The distance from Rishikesh to Badrinath is about 285-290 km by road, and it is one of the most searched routes for pilgrims planning the Char Dham Yatra. This journey is not just about covering kilometers but about experiencing the beauty of the Himalayas, sacred river confluences (Panch Prayag), and the divine spiritual energy that makes the trip truly memorable.
Table of Contents
Rishikesh to Badrinath Distance Overview
Total Distance: 285-290 km
Travel Time: 10–12 hours by road
Altitude Change: From 370 m (Rishikesh) to 3,133 m (Badrinath)
Route: Rishikesh → Devprayag → Srinagar → Rudraprayag → Karnaprayag → Chamoli → Joshimath → Badrinath
Tip: The distance from Rishikesh to Badrinath is long but scenic, passing through the famous Panch Prayag (five sacred river confluences).
Suggested Read: Char Dham Opening & Closing Dates
Rishikesh to Badrinath Distance by Car/Taxi
Distance: 285–290 km
Travel Time: 10-12 hours
Popular Vehicles: Dzire, Ertiga, Innova Crysta, SUVs
Fare: ₹8,000-₹12,000 (season & vehicle type)
Advantages: Flexible halts, privacy, direct drop at Badrinath temple
Tip: Book taxi in Rishikesh advance during peak Char Dham season (May–June, Sept–Oct)
Rishikesh to Badrinath Distance by Road
The drive from Rishikesh to Badrinath is a scenic Himalayan journey.
Roads are motorable but can be landslide‑prone in monsoon.
Night driving is restricted for safety.
Route passes through Devprayag, Srinagar, Rudraprayag, Karnaprayag, Chamoli, Joshimath.
Joshimath is the common overnight halt before the final 40 km stretch.
Rishikesh to Badrinath Distance by Bus
For budget travelers, buses are a good option.
Distance: 285-290 km
Time: 12-14 hours (longer than taxi due to halts)
Availability: State‑run and private buses from Rishikesh to Joshimath
From Joshimath to Badrinath, shared jeeps or minibuses are available.
Fare: ₹1,000-₹1,500 approx.
Note: Bus journeys are less comfortable on hilly terrain but economical for solo travelers.
Detailed Route Breakdown
| Route Segment | Distance | Travel Time | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
Rishikesh → Devprayag |
70 km |
1.5–2 hrs |
Sangam of Bhagirathi & Alaknanda |
Devprayag → Srinagar |
35 km |
1 hr |
Local markets, eateries |
Srinagar → Rudraprayag |
33 km |
1–1.5 hrs |
Confluence of Alaknanda & Mandakini |
Karnaprayag → Chamoli |
25 km |
45 min |
Gateway to hill villages |
Chamoli → Joshimath |
85 km |
3 hrs |
Hotels, GMVN guesthouses |
Joshimath → Badrinath |
40 km |
1–2 hrs |
Final stretch to temple |
Suggested Read: How To Reach Kedarnath
Best Time to Travel
May–June & September–October: Best weather, clear skies, pleasant temperatures.
July–August: Avoid due to heavy rains and landslides.
November–April: Temple remains closed due to snow.
Road Safety & Travel Tips
- Carry warm clothes and medicines.
- Stay hydrated to avoid altitude sickness.
- Avoid night driving in hills.
- Keep buffer time for delays due to landslides.
Suggested Read: Char Dham Yatra Registration
Suggested Tour: Char Dham Yatra taxi Service
Suggested Tour: Char Dham Yatra Tempo Traveller
Suggested Tour: Char Dham Yatra Packages
FAQS For Rishikesh to Badrinath Distance
Q: What is the Rishikesh to Badrinath distance?
Ans. The Rishikesh to Badrinath distance is about 285-290 km by road.
Q: How long does it take to cover the Rishikesh Badrinath distance?
Ans. It usually takes 10-12 hours depending on traffic and weather.
Q: Can I reach Badrinath in one day by car?
Ans. Yes, if you start early (around 4:30-5:00 AM), you can reach by evening.
Q: Is there a direct bus from Rishikesh to Badrinath?
Ans. Yes, UKSRTC buses run daily, usually leaving between 4-6 AM.
Q: Which Panch Prayag halts are on the route?
Ans. You’ll pass Devprayag, Rudraprayag, Karnaprayag, and Nandprayag.
Q: Do I need to trek to reach Badrinath Temple?
Ans. No trekking needed – the road goes right up to the temple parking.
Q: What is the altitude gain on this journey?
Ans. From 340 m in Rishikesh to 3,133 m in Badrinath – stay hydrated to avoid altitude sickness.
Conclusion
The Rishikesh to Badrinath distance is about 298-300 km by road, taking nearly a full day of travel. Whether you go by car, taxi, or bus, the journey offers stunning Himalayan views and spiritual stops at the Panch Prayag. With proper planning and the right season, covering the distance from Rishikesh to Badrinath becomes safe, comfortable, and memorable.
Sachin Kumar works as a travel content writer with SRG Holidays Pvt. Ltd., a well‑known company in Uttarakhand tourism and pilgrimage services. Drawing on years of experience, he creates simple and engaging travel guides that help pilgrims and visitors find clear, reliable information for their journeys.
