Bikaner and Jaisalmer are two iconic cities located in the heart of Rajasthan, India. Bikaner lies in the northern part of the Thar Desert, while Jaisalmer is situated further southwest, close to the India-Pakistan border. This route is popular among travelers exploring Rajasthan's desert culture and historic forts.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to travel from Bikaner to Jaisalmer using different transport modes. You will get detailed information on trains, buses, cars, and flights, along with practical travel tips and a step-by-step plan for a smooth journey.

Getting from Bikaner to Jaisalmer – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train is a popular and affordable option for this route. Trains connect Bikaner Junction and Jaisalmer Railway Station with moderate frequency and offer a comfortable journey through the desert landscape.

• The direct train from Bikaner Junction (BKN) to Jaisalmer Railway Station (JSM) covers approximately 330 kilometers in about 6 to 7 hours, with fares ranging from ₹150 to ₹600 depending on class.

• Trains like the Jaisalmer Express and other passenger services run daily or several times a week, providing flexibility but can get crowded during peak tourist seasons.

• Train coaches are generally clean and equipped with basic amenities; however, it is advisable to book tickets in advance via IRCTC, especially during winter and festival periods.

• Traveling by train avoids road traffic and tolls, but delays can occur during monsoon months due to track maintenance or sandstorms in the desert.

• Food options on trains are limited; carrying your own snacks and water is recommended, as station vendors at Bikaner and Jaisalmer offer local refreshments.

Bus

Buses are a common choice for budget travelers and those seeking frequent departures. State-run and private buses operate between Bikaner and Jaisalmer, covering the route via National Highway 11 and 125.

• MSRTC and private operators run regular buses from Bikaner Bus Stand to Jaisalmer Bus Stand, with journey times ranging from 6.5 to 8 hours over a distance of about 330 kilometers.

• Bus fares typically range from ₹200 to ₹500, depending on the type of bus—ordinary, deluxe, or Volvo AC coaches.

• Deluxe and Volvo buses offer more comfort with air conditioning and reclining seats, but these are less frequent and should be booked early during peak travel seasons.

• Road conditions on NH11 and NH125 are generally good, but monsoon rains can cause occasional delays and slippery patches near desert areas.

• Frequent stops at highway dhabas and rest points provide opportunities for meals and refreshments; however, avoid drinking tap water and opt for bottled water.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Bikaner to Jaisalmer offers flexibility and the chance to explore offbeat locations along the way. The route mainly follows NH11 and NH125 through scenic desert terrain.

• The distance of approximately 330 kilometers can be covered in 6 to 7 hours by car, depending on traffic and road conditions.

• Major highways are well-maintained with toll plazas near Nokha and Jaisalmer; toll charges are moderate and payable via FASTag or cash.

• Self-drive cars or taxis can be hired from Bikaner city; Ola and Uber services are limited, so pre-booking a private cab is advisable.

• Driving during daylight is recommended to avoid desert wildlife and poor visibility at night; also, fuel stations are sparse between towns, so refuel in Bikaner before departure.

• Stops at towns like Nokha and Pokhran offer chances to rest and try local Rajasthani cuisine at roadside eateries.

Flight

There is no direct flight connecting Bikaner and Jaisalmer. Both cities have small airports, but air travel between them is not practical or available. Travelers usually rely on trains, buses, or cars for this route.

• Bikaner has Nal Airport (BKB) with limited flights mainly to Jaipur and Delhi; Jaisalmer Airport (JSA) also connects to Jaipur and Delhi but lacks direct flights between the two cities.

• To use air travel, you would need to fly via Jaipur or Delhi, which is time-consuming and expensive compared to road or rail options.

• Flight schedules can be irregular and subject to seasonal changes, so relying on flights for this route is not recommended.

• For travelers prioritizing speed, combining a flight to Jaipur followed by a train or bus to Jaisalmer is an alternative but adds complexity and cost.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This travel plan is designed for first-time travelers moving from Bikaner to Jaisalmer. It helps you prepare and navigate the journey smoothly.

• Step 1: Decide your preferred mode of transport based on budget, comfort, and time. Train and bus are economical; car offers flexibility.

• Step 2: Book your tickets in advance through IRCTC for trains or official MSRTC websites/apps for buses to avoid last-minute hassles.

• Step 3: Pack essentials like water, snacks, sunscreen, and a hat, especially if traveling by road, as desert conditions can be harsh.

• Step 4: Arrive at Bikaner Railway Station or Bus Stand at least 30 minutes before departure to manage crowds and find your platform or bus easily.

• Step 5: On arrival in Jaisalmer, use prepaid taxi counters or app-based cabs like Ola for safe and transparent local transport to your accommodation.

• Step 6: Keep local emergency numbers and hotel contacts handy, and inform someone about your travel plan for added safety.

Practical Travel Tips

• Carry bottled water and avoid drinking tap water during the journey to prevent stomach issues common in desert travel.

• Book train and bus tickets online well in advance, especially during winter and festival seasons, to secure seats and avoid overcrowding.

• Use prepaid taxi services or trusted app-based cabs at arrival points to avoid overcharging and ensure safe local travel.

• Pack light but include a scarf or shawl to protect against dust and sun during road travel or desert excursions.

• Be cautious of sandstorms during the summer and monsoon months; check weather updates before traveling and carry masks or cloth to cover your face.

• Keep your luggage secure and avoid displaying valuables openly, as crowded stations and bus stands can attract pickpockets.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Bikaner to Jaisalmer is during the cooler months from October to March. The desert climate is more pleasant, making travel comfortable and sightseeing enjoyable.

Avoid traveling during peak summer months (April to June) when temperatures soar above 45°C, and monsoon months (July to September) when occasional rains can disrupt road travel.

• Festivals like Desert Festival in Jaisalmer (usually in February) attract large crowds; book transport and accommodation early to avoid last-minute issues.

• Winter mornings and nights can be cold and foggy, causing minor delays in train and bus services, so plan accordingly.

• Depart early in the morning to avoid midday heat and reach your destination with enough daylight for local transfers.

Arrival at Jaisalmer & What to Expect

Jaisalmer Railway Station and Bus Stand are located near the city center, making it convenient to access local transport. Upon arrival, you will find prepaid taxi counters and app-based cab services like Ola and Uber available for onward travel.

Popular areas to stay include the Fort area, near Gadisar Lake, and the main market streets, all within easy reach of transport hubs. Auto-rickshaws are also available but agree on fares beforehand to avoid confusion.

Conclusion

Traveling from Bikaner to Jaisalmer is straightforward with multiple options to suit different budgets and preferences. The train offers a balanced mix of comfort and affordability, while buses provide frequent departures for flexible planning. Driving yourself adds freedom to explore desert towns along the way.

Plan your journey by booking tickets early, packing for desert conditions, and choosing departure times that avoid extreme heat or fog. With these tips, you can confidently enjoy the scenic and cultural richness of Rajasthan’s desert route from Bikaner to Jaisalmer.