A direct bus service between Rishikesh and Lansdowne is being considered to help local residents and tourists travelling between the 2 destinations. The Garhwal Motor Owners Association Union (GMOU) is preparing to extend its existing Rishikesh-Devi Khet route to Lansdowne.

The service will begin only after agreement is reached on the proposal. GMOU is also preparing a timetable for the possible extension.

Proposed route and passenger benefit

At present, passengers travelling from Rishikesh to Lansdowne generally go through Haridwar to reach Kotdwar. They then travel about 40 kilometres onward to Lansdowne.

A direct connection would provide an alternative for passengers and tourists. GMOU also expects the service to increase passenger numbers and improve the union’s income.

Rishikesh already has a direct bus service to Mussoorie. However, Lansdowne does not currently have the same direct connection from the city, according to the details of the proposed plan.

Existing Devi Khet service

The current bus from Rishikesh to Devi Khet leaves at morning 11:15 AM and reaches its destination at about evening 4:15 AM. In the opposite direction, a bus leaves Devi Khet at morning 8 via Silogi for Rishikesh.

The proposed change would use this existing service as the basis for extending connectivity towards Lansdowne. The final schedule has not yet been announced.

Why the route was shortened

GMOU had earlier operated a bus service from Rishikesh to Lansdowne. The service began after the road between Mohanchatti and Naudkhal opened in 1995.

The route was later restricted to Devi Khet because of the narrow road and a shortage of passengers. The latest proposal would revive the longer connection, subject to agreement and operational planning.

GMOU president Naveen Tiwari said the organisation was considering extending the Devi Khet route to Lansdowne. He said the direct service would start after consensus was reached.

Conclusion

The Rishikesh-Lansdowne bus remains a proposal, but an extension of the existing Devi Khet route could give residents and tourists a direct travel option. GMOU’s next step is to reach agreement and finalise the timetable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What bus service is being considered?

A direct bus service from Rishikesh to Lansdowne is being considered by GMOU.

Q. Which existing route may be extended?

The Rishikesh-Devi Khet bus route may be extended to Lansdowne.

Q. Why would the service help passengers?

It could reduce the need to travel via Haridwar and Kotdwar before continuing to Lansdowne.

Q. What is the current Devi Khet bus schedule?

The bus leaves Rishikesh at morning 11:15 AM and reaches Devi Khet at about evening 4:15 AM. The return bus leaves Devi Khet at morning 8 via Silogi.

Q. Why was the earlier Lansdowne service restricted to Devi Khet?

The service was restricted because of the narrow road and a shortage of passengers.

Q. When will the direct service begin?

It will begin after agreement is reached and the timetable is prepared.