Jaisalmer is a historic city located in the heart of Rajasthan's Thar Desert, famous for its golden sandstone architecture and desert landscapes. Bangalore, the capital of Karnataka, is a major IT hub in southern India. Traveling from Bangalore to Jaisalmer is a popular route for tourists seeking a desert adventure and cultural experience.

This guide will help you understand the main transport options to reach Jaisalmer from Bangalore. You will learn about trains, buses, car journeys, and flights, along with practical travel tips and step-by-step planning advice to make your trip smooth and enjoyable.

Getting from Bangalore to Jaisalmer – Main Options

Train

Taking a train is a popular and economical way to travel from Bangalore to Jaisalmer, especially if you prefer overnight journeys and scenic routes. Though there is no direct train, you can connect via major junctions.

• The nearest major railway station to Jaisalmer is Jaisalmer Railway Station (JSM), connected via Jodhpur. From Bangalore City Railway Station (SBC), you can take trains to Jodhpur and then a connecting train or taxi to Jaisalmer. Total travel time is around 40 to 45 hours.

• Train fares range from INR 700 for sleeper class to INR 2500 for AC classes. Booking through IRCTC is recommended well in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons and festivals.

• Trains from Bangalore to Jodhpur run 3-4 times a week, including the Bangalore-Jodhpur Express. From Jodhpur, frequent local trains and buses connect to Jaisalmer, taking about 3-4 hours.

• Train travel offers comfort and rest stops at major stations like Hubli, Ahmedabad, and Jodhpur. However, delays can occur during monsoon or winter fog, so plan accordingly.

Bus

Bus travel is less common for this long-distance route but can be an option for budget travelers willing to break the journey into parts. Direct buses are rare, so multiple changes are needed.

• You can take a Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) or private bus from Bangalore to Ahmedabad or Jaipur, then switch to Rajasthan State Road Transport Corporation (RSRTC) buses towards Jaisalmer.

• The total distance is about 2100 km, and bus travel can take 40 to 50 hours depending on connections and road conditions, with fares ranging from INR 1500 to INR 3000.

• Buses depart from Bangalore’s Kempegowda Bus Station (Majestic) and arrive at Jaisalmer Bus Stand. Night buses are available but can be crowded and less comfortable for such long journeys.

• Road conditions on National Highways NH48 and NH62 are generally good, but expect toll plazas and occasional delays near cities. Carry water and snacks as food options on highway stops may be limited.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Bangalore to Jaisalmer is an adventurous option for travelers who enjoy road trips and want to explore places en route. The route covers diverse landscapes and major highways.

• The distance is approximately 2100 km via NH48, NH52, and NH62, taking around 38 to 42 hours of driving time without long stops. Plan for 3-4 days with overnight stays in cities like Mumbai, Ahmedabad, or Udaipur.

• Fuel costs can range from INR 7000 to INR 9000 depending on your vehicle’s mileage. Toll charges on highways will add to the cost, with multiple toll plazas on NH48 and NH62.

• Roads are mostly in good condition, but monsoon rains can cause waterlogging and delays, especially in Maharashtra and Rajasthan. Avoid night driving in remote areas for safety.

• Rest stops with dhabas and restaurants are available on major highways. Carry a physical map or GPS device as mobile signals may be weak in desert areas near Jaisalmer.

Flight

Flying is the fastest and most comfortable way to travel from Bangalore to Jaisalmer, though no direct flights are available. You will need to connect via Delhi or Jaipur.

• Bangalore’s Kempegowda International Airport (BLR) offers multiple daily flights to Delhi (DEL) and Jaipur (JAI) operated by airlines like IndiGo, Air India, and SpiceJet. Flight duration is about 2.5 to 3 hours.

• From Delhi or Jaipur, you can take a connecting flight to Jaisalmer Airport (JSA), which has limited daily flights mostly operated by regional carriers. Flight time is about 1 to 1.5 hours.

• Flight fares vary widely, from INR 3000 to INR 8000 depending on booking time and season. Booking at least 3-4 weeks in advance can secure better prices.

• At Jaisalmer Airport, prepaid taxis and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber are available for local travel. Flights may be affected by fog in winter, so check weather updates before booking.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This step-by-step plan is designed for first-time travelers from Bangalore to Jaisalmer, helping you organize your journey smoothly and avoid common pitfalls.

• Step 1: Decide your preferred mode of transport based on budget, time, and comfort. Flights are fastest, trains are economical, buses are budget-friendly but long, and driving offers flexibility.

• Step 2: Book tickets early. Use IRCTC for trains, official airline websites or apps for flights, and trusted bus portals for bus tickets. Early booking ensures availability and better fares.

• Step 3: Pack essentials considering the desert climate. Carry light cotton clothes for day, warm layers for cold nights, sunscreen, and sufficient water bottles for the journey.

• Step 4: Plan your arrival time in Jaisalmer to coincide with daylight hours. This helps with easier navigation from the station or airport to your accommodation and safer local travel.

• Step 5: Arrange local transport in advance if possible. Prepaid taxis or app cabs from Jaisalmer station or airport are safer and more reliable than hailing random cabs.

• Step 6: Keep digital and physical copies of all tickets, ID proofs, and hotel bookings. Mobile connectivity may be patchy in desert areas, so offline access is helpful.

Practical Travel Tips

• Safety: Avoid traveling alone at night on highways or in remote desert areas. Use trusted transport services and keep emergency numbers handy.

• Food and Water: Stick to bottled water and eat at popular dhabas or restaurants with good reviews to avoid stomach issues. Carry light snacks during long road or train journeys.

• Booking Strategy: For trains, book through IRCTC at least 30 days before travel. Flights should be booked 3-4 weeks in advance. Bus tickets can be booked online via KSRTC or RSRTC portals.

• Local Transport: In Jaisalmer, use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs like Ola and Uber. Auto-rickshaws are available but agree on fares beforehand to avoid overcharging.

• Luggage: Pack light and use sturdy bags. Desert sand can be fine and dusty, so keep clothes in zip-lock bags or covers to protect them.

• Seasonal Warnings: Avoid traveling during peak summer (May-June) due to extreme heat. Monsoon (July-September) can cause road delays. Winter fog (December-January) may affect flights and trains.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Bangalore to Jaisalmer is during the cooler months from October to March. This period offers pleasant weather in the desert and smoother travel conditions.

Summer months are extremely hot in Jaisalmer, making daytime travel uncomfortable. Monsoon rains can disrupt road and rail services, especially in Maharashtra and Rajasthan.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Diwali and Holi when trains and flights are crowded and prices surge.

• Winter fog in northern India can delay flights and trains, so plan extra buffer time if traveling in December or January.

• Early morning departures from Bangalore help avoid city traffic and reach connecting points on time.

• Traveling during weekdays usually offers less crowded trains and buses compared to weekends and holidays.

Arrival at Jaisalmer & What to Expect

Upon arrival at Jaisalmer Railway Station or Airport, you will find several local transport options to reach your hotel or tourist spots. The city is compact, but distances can be dusty and hot during the day.

Prepaid taxi counters are available at the station and airport. You can also book Ola or Uber cabs through mobile apps, which are reliable and affordable. Auto-rickshaws are common but negotiate fares before boarding.

Popular areas to stay include near the Jaisalmer Fort and the main market area, which offer easy access to attractions and eateries. Some hotels provide pick-up services, so confirm this while booking.

Conclusion

Traveling from Bangalore to Jaisalmer offers several options depending on your budget, time, and comfort preferences. Flights provide the quickest route with a connection, while trains offer an economical and scenic journey. Road trips are ideal for those who enjoy exploring en route, and buses serve budget travelers willing to break the journey.

Planning ahead by booking tickets early, choosing the right season, and arranging local transport will make your trip hassle-free. With proper preparation, you can confidently enjoy the unique desert charm and rich culture of Jaisalmer after your journey from Bangalore.