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Amit Khanna Staff answered 3 months ago
Reaching Jaisalmer, often called the “Golden City,” involves several travel options depending on your starting point and preferences. Here’s a comprehensive guide for first-time visitors:
By Air:
Nearest Airport:
Jaisalmer Airport (JSA): Located about 17 km from the city center.
Airlines and Flights:
Direct flights are available from major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Jaipur. The frequency of flights may vary, so checking schedules in advance is advisable.
Airport Transfers:
Taxis and auto-rickshaws are available at the airport to take you to the city. Many hotels also offer pickup services.
By Train:
Major Train Station:
Jaisalmer Railway Station: Well-connected by rail with major cities in India.
Popular Train Routes:
From Delhi: The “Delhi-Jaisalmer Express” and “Jaisalmer Express” are popular choices.
From Jaipur: The “Jaipur-Jaisalmer Express” is a common route.
From Mumbai: The “Mumbai-Jaisalmer Express” is available.
Booking:
Tickets can be booked through the Indian Railways website, mobile apps, or at railway booking counters. It’s best to book in advance to secure your seat.
By Road:
Major Road Routes:
From Delhi: Approximately 800 km, with a drive time of around 12-14 hours. You can take NH 62.
From Jaipur: About 600 km, taking around 8-10 hours. NH 68 connects Jaipur to Jaisalmer.
From Udaipur: Around 330 km, taking 5-7 hours.
Travel Options:
Private Car: Renting a car or hiring a taxi offers flexibility and convenience.
Bus Services: Several private and government-operated buses run from major cities like Delhi, Jaipur, and Udaipur. Options include luxury, semi-luxury, and standard buses.
Road Conditions: The roads are generally good, but be prepared for some stretches with varying conditions.
By Air from Major Cities:
From Delhi: Direct flights to Jaisalmer, approximately 1.5 hours.
From Mumbai: Direct flights, typically around 2 hours.
From Jaipur: Flights are about 1 hour.
Travel Tips:
Advance Booking: Whether traveling by train, flight, or bus, booking in advance is recommended to avoid last-minute hassles.
Weather Considerations: Jaisalmer has a desert climate with extreme temperatures, so plan your travel accordingly. The best time to visit is from October to March.
Local Transport: Once in Jaisalmer, auto-rickshaws, taxis, and rental vehicles are available for local transportation. Many tourists also opt for camel safaris and jeep tours for a unique experience.
This guide should help make your journey to Jaisalmer smooth and enjoyable!
Subhash Staff answered 3 weeks ago
Reaching Jaisalmer, the “Golden City” of Rajasthan, is possible through various modes of transport, including flights, trains, and road journeys. Here’s a detailed guide on how to reach Jaisalmer:
1. By Air
Nearest Airport: Jaisalmer Airport (JSA) – Although there is a small airport in Jaisalmer, it mostly operates seasonal flights, especially during the tourist season (October to March). There are limited flights connecting major cities like Delhi, Jaipur, and Mumbai.
Alternative Airport: Jodhpur Airport (JDH) – Located about 285 km away from Jaisalmer, Jodhpur Airport is the nearest major airport with more frequent flights. It is well connected to cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur, and other parts of India.
From the Airport: You can hire a taxi or take a bus from Jodhpur to Jaisalmer. The road journey from Jodhpur to Jaisalmer takes around 5-6 hours.
2. By Train
Jaisalmer Railway Station (JSM): Jaisalmer is well connected to various cities in India through the railway network. Direct trains are available from cities like Delhi, Jodhpur, Jaipur, and Mumbai.
Popular Trains:
Jaisalmer Express (14659/60): Runs from Delhi to Jaisalmer.
Jodhpur Jaisalmer Express (22931/32): Operates from Jodhpur to Jaisalmer.
Howrah Jaisalmer Express (12371/12372): Connects Kolkata to Jaisalmer.
Luxury Trains: You can also experience a royal journey through luxury trains like Palace on Wheels and Royal Rajasthan on Wheels, which include Jaisalmer as one of their stops.
From the Railway Station: The Jaisalmer Railway Station is only 2 km away from the city center, and you can easily hire an auto-rickshaw or taxi to reach your hotel or destination.
3. By Road
By Bus: Jaisalmer is well connected by road to major cities like Jodhpur, Jaipur, Bikaner, Barmer, and Ahmedabad. There are frequent Rajasthan State Road Transport Corporation (RSRTC) buses as well as private buses.
Deluxe, AC, and Non-AC Buses: Available from Jodhpur, Jaipur, and Bikaner. The journey from Jodhpur to Jaisalmer takes approximately 5-6 hours.
By Car/Taxi: You can hire a private taxi or drive to Jaisalmer. The roads are in good condition, making it a smooth and scenic drive through the desert landscapes. Key routes include:
Jodhpur to Jaisalmer: 285 km (5-6 hours)
Jaipur to Jaisalmer: 560 km (9-10 hours)
Bikaner to Jaisalmer: 330 km (6-7 hours)
Self-Drive: If you enjoy road trips, a self-drive through the Thar Desert can be a unique and thrilling experience. Car rentals are available in cities like Jodhpur and Jaipur.
4. By Camel and Jeep Safaris (from Nearby Locations)
For the more adventurous, you can book camel or jeep safaris to explore the desert landscapes and even travel part of the way to Jaisalmer from nearby locations such as Sam Sand Dunes or Khuri. However, these are typically for shorter distances and are part of the desert experience rather than a practical mode of travel.
5. By Bike
If you’re an avid biker and enjoy long road trips, Jaisalmer can be reached by motorcycle from cities like Jodhpur, Bikaner, and Jaipur. Many travelers choose this option to explore the scenic beauty of Rajasthan and the Thar Desert.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit Jaisalmer is between October and March, when the weather is cooler, and desert activities like camel rides and cultural performances are at their peak. Avoid visiting during the summer (April to September) as temperatures can soar above 40°C, making it uncomfortable for sightseeing.