From Joshimath to Rishikesh: help!

Hi all--
I'm trying to figure out how to get from Joshimath to Rishikesh. Does anyone know where I can find the bus schedule for this? Also, I'm wondering how much a private taxi might cost, as I really do need to make it back to Rishikesh in one day, and won't be able to start out until late morning, as I'll be hiking out very early from Valley of Flowers, then getting to Joshimath, for the trip back to Rishikesh. Since I realize this is a nutty thing to attempt, I'm willing to pay for a cab to get me there-- is this possible?

Many thanks!

Someone with more experience will have to advise, but you are definitely pushing it. Among other things, the traffic between Joshimath and Badrinath - in other words, from the end of your VOF trek and Joshimath is regulated to be one way during specific times. And, while folks can push it with a real early start, Rishikesh to Joshimath is a good days drive. I do not want to suggest it is impossible, but it is likely not advisable.

Also, depending upon the time of the year, there can be landslides and unforeseen delays. So, some margin of safety is worth maintaining.

Thanks, kmalik! Just as a general question, is it possible to find taxis in Joshimath who would drive to Rishikesh?

Also, I'm totally expecting my perfectly-planned itinerary to go awry at some point due to the magic of the weather

If I'm not able to get from Joshimath to Rishikesh in one day, where would you suggest travelling to and spending the night en route?

Joshimath to Rishikesh/Haridwar is indeed a one day travel. But it is that - and might not have room for hiking in VOF and travel to Joshimath on the day of travel. I am sure you will find some that might fit it all in, it simply is not my nature to unnecessarily challenge the realities...

What you have in mind is further than impossible. If you are really good at trekking, you need one day to be back from VOF to Joshimath. From Joshimath, there are plenty of taxis available to Rishikesh so that is not a problem. They would cost anywhere between 1500 to 2000 rupees but rates vary depending on the tourist season.