Jodhpur, known as the Blue City, is located in the western Indian state of Rajasthan. It is famous for its historic forts, palaces, and vibrant culture. Many travelers visit Jodhpur as a gateway to the Thar Desert and nearby tourist spots.

This guide explains the best ways to reach Jodhpur from major cities across India. You will learn about train, bus, car, and flight options, along with practical travel tips to plan your journey smoothly.

Getting from Major Cities to Jodhpur – Main Options

Train

Traveling to Jodhpur by train is popular due to its connectivity and affordability. The city’s Jodhpur Junction railway station is well linked to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Jaipur.

• Jodhpur Junction (station code JU) is a major rail hub on the North Western Railway network, connecting to cities such as Delhi, Ahmedabad, and Mumbai with frequent trains.

• Travel time varies: from Delhi it takes about 11-14 hours, from Mumbai around 15-18 hours, and from Jaipur approximately 5-6 hours, depending on train type and route.

• Train fares range from sleeper class at ₹200-400 to AC 3-tier at ₹700-1200, making it a budget-friendly option for most travelers.

• Popular trains include the Mandore Express, Ranakpur Express, and Howrah-Jodhpur Express, which run daily or several times a week with reserved seating.

• Booking tickets through IRCTC or authorized agents is recommended, especially during festivals like Diwali and Holi when trains fill quickly.

• During monsoon, some trains may face minor delays due to track maintenance, and winter fog can affect early morning services, so plan accordingly.

Bus

Buses offer a flexible and economical way to reach Jodhpur from nearby cities and towns. Rajasthan State Road Transport Corporation (RSRTC) and private operators run regular services.

• Major bus depots in Jodhpur include the Ratanada Bus Stand and Sojati Gate Bus Stand, serving routes from Jaipur, Udaipur, Ajmer, and other cities.

• Bus travel times vary: Jaipur to Jodhpur takes around 6-7 hours, Udaipur about 5-6 hours, with fares typically between ₹300-700 depending on bus type.

• Options include ordinary, deluxe, and Volvo AC buses, with Volvo buses providing more comfort and fewer stops but at higher fares.

• Bus frequency is good, with multiple departures daily; however, services can get crowded during weekends and festival seasons.

• Road conditions on National Highway 62 and NH 112 are generally good, but toll plazas and occasional traffic jams near city entrances may cause slight delays.

• Food options on the route include highway dhabas and rest stops near Pali and Bilara, where you can try local Rajasthani snacks.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving to Jodhpur offers freedom to explore at your own pace. The city is accessible via well-maintained national highways and state roads.

• From Jaipur, the distance is about 335 km via NH 48 and NH 62, taking roughly 6-7 hours by car depending on traffic and stops.

• From Udaipur, the drive is around 250 km via NH 62, which takes approximately 5-6 hours on mostly two-lane highways.

• Self-drive or cab services like Ola Outstation and Uber Intercity are available, with fares varying based on vehicle type and distance.

• Road conditions are generally good, but watch for toll plazas near Pali and Jodhpur outskirts; carry cash for toll payments as digital options may not always work.

• Monsoon season can cause slippery roads and occasional waterlogging on some stretches, so drive carefully during July-September.

• Plan stops at roadside dhabas for refreshments; popular stops include Marwar Junction and Bilara, known for local cuisine and clean restrooms.

Flight

Jodhpur Airport connects the city to major Indian metros, making air travel the fastest option for long-distance travelers.

• Jodhpur Airport (JDH) is located about 5 km from the city center, with regular flights to and from Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur, and Ahmedabad.

• Flight duration from Delhi is around 1.5 hours, from Mumbai about 2 hours, making it ideal for time-sensitive travelers.

• Airfares vary widely from ₹2500 to ₹6000 depending on the airline, booking time, and season.

• Airlines operating include IndiGo, Air India, and SpiceJet, with multiple daily flights on popular routes.

• Prepaid taxi counters and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber are available at the airport for convenient city transfers.

• During peak tourist seasons, booking flights well in advance is advisable to secure better fares and seat availability.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

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

• Book your train or flight tickets early through IRCTC or airline websites to get confirmed seats and avoid last-minute price hikes, especially during festivals.

• If traveling by bus, check RSRTC or private operator schedules online or at local bus stands a day before departure to confirm timings and availability.

• Pack light but include essentials like water bottles, snacks, and a power bank, as some train and bus journeys can be long with limited onboard services.

• On arrival at Jodhpur station or airport, use prepaid taxi counters or app-based cabs like Ola/Uber for safe and transparent local transport to your accommodation.

• Keep local currency handy for small expenses like tolls, rickshaws, and street food, as not all vendors accept digital payments.

• Check weather forecasts before traveling, especially in monsoon or winter, to dress appropriately and plan for possible delays.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always use official prepaid taxi services or trusted app-based cabs on arrival to avoid overcharging and ensure safety, especially at night or unfamiliar areas.

• Drink only bottled or filtered water to avoid stomach issues; avoid street vendors selling uncooked food unless recommended by locals.

• Book train and bus tickets at least 2-3 weeks in advance during peak seasons to secure seats and avoid last-minute cancellations or waitlists.

• For local travel within Jodhpur, use auto-rickshaws or app-based cabs; always agree on fares beforehand if meter is not used.

• Carry a small lock and keep your luggage secure during train or bus journeys, as crowded stations can attract pickpockets.

• During summer, carry sunscreen, hats, and light cotton clothes; in winter, mornings and nights can be cold, so pack accordingly.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to visit Jodhpur is between October and March when the weather is pleasant and suitable for sightseeing. Summers can be extremely hot, while monsoon brings occasional heavy rains.

Travel conditions vary with seasons, so planning your trip outside peak heat and heavy rains ensures a more comfortable journey.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Diwali and Holi if you want to skip crowded trains and buses, as these periods see heavy passenger traffic.

• Summer months (April to June) bring temperatures above 40°C, making daytime travel tiring and less enjoyable.

• Monsoon season (July to September) may cause road delays and occasional train rescheduling due to waterlogging and maintenance.

• Early morning departures are recommended to avoid city traffic and enjoy cooler temperatures during road travel.

Arrival at Jodhpur & What to Expect

Upon arriving at Jodhpur Junction or the airport, you will find several options to reach your hotel or local attractions. The city is well connected with auto-rickshaws, taxis, and app-based cabs.

Most hotels and guesthouses are located near the old city or around the Railway Station Road area, making them easily accessible. Prepaid taxi counters at the airport and railway station help avoid bargaining and ensure fair pricing.

Conclusion

Traveling to Jodhpur is convenient with multiple options like trains, buses, flights, and self-drive. Trains offer an economical and comfortable choice for most travelers, while flights save time for those coming from distant cities.

Planning ahead by booking tickets early, checking weather conditions, and using reliable local transport will make your journey smooth and enjoyable. With this guide, you can confidently plan your trip to Jodhpur and explore the rich heritage of the Blue City.