Pune, a bustling city in Maharashtra, is well connected to many parts of India, including the historic city of Bikaner in Rajasthan. This route is popular among tourists eager to explore Bikaner's rich heritage, including its forts and camel festival, as well as business travelers visiting the region.

In this guide, you will find detailed information on various transport options from Pune to Bikaner, including trains, buses, flights, and self-drive routes. We also provide step-by-step travel plans, practical tips, and advice on the best time to travel to help you plan your trip confidently.

Getting from Pune to Bikaner – Main Options

Train

Train travel is a practical and popular choice for this long-distance route, offering a balance between cost and comfort. Indian Railways connects Pune and Bikaner through several trains, though direct options are limited, requiring some planning.

• Key stations:

  Pune Junction (PUNE) is the main departure point, while Bikaner Junction (BKN) is the arrival station. Both stations have good facilities and connectivity.

• Duration and distance:

  The rail distance is approximately 1,400 km, with journey times ranging from 24 to 30 hours depending on the train chosen. Ticket prices vary from INR 600 for sleeper class to INR 2,000+ for AC classes.

• Train options and frequency:

  Direct trains like the Pune–Bikaner Express run weekly, so booking in advance on IRCTC is essential. Alternatively, travelers can opt for connecting trains via Jaipur or Delhi.

• Comfort and services:

  Trains offer various classes including sleeper, 3AC, and 2AC. Pantry services are available on some trains, but carrying snacks is advisable for long journeys.

• Travel tips:

  Booking tickets 30 days in advance increases chances of confirmation. Night travel is common, so pack essentials for comfort. Avoid monsoon season due to occasional delays.

Bus

Bus travel between Pune and Bikaner is less common due to the long distance but remains an option for budget travelers. It involves multiple changes and is best suited for those who prefer road travel over rail or air.

• Route and operators:

  Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) and Rajasthan State Road Transport Corporation (RSRTC) do not operate direct buses on this route, so travelers must change buses at Jaipur or Jodhpur.

• Duration and cost:

  Total travel time can exceed 30 hours, with ticket prices ranging from INR 800 to INR 1,200 depending on the bus type (sleeper or semi-sleeper).

• Comfort and frequency:

  Buses are mostly overnight Volvo or deluxe coaches on segments, but frequency is limited. Booking through official state transport websites or trusted agents is recommended.

• Road conditions:

  The route mainly follows NH48 and NH62, passing through cities like Ahmedabad and Jaipur. Roads are generally good but can be congested near urban centers.

• Challenges:

  Multiple bus changes and long travel hours make this option less convenient. Carry water and food, and plan for rest stops during the journey.

Car/Self-Drive

Driving from Pune to Bikaner offers flexibility and the chance to explore offbeat places en route. The journey covers around 1,400 km, mostly on national highways, making it suitable for experienced drivers.

• Route details:

  The recommended route is via NH48 through Mumbai, Vadodara, Ahmedabad, and Jaipur, then NH62 to Bikaner. This route is well-maintained with toll plazas along the way.

• Travel time and distance:

  Driving non-stop takes approximately 24–26 hours, so plan for at least two days with overnight stops in cities like Ahmedabad or Jaipur.

• Road conditions and rest stops:

  Highways are generally smooth and well-signposted. Popular rest stops include food plazas near Mumbai and Ahmedabad, and fuel stations are frequent.

• Permits and tolls:

  Ensure your vehicle documents are in order. Expect multiple tolls totaling around INR 1,000–1,500. Using FASTag speeds up toll payments.

• Driving tips:

  Avoid night driving in rural stretches due to limited lighting. Carry water, snacks, and a first-aid kit. GPS navigation apps like Google Maps work well on this route.

Flight

Flying is the fastest way to reach Bikaner from Pune, though there are no direct flights. Connecting flights via Delhi or Jaipur are common, combining air and road travel.

• Airports:

  Pune Airport (PNQ) serves as the departure point, while Bikaner Airport (BKB) is the nearest airport to the city but has limited flights. Jaipur International Airport (JAI) is a major nearby hub.

• Flight options and duration:

  Flights from Pune to Jaipur or Delhi take around 2 to 3 hours. From Jaipur or Delhi, travelers can take a 5–6 hour road journey or a connecting train to Bikaner.

• Cost and booking:

  Airfares vary widely, from INR 3,000 to INR 8,000 depending on the season and airline. Booking early via airline websites or aggregators like MakeMyTrip helps secure better prices.

• Local transport from airports:

  From Jaipur or Delhi airports, prepaid taxis, Ola, and Uber are available for onward travel. Train stations are well connected by local transport.

• Travel tips:

  Factor in transit time and local transport when booking flights. Flights may be affected by weather during monsoon or winter fog in northern India.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This simple itinerary is designed for first-time travelers from Pune to Bikaner, ensuring a smooth and comfortable journey.

• Book your tickets early:

  Whether by train, bus, or flight, secure your tickets at least 2–3 weeks in advance via IRCTC, MSRTC, or airline portals to avoid last-minute hassles.

• Reach the departure point early:

  Arrive at Pune railway station or airport at least 1 hour before departure to manage check-in and security smoothly, especially during peak seasons.

• Pack essentials for long travel:

  Carry water, snacks, a power bank, and a light blanket or shawl for overnight journeys. Keep your ID and tickets handy for verification.

• Use local transport on arrival:

  At Bikaner station or airport, use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs like Ola for safe and reliable local travel. Avoid unmetered taxis to prevent overcharging.

• Plan accommodation in advance:

  Book hotels near Bikaner city center or close to the railway station for convenience. Popular areas include the old city near Junagarh Fort.

• Stay updated on travel advisories:

  Check weather and transport updates before departure, especially during monsoon or festival seasons to avoid disruptions.

Practical Travel Tips

• Train bookings:

  Use the IRCTC app or website for real-time availability and e-tickets. Tatkal bookings open at 10 AM daily for last-minute travelers.

• Bus travel:

  Confirm bus timings and routes via MSRTC or RSRTC official portals. Carry exact change for ticket purchases at bus stands.

• Local commute in Bikaner:

  Auto-rickshaws and cycle rickshaws are common for short distances. Negotiate fares beforehand or insist on meter usage.

• Food and water safety:

  Drink bottled water from trusted brands and avoid street food unless recommended. Carry hand sanitizer and wet wipes during travel.

• Luggage handling:

  Keep valuables in carry-on bags. For trains, use chain locks on luggage and stay vigilant at crowded stations.

• Seasonal considerations:

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

Best Time & Conditions

The best time to travel from Pune to Bikaner is during the cooler months from October to March. This period offers pleasant weather for sightseeing and comfortable travel conditions.

Avoid traveling during peak festival times like Diwali or Holi when transport services are crowded and prices surge.

• Avoid early morning and late evening departures during winter due to fog-related delays, especially on flights and trains.

• Monsoon season (July to September) can cause road disruptions and train delays, so plan accordingly.

• Midday departures during cooler months provide better comfort for road trips and flights.

• Weekdays generally have less crowded trains and buses compared to weekends and holidays.

Arrival at Bikaner & What to Expect

Upon arrival at Bikaner Junction or the local airport, travelers will find a city rich in culture and history. The railway station is well connected to the city center via auto-rickshaws and taxis, while the airport has limited but reliable taxi services.

Popular attractions like Junagarh Fort, Lalgarh Palace, and the Camel Research Farm are easily accessible from central Bikaner. Accommodation options range from budget guesthouses to heritage hotels near the old city, providing a comfortable stay for all travelers.

Conclusion

Among the various options, train travel stands out as the most balanced choice for reaching Bikaner from Pune, offering affordability and reasonable comfort. For those pressed for time, flying with a connecting flight to Jaipur or Delhi followed by road travel is the fastest.

With proper planning and the tips shared here, you can confidently embark on your journey from Pune to Bikaner. Whether for heritage exploration or business, this guide ensures a smooth and enjoyable travel experience.