Mumbai, the bustling financial capital of India, is located on the west coast, while Bikaner, a historic city in Rajasthan, lies in the northwestern part of the country. This route is popular among tourists eager to explore Rajasthan's rich culture and heritage, as well as business travelers visiting the region.

This guide covers all practical ways to travel from Mumbai to Bikaner, including trains, buses, flights, and self-drive options. You will find detailed information on journey times, costs, and tips to make your trip smooth and enjoyable.

Getting from Mumbai to Bikaner – Main Options

Train

Train travel is a preferred option for many due to its affordability and extensive connectivity. Several trains connect Mumbai to Bikaner, making it a practical choice for budget-conscious travelers.

• Key stations:

  Trains depart from Mumbai Central (MMCT) or Bandra Terminus (BDTS) and arrive at Bikaner Junction (BKN). The journey covers approximately 1,200 km.

• Duration and cost:

  The journey takes around 20 to 24 hours depending on the train, with ticket prices ranging from ₹500 for sleeper class to ₹2,000 for AC classes.

• Frequency and comfort:

  Trains like the Bandra Terminus–Bikaner Superfast Express run weekly, so booking in advance via IRCTC is recommended. AC coaches offer comfortable seating with bedding options.

• Travel tips:

  Book tickets early to avoid last-minute unavailability, especially during festival seasons. Carry snacks and water, as pantry services may be limited on some trains.

• Scenic views and challenges:

  The route passes through diverse landscapes, including the Thar Desert near Bikaner. Night travel is common, so carry eye masks and earplugs for better rest.

Bus

Bus travel is less common for this long route but remains an option for those seeking direct road connectivity. State-run and private operators provide services with varying comfort levels.

• Operators and routes:

  Rajasthan State Road Transport Corporation (RSRTC) and private Volvo buses operate between Mumbai and Bikaner, often with stops in Jaipur or Jodhpur.

• Duration and fares:

  The journey can take 24 to 30 hours depending on the route and traffic, with fares ranging from ₹1,200 to ₹2,000 for Volvo AC buses.

• Comfort and frequency:

  Volvo buses offer reclining seats and onboard amenities but run infrequently. Booking through MSRTC or private portals is advisable.

• Road conditions:

  The route uses NH48 and NH62, which are mostly in good condition but can experience congestion near cities. Night travel is possible but not recommended for safety reasons.

• Rest stops and food:

  Buses stop at highway dhabas and rest areas; carry your own water and light snacks for comfort.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Mumbai to Bikaner offers flexibility and the chance to explore offbeat places en route. The distance is about 1,200 km, making it a long but scenic road trip.

• Route details:

  The preferred route is via NH48 to Ahmedabad, then NH27 and NH62 through Udaipur and Jodhpur to Bikaner.

• Travel time and tolls:

  Expect 20 to 22 hours of driving time, excluding breaks. Several toll plazas on NH48 and NH62 require cash or FASTag payments.

• Road conditions:

  The highways are mostly well-maintained, with some stretches near desert areas being less developed. Avoid night driving in rural stretches due to wildlife and poor lighting.

• Fuel and rest stops:

  Fuel stations are available in major towns like Ahmedabad and Jodhpur. Plan stops at popular dhabas and restaurants for meals and rest.

• Car rental tips:

  Opt for reputed rental services offering inter-state permits and insurance. Check vehicle condition thoroughly before starting.

Flight

Flying is the fastest way to reach Bikaner from Mumbai, though there are no direct flights. Connecting flights via Jaipur or Delhi are common.

• Airports:

  Depart from Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (BOM) and arrive at Bikaner Nal Airport (BKB), which has limited connectivity.

• Flight options:

  Most travelers fly to Jaipur International Airport (JAI) or Delhi Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) and then take a connecting flight or road transport to Bikaner.

• Duration and cost:

  Flight time to Jaipur or Delhi is about 2 to 3 hours, with onward travel by road taking 4 to 6 hours. Airfares vary from ₹3,000 to ₹8,000 depending on booking time and airline.

• Booking tips:

  Book flights well in advance on platforms like MakeMyTrip or Cleartrip. Check for connecting flight schedules carefully to avoid long layovers.

• Local transport from airports:

  From Jaipur or Delhi, prepaid taxis or Ola/Uber cabs are available for onward travel. Alternatively, take a train or bus for budget options.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This simple itinerary is designed for first-time travelers making the Mumbai to Bikaner journey, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

• Book your tickets early:

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

• Pack essentials smartly:

  Carry light luggage with snacks, water, and a power bank. For train or bus travel, include a neck pillow and light blanket for comfort during long journeys.

• Reach the departure point early:

  Arrive at Mumbai Central, Bandra Terminus, or the airport at least 1.5 hours before departure to manage security and boarding smoothly.

• Use prepaid taxis or app cabs:

  On arrival in Bikaner, use prepaid taxi counters at the station or airport or book Ola/Uber for safe and reliable local transport.

• Plan your local commute:

  Bikaner has auto-rickshaws and cycle rickshaws for short distances; negotiate fares beforehand or use metered autos where available.

• Stay in central areas:

  Book accommodation near the city center or close to Bikaner Junction for easy access to attractions and transport hubs.

Practical Travel Tips

• IRCTC booking tips:

  Use the IRCTC app or website for train bookings and check for Tatkal quota if traveling last minute. Keep ID proofs handy during ticket verification.

• Hydration and food safety:

  Carry bottled water and avoid street food during the journey to prevent stomach issues, especially in summer months.

• Local SIM and connectivity:

  Ensure your mobile has good network coverage; Jio and Airtel offer reliable service on this route.

• Use Ola/Uber cautiously:

  In Bikaner, Ola and Uber operate but may have limited availability; always confirm fare estimates before booking.

• Luggage security:

  Keep valuables close and use lockable bags, especially on trains and buses where theft can occur.

• Seasonal travel warnings:

  Avoid traveling during peak monsoon months (July-August) due to possible road delays and train disruptions in some areas.

Best Time & Conditions

The best time to travel from Mumbai to Bikaner is during the cooler months from October to March. Summers can be extremely hot in Rajasthan, while monsoons may affect road conditions.

Planning your departure to avoid peak traffic and festivals can make your journey smoother and more enjoyable.

• Avoid traveling during Diwali and Holi weekends when trains and flights are heavily booked and roads congested.

• Winter mornings and evenings in Rajasthan are cold; pack accordingly if traveling by train or bus.

• Start early in the day to avoid Mumbai’s rush hour traffic and reach Bikaner before dark if driving.

• Monsoon rains can cause delays on NH routes; check weather forecasts and road conditions before departure.

Arrival at Bikaner & What to Expect

Upon arrival at Bikaner Junction or Nal Airport, travelers find a city rich in heritage with warm desert hospitality. The railway station is well connected to the city center by autos and taxis.

Local transport includes auto-rickshaws, cycle rickshaws, and Ola cabs. Popular stay areas include near the Junagarh Fort and the city market, offering easy access to major attractions.

Conclusion

The train remains the most efficient and economical way to travel from Mumbai to Bikaner, balancing comfort and cost. For those prioritizing speed, flights with connecting routes via Jaipur or Delhi are best, though they require additional road travel.

With proper planning and advance bookings, you can confidently embark on this journey to explore Bikaner’s vibrant culture and historic sites. Whether by train, bus, car, or flight, this guide ensures a smooth and enjoyable travel experience.