How to Reach Chand Baori – Travel Guide
Discover how to reach Chand Baori in Rajasthan by train, bus, car, or flight with practical tips for a smooth journey.
Chand Baori is a stunning stepwell located in the village of Abhaneri, near the city of Jaipur in Rajasthan. Famous for its intricate architecture and historical significance, it attracts tourists, history enthusiasts, and photographers from across India and beyond. This guide helps you navigate the best ways to reach Chand Baori, whether you are coming from Jaipur, Delhi, or other nearby cities.
Travelers often visit Chand Baori as part of a day trip from Jaipur or on a longer Rajasthan itinerary. This article covers all main transport options including train, bus, car, and flights, with practical advice on timings, routes, and local transport to ensure a hassle-free visit.
Getting from Jaipur to Chand Baori – Main Options
By Train
While there is no direct train to Chand Baori, the nearest major railway station is Jaipur Junction. From Jaipur, you can take local transport to Abhaneri village where Chand Baori is located. Train travel is popular for those coming from Delhi or other cities to Jaipur first.
- Jaipur Junction:
This is the closest major railway station, well connected to Delhi, Mumbai, and other cities. It handles frequent trains daily, including Shatabdi and Rajdhani Express. Ticket prices vary widely depending on class, from INR 200 to 1500.
- Local transport from Jaipur:
From Jaipur station, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Abhaneri, about 95 km away. The journey takes roughly 2.5 to 3 hours by road.
- Train timing tips:
Arrive early at Jaipur station to avoid crowds, especially during weekends and holidays. Booking tickets in advance via IRCTC is recommended during peak tourist seasons.
- Last-mile connectivity:
Auto-rickshaws and local taxis are available near Jaipur station for onward travel. Prepaid taxis at the station exit offer fixed fares to avoid haggling.
By Bus
Bus travel is a cost-effective and commonly used option to reach Chand Baori from Jaipur and nearby cities. Rajasthan State Road Transport Corporation (RSRTC) operates buses connecting Jaipur to Dausa and nearby towns close to Abhaneri.
- Bus routes:
Take a direct RSRTC bus from Jaipur to Dausa, which is about 60 km from Abhaneri. From Dausa, local buses or taxis can be hired for the remaining 35 km.
- Ticket costs and duration:
Bus fares from Jaipur to Dausa range from INR 100 to 200 depending on the bus type. The total journey to Chand Baori by bus and taxi can take 3 to 4 hours.
- Bus frequency:
Buses run frequently throughout the day, but early morning departures are best to avoid afternoon heat and traffic.
- Comfort and tips:
Opt for Volvo or deluxe buses for a more comfortable ride. Carry water and snacks as stops are limited on the route.
- Challenges:
Last-mile connectivity from Dausa can be tricky; pre-arranging a taxi or sharing rides with other tourists is advisable.
By Car / Self-Drive
Driving to Chand Baori is one of the most convenient ways to explore the area at your own pace. The route from Jaipur is scenic and well-maintained, making self-drive or taxi hire popular among tourists.
- Route details:
Take NH21 from Jaipur towards Dausa, then follow local roads to Abhaneri. The total distance is approximately 95 km, taking around 2.5 to 3 hours depending on traffic.
- Road conditions:
The highways are mostly in good condition with clear signage. Watch out for occasional potholes on rural roads near Abhaneri.
- Car rentals:
Jaipur has numerous car rental agencies offering self-drive and chauffeur-driven cars. Prices start from INR 1500 per day for self-drive hatchbacks.
- Parking:
Chand Baori has a small parking area near the site, usually sufficient but can get crowded during peak season.
- Travel tips:
Start early to avoid city traffic and midday heat. Carry a physical map or GPS as mobile signals may be weak near Abhaneri.
By Flight
The nearest airport to Chand Baori is Jaipur International Airport, well connected to major Indian cities. Flying is ideal for travelers coming from distant locations before continuing by road to Chand Baori.
- Airport details:
Jaipur International Airport handles domestic flights from Delhi, Mumbai, and other metros. It is about 45 km from the city center.
- Flight frequency and cost:
Multiple daily flights connect Jaipur with Delhi and Mumbai. Ticket prices vary from INR 1500 to 5000 depending on the airline and booking time.
- From airport to Chand Baori:
Hire a taxi or rent a car from the airport. The drive takes approximately 3 to 3.5 hours via NH21 and local roads.
- Airport facilities:
The airport has prepaid taxi counters and car rental desks for hassle-free onward travel.
- Travel tips:
Book flights early during festival seasons like Diwali when demand surges. Check flight timings to align with road travel plans to Chand Baori.
Step-by-Step Travel Plan
This simple itinerary is designed for first-time travelers visiting Chand Baori from Jaipur, ensuring smooth transitions between transport modes and minimal waiting times.
- Book train or flight tickets to Jaipur:
Use IRCTC or airline websites to secure tickets at least two weeks in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
- Arrive early at Jaipur station or airport:
Reach at least one hour before departure or arrival to manage luggage and local transport arrangements comfortably.
- Hire a taxi or rent a car from Jaipur:
Pre-book a reliable taxi or self-drive car for the 2.5 to 3-hour journey to Abhaneri to avoid last-minute hassles.
- Plan your visit timing:
Reach Chand Baori by mid-morning to enjoy cooler temperatures and avoid afternoon crowds and heat.
- Carry essentials:
Bring water, sunscreen, and comfortable footwear as the stepwell involves climbing stairs and walking around.
- Return to Jaipur or onward destination:
Arrange your return transport in advance, especially if using public buses or shared taxis, to ensure timely departure.
Practical Travel Tips
- Safety:
Chand Baori has steep steps; exercise caution while exploring, especially for children and elderly travelers.
- Food and water:
Carry bottled water and light snacks as food options near the site are limited and basic.
- Booking strategy:
Use official IRCTC and airline portals for secure bookings. Avoid last-minute purchases during festivals.
- Local commute:
Use prepaid taxis or trusted app-based cabs like Ola and Uber in Jaipur for safe and fair pricing.
- Luggage:
Travel light if using public transport; storage facilities are not available at Chand Baori.
- Seasonal warnings:
Avoid visiting during peak summer afternoons due to extreme heat; monsoon season can make roads slippery.
Best Time & Conditions
The ideal time to visit Chand Baori is during the cooler months from October to March. The weather is pleasant, making exploration comfortable and enjoyable. Summers can be harsh, while monsoons bring lush greenery but may affect road conditions.
Planning your trip outside major festival weekends helps avoid traffic jams and crowded conditions at the site.
Avoid peak traffic hours in Jaipur, especially early mornings and late evenings on weekdays.
Steer clear of festival weekends like Diwali and Holi when roads and accommodations fill up quickly.
Travel early morning to enjoy the stepwell in soft daylight and cooler temperatures.
Monsoon months (July-August) may cause slippery steps and muddy roads; carry appropriate footwear.
Arrival at Chand Baori & What to Expect
Upon arrival at Chand Baori, visitors are greeted by the impressive geometric stepwell descending over 13 stories. The site is well-maintained with clear pathways and informative signage. Entry fees are nominal, and guides are available for hire near the entrance.
Local transport options include auto-rickshaws and taxis for nearby attractions like Harshat Mata Temple and the village of Abhaneri. Accommodation options are limited in the village, so most travelers stay in Jaipur or Dausa. Use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs for safe and reliable onward travel.
Conclusion
Driving or hiring a taxi from Jaipur is the most efficient and comfortable way to reach Chand Baori, offering flexibility and scenic views along the route. This option allows travelers to explore at their own pace and easily visit nearby attractions.
With proper planning and the tips provided, visiting Chand Baori can be a memorable and hassle-free experience. Whether you choose train, bus, car, or flight, this guide equips you to plan confidently and enjoy one of Rajasthan's architectural gems.