quickly once the reservation window opens.
- Watch for Kumbh special trains announced by Indian Railways.
- From Haridwar Junction, Har Ki Pauri is a short e-rickshaw ride or walk. On snan days you may need to walk.
By bus
- Uttarakhand Roadways and UP Roadways run frequent buses from ISBT Kashmere Gate.
- Volvo and AC options are available. Night buses arrive early in the morning.
- During the Kumbh, temporary bus terminals may be set up outside the city, with shuttles towards the ghats.
By car
- The usual route is via Meerut, Muzaffarnagar and Roorkee. New expressway sections are opening in stages, so check the current route.
- Leave early to avoid Delhi and Meerut traffic.
- On snan days, private vehicles are held at parking areas outside the mela. Plan to park and walk or take a shuttle.
- A hired car with a driver who knows the Kumbh parking plan saves a lot of stress.
A Delhi weekend plan
- Friday evening: train to Haridwar and check in near the ghats.
- Saturday: pre-dawn snan, then temples, then the evening Ganga Aarti.
- Sunday: Kankhal or Rishikesh in the morning, and an afternoon train back to Delhi.
This fits our 2-day itinerary.
Travelling with seniors?
Combine a fast train with a hotel near Har Ki Pauri and a pre-arranged drop. See Haridwar Kumbh for senior citizens.
Book it end-to-end
Our Haridwar Kumbh packages can include Delhi pick-up by private car. Tell us your dates and group size.
By KMII Travel Desk · Updated 28 Sep 2026
