Pushkar is a small town in Rajasthan known for its sacred lake and vibrant fairs. It lies about 190 kilometers northeast of Jodhpur, a historic city famous for its forts and blue houses. Many travelers visit Pushkar from Jodhpur to experience its spiritual atmosphere and cultural richness.

This guide explains the main ways to travel from Jodhpur to Pushkar. You will learn about trains, buses, cars, and taxis, along with practical tips to make your journey smooth and comfortable.

Getting from Jodhpur to Pushkar – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train is a budget-friendly and scenic option, but there is no direct train between Jodhpur and Pushkar. You need to change trains or combine train and road travel.

• Jodhpur Railway Station is the main hub connecting to Ajmer, the nearest major station to Pushkar, about 15 km away from Pushkar town.

• Trains from Jodhpur to Ajmer take around 3 to 4 hours, with fares ranging from ₹150 to ₹400 depending on class and train type.

• From Ajmer, you can take a local bus, taxi, or auto-rickshaw to Pushkar, which takes about 30 to 45 minutes and costs ₹50 to ₹300.

• Train frequency is good, but booking in advance via IRCTC is recommended, especially during festivals like the Pushkar Fair when trains get crowded.

• Monsoon season may cause slight delays, so plan extra time if traveling between July and September.

Bus

Buses are a popular and economical way to travel directly from Jodhpur to Pushkar. Several private and government buses operate daily.

• MSRTC and private operators run buses from Jodhpur Bus Stand to Pushkar Bus Stand, covering about 190 km in 4 to 5 hours.

• Bus fares range from ₹150 to ₹350 depending on the type of bus, such as ordinary, deluxe, or Volvo AC coaches.

• Buses run frequently from early morning till evening, but the morning buses are less crowded and more comfortable.

• The route follows NH62 and NH89, passing through scenic rural areas and small towns, with rest stops offering local snacks and tea.

• During peak tourist seasons and festivals, buses can be full, so booking tickets in advance at the bus stand or online is advisable.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Jodhpur to Pushkar is convenient for those who prefer flexibility and want to explore en route. The roads are mostly in good condition.

• The distance is about 190 km via NH62 and NH89, taking roughly 4 to 5 hours depending on traffic and stops.

• Fuel costs for a car would be around ₹1,200 to ₹1,800, depending on vehicle mileage and fuel prices.

• There are toll plazas on the route, so keep cash or digital payment ready for toll payments.

• Rest stops with dhabas and small eateries are available along the highway, ideal for breaks and meals.

• Driving during early morning or late afternoon helps avoid city traffic in Jodhpur and Pushkar.

Taxi / Cab

Hiring a taxi or cab is a comfortable and hassle-free option, especially for groups or travelers with luggage.

• Prepaid taxis can be booked from Jodhpur Airport or city taxi stands, with fares ranging from ₹3,000 to ₹4,500 one way.

• App-based cabs like Ola and Uber may be available but can be expensive or limited for this intercity route.

• The journey time is about 4 to 5 hours depending on traffic and route taken.

• Taxi drivers often wait at the Pushkar bus stand or main market, so return trips can be arranged easily.

• Booking taxis in advance through trusted operators or hotel help ensures fair pricing and reliable service.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

If you are traveling from Jodhpur to Pushkar for the first time, this step-by-step plan will help you organize your trip smoothly.

• Step 1: Decide your preferred mode of transport based on budget, comfort, and time. Trains and buses are economical, cars and taxis offer flexibility.

• Step 2: Book your tickets in advance. Use IRCTC for trains, MSRTC or private websites for buses, and trusted taxi operators for cabs to avoid last-minute hassles.

• Step 3: Pack light but carry essentials like water, snacks, and a power bank, especially if traveling by bus or train where stops may be limited.

• Step 4: Reach the departure point early. Jodhpur Railway Station and Bus Stand can get crowded, so arriving 30 minutes before departure is wise.

• Step 5: On arrival at Ajmer or Pushkar bus stand, use prepaid auto-rickshaws or app-based cabs for local travel to your accommodation.

• Step 6: Keep local currency handy for small payments, and confirm your return travel plans to avoid surprises during your stay.

Practical Travel Tips

• Safety: Avoid traveling late at night on highways due to limited lighting and occasional stray animals on the road.

• Food and Water: Carry bottled water and eat at clean, busy dhabas or restaurants to avoid stomach issues common in rural areas.

• Booking Strategy: Book train and bus tickets at least a week in advance during festival seasons like the Pushkar Camel Fair to secure seats.

• Local Transport: Use prepaid autos or app-based cabs in Pushkar for safe and fair local travel; avoid unmetered taxis.

• Luggage: Keep your luggage secure and avoid carrying valuables openly, especially in crowded buses and stations.

• Seasonal Warnings: During monsoon, roads may be slippery and some buses delayed; plan extra travel time and check weather updates.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Jodhpur to Pushkar is during the cooler months from October to March. The weather is pleasant, making road and rail journeys comfortable.

Avoid traveling during the peak summer months of April to June due to extreme heat, which can make daytime travel exhausting.

• Festival periods like the Pushkar Camel Fair (usually November) see heavy traffic and crowded transport; book early and expect delays.

• Monsoon season (July to September) can cause fog and slippery roads, especially on highways; travel cautiously.

• Early morning departures help avoid city traffic and heat, making the journey smoother and faster.

• Evening travel is less recommended due to limited public transport and safety concerns on rural roads.

Arrival at Pushkar & What to Expect

When you arrive in Pushkar, you will likely reach the main bus stand, railway station in Ajmer (if by train), or directly in the town if by taxi or car. Pushkar is a small town, so local transport options are limited but sufficient.

Prepaid auto-rickshaws and cycle rickshaws are common for short distances. App-based cabs like Ola are limited but may be available in nearby Ajmer. Most visitors stay near the Pushkar Lake area or the main market, which are within walking distance from transport hubs.

Conclusion

Traveling from Jodhpur to Pushkar is straightforward with several options to suit different budgets and preferences. The train plus road combination is economical but requires planning, while buses offer direct and frequent services. For comfort and flexibility, self-drive or taxis are ideal.

Plan your trip by booking tickets early, especially during festival seasons, and choose travel times that avoid city traffic and extreme weather. With these tips, you can confidently enjoy your journey from Jodhpur to the spiritual town of Pushkar.