How to Reach Pandupol Temple – Travel Guide
Learn how to reach Pandupol Temple in Rajasthan with detailed travel options including train, bus, and car. Get practical tips for a smooth journey.
Pandupol Temple is located near Mount Abu, the only hill station in Rajasthan. It is a popular pilgrimage site known for its natural cave and religious significance. Many travelers visit this temple while exploring the Aravalli hills and the nearby Nakki Lake.
This guide will help you understand the best ways to reach Pandupol Temple from major cities and nearby towns. You will learn about train, bus, and car travel options, along with practical tips to plan your visit confidently.
Getting from Mount Abu to Pandupol Temple – Main Options
Train
Train travel is limited for reaching Pandupol Temple directly, but you can use nearby railway stations to get close. It is suitable if you prefer a comfortable and scenic journey to Mount Abu first.
The nearest major railway station is Abu Road, about 27 km from Mount Abu, connected to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Ahmedabad. Trains here are frequent and reliable.
From Abu Road station, you can take a taxi or local bus to Mount Abu, which takes around 1 hour and costs between ₹150 to ₹300 depending on the vehicle.
Train fares from major cities to Abu Road typically range from ₹200 to ₹1500, depending on class and distance. Booking via IRCTC is recommended to secure seats in advance.
During peak tourist seasons and festivals, trains to Abu Road can be crowded, so book tickets early to avoid last-minute hassles.
Abu Road station has basic amenities including waiting rooms and food stalls, but plan your onward travel to Mount Abu carefully as public transport options reduce after evening.
Bus
Buses are a popular and economical way to reach Mount Abu and then Pandupol Temple. This mode suits budget travelers and those who enjoy scenic road trips through Rajasthan.
State-run buses by Rajasthan State Road Transport Corporation (RSRTC) operate regular services from Udaipur, Ahmedabad, and Jaipur to Mount Abu bus stand, about 3 km from Pandupol Temple.
The bus journey from Udaipur to Mount Abu takes around 3 to 4 hours covering 165 km, with fares ranging from ₹150 to ₹400 depending on the bus type.
From Mount Abu bus stand, local shared autos or taxis can take you to Pandupol Temple in about 10 minutes for ₹50 to ₹100.
Buses are frequent during the day but reduce after sunset, so plan your arrival accordingly to avoid waiting in the dark at the bus stand.
During monsoon season, roads can be slippery and bus services may face delays, so check weather conditions before traveling.
Car / Self-Drive
Driving to Pandupol Temple is one of the most flexible and comfortable options. It allows you to explore the scenic Aravalli hills at your own pace.
Mount Abu is well connected by National Highway 14 (NH 14) and State Highways, with good road conditions for cars and bikes. The distance from Udaipur to Mount Abu is about 165 km, taking roughly 3.5 to 4 hours.
From Mount Abu town, Pandupol Temple is just 3 km away via a well-maintained road accessible by car, with parking available near the temple entrance.
Fuel stations and rest stops are available along the route, including popular dhabas offering local Rajasthani cuisine.
Toll plazas are present on NH 14; expect to pay small toll fees totaling around ₹100 to ₹150 for the entire trip.
During peak tourist seasons, parking near the temple can be crowded, so arrive early in the day to secure a spot and avoid traffic jams.
Step-by-Step Travel Plan
This plan is designed for first-time travelers to Pandupol Temple, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Book your train ticket to Abu Road station in advance through IRCTC to avoid last-minute unavailability, especially during holidays and weekends.
From Abu Road, hire a prepaid taxi or use app-based cabs like Ola or Uber to reach Mount Abu safely and comfortably, avoiding unregulated local taxis.
Check bus schedules if you prefer public transport from Mount Abu bus stand to Pandupol Temple; shared autos are frequent but confirm the fare before boarding.
If driving, plan your route using GPS apps and start early to avoid traffic and reach the temple before sunset for a peaceful visit.
Carry water and light snacks, especially if you plan to explore the nearby hills and caves around Pandupol Temple, as food options are limited in the immediate area.
Practical Travel Tips
Carry a water bottle and avoid drinking tap water; bottled water is widely available in Mount Abu and near the temple area to prevent stomach issues.
Wear comfortable walking shoes as the temple involves some uphill walking and uneven paths, especially if you explore the natural cave inside.
Book your accommodation in Mount Abu well in advance during peak seasons like winter and festivals to avoid high prices and unavailability.
Use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs for local travel to avoid overcharging by local drivers unfamiliar to tourists.
Carry light rain gear during monsoon months (July to September) as sudden showers can make roads slippery and affect travel plans.
Keep your valuables safe and avoid traveling alone late at night in isolated areas near the temple or hills for personal safety.
Best Time & Travel Conditions
The best time to visit Pandupol Temple is during the cooler months from October to March when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing. Summers can be hot, and monsoons bring heavy rains.
Travel conditions vary with seasons, so plan accordingly to avoid discomfort and delays.
Avoid traveling during major festivals like Diwali and Holi when Mount Abu attracts large crowds, causing traffic and accommodation shortages.
Monsoon rains from July to September can cause slippery roads and occasional landslides on hill routes, leading to travel delays.
Winter mornings can be foggy, especially in December and January, so start your journey after sunrise for better visibility and safety.
Early morning departures are recommended to avoid afternoon heat in summer and to enjoy quieter temple visits before tourist rush.
Arrival at Pandupol Temple & What to Expect
When you arrive at Pandupol Temple, you will find a serene environment surrounded by hills and greenery. The temple is accessible by a short walk from the parking area.
Local transport options include shared autos and taxis from Mount Abu town, but many visitors prefer to hire private cabs for convenience. The temple vicinity has limited food stalls, so plan meals accordingly.
Accommodation options are mostly in Mount Abu town, which offers a range of hotels and guesthouses suitable for different budgets. Prepaid taxi counters and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber are available for safe and reliable local travel.
Conclusion
Traveling to Pandupol Temple is easiest by first reaching Mount Abu, either via train to Abu Road or by bus and car from nearby cities. Driving offers the most flexibility, while buses and trains provide economical options. Booking tickets and accommodations in advance is key during peak seasons.
With proper planning and awareness of local travel conditions, you can enjoy a smooth and memorable visit to this sacred temple nestled in the Aravalli hills. This guide equips you with practical steps and tips to confidently plan your journey to Pandupol Temple.