How to Reach Mount Abu from Delhi – Travel Guide
Discover how to reach Mount Abu from Delhi by train, bus, car, or flight with practical tips for a smooth journey.
Mount Abu, nestled in the Aravalli Hills of Rajasthan, is a popular hill station known for its cool climate and scenic beauty. Located approximately 900 kilometers southwest of Delhi, it attracts tourists seeking a refreshing escape from the capital's hustle and heat.
This route is favored by weekend travelers, nature lovers, and families looking for a peaceful retreat. In this guide, you will find detailed information on various transport options from Delhi to Mount Abu, including trains, buses, self-drive routes, and flights, along with practical travel tips to plan your trip efficiently.
Getting from Delhi to Mount Abu – Main Options
Train
Traveling by train is a comfortable and economical option for this route, though Mount Abu does not have a direct railway station. The nearest major station is Abu Road, about 28 km from Mount Abu town. From Delhi, several trains connect to Abu Road, making it a practical choice for many travelers.
- Key stations:
Trains depart from New Delhi Railway Station (NDLS) to Abu Road (ABR), which is the closest railhead to Mount Abu. The station is well connected by taxis and buses to the hill station.
- Distance and duration:
The train journey covers around 850 km and takes approximately 12 to 14 hours depending on the train service chosen. Sleeper and AC coaches are available, with fares ranging from ₹400 to ₹1,200.
- Train options and frequency:
Popular trains include the Delhi–Abu Road Express and the Suryanagri Express, running daily or multiple times a week. Booking via IRCTC well in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons.
- Last-mile connectivity:
From Abu Road station, frequent state-run and private buses operate to Mount Abu, or you can hire prepaid taxis available at the station exit. The 28 km drive takes about 45 minutes on NH27 and is scenic with some winding roads.
- Travel tips:
Night trains are convenient to save daytime for sightseeing. Avoid traveling during monsoon nights due to slippery roads near Mount Abu. Carry light snacks and water, as station amenities are basic.
Bus
Buses are a budget-friendly and flexible option, with several direct services connecting Delhi to Mount Abu. This mode suits travelers who prefer road travel and want to enjoy the changing landscapes en route.
- Bus types and operators:
Rajasthan State Road Transport Corporation (RSRTC) and private operators run Volvo and non-AC buses from Delhi ISBT Kashmiri Gate to Mount Abu. Volvo buses offer more comfort and are preferred for overnight journeys.
- Duration and cost:
The bus journey takes around 16 to 18 hours covering roughly 900 km. Ticket prices range from ₹600 to ₹1,200 depending on the bus type and operator.
- Departure points and frequency:
Buses depart mostly in the evening or night, allowing you to reach Mount Abu by morning. Booking tickets online via RSRTC or private portals is advisable to secure seats.
- Route and road conditions:
Buses travel via NH48 and NH27, passing through Jaipur and Udaipur, offering scenic views of Rajasthan’s countryside. Roads are generally good, but monsoon rains can cause delays.
- Onboard facilities and tips:
Volvo buses provide reclining seats and charging points, but non-AC buses may be crowded. Carry your own water and light food. Be cautious of pickpockets at bus stands.
Car/Self-Drive
Driving from Delhi to Mount Abu offers flexibility and the chance to explore offbeat stops along the way. The route is popular among road trip enthusiasts who enjoy scenic drives through Rajasthan.
- Route details:
The most common route is via NH48 and NH27, passing through Jaipur and Udaipur. The total distance is about 900 km, and the drive typically takes 14 to 16 hours depending on traffic and stops.
- Road conditions and rest stops:
The highways are mostly four-lane and well maintained, with multiple toll plazas. Key rest stops include Neemrana, Ajmer, and Udaipur, where you can find fuel stations, restaurants, and clean restrooms.
- Driving tips:
Start early to avoid Delhi’s peak traffic. Avoid night driving in the Aravalli ranges near Mount Abu due to winding roads and limited street lighting. Keep an emergency kit and check your vehicle before departure.
- Car rentals and costs:
Self-drive car rentals are available in Delhi, with daily rates starting from ₹2,000 for compact cars. Fuel costs for the round trip will be around ₹5,000 to ₹6,000 depending on vehicle mileage.
- Scenic highlights:
The drive offers beautiful views of Rajasthan’s desert landscape, historic forts, and rural villages. Consider stopping at Udaipur for a break and sightseeing before heading to Mount Abu.
Flight
Mount Abu does not have an airport, but the nearest airport is Maharana Pratap Airport in Udaipur, approximately 165 km away. Flying is a time-saving option if you want to combine air travel with road transport.
- Flight options:
Daily flights operate from Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) to Udaipur Airport (UDR) by airlines such as IndiGo, Air India, and SpiceJet. Flight duration is about 1.5 hours.
- From Udaipur to Mount Abu:
After landing, you can hire a taxi or take a state-run bus to Mount Abu. The 165 km journey takes around 3.5 to 4 hours via NH27, with scenic views of the Aravalli hills.
- Costs and booking:
Airfares range from ₹2,000 to ₹5,000 one way depending on the season and advance booking. Taxi fares from Udaipur to Mount Abu start at ₹2,000 for a one-way trip.
- Travel tips:
Book flights early to get better deals, especially during peak tourist seasons. Check weather conditions as fog in winter can delay flights. Combine flight and road travel for a comfortable and quick journey.
Step-by-Step Travel Plan
This simple itinerary is designed for first-time travelers from Delhi to Mount Abu, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey.
- Book your tickets early:
Whether by train, bus, or flight, secure your bookings at least 2-3 weeks in advance via IRCTC for trains, RSRTC or private portals for buses, and airline websites or apps for flights.
- Reach the departure point early:
Arrive at New Delhi Railway Station, ISBT Kashmiri Gate, or Indira Gandhi Airport at least 1 hour before departure to avoid last-minute rush and find your platform or gate comfortably.
- Pack smartly for the climate:
Mount Abu is cooler than Delhi, especially in the evenings. Carry light woolens, comfortable shoes for hill walks, and a raincoat if traveling during monsoon.
- Plan last-mile connectivity:
If arriving by train, use prepaid taxis at Abu Road station. For bus travelers, local taxis or shared jeeps are available. Flight arrivals require booking a taxi or bus from Udaipur airport.
- Keep essentials handy:
Carry water bottles, snacks, and a power bank. Download offline maps and keep emergency contacts saved, including local taxi numbers and hotel details.
- Inform someone about your travel:
Share your itinerary with family or friends for safety, especially if traveling by road or night buses.
Practical Travel Tips
- IRCTC and ticket booking:
Use the official IRCTC website or app for train tickets to avoid scams. Tatkal tickets can be booked if you miss early booking, but availability is limited.
- Bus travel safety:
Choose Volvo buses for overnight journeys for better comfort and safety. Keep your belongings close and avoid accepting help from strangers at bus stands.
- Local commute in Mount Abu:
Auto-rickshaws and shared taxis are common. Negotiate fares beforehand or use local apps if available. Walking is also pleasant in the town center.
- Food and water precautions:
Stick to bottled water and eat at popular or recommended eateries to avoid stomach issues. Mount Abu has several good vegetarian restaurants serving Rajasthani cuisine.
- Luggage tips:
Pack light as some accommodations have narrow staircases. Carry a small daypack for local sightseeing and keep valuables in a money belt or inside zipped bags.
- Seasonal travel warnings:
Avoid monsoon travel if possible due to slippery roads and occasional landslides near Mount Abu. Winters can be chilly, so pack accordingly.
Best Time & Conditions
The best time to travel from Delhi to Mount Abu is during the cooler months from October to March when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing. Summers can be hot in Delhi, but Mount Abu remains relatively cooler.
Monsoon season from July to September brings heavy rains, which can cause travel delays and slippery roads. Plan your trip accordingly to avoid discomfort.
Avoid traveling during major festivals like Diwali or Holi when roads and trains are crowded and prices surge.
Start early in the morning to bypass Delhi’s heavy traffic and reach your destination comfortably.
Winter mornings may have fog causing flight delays; check weather updates before booking flights.
During monsoon, prefer trains or flights over road travel to avoid landslide-prone areas.
Arrival at Mount Abu & What to Expect
Upon arrival in Mount Abu, whether by road from Abu Road station or Udaipur airport, you will experience a serene hill station atmosphere with cool air and lush greenery. The town is compact, making it easy to explore on foot or by local transport.
Prepaid taxis and auto-rickshaws are available near bus stands and taxi points. Popular stay areas include Nakki Lake vicinity and the town center, both close to major attractions like Dilwara Temples and Sunset Point. Local markets offer handicrafts and Rajasthani souvenirs.
Conclusion
Among all options, traveling by train to Abu Road followed by a taxi or bus to Mount Abu strikes the best balance between comfort, cost, and convenience. It allows you to rest overnight and enjoy scenic views on the last leg.
Alternatively, flying to Udaipur and driving to Mount Abu is ideal for those short on time. With proper planning and early bookings, you can confidently embark on this beautiful journey from Delhi to Mount Abu and enjoy a refreshing hill station getaway.