India

How to get from Jodhpur to Jaisalmer

Compare all transport options: bus, ferry, train, flight. Prices, durations and tips from a local expert.

⏱
FASTEST
3h 26min
💶
From
4€
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Distance
223 km
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There are 2 way(s) to get from Jodhpur to Jaisalmer

Select an option below to see the route details and compare prices. Secure booking via our partner 12go.asia.

🚌 Departure from Jodhpur
📍For trains, you will depart from Jodhpur Junction (JU), the main railway station in Jodhpur. For buses, most private operators and Rajasthan State Road Transport Corporation (RSRTC) buses leave from the Main Bus Stand, located near Raikabag.
🚇Jodhpur Junction is centrally located and easily accessible by auto-rickshaw (around €1-2) or taxi from most parts of the city. The Main Bus Stand is also well-connected; an auto-rickshaw ride will typically take 10-15 minutes and cost around €1-2 from the city centre.
⏰Trains to Jaisalmer typically run several times a day, including overnight options. Buses are frequent throughout the day and evening, with departures every 1-2 hours on average, offering flexibility for your travel plans.
💸 Transport from 4€ per person
⚡ Fastest: 3h 26min
🗓 Book now Secure payment · via 12go.asia

Practical tips

💡
Book Train Tickets Early

Indian Railways tickets, especially for AC classes and popular routes, sell out quickly. Book at least 2-3 days ahead, or even a week during peak season, to secure your preferred class and avoid long waitlists. Use official platforms like 12go.asia for reliable bookings.

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Opt for AC Coaches on Buses

When choosing a bus, always prioritize AC (air-conditioned) coaches, especially for longer journeys or during hot weather. Non-AC buses can be gruelling, dusty, and uncomfortable, making a long trip feel even longer. The slight price difference is well worth the comfort.

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Verify Hill Station Transport

Many popular hill stations like Manali or Dharamshala are only accessible by road. Don't assume there's a train; always check. AC Volvo coaches are typically the best and most comfortable option for these routes, often with overnight services. Confirm departure points and times.

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Check Overnight Options

For longer routes, an overnight train or sleeper bus can save you a day of travel and a night of accommodation. Ensure you book a sleeper class on trains (Sleeper Class, 3A, 2A) or a reputable AC sleeper bus for comfort and safety. These fill up quickly, so book ahead.

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Compare All Modes Side-by-Side

Before booking, always use a platform like 12go.asia to compare train, bus, and flight options for your specific route side-by-side. This helps you quickly see durations, prices, and comfort levels, ensuring you pick the best balance for your budget and schedule. A quick glance can save hours or even a day.

🛣️ The journey experience

Navigating India's vast network of trains, buses, and flights can feel overwhelming, especially when weighing up comfort against cost and speed for each leg of your journey. Between Jodhpur and Jaisalmer, you're looking for the sweet spot: an efficient, comfortable option that gets you to the Golden City without hassle. Knowing whether to opt for the iconic Indian Railways or a quicker road trip can make all the difference to your experience, especially with overnight options to consider.

For the Jodhpur to Jaisalmer route, you have two main choices: the train or a bus. The Indian Railways train is a classic experience, costing around €4 and taking about 4 hours. It's a comfortable way to see the desert landscape unfold. Alternatively, a bus ticket will set you back about €8, but it shaves an hour off the journey, getting you there in approximately 3 hours. Both options are readily available and operate frequently throughout the day and night.

Ultimately, for this specific route, the choice between train and bus hinges on your preference for speed versus the traditional Indian train journey. If saving an hour is crucial and you prefer a direct road trip, the bus is a solid choice. However, if you're looking for a more relaxed and authentic Indian travel experience, the train offers great value. Both are safe and reliable, just be sure to book your preferred option a few days in advance, especially during peak season, to avoid disappointment.

Frequently asked questions — Jodhpur → Jaisalmer

✨ Why visit Jaisalmer?

  • ✓ Explore Jaisalmer Fort, a 'living fort' where a quarter of the city's population still resides.
  • ✓ Experience a camel safari into the Thar Desert, with options for overnight stays under the stars.
  • ✓ Wander through the narrow lanes of the old city, admiring the intricate havelis like Patwon ki Haveli.
  • ✓ Visit Gadisar Lake, a serene artificial reservoir with temples and ghats, perfect for a boat ride at sunset.
  • ✓ Discover the unique architecture of Jain Temples within the fort, dating back to the 12th century.
🌙
Recommended stay
2 to 3 nights — Allows time to explore the fort, havelis, and enjoy a desert experience.

☀️ When to visit Jaisalmer?

DESERT ARID

October to March — Pleasant temperatures for sightseeing and desert activities, avoiding extreme heat.

Jan 😊
Feb 😊
Mar 😊
Apr 😐
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Oct 😊
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In Jaisalmer — Plan your stay
Accommodation, activities and tips selected for you
🏨 Accommodation
Hotels in Jaisalmer
Compare the best rates available
via trip.com

What to do in Jaisalmer?

Local experiences, must-see sights and activities selected for you

INCONTOURNABLE
🕌
Jaisalmer Fort, The Golden Fort
Explore Jaisalmer Fort, a living fort where a quarter of the city's population still resides. Wander through its narrow lanes, discover ancient temples, and enjoy panoramic views. Climb to a rooftop restaurant inside for a sunset view; entry to the fort itself is free, but individual attractions may charge.
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Camel Safari in Thar Desert
Embark on an authentic camel safari into the Thar Desert. Opt for an overnight trip to sleep under the stars and experience true desert tranquility, away from the main tourist hubs. Many operators offer tours starting from around 20€ for a half-day; negotiate for the best experience.
🏛️
Patwon Ki Haveli Exploration
Marvel at Patwon Ki Haveli, a cluster of five intricately carved havelis (mansions) that showcase exquisite Rajput architecture and craftsmanship. Each one is distinct, revealing the opulent lifestyle of wealthy merchants. Plan to spend a couple of hours here; an entry fee applies, typically around 2€.
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Gadsisar Lake Serenity
Find peace at Gadsisar Lake, a man-made water reservoir surrounded by beautiful temples and ghats. Rent a paddleboat for a leisurely ride or simply enjoy the serene atmosphere, especially at sunrise or sunset. Feeding the catfish is a popular activity; no entry fee for the lake itself.
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Taste Local Rajasthani Cuisine
Indulge in authentic Rajasthani thali, a platter of diverse regional dishes like Daal Baati Churma and Gatte ki Sabzi. Seek out small, family-run eateries for the most genuine flavors and a chance to interact with locals. A hearty meal can be enjoyed for less than 10€ at most local spots.
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Jain Temples Inside Fort
Discover the cluster of seven interconnected Jain Temples within Jaisalmer Fort, renowned for their intricate carvings and ancient architecture. Each temple is dedicated to different Tirthankaras and offers a spiritual retreat. Remove your shoes and dress modestly; a small camera fee might apply, around 1€.
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Explore Vibrant Markets (Bazaars)
Wander through the bustling bazaars outside and within the fort, like Sadar Bazaar and Manek Chowk. Find local handicrafts, leather goods, traditional textiles, and silver jewelry. Practice your bargaining skills for the best deals; start by offering half the asking price and work your way up.
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Visit Kuldhara Abandoned Village
Explore the eerie, abandoned village of Kuldhara, about 18 km from Jaisalmer. This ghost village, once inhabited by Paliwal Brahmins, was deserted overnight centuries ago due to unknown reasons. It offers a fascinating glimpse into history and local legends. An entry fee of around 0.50€ applies per person.

⏱️ How long to visit Jaisalmer?

2 to 4 days

For an independent traveler, plan 2-3 full days to truly experience Jaisalmer. This allows ample time to explore the fort, wander through the Havelis, and take a sunset camel safari in the Thar Desert. If you're short on time, a concentrated 1-day visit can cover the main fort attractions, but you'll miss out on deeper exploration and desert experiences. Allocate an extra day for a desert camp experience.

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