Ranakpur is a beautiful town in Rajasthan, famous for its stunning marble Jain temples. It is located about 165 kilometers from Ahmedabad, Gujarat’s largest city. Many travelers visit Ranakpur from Ahmedabad to explore its heritage and natural beauty.

This guide explains the best ways to travel from Ahmedabad to Ranakpur. You will learn about train, bus, car, and taxi options, plus practical tips to plan your trip confidently and comfortably.

Getting from Ahmedabad to Ranakpur – Main Options

Train

Train travel between Ahmedabad and Ranakpur is limited but possible with nearby stations. It suits travelers who prefer rail journeys combined with road transport.

• Ahmedabad Junction (ADI) is the main railway station with frequent trains connecting to Falna and Udaipur, the closest railheads to Ranakpur, about 40-50 km away.

• From Falna or Udaipur stations, you can hire taxis or take local buses to Ranakpur, which takes around 1 to 1.5 hours by road covering 40-50 km.

• Train fares from Ahmedabad to Falna or Udaipur range from ₹150 to ₹600 depending on the class, with journey times between 4 to 7 hours.

• Trains run several times a day but may be crowded during festival seasons like Navratri or Diwali, so booking in advance on IRCTC is recommended.

• Monsoon season can cause delays on this route, so check train status before travel and allow buffer time for connections to Ranakpur by road.

Bus

Buses offer a direct and affordable way to reach Ranakpur from Ahmedabad. This option suits budget travelers and those comfortable with longer road journeys.

• State-run buses by GSRTC operate from Ahmedabad’s central bus station (Gita Mandir or Nehrunagar) to Rajsamand or Udaipur, with some routes passing near Ranakpur.

• From Rajsamand or Udaipur bus stands, local buses or shared jeeps connect to Ranakpur, about 40-50 km away, taking 1 to 1.5 hours.

• Direct private buses or tourist coaches to Ranakpur are limited, so you may need to change buses at Rajsamand or Udaipur.

• Bus fares from Ahmedabad to Rajsamand or Udaipur range from ₹200 to ₹400, depending on bus type and operator.

• Buses run frequently during the day but can be crowded during weekends and holidays; booking tickets a day in advance is advisable.

• Road conditions on NH48 and SH16 are generally good, but monsoon rains may cause occasional delays and slippery patches.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Ahmedabad to Ranakpur is a popular choice for flexibility and comfort. The route offers scenic views and several stops along the way.

• The distance is approximately 165 km via NH48 and SH16, taking about 3.5 to 4.5 hours depending on traffic and stops.

• The route passes through towns like Modasa and Udaipur, with multiple toll plazas on NH48; toll charges may total around ₹200-₹300.

• Fuel stations and roadside dhabas are available along the highway, offering local snacks and refreshments.

• Driving yourself or hiring a private taxi allows you to stop at attractions like Kumbhalgarh Fort en route to Ranakpur.

• Traffic is moderate outside Ahmedabad city limits but can increase near towns; avoid peak city hours to save time.

• During monsoon, roads can be slippery, so drive cautiously and check weather forecasts before starting your journey.

Taxi

Hiring a taxi from Ahmedabad to Ranakpur is convenient for travelers seeking door-to-door service without driving themselves.

• Prepaid taxis or app-based cabs like Ola and Uber can be booked from Ahmedabad city, though long-distance fares may be higher than private car hires.

• Taxi fares for the 165 km trip typically range from ₹3,000 to ₹4,500 depending on vehicle type and negotiation.

• Most taxi drivers are familiar with the route via NH48 and SH16, and can suggest stops or detours for sightseeing.

• Booking through a local travel agent or hotel can ensure reliable service and fixed pricing.

• Taxi travel offers flexibility to start early or late, avoiding crowds and peak traffic hours.

• Ensure the driver has valid permits for inter-state travel and agree on fare and stops before starting the journey.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This plan is for first-time travelers from Ahmedabad to Ranakpur, helping you organize your trip smoothly and avoid common issues.

• Decide your preferred transport mode based on budget, comfort, and time. Car or taxi is best for flexibility; train and bus are economical but need connections.

• Book tickets in advance—use IRCTC for trains, GSRTC website or counters for buses, and trusted apps or agents for taxis to avoid last-minute hassles.

• If traveling by train, check arrival times at Falna or Udaipur stations and arrange local transport to Ranakpur beforehand to avoid waiting.

• Pack light but include essentials like water, snacks, and a power bank, especially if using bus or train where stops are limited.

• Start early in the day to avoid city traffic in Ahmedabad and reach Ranakpur before dusk, as local transport options reduce after sunset.

• Keep local currency handy for tolls, bus fares, and small purchases at roadside dhabas or shops during the journey.

Practical Travel Tips

• Carry bottled water and avoid drinking tap water during the journey to prevent stomach issues common in Indian road travel.

• Use prepaid taxi services or app-based cabs at Ahmedabad station or bus stands to avoid overcharging by local drivers unfamiliar with your destination.

• Book train and bus tickets at least 2-3 days in advance during festivals like Diwali or Holi when demand spikes sharply.

• Keep your luggage secure and within easy reach, especially on buses and trains where theft can occur in crowded conditions.

• Wear comfortable clothes and shoes suitable for walking short distances at stations or bus stops during transfers.

• Check weather forecasts before traveling; monsoon rains can cause delays and slippery roads, so carry rain gear if needed.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Ahmedabad to Ranakpur is during the cooler months from October to March. This period offers pleasant weather and clear roads.

Avoid traveling during the peak summer months of April to June when temperatures soar and road travel can be uncomfortable. Monsoon season from July to September may cause delays due to heavy rains.

• Festival periods like Navratri and Diwali see heavy traffic on highways and crowded trains and buses, so plan accordingly or avoid these times.

• Winter mornings can have fog near Ranakpur and Udaipur, causing minor delays, so start your journey after sunrise if possible.

• Midday departures avoid city rush hours in Ahmedabad and reduce travel time on NH48.

• Monsoon rains may cause occasional landslides or waterlogging on SH16 near Ranakpur, so check local travel advisories before departure.

Arrival at Ranakpur & What to Expect

Ranakpur is a small town with limited public transport options. Upon arrival, you will find local shared jeeps, auto-rickshaws, and taxis to reach your hotel or the famous Jain temple complex.

Most visitors stay near the temple area or in nearby villages. Prepaid taxis or app-based cabs are rare here, so negotiate fares in advance or arrange transport through your hotel.

The main bus stop and taxi stands are within walking distance of the temple, but roads can be narrow and uneven, so comfortable footwear is recommended.

Conclusion

Traveling from Ahmedabad to Ranakpur is straightforward with several options to suit different budgets and preferences. Driving by car or hiring a taxi offers the most convenience and flexibility, while trains and buses provide economical alternatives with some planning.

Booking tickets early, starting your journey early in the day, and preparing for seasonal weather will help you enjoy a smooth and pleasant trip. With these tips, you can confidently plan your visit to Ranakpur and experience its unique heritage without stress.