Bangalore, the tech hub of India located in Karnataka, is well connected to many parts of the country. Bikaner, a historic city in Rajasthan famous for its forts and desert culture, attracts tourists and business travelers alike. Traveling from Bangalore to Bikaner is popular among those seeking a cultural getaway or exploring Rajasthan's rich heritage.

This guide covers all practical ways to travel from Bangalore to Bikaner, including train, bus, car, and flight options. You’ll find detailed tips on routes, timings, costs, and local travel to plan your trip confidently and comfortably.

Getting from Bangalore to Bikaner – Main Options

By Train

Train travel is a preferred and economical choice for many travelers between Bangalore and Bikaner. Though there is no direct train, connecting services make the journey feasible with some planning.

• Route and stations:

  The journey typically involves traveling from Bangalore City Railway Station (SBC) to Jaipur or Delhi, then changing trains to Bikaner Junction (BKN). The total distance is around 2,000 km.

• Duration and cost:

  The entire trip can take 36 to 42 hours depending on connections. Ticket prices range from ₹700 for sleeper class to ₹3,000+ for AC classes. Booking via IRCTC well in advance is recommended.

• Frequency and comfort:

  Trains on these routes run daily or multiple times a week. AC coaches offer comfortable travel, but sleeper class is crowded. Carry water and snacks for the long journey.

• Seasonal tips:

  Avoid traveling during peak summer months as trains can get hot and crowded. Winters are more comfortable but book early during festival seasons like Diwali.

• Challenges:

  Train delays and platform changes are common on this long route. Keep your phone charged and track live train status on the NTES app.

By Bus

Long-distance bus travel from Bangalore to Bikaner is possible but less common due to the distance and duration. It suits travelers on a budget who don’t mind overnight journeys.

• Bus operators and routes:

  State transport buses like KSRTC and private operators run services to Jaipur or Delhi, from where you can take a connecting bus or train to Bikaner.

• Duration and fares:

  The bus journey can take 40 to 48 hours with fares between ₹1,200 and ₹2,500 depending on the bus type (sleeper, Volvo AC).

• Comfort and frequency:

  Direct buses to Bikaner are rare; most travelers break the journey at Jaipur or Delhi. Volvo buses offer better comfort but book tickets early on RedBus or KSRTC portals.

• Travel tips:

  Night buses are common but can be tiring. Carry a neck pillow and light blanket. Avoid traveling during monsoon due to road conditions.

• Rest stops and food:

  Buses stop at highway dhabas and rest areas along NH48 and NH52. Pack some dry snacks and water as options can be limited at night.

By Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Bangalore to Bikaner is an adventurous option for those who enjoy road trips and have ample time. The route covers diverse landscapes and several states.

• Route details:

  The most common route is via NH48 to Mumbai, then NH52 through Gujarat and Rajasthan. The total distance is approximately 2,200 km, taking around 38 to 42 hours of driving time.

• Road conditions:

  National highways are mostly in good condition, especially NH48. Some stretches in Rajasthan may have potholes, so drive cautiously. Fuel stations are frequent along the route.

• Stops and sightseeing:

  Plan stops at Pune, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, and Jaipur for rest and sightseeing. These cities have good hotels and restaurants for overnight stays.

• Travel tips:

  Avoid night driving in rural areas due to poor lighting and stray animals. Carry a physical map or offline GPS as network coverage can be patchy in some regions.

• Permits and tolls:

  Expect multiple toll plazas on NH48 and NH52. Keep FASTag active for smooth toll payments. Check vehicle documents and insurance before starting.

By Flight

Flying is the fastest and most convenient way to reach Bikaner from Bangalore, especially for business travelers and tourists with limited time.

• Flight options:

  There are no direct flights from Bangalore to Bikaner. The nearest airport to Bikaner is Nal Airport (BKB), which has limited connectivity. Most travelers fly to Jaipur International Airport (JAI) and then take a train or taxi to Bikaner.

• Duration and cost:

  Flights from Bangalore to Jaipur take about 3 hours. Ticket prices range from ₹3,000 to ₹7,000 depending on the airline and booking time.

• Connecting travel:

  From Jaipur, Bikaner is approximately 330 km by road or rail. You can hire a taxi (5-6 hours) or take a train from Jaipur Junction to Bikaner Junction.

• Booking tips:

  Use airline websites or aggregators like MakeMyTrip and Cleartrip for best fares. Book at least 3 weeks in advance for cheaper prices.

• Airport facilities:

  Bangalore and Jaipur airports have good amenities including lounges, eateries, and taxi services like Ola and Uber. Prepaid taxi counters at Jaipur airport ensure fair pricing.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This simple itinerary helps first-time travelers plan their journey from Bangalore to Bikaner efficiently, minimizing hassle and delays.

• Book your tickets early:

  Whether train, bus, or flight, secure your tickets at least 2-3 weeks in advance on IRCTC, RedBus, or airline portals to avoid last-minute price hikes and unavailability.

• Reach the departure point early:

  Arrive at Bangalore City Railway Station or Kempegowda International Airport at least 1.5 hours before departure to complete security and boarding smoothly.

• Pack essentials for long travel:

  Carry water, snacks, a power bank, and a light blanket or shawl. Long journeys through multiple states can be tiring and unpredictable.

• Plan your connections:

  If traveling by train or bus with transfers, check the layover times carefully. Jaipur is the common transit hub; book local transport in advance if possible.

• Use local apps for last-mile travel:

  Upon arrival in Bikaner, use Ola or Uber for safe and affordable rides to your hotel or attractions. Prepaid taxis are also available at stations.

• Stay informed on travel updates:

  Monitor train running status on NTES or bus timings on operator websites. Flight delays are common during monsoon and winter fog; keep buffer time in your schedule.

Practical Travel Tips

• Safety on trains and buses:

  Keep your belongings secure and avoid accepting food or drinks from strangers. Use lockable bags and stay alert, especially during night travel.

• Food and water precautions:

  Carry bottled water and eat at reputable dhabas or airport eateries. Avoid street food during transit to prevent stomach issues.

• Booking strategy:

  Use official portals like IRCTC for trains and KSRTC or RedBus for buses. Avoid third-party agents to prevent scams and overcharging.

• Local commute in Bikaner:

  Auto-rickshaws are common but negotiate fares beforehand. App-based cabs like Ola provide safer and meter-based fares.

• Luggage handling:

  Pack light and keep valuables in carry-on bags. Train stations can be crowded, so avoid leaving luggage unattended.

• Seasonal travel warnings:

  Summers in Rajasthan are extremely hot; carry sunscreen and stay hydrated. Winters can be chilly, so pack accordingly.

Best Time & Conditions

The best time to travel from Bangalore to Bikaner depends on weather and traffic conditions along the route. Planning your trip during favorable seasons ensures comfort and safety.

Monsoon rains can affect road and rail travel, causing delays and slippery roads. Winter months offer pleasant weather but may experience fog in northern states affecting flights.

• Avoid traveling during peak festival weekends like Diwali and Holi when trains and flights are fully booked and prices surge.

• Early morning departures from Bangalore help avoid city traffic and ensure timely connections.

• Summer months (April to June) are best avoided for road and train travel due to extreme heat in Rajasthan.

• Winter (October to February) is ideal for sightseeing but book flights early to avoid fog-related cancellations.

Arrival at Bikaner & What to Expect

On arrival at Bikaner Junction railway station or the local bus stand, travelers find a bustling city with rich cultural heritage. The station is well connected to the city center by auto-rickshaws and taxis.

For those arriving via Jaipur airport, a taxi or train journey is required to reach Bikaner. Local transport options include cycle rickshaws and Ola cabs, which are convenient for short distances. Popular stay areas include near the Junagarh Fort and the city center, offering easy access to attractions.

Conclusion

Among all options, flying to Jaipur followed by a train or taxi to Bikaner is the fastest and most comfortable way to travel from Bangalore. For budget travelers, trains offer a reliable and economical choice, though the journey is long.

With careful planning, early bookings, and awareness of local conditions, travelers can enjoy a smooth journey from Bangalore to Bikaner. This guide equips you with all the practical details to embark on your trip confidently and make the most of your Rajasthan adventure.