Are you looking for some place to go let me show you the way. Here’s the small guide to Rishikesh to Kanatal distance. If looking for a place to feel something, a pause, a breath. And if you’re sitting in Rishikesh, soaking in the sacred the Ganga, and wondering, “What if I go a little higher, into the clouds?”—then Kanatal is waiting for you.
How Far Is Kanatal from Rishikesh? Well, it’s just around 85 kilometers away. But honestly? It feels like you’re crossing into another world.
How Far Is Kanatal from Rishikesh—Really?
- Distance: About 80–85 km (varies slightly by route)
- Time on the road: Roughly 3 to 4 hours
- Route: Rishikesh → Narendra Nagar → Chamba → Kanatal
But this isn’t just another Google Map drive. This is that kind of road trip where you roll down your windows and let the pine-scented air slap your worries away.
Two Routes, Two Different Vibes
Route 1: The Faster, Popular Option
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Path: Rishikesh → Narendra Nagar → Chamba → Kanatal
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Distance: Roughly 78 km
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Time: About 3 hours
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Highlights: Smooth for the most part, though you’ll hit some winding stretches near Chamba and Kanatal. Best for those who want to get there quicker.
Route 2: The Scenic, Slightly Longer Drive
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Path: Rishikesh → Mussoorie Bypass → Dhanaulti → Kanatal
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Distance: Around 85 km
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Time: 3.5+ hours
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Why take it? If you don’t mind a few extra bends, this route offers amazing forest views and the chance to stop in Dhanaulti.
Tips for a Smoother Trip
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Start early. Morning drives mean less traffic and clearer skies.
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Don’t rush. Hill roads demand patience. Enjoy the ride!
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Fuel up in Rishikesh. After Narendra Nagar, petrol pumps are few and far between.
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Avoid night travel. Visibility drops sharply, and the roads aren’t always lit.
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Carry snacks and water. You’ll find local eateries, but options are limited on the way.
Public Transport Options
No direct bus? No problem.
You can use a bus or shared cab or taxi to Chamba from Rishikesh. From there, ride is small, around 12 km, to Kanatal. Local taxis or shared jeeps usually cover that leg.
Top experiences in Kanatal:
- Surkanda Devi Temple: A short trek, endless views.
- Kodia Forest: Quiet, wild, and perfect for a morning walk.
- Apple Orchards: Seasonal, but magical.
- Camping & Bonfires: Sleep under the stars. Really.
Best Time to Travel
- March to June: Ideal hill station weather.
- Monsoon (July to September): Beautiful, but check weather before heading out.
- Winter (December to February): Cold, sometimes snowy. Perfect for cozy moments.
Pro tip: Avoid night drives in winter. Fog and ice make it risky.
What’s So Special About Kanatal?
You’re driving through the hills for a reason, right? Kanatal isn’t just a stop on the map—it’s a place to unwind, recharge, and enjoy nature at its best. Here’s what you’ll find once you arrive:
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Tall pine trees and peaceful vibes
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Bonfire nights under the stars (perfect for chilly evenings)
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Nature walks and easy hikes with incredible views
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Snowfall in winter (yes, please!)
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Epic sunsets that will make your Instagram explode
Kanatal’s beauty is simple, but that’s what makes it so special. There are no big crowds or touristy attractions here—just the soothing sounds of nature and a chance to fully relax.
What You’ll Feel on the Journey
This trip doesn’t just change your surroundings. It changes your pace. Your thoughts.
You’ll stop checking your phone. You’ll look out the window longer. You might even start humming along to the music without realizing it.
And by the time you reach Kanatal, you won’t just be in a new place—you’ll be in a different version of yourself.
Final Thought: A Small Distance, A Big Shift
While the Rishikesh to Kanatal distance is under 100 kilometers, the difference in vibe is massive. One’s filled with chants, river sounds, and yoga mats. The other? Pine trees, starry skies, and a kind of peace you only find in places without phone signal.
Take your time getting there. Stop for tea. Roll the windows down. Let the hills do their thing.
Reference note:
for any travel info, update, event and any factual data do visit:
- Buses are run by UTC
- Uttarakhand Tourism
