Mount Abu is a popular hill station in the Aravalli Range of Rajasthan, known for its cool climate and scenic views. Jaisalmer, located in the heart of the Thar Desert, is famous for its golden sandstone architecture and desert culture. Traveling from Mount Abu to Jaisalmer is a common route for tourists exploring Rajasthan's diverse landscapes.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to travel between these two destinations. You will learn about train, bus, car, and flight options, along with practical travel tips and a step-by-step plan to make your journey smooth and enjoyable.

Getting from Mount Abu to Jaisalmer – Main Options

Train

Train travel is a comfortable and affordable option connecting nearby stations to Jaisalmer. While Mount Abu does not have a direct railway station, you can access trains from nearby Abu Road station.

• Abu Road Railway Station is the nearest major station to Mount Abu, about 28 km away, connected by frequent local buses and taxis. Trains from here to Jaisalmer take around 9 to 11 hours, covering approximately 500 km.

• Trains like the Jaisalmer Express run daily or several times a week, offering sleeper and AC classes. Ticket prices range from ₹300 to ₹900 depending on class and availability.

• Train journeys are generally comfortable but can be crowded during festivals or holiday seasons like Diwali and Holi, so booking in advance via IRCTC is recommended.

• Abu Road station has basic waiting rooms and food stalls, but it is best to carry snacks for the long journey. Night trains are available, allowing you to save daytime for sightseeing.

• Seasonal fog in winter mornings may cause minor delays, so plan some buffer time if you have connecting transport from Jaisalmer station.

Bus

Buses provide a budget-friendly way to travel but involve longer travel times and less comfort. Direct buses between Mount Abu and Jaisalmer are limited, so you may need to change buses at Jodhpur or other hubs.

• State-run Rajasthan State Road Transport Corporation (RSRTC) operates buses from Mount Abu to Jodhpur, taking about 5 to 6 hours, with fares around ₹150 to ₹300 depending on bus type.

• From Jodhpur, you can catch direct buses to Jaisalmer, which take about 5 to 6 hours and cost ₹200 to ₹400. Both routes have frequent services throughout the day.

• Private deluxe and Volvo buses are available on the Jodhpur-Jaisalmer leg, offering more comfort and fewer stops, but they are costlier.

• Bus travel involves multiple stops and can be tiring, especially during the hot summer months. Monsoon rains can also cause road delays on NH 62 and NH 15.

• Major bus depots at Mount Abu and Jodhpur have food stalls and waiting areas, but it is advisable to carry water and light snacks for the journey.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Mount Abu to Jaisalmer is a popular choice for travelers who want flexibility and to explore en route. The distance is about 520 km via NH 62 and NH 15, taking roughly 9 to 10 hours.

• The route passes through scenic areas and towns like Jodhpur, allowing stops for sightseeing, food, and rest. Well-maintained highways make the drive comfortable.

• Toll plazas are present on NH 62 and NH 15, so keep cash or FASTag ready. Expect toll charges totaling around ₹300 to ₹500.

• Fuel stations are available along the route, but some stretches in the desert have fewer options, so refuel when possible.

• Driving in Rajasthan requires caution during night hours due to stray animals and poor lighting on some stretches. Avoid driving after dark if unfamiliar with the route.

• Car rentals with drivers are widely available in Mount Abu, and self-drive cars can be booked through platforms like Zoomcar or local agencies. Ensure you have valid documents and a GPS device or app for navigation.

Flight

There is no direct flight between Mount Abu and Jaisalmer. The nearest airports are in Udaipur and Jodhpur, which can be used as connecting points if you prefer flying part of the way.

• The closest airport to Mount Abu is Maharana Pratap Airport in Udaipur, about 165 km away, connected by taxis and buses. Flights from Udaipur to Jodhpur take about 1 hour.

• From Jodhpur Airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Jaisalmer, approximately 285 km away, which takes around 5 to 6 hours by road.

• Flight fares between Udaipur and Jodhpur vary from ₹1500 to ₹3500 depending on the season and airline. Booking early can secure better prices.

• Using flights saves time on the first leg but involves multiple transfers and road travel, which may not be convenient for all travelers.

• Check airlines like IndiGo and Air India for regular flights on this route. Airport facilities are basic but sufficient for domestic travel.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This step-by-step plan is designed for first-time travelers making the journey from Mount Abu to Jaisalmer. It covers essential actions to ensure a smooth trip.

• Book your train or bus tickets online in advance using IRCTC or RSRTC websites to avoid last-minute unavailability, especially during peak seasons or festivals.

• Reach Abu Road Railway Station or Mount Abu bus stand early to secure good seats and avoid rush, as local transport can be crowded in the morning.

• If traveling by car, plan your route using GPS apps like Google Maps and check for toll plazas and fuel stations along NH 62 and NH 15 to avoid surprises.

• Carry sufficient water, snacks, and a basic first-aid kit, as desert routes can have limited food options and medical facilities.

• Upon arrival in Jaisalmer, use prepaid taxi counters or app-based cabs like Ola and Uber for safe and fair local transport to your hotel or tourist spots.

• Keep your travel documents, ID proofs, and booking confirmations handy throughout the journey for smooth check-ins and ticket verification.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always use prepaid taxi services or trusted app-based cabs in Jaisalmer to avoid overcharging and ensure safety, especially when arriving late at night.

• Drink only bottled water and avoid street food unless it is freshly prepared and from a hygienic vendor to prevent stomach issues during your trip.

• Book tickets for trains and buses at least 2 weeks in advance during peak tourist seasons like winter and festivals to secure your preferred travel dates and classes.

• Local transport in Mount Abu and Jaisalmer includes auto-rickshaws and cycle rickshaws; negotiate fares beforehand or insist on meter usage to avoid confusion.

• Pack light but include sun protection like hats, sunscreen, and sunglasses, as the desert sun can be harsh during daytime travel.

• During monsoon months, roads may be slippery and some routes prone to waterlogging; check weather forecasts and road conditions before starting your journey.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Mount Abu to Jaisalmer is during the cooler months from October to March. This period offers pleasant weather for road and rail travel and comfortable sightseeing in the desert.

Summer months from April to June can be extremely hot in Jaisalmer, making daytime travel exhausting. Monsoon season from July to September may cause occasional delays due to rain and road conditions.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Diwali and Holi when trains and buses are overcrowded and accommodation prices rise sharply.

• Winter mornings may have fog near Abu Road and Jodhpur, causing minor train delays; plan buffer time if you have connecting transport.

• Depart early in the morning to avoid afternoon heat and traffic congestion on highways, especially near Jodhpur.

• Traveling during weekdays is generally less crowded than weekends, offering a more comfortable journey experience.

Arrival at Jaisalmer & What to Expect

Jaisalmer Railway Station and Bus Stand are located close to 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 for safe onward travel.

Popular areas to stay include near the Jaisalmer Fort and the main market, which are well-connected and offer a range of hotels and guesthouses. Auto-rickshaws are available but negotiate fares before boarding. Walking is also a good option within the old city area.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to travel from Mount Abu to Jaisalmer is by train via Abu Road station, balancing comfort, cost, and travel time. However, if you prefer flexibility and sightseeing, driving by car is a great option. Buses are suitable for budget travelers but require more time and patience.

Planning ahead by booking tickets early, checking weather conditions, and preparing for desert travel will make your journey smooth and enjoyable. With this guide, you can confidently plan your trip between these two iconic Rajasthan destinations and experience the best of both hill station and desert cultures.