By train
Trains bring most visitors to Haridwar. Haridwar Junction has frequent trains from Delhi, taking about 4–5 hours, and around an hour from Dehradun. Indian Railways usually adds special Kumbh trains on the big bathing days. Book as soon as reservations open for your date.
By bus
Government and private buses run from Delhi's ISBT Kashmiri Gate and from Meerut. During past Kumbhs the bus stand was moved to temporary stations outside the centre, so check where your bus actually stops.
By car
From Delhi the drive is about 200 km. On snan days private cars are stopped at parking areas outside the city and you continue by shuttle or on foot. If you are driving, a base in Roorkee can save you a lot of traffic.
By air
Jolly Grant Airport near Dehradun is about 35–40 km from Haridwar, with daily flights from Delhi and other major cities. A taxi to Haridwar usually costs around ₹1,500–2,500 for a sedan, and more during the mela. If you are flying in, staying in Rishikesh is often easier.