COMPLETE TRAVEL GUIDE · 2026
By Train, Flight, Road & Bus
Everything you need to plan your journey to Rajasthan’s Golden City — with distance charts, train schedules, and insider tips straight from Jaisalmer.
Written by Dilip Kumar Khatri · Hinglaj Tours and Travels, Jaisalmer · Updated April 2026
| Jaisalmer — the Golden City of Rajasthan — sits deep in the heart of the Thar Desert, but reaching it is far easier than most travellers expect. Whether you’re arriving from Delhi, Mumbai, Jodhpur, or abroad, this guide covers every route in detail. As a Jaisalmer-based travel company, we help hundreds of tourists arrive every season — from first-time backpackers to luxury group travellers. This is exactly what we tell them, and now we’re sharing it with you. |
📋 Table of content
1. How to Reach Jaisalmer by Flight
2. How to Reach Jaisalmer by Train
3. How to Reach Jaisalmer by Bus
4. How to Reach Jaisalmer by Road (Self Drive / Taxi)
5. Getting Around Jaisalmer After Arriving
6. Best Time to Travel to Jaisalmer
7. Frequently Asked Questions
| ✈️ By Flight Fastest · Best in peak season | 🚆 By Train Most Popular · Best value | 🚌 By Bus Budget Option · Overnight routes | 🚗 By Road Scenic Road Trip · Total freedom |
✈️ How to Reach Jaisalmer by Flight
Jaisalmer does have its own civil airport — but it operates only during the peak tourist season from October to February. During this period, you’ll find direct and connecting flights from Delhi, Mumbai, and Jaipur. Outside these months, the airport sees very limited or no commercial activity.
The most reliable alternative is to fly into Jodhpur Airport (JDH), which is a well-connected domestic airport approximately 295 km from Jaisalmer. From Jodhpur airport, you have multiple options to complete your onward journey — private cab hire (most comfortable), RSRTC state buses from Jodhpur bus stand, or a connecting train from Jodhpur Railway Junction.
Airports Near Jaisalmer
| Airport | Distance from Jaisalmer | Travel Time by Road | Recommended? |
| Jaisalmer Civil Airport (JSA) | ~15 km from city centre | 20–25 min | ✅ When operational (Oct–Feb) |
| Jodhpur Airport (JDH) | ~295 km | 4.5–5.5 hrs by cab | ✅ Best year-round option |
| Jaipur International Airport (JAI) | ~575 km | 8–9 hrs by road | ⚠️ Only if no other option |
| 💡 Pro Tip: Peak season mein (November–February) Jodhpur ki flights aur Jaisalmer ki seasonal flights jaldi full ho jaati hain. Minimum 4–6 weeks pehle book karein, especially during Desert Festival week (January/February). |
If you plan to fly into Delhi from an international location, you can then take the overnight Jaisalmer Express directly from Delhi — no cab required. Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport is well-connected to virtually every country.
🚆 How to Reach Jaisalmer by Train
Train travel is hands down the most popular and recommended way to reach Jaisalmer — especially from cities like Delhi, Jodhpur, Bikaner, and Jaipur. Jaisalmer Railway Station (Station Code: JSM) is located just 2 km from the city centre, making last-mile travel simple and inexpensive.
Multiple express trains connect Jaisalmer to major Indian cities. Waking up to the sight of golden sand dunes appearing outside your train window as you approach Jaisalmer is an experience in itself — many travellers say it’s one of the most memorable parts of their Rajasthan trip.
Top Trains to Jaisalmer
| Train Name | Train No. | Origin | Frequency | Approx. Duration |
| Delhi Jaisalmer Express | 14659 | Delhi Sarai Rohilla | 3 days/week | ~17–18 hrs |
| Howrah Jaisalmer Express | 12371 | Howrah (Kolkata) | Weekly | ~36 hrs |
| Lalgarh Jaisalmer Special | 14661 | Lalgarh (Bikaner) | Daily | ~6 hrs |
| Jodhpur Jaisalmer Intercity | 14809 | Jodhpur Jn. | Daily | ~5 hrs |
| Palace on Wheels (Luxury) | — | Delhi Safdarjung | Every Sunday (Sep–Apr) | Stops at Jaisalmer |
Distance & Train Travel Time from Major Cities
| Origin City | Distance | Train Duration | Best Train |
| Delhi | 765 km | 17–18 hrs | Delhi Jaisalmer Express |
| Jodhpur | 295 km | 4.5–5 hrs | Jodhpur–Jaisalmer Intercity |
| Jaipur | 575 km | 9–10 hrs | Delhi Jaisalmer Express (via Jaipur) |
| Bikaner | 330 km | 5.5–6 hrs | Lalgarh Jaisalmer Special |
| Mumbai | 1,100 km | ~22 hrs | Via Jodhpur, change at Jodhpur |
| Kolkata (Howrah) | ~1,700 km | ~36 hrs | Howrah Jaisalmer Express |
| 💡 Pro Tip: Jaisalmer trains are famous for running late by 1–3 hours, especially on the Delhi route. Plan your first day’s activities (desert safari, fort visit) for the day after arrival — don’t book anything for the same evening you arrive by train. |
Once you reach Jaisalmer Junction, auto-rickshaws are available right outside the station and charge around ₹50–100 to the city centre or most hotels. Prepaid taxi counters are also present. If you’ve booked a desert camp with us at Hinglaj Tours, we offer complimentary station pickup — just let us know your train details in advance.
🚌 How to Reach Jaisalmer by Bus
Bus travel to Jaisalmer is a practical and budget-friendly option, particularly from nearby Rajasthan cities. The Jaisalmer Central Bus Stand (also known as the Hanuman Circle bus stand) is well-located near the city centre and connects to major destinations across Rajasthan.
RSRTC (Rajasthan State Road Transport Corporation) operates regular sleeper and semi-sleeper coaches to Jaisalmer from multiple cities. Private operators also run comfortable Volvo AC buses, especially on the Jodhpur–Jaisalmer and Jaipur–Jaisalmer routes.
Bus Routes to Jaisalmer
| Origin | Distance | Bus Duration | Bus Type Available |
| Jodhpur | 285 km | 4.5–5 hrs | RSRTC + Private Volvo |
| Jaipur | 575 km | 9–10 hrs | RSRTC Sleeper + Private AC |
| Bikaner | 330 km | 6 hrs | RSRTC + Private |
| Udaipur | 490 km | 9–10 hrs | Private overnight buses |
| Delhi | 760 km | 14–16 hrs | Private Volvo overnight buses |
| 💡 Pro Tip: Jodhpur se bus lena sabse convenient option hai agar aap already Jodhpur mein hain. NH25 highway pe road condition generally good hai. Tickets peak season mein 2–3 days advance mein book kar lein — buses jaldi full ho jaati hain November–February mein. |
For those on a longer Rajasthan road trip, combining cities works wonderfully: fly or take the train to Jaipur, take a bus to Jodhpur via Ajmer and Pushkar, spend a day in Jodhpur’s Blue City, and then catch the morning bus or train to Jaisalmer. This is the most popular Rajasthan circuit among independent travellers.
🚗 How to Reach Jaisalmer by Road
Driving to Jaisalmer is one of the most rewarding travel experiences in India. As you cross Pokran and head further west, the landscape transforms dramatically — sparse scrubland gives way to endless golden sand dunes, and you’ll begin to feel the magic of the Thar Desert long before reaching the city.
The NH25 (Jodhpur–Jaisalmer Highway) is the best-maintained route and the one we recommend for most travellers. For those coming from Delhi or the north, you can take NH48 to Jaipur and then continue via Jodhpur, or take the NH11 route via Bikaner for a different, equally scenic experience.
Road Distance from Major Cities to Jaisalmer
| Origin City | Distance | Approx. Drive Time | Recommended Route |
| Jodhpur | 285 km | 4–5 hrs | NH25 via Phalodi |
| Jaipur | 570 km | 8–9 hrs | NH11 via Nagaur → Jodhpur → NH25 |
| Delhi | 760 km | 12–14 hrs | NH48 → Jaipur → NH25 via Jodhpur |
| Bikaner | 330 km | 5–6 hrs | NH11 via Pokran |
| Udaipur | 490 km | 7–8 hrs | NH58 → Jodhpur → NH25 |
| Ahmedabad | 540 km | 8–9 hrs | NH27 → Barmer → NH25 |
| Mumbai | 1,100 km | 16–18 hrs | 2-day trip via Ahmedabad strongly advised |
| 💡 Pro Tip: Pokran se Jaisalmer ke beech ka stretch — roughly 110 km — is pure magic for road trippers. Stop for photos as sand dunes start appearing on both sides of the highway. This stretch is also where the famous Pokran Fort is located, worth a short detour. |
Road Trip Tips for Jaisalmer
If you are self-driving from Delhi to Jaisalmer, plan it as a 2-day trip with an overnight halt at either Jodhpur or Bikaner. Both cities have excellent accommodation options across all budgets. Fuel stations are available regularly on NH25 and NH11, but carry a spare canister once you cross Pokran — petrol stations become sparse near the desert outskirts.
Tyre pressure should be checked before entering the desert zone. In summer months (April–June), drive in the early morning or post-sunset to avoid extreme heat on the road. Mobile signal on NH25 is generally good till Jaisalmer city, but it drops considerably once you enter Sam Sand Dunes or Khuri village areas.
| 🏕️ Planning a Desert Safari Once You Arrive? Hinglaj Tours and Travels is a Jaisalmer-based local operator specialising in camel safaris, jeep safaris, desert camping at Sam Sand Dunes, and city tours. We also arrange airport and station pickup. ➤ Visit: hinglajtoursandtravels.com/contact |
🛺 Getting Around Jaisalmer After You Arrive
Once you reach Jaisalmer, navigating the city is straightforward. The main attractions — Jaisalmer Fort (Sonar Qila), Patwon Ki Haveli, Gadisar Lake — are all within the old city and fairly walkable. For out-of-city destinations like Sam Sand Dunes or Khuri Desert, you’ll need a cab or organised safari transfer.
| 🛺 Auto-Rickshaw Most common within city. Easy to find near station, fort gate, and markets. Bargain before boarding. ₹50–150 for most city routes. | 🚕 Local Taxi / Cab Best for Sam Sand Dunes (40 km), Khuri (45 km), or Longewala. Ask your hotel to arrange or contact us — day rates start from ₹1,200. |
| 🏍️ Bike / Scooter Rental Ideal for solo travellers and couples. Activa, Royal Enfield available at rental shops near Gandhi Chowk. ₹300–800/day. | 🚶 On Foot Old City lanes and the fort area are best explored on foot. Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes — cobblestones can be uneven. |
| 🐪 Camel Safari The most iconic way to experience the Thar Desert. Half-day, full-day, and overnight routes available through Hinglaj Tours. | 🚙 Jeep Safari Faster and covers more ground — great for Sam Dunes, Khuri, and remote village visits. Can be combined with camel riding. |
| 💡 Pro Tip: Peak season (December–January) mein auto drivers thoda zyada charge karte hain. Always fix the price before sitting — aur if possible, book a day trip package with a local operator like us, so sab kuch ek rate mein ho jaata hai without the hassle. |
📅 Best Time to Travel to Jaisalmer
The timing of your journey to Jaisalmer matters — both for your experience and for transport availability. The city sees a dramatic difference in crowd levels and temperature across seasons.
| Month | Weather | Tourist Crowd | Transport Availability | Verdict |
| October – February | Cool to Cold (5°C – 25°C) | High (Peak Season) | All options, flights operational | ✅ Best Time |
| March – April | Warm (25°C – 38°C) | Moderate | Trains, buses, road — good | 🟡 Good |
| May – June | Very Hot (38°C – 48°C) | Low | All available, flights stop | ⚠️ Avoid if possible |
| July – September | Hot + Occasional Rain | Very Low | Road may be affected | ❌ Not Recommended |
The Jaisalmer Desert Festival (held in January or February depending on the Hindu calendar) is one of the most spectacular cultural events in Rajasthan — featuring camel races, folk music, turban tying competitions, and Mr. Desert contests on Sam Sand Dunes. If your trip aligns with it, don’t miss it — but book accommodation and transport 2–3 months in advance as the city fills up completely.
| 💡 Pro Tip: If you’re a photographer or filmmaker, the months of November and December offer the best light — golden hour at Sam Sand Dunes during these months is absolutely magical, and the sky is clear without any dust haze. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the nearest airport to Jaisalmer?
Jaisalmer has its own civil/military airport that operates seasonal flights mainly from November to February. Outside peak season, the nearest functioning commercial airport is Jodhpur Airport (JDH), approximately 295 km away. From Jodhpur, you can hire a cab or take a bus/train to Jaisalmer in 5 to 6 hours.
Q: Which is the best train to Jaisalmer from Delhi?
The most popular and recommended train is the Delhi Jaisalmer Express (Train No. 14659/14660), which runs 3 times a week. It departs from Delhi Sarai Rohilla station and takes approximately 17 to 18 hours to reach Jaisalmer Junction (JSM). Booking 30 to 45 days in advance is recommended during peak tourist season (October to February).
Q: How far is Jaisalmer from Jodhpur?
Jaisalmer is approximately 285 to 295 km from Jodhpur. By road, the drive takes around 4 to 5 hours via NH25. By train, the Jodhpur-Jaisalmer Intercity Express covers the route in about 5 hours. Jodhpur is one of the most convenient gateway cities to reach Jaisalmer.
Q: Is there a direct bus from Delhi to Jaisalmer?
Yes, there are direct overnight private buses and RSRTC buses from Delhi to Jaisalmer, though they take 14 to 17 hours. Most travellers prefer to go via Jodhpur and change to a local bus or cab for the remaining 285 km stretch. Private Volvo sleeper buses are available and more comfortable for the long journey.
Q: Can I drive to Jaisalmer from Delhi in one day?
Technically possible, but not recommended. The total road distance is approximately 760 km and takes 12 to 14 hours of driving. It is much safer and more enjoyable to break the trip with an overnight stop at Jodhpur or Bikaner. This also allows you to explore those cities along the way.
Q: What transport is available from Jaisalmer station to Sam Sand Dunes?
Sam Sand Dunes is about 40 to 45 km from Jaisalmer railway station. You can hire a private cab or auto-rickshaw from the station. Most desert safari operators in Jaisalmer, including Hinglaj Tours and Travels, provide pickup and drop services from the station or your hotel directly to Sam Sand Dunes.
| D | Dilip Kumar Khatri JAISALMER TRAVEL EXPERT · FOUNDER, HINGLAJ TOURS AND TRAVELS Born and raised in Jaisalmer, Dilip has been guiding travellers through the Thar Desert for over a decade. From organising camel safaris at Sam Sand Dunes to planning full Rajasthan itineraries, his local knowledge is the foundation of every guide published on this website. This is not generic travel writing — it’s advice from someone who lives here. |
| Final Thoughts — Planning Your Journey to Jaisalmer Train travel remains the most popular and atmospheric option — especially overnight journeys that deliver you to Jaisalmer at dawn, with desert vistas stretching in every direction. Flying into Jodhpur and driving or taking the train to Jaisalmer is the fastest way to go. And a Rajasthan road trip ending in Jaisalmer is something every traveller should do at least once in their lifetime. Whichever route you choose, Jaisalmer will reward you — with its towering golden fort, the silence of the Thar Desert, a sky full of stars at Sam Sand Dunes, and the warmth of Rajasthani hospitality that no other destination quite matches. |
Explore More from Hinglaj Tours
| 🐪 Desert Safari in Jaisalmer hinglajtoursandtravels.com/desert-safari | 📅 Best Time to Visit Jaisalmer hinglajtoursandtravels.com/best-time-to-visit-jaisalmer |
| 🗺️ Jaisalmer Tour Packages hinglajtoursandtravels.com/tour-packages | 🌅 Sam Sand Dunes Guide hinglajtoursandtravels.com/sam-sand-dunes |