Mumbai, the bustling financial capital of India, is located on the west coast in Maharashtra. Jodhpur, known as the Blue City, is a historic destination in Rajasthan's Thar Desert region. This route is popular among travelers seeking a mix of urban energy and desert heritage.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to travel from Mumbai to Jodhpur, covering trains, buses, cars, and flights. You will also find step-by-step travel plans, practical tips, and advice on arrival to make your journey smooth and enjoyable.

Getting from Mumbai to Jodhpur – Main Options

Train

Train travel is a popular and affordable choice for this route, connecting major stations with several options daily. It suits travelers who prefer scenic journeys and want to experience Indian rail culture.

• The main train departs from Mumbai Central (BCT) or Lokmanya Tilak Terminus (LTT) to Jodhpur Junction (JU), covering around 950 km in approximately 18 to 22 hours depending on the train type and route.

• Train fares range from INR 400 for sleeper class to INR 1500 for AC 3-tier, offering comfort options for different budgets and preferences.

• Popular trains include the Bandra Terminus–Jodhpur Express and the Jodhpur–Mumbai Express, which run daily or several times a week with moderate crowd levels outside festival seasons.

• Booking tickets via IRCTC is recommended at least 2-3 weeks in advance, especially during holidays or peak travel times to avoid waitlists and secure preferred classes.

• Trains pass through major stations like Ahmedabad and Rajkot, offering opportunities for food and refreshment stops at well-maintained railway canteens and stalls.

• Monsoon season may cause delays due to waterlogging on tracks, so plan extra buffer time if traveling between June and September.

Bus

Buses offer a budget-friendly option but are less comfortable for the long distance. They are suitable for travelers who want to save money and do not mind overnight journeys on roads.

• State-run buses from Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) and Rajasthan State Road Transport Corporation (RSRTC) operate on this route, departing mainly from Mumbai’s Dadar or Borivali bus depots.

• The distance of about 950 km takes roughly 20 to 24 hours by bus, depending on traffic and road conditions along National Highways NH48 and NH62.

• Bus fares range from INR 700 to INR 1200 for semi-sleeper and deluxe coaches, with limited AC bus options available.

• Buses run less frequently than trains, with 1-2 departures daily, so booking tickets online or at depots a day in advance is advisable to secure seats.

• Rest stops include highway dhabas and roadside eateries, but food quality varies, so carrying snacks and water is recommended.

• During peak festival seasons like Diwali and Holi, buses can be overcrowded and experience delays due to heavy traffic on highways.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Mumbai to Jodhpur is ideal for travelers who want flexibility and to explore en route. The route covers diverse landscapes and cultural stops.

• The distance by road is approximately 950 km via NH48 and NH62, taking about 16 to 18 hours depending on traffic and stops along the way.

• Major cities on the route include Surat, Vadodara, Ahmedabad, and Udaipur, where you can plan breaks for meals, sightseeing, and refueling.

• Toll plazas are frequent on NH48, so keep cash or FASTag ready for smooth passage; toll costs may total around INR 700 to INR 1000 one way.

• Road conditions are generally good on national highways, but monsoon rains can cause slippery patches and occasional flooding, so drive cautiously from June to September.

• Fuel stations and roadside dhabas are available regularly, but it is wise to fill up in larger towns to avoid long stretches without services.

• Self-drive car rentals with GPS and roadside assistance are available in Mumbai; booking in advance ensures availability and better rates.

Flight

Flying is the fastest and most convenient option for travelers with limited time. Direct flights connect Mumbai to Jodhpur with multiple daily services.

• Flights depart from Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (BOM) and arrive at Jodhpur Airport (JDH), covering the distance in about 1.5 hours.

• Airfares typically range from INR 2500 to INR 6000 one way, depending on the airline, booking time, and season.

• Major airlines operating this route include IndiGo, Air India, and SpiceJet, offering both direct and connecting flights.

• Flight frequency is good, with 3 to 5 flights daily, allowing flexible travel times and easy last-minute bookings via airline websites or apps.

• Jodhpur Airport is about 5 km from the city center; prepaid taxis and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber are available for convenient last-mile travel.

• During foggy winter mornings (December-January), flights may face delays or cancellations, so check weather updates and plan accordingly.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

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

• Book your tickets early through IRCTC for trains or official airline websites for flights to secure the best fares and preferred travel dates.

• Pack light but include essentials like water bottles, snacks, and a power bank, especially if traveling by train or bus where stops may be limited.

• Arrive at your departure point—Mumbai Central station, bus depot, airport, or car rental office—at least 1 hour before departure to manage security and boarding calmly.

• Use official prepaid taxi counters or trusted app-based cabs like Ola and Uber for transfers to and from stations or airports to avoid overcharging and ensure safety.

• Keep your ID proof and booking confirmations handy throughout the journey, as Indian transport authorities often check tickets and identification.

• On arrival in Jodhpur, plan your onward travel by booking local cabs or using auto-rickshaws; negotiate fares beforehand or use meter-based rides where available.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always keep your belongings secure and avoid displaying valuables openly, especially in crowded train stations and bus depots to prevent theft.

• Drink only bottled or filtered water during your journey and carry your own supply to avoid stomach issues common with roadside vendors.

• Book tickets online through official portals like IRCTC or airline websites to avoid scams and last-minute price hikes common at counters.

• Use local transport apps like Ola and Uber in Mumbai and Jodhpur for safe and reliable rides; avoid unregistered taxis or auto-rickshaws.

• Pack a small bag with essential medicines, hand sanitizer, and wet wipes, as hygiene standards vary widely on trains and buses.

• During monsoon season, check weather and route conditions before starting your journey to avoid delays caused by waterlogging or landslides.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Mumbai to Jodhpur is during the cooler months from October to March when the weather is pleasant and roads are clear. Avoid the intense summer heat and monsoon rains for a comfortable journey.

Peak travel periods like Diwali, Holi, and the Rajasthan Desert Festival see increased traffic and higher fares, so book well in advance or consider traveling on off-peak dates.

• Avoid traveling during July to September due to heavy monsoon rains that can cause delays and slippery roads, especially on highways.

• Winter mornings from December to January can have dense fog in Rajasthan, affecting flight schedules and road visibility.

• Depart early in the morning or late at night to avoid Mumbai’s heavy city traffic and to reach Jodhpur during daylight for safer local travel.

• Festival seasons increase demand for trains and flights, so plan and book tickets at least a month ahead to secure seats and reasonable prices.

Arrival at Jodhpur & What to Expect

Jodhpur Junction railway station is centrally located with good connectivity to the city. Upon arrival, you will find prepaid taxi counters and auto-rickshaw stands outside the station for easy access to hotels and tourist spots.

Jodhpur Airport is about 5 km from the city center, with reliable prepaid taxis and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber available. Popular areas to stay include the old city near Mehrangarh Fort and newer parts like Sardarpura, offering a range of budget to luxury accommodations.

Conclusion

Traveling from Mumbai to Jodhpur is well-supported by multiple transport options. Flights offer the quickest and most comfortable journey, while trains provide an affordable and scenic experience. Buses and self-drive options suit budget travelers and those seeking flexibility.

Planning ahead by booking tickets early, checking weather conditions, and preparing for local travel will ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip. With this guide, you can confidently choose the best travel mode and make your journey from Mumbai to Jodhpur hassle-free and memorable.