How to Reach Ajmer from Delhi – Travel Guide
Discover how to reach Ajmer from Delhi by train, bus, car, or flight with practical tips on travel time, costs, and local transit options.
Ajmer, a historic city in Rajasthan, lies about 390 kilometers southwest of Delhi. Known for the revered Ajmer Sharif Dargah and its proximity to Pushkar, this route is popular among pilgrims, tourists, and weekend travelers seeking a blend of spirituality and culture.
This guide covers all practical ways to travel from Delhi to Ajmer, including trains, buses, driving, and flights. Expect detailed tips on timings, ticketing, road conditions, and local transport to help you plan your journey confidently.
Getting from Delhi to Ajmer – Main Options
Train
Train travel is one of the most popular and convenient options from Delhi to Ajmer, offering a balance of comfort and affordability. Multiple trains run daily, connecting major Delhi stations to Ajmer Junction.
- Key stations:
Trains depart mainly from New Delhi Railway Station (NDLS) and Hazrat Nizamuddin (NZM), arriving at Ajmer Junction (AII), the main railhead for Ajmer city.
- Duration and cost:
The journey takes around 6 to 7 hours covering approximately 390 km. Ticket prices range from ₹300 for sleeper class to ₹1,200 for AC 3-tier, depending on the train and class.
- Frequency and comfort:
Several trains run daily, including the Ajmer Shatabdi and Rajasthan Sampark Kranti Express, offering comfortable seating and onboard catering on select services.
- Booking tips:
Book tickets in advance via IRCTC or authorized agents, especially during festivals like Urs or Pushkar Fair when demand spikes.
- Seasonal travel advice:
Trains can get crowded during winter and festival seasons; opt for early morning departures to avoid delays and enjoy cooler travel conditions.
- Station facilities:
Ajmer Junction has prepaid taxi counters and auto-rickshaws for last-mile connectivity; avoid unmetered taxis outside the station.
Bus
Buses provide a budget-friendly and flexible way to travel from Delhi to Ajmer. Both government and private operators run services, catering to various comfort levels.
- Operators and routes:
Rajasthan State Road Transport Corporation (RSRTC) and private Volvo buses operate from Delhi’s Kashmiri Gate ISBT to Ajmer’s main bus stand.
- Travel time and fares:
The journey takes about 7 to 9 hours depending on traffic, with fares ranging from ₹400 for non-AC buses to ₹900 for Volvo AC coaches.
- Comfort and frequency:
Volvo buses offer reclining seats and onboard amenities, running mostly overnight and early morning, ideal for saving daytime hours.
- Booking and boarding:
Tickets can be booked online via RSRTC or private portals like RedBus; board buses from Kashmiri Gate or ISBT Anand Vihar for best options.
- Road conditions:
The route follows NH48 and NH58, generally well-maintained but prone to congestion near Delhi and Jaipur; avoid peak traffic hours for smoother travel.
- Rest stops:
Frequent highway dhabas and rest areas are available en route, offering local snacks and refreshments.
Car / Self-Drive
Driving from Delhi to Ajmer offers flexibility and the chance to explore scenic Rajasthan countryside at your own pace. The route is well-connected by national highways.
- Route details:
The most common route is via NH48 and NH58, covering approximately 390 km in about 7 to 8 hours depending on traffic.
- Road quality:
The highways are mostly four-lane and well-maintained, with toll plazas at multiple points; keep cash or FASTag ready for toll payments.
- Stops and sightseeing:
Consider stopping at Jaipur for a quick city tour or refreshments; several dhabas and fuel stations are available along the way.
- Traffic considerations:
Avoid Delhi exit and Jaipur entry during peak hours (morning and evening) to minimize delays.
- Vehicle preparation:
Ensure your vehicle is serviced, and carry water and snacks, especially if traveling during summer or monsoon seasons.
- Parking in Ajmer:
Public parking is available near major attractions; some hotels offer valet parking for guests.
Flight
While Ajmer does not have its own airport, the nearest airport is Jaipur International Airport, about 130 km away. Flights from Delhi to Jaipur are frequent and can save time if combined with a road trip.
- Flight details:
Multiple daily flights operate between Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) and Jaipur International Airport (JAI), with flight times around 1 hour.
- Cost and booking:
Airfares range from ₹1,500 to ₹4,000 depending on the airline and booking time; book early on airline websites or aggregators like MakeMyTrip for best deals.
- From Jaipur to Ajmer:
After landing, hire a taxi or take a bus from Jaipur to Ajmer, which takes about 2.5 to 3 hours by road.
- Combined travel tips:
Flights are ideal for travelers short on time; plan connecting road transport in advance to avoid waiting.
- Airport facilities:
Jaipur airport has good amenities including prepaid taxi counters and car rentals; Ola and Uber are also available.
Step-by-Step Travel Plan
This simple itinerary is designed for first-time travelers from Delhi to Ajmer, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free journey.
- Book your tickets early:
Use IRCTC for trains or RedBus for buses at least a week in advance, especially during peak seasons or festivals.
- Reach the station or bus stand early:
Arrive at least 30 minutes before departure to avoid last-minute rush and find your platform or bus easily.
- Pack essentials for the journey:
Carry water, snacks, and a light jacket, as temperatures can vary, especially in early mornings or late evenings.
- Use prepaid or app-based taxis on arrival:
At Ajmer Junction or bus stand, opt for prepaid counters or Ola/Uber for safe and fair-priced local transport.
- Plan your local commute:
Auto-rickshaws are common for short distances; negotiate fares beforehand or insist on meter use.
- Keep emergency contacts handy:
Note down local police, hospital, and hotel numbers, and keep your phone charged throughout the trip.
Practical Travel Tips
- Safety:
Delhi to Ajmer route is generally safe, but avoid traveling alone late at night on isolated roads; use trusted transport services.
- Food and water:
Carry bottled water and eat at reputable dhabas or restaurants; avoid street food if you have a sensitive stomach.
- Booking strategy:
Use official portals like IRCTC and RSRTC to avoid scams; confirm your bookings and carry printouts or e-tickets.
- Local commute in Ajmer:
Use prepaid taxis or Ola/Uber for convenience; autos are cheaper but agree on fare before boarding.
- Luggage handling:
Keep valuables close and avoid overpacking; train and bus stations have porter services but verify charges upfront.
- Seasonal warnings:
Monsoon can cause delays on roads; winters can be foggy early mornings—plan accordingly.
Best Time & Conditions
The best time to travel from Delhi to Ajmer is during the cooler months from October to March, avoiding the intense summer heat and monsoon rains. Festivals like Urs and Pushkar Fair attract many visitors, so plan ahead.
Traffic conditions vary, with weekends and festival periods seeing heavier congestion on highways and trains. Early morning departures are generally smoother and more comfortable.
Avoid traveling during peak Delhi traffic hours (8–11 AM and 5–8 PM) to reduce delays leaving the city.
Winter fog can disrupt early morning trains and flights; mid-morning departures are safer in December and January.
Monsoon rains (July–September) may cause slippery roads and occasional delays; check weather forecasts before driving.
Plan trips during weekdays if possible to avoid weekend highway congestion, especially near Jaipur.
Arrival at Ajmer & What to Expect
On arrival at Ajmer Junction or the bus stand, travelers find a bustling city with easy access to local transport. Prepaid taxi counters and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber are available for safe rides to hotels or tourist spots.
Ajmer’s main attractions, including the Ajmer Sharif Dargah and Ana Sagar Lake, are within a short drive. Popular stay areas include near the station and around the Dargah for convenience. Local buses and auto-rickshaws are plentiful but negotiate fares beforehand.
Conclusion
Train travel stands out as the most efficient and comfortable option from Delhi to Ajmer, balancing cost, convenience, and frequency. The availability of several daily trains and good station facilities makes it ideal for most travelers.
Whether you choose the scenic drive, budget bus, or a quick flight to Jaipur combined with a road trip, this guide equips you to plan confidently. Ajmer’s rich heritage awaits, and your journey from Delhi can be smooth and enjoyable with these practical tips.