How to Reach BITS Pilani from Delhi – Travel Guide
Discover practical ways to reach BITS Pilani from Delhi by train, bus, car, or flight with tips on travel time, costs, and local transport.
BITS Pilani, located in the town of Pilani in Rajasthan, is a premier institute attracting students and visitors from across India. Situated about 220 kilometers southwest of Delhi, this route is popular among students, parents, and academic professionals traveling for admissions, events, or campus visits.
This guide covers all main transport options from Delhi to BITS Pilani, including trains, buses, self-drive, and flights, helping you plan your journey with practical tips and detailed travel advice for a smooth trip.
Getting from Delhi to BITS Pilani – Main Options
Train
Train travel is a popular and economical choice for reaching Pilani from Delhi, though Pilani itself has a small railway station with limited connectivity. Most travelers use nearby stations like Chirawa or Jhunjhunu and then take local transport to BITS Pilani.
- Nearest major stations:
Delhi Sarai Rohilla and Delhi Cantt have trains to Jhunjhunu, about 30 km from Pilani. Jhunjhunu station is well connected by passenger and express trains.
- Travel time and cost:
Trains from Delhi to Jhunjhunu take around 5 to 6 hours. Ticket prices range from ₹150 for sleeper class to ₹600 for AC classes, making it budget-friendly.
- Frequency and booking:
Several trains run daily, but seats fill quickly during admission seasons. Booking via IRCTC at least 2 weeks in advance is recommended.
- Last-mile connectivity:
From Jhunjhunu or Chirawa, frequent shared autos and private taxis are available to BITS Pilani, costing ₹200–₹400 and taking 45 minutes.
- Seasonal tips:
Avoid traveling during peak summer afternoons due to heat; early morning trains are more comfortable.
Bus
Buses offer a direct and affordable option from Delhi to Pilani, with several state-run and private operators running services. This mode suits travelers looking for a straightforward journey without transfers.
- Departure points:
Delhi ISBT Kashmiri Gate and Anand Vihar have regular buses to Pilani and Jhunjhunu, operated by Rajasthan State Road Transport Corporation (RSRTC) and private operators.
- Travel duration and fares:
The bus journey takes approximately 5 to 6 hours covering about 220 km. Ticket prices range from ₹300 to ₹600 depending on AC or non-AC coaches.
- Comfort and frequency:
AC Volvo buses run in the morning and evening, providing a comfortable ride. Non-AC buses are frequent but less comfortable.
- Booking tips:
Online booking via RSRTC website or apps like RedBus is advisable, especially during admission periods to secure seats.
- Road conditions:
The NH48 and NH52 highways connecting Delhi to Pilani are mostly smooth, with tolls en route. Avoid traveling late at night due to limited roadside facilities.
Car/Self-Drive
Driving from Delhi to BITS Pilani is a convenient option for those who prefer flexibility and comfort. The route is well connected by national highways, making it a popular weekend or admission trip choice.
- Route details:
The most common route is via NH48 and NH52 passing through Gurgaon, Rewari, and Chirawa. The total distance is about 220 km and takes 4.5 to 5.5 hours depending on traffic.
- Road quality and tolls:
The highways are mostly four-lane and well maintained, with multiple toll plazas. Keep cash or FASTag ready for toll payments.
- Fuel and rest stops:
Several fuel stations and eateries like Haldiram’s and local dhabas are available along the way, ideal for breaks.
- Traffic considerations:
Avoid Delhi exit during peak office hours (8–11 AM) and Gurgaon traffic jams. Early morning or late evening drives are smoother.
- Car rentals:
Self-drive car rentals from Delhi are available via platforms like Zoomcar and Revv, with prices starting around ₹2,000 per day plus fuel.
Flight
There is no direct flight to Pilani, but travelers can fly from Delhi to Jaipur and then continue by road. This option is less common but useful if coming from farther away or connecting from other cities.
- Flight details:
Delhi to Jaipur flights take about 1 hour with multiple daily flights by Indigo, Air India, and others. Ticket prices vary from ₹1,500 to ₹4,000.
- From Jaipur to Pilani:
Pilani is approximately 180 km from Jaipur, reachable by taxi or bus in 4 to 5 hours via NH52.
- Taxi options:
Prepaid taxis or app-based cabs like Ola and Uber are available at Jaipur Airport, costing ₹3,000–₹4,000 for a one-way trip to Pilani.
- Bus alternatives:
Rajasthan State buses run from Jaipur to Jhunjhunu and Pilani, but schedules are limited and slower.
- When to choose flights:
Flights are best if you want to combine a Jaipur visit or if train/bus options are inconvenient due to timing.
Step-by-Step Travel Plan
This simple itinerary helps first-time travelers from Delhi to BITS Pilani plan their trip efficiently, covering booking, travel, and arrival tips.
- Book your tickets early:
Use IRCTC for trains or RedBus for buses at least 2 weeks ahead, especially during admission season to avoid last-minute hassles.
- Reach departure point early:
Arrive at Delhi Sarai Rohilla station or ISBT Kashmiri Gate 30 minutes before departure to find your platform or bus bay easily.
- Pack essentials for the journey:
Carry water, snacks, and a power bank. Train and bus journeys can be long, and local vendors may be scarce on some routes.
- Arrange last-mile transport:
Pre-book a taxi or use Ola/Uber from Jhunjhunu or Chirawa stations to BITS Pilani campus to avoid waiting or overpaying.
- Confirm return plans:
Check return train or bus timings in advance and book return tickets early to ensure smooth travel back to Delhi.
Practical Travel Tips
- Safety:
Prefer prepaid taxis or app-based cabs for last-mile travel to avoid overcharging. Avoid traveling alone late at night on isolated roads.
- Food and water:
Carry bottled water and light snacks, especially if traveling by train or bus. Avoid roadside food stalls unless they look clean and busy.
- Booking strategy:
Use official portals like IRCTC and RSRTC for ticket bookings to ensure authenticity and avoid scams.
- Local commute at Pilani:
Autos and shared cabs are available but limited; arrange transport from the campus in advance if possible.
- Luggage handling:
Keep your belongings secure and within reach on trains and buses. Pilani station has minimal facilities, so be prepared to carry your bags yourself.
- Seasonal warnings:
Summers can be extremely hot; carry sunscreen and stay hydrated. Monsoon can cause occasional road delays, so check weather updates.
Best Time & Conditions
The Delhi to Pilani route experiences significant seasonal variations affecting travel comfort and timing. Planning your trip according to weather and traffic can make a big difference.
Winter months from November to February offer the most pleasant weather for road and train travel. Summers can be harsh with temperatures soaring above 40°C, while monsoon rains may cause occasional delays.
Avoid traveling during peak Delhi office hours (8–11 AM) to escape heavy city traffic.
Steer clear of festival weekends like Diwali or Holi when trains and buses are overcrowded.
Early morning departures are best for cooler temperatures and less traffic on highways.
During monsoon, check road conditions and train running status to avoid cancellations or delays.
Arrival at BITS Pilani & What to Expect
On arrival at Pilani, travelers find a quiet town with a strong academic atmosphere centered around the BITS campus. The campus is about 3 km from Pilani town and well connected by local autos and shared cabs.
For local commute, prepaid autos and private taxis are available near the railway station and bus stands. Nearby attractions include the Birla Museum and the local market area. Accommodation options range from guesthouses to hotels in Pilani town, with campus guest rooms available for visitors with prior permission.
Conclusion
Among all options, traveling by train to Jhunjhunu followed by a taxi to BITS Pilani offers the best balance of cost, comfort, and convenience. It is especially suitable for students and visitors who want an economical yet reliable journey.
With clear planning, early bookings, and awareness of local transport, you can confidently make your trip from Delhi to BITS Pilani smooth and enjoyable. Whether for admissions, events, or leisure, this guide equips you to travel smart and arrive ready.