How to Reach Jaisalmer
Jaisalmer, nicknamed as the ‘Golden City’, is renowned for its massive fort that reminds one and all of a bygone era. Surrounded by the endless Thar Dessert, Jaisalmer has been attracting hordes of tourists since a long time now. Reaching Jaisalmer is not a problem as this beautiful city is well-connected with the rest of India by air, road and rail. The city doesn’t have its own civic airport, so Jodhpur Airport, about 280 km away, is the nearest airbase serving Jaisalmer. Those travelling by trains can book their tickets till Jaisalmer Railway Station, which is well-linked with prime Indian destinations. Moreover, there are several state and private buses operating from Rajasthan and Gujarat for Jaisalmer at regular intervals.
How to Reach Jaisalmer by Air
Jaisalmer doesn’t have a commercial airport as of yet. It does have a military airport which supports chartered flights only and these are not often used by tourists. The closest domestic airport here is Jodhpur Airport, which is the best way to reach Jaisalmer by air. There are regular flights to Jodhpur from cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai and Udaipur. From the airport, it will take you around 5 to 6 hours to reach Jaisalmer. Most people hire prepaid taxis or private taxis to reach Jaisalmer from Jodhpur Airport. However, these also tend to be a little expensive. Another option would be to fly to Delhi Airport, which is an international airport and is connected to numerous countries across the world. From Delhi, you would have to take the road or train to reach Jaisalmer.
How to Reach Jaisalmer by Road
Some people like to drive down to Jaisalmer from cities like Delhi. You can do this with your own vehicle or a self-drive rental, or a rental car but it is recommended to stop in cities such as Jaipur or Ajmer. This is because it’s a long drive of nearly 15 hours and you will need to rest for a bit. Furthermore, you have a better chance of finding hotel and accommodation at either of these cities en route.
How to Reach Jaisalmer by Bus
There are no direct buses from Delhi to Jaisalmer as it takes around 17 hours at the very least and the drive can be too long at a stretch. However, you can reach Jaipur and switch buses. You can also travel to Jodhpur and switch a bus to reach Jaisalmer. From Jaipur or Jodhpur, buses to Jaisalmer leave often and there are state-run sleeper coaches which you can get on, to reach the city. Tickets are limited, more often than not, so it’s a good idea to book the tickets in advance. There are buses from Udaipur and Bikaner also, which you can use to reach Jaisalmer.
How to Reach Jaisalmer by Train
Travelling to Jaisalmer by train is a good idea as it is connected to several cities by train. There are several options for travellers from most places in India. Trains from Delhi, Jodhpur, Jaipur are common and some of the popular trains here are Delhi Jaisalmer Express, Howrah Jaisalmer Express and Lalgarh Jaisalmer Special, to name a few. Do remember that most of these trains run a little late, so be prepared for the delay. Also, the luxury train - Palace on Wheels - stops in Jaisalmer every Sunday. At the station, you can get an autorickshaw or a private taxi to take you into the town. These don’t charge too much.
Also check about the best time to visit Jaisalmer before you plan your journey to Jaisalmer.
Getting around in Jaisalmer
By Autos
Autorickshaws are the most common way of transport within Jaisalmer. There are plenty of autos that you can find in the city centre. Although autos don’t usually charge too much, during peak season, you can get fleeced by enthusiastic auto drivers, so don’t forget to bargain and check the distance before agreeing to a price.
By Taxis
There are several local taxis that you can hire to get around the city. You can find taxis at most tourist attractions or you can ask your travel agent or tour operator to book a taxi for you if you want to explore nearby places around the city.
By Bicycle
Exploring the city on a bicycle is also a great idea and you can rent them by the hour here.
By Motorbike
If you are comfortable riding a two-wheeler, then you can hire a motorcycle or a scooter to explore the city as well as nearby places.
Jaisalmer Tourism
When planning for Jaisalmer, you must decide on the time when you would want to visit it. Jaisalmer Travel Guide & Tips!
People Also Ask Jaisalmer
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Which is the nearest airport to Jaisalmer?
Jodhpur Airport, located some 300 km away from Jaisalmer, is the nearest airport to the desert land. The airport connects Rajasthan with all major Indian cities. From Jodhpur Airport, tourists can hire cabs to reach Jaisalmer. Jaisalmer serves rest of India by well maintained network of roadways.
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How to go Jaisalmer from Delhi by flight?
The closest domestic airport here is Jodhpur Airport, which is the best way to reach Jaisalmer by air. There are regular flights to Jodhpur from cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai and Udaipur. From the airport, it will take you around 5 to 6 hours to reach Jaisalmer.
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What is Jaisalmer famous for?
This 'Golden City' is located close to the Pakistan border and in close proximity to the Thar Desert. The city's most prominent landmark is the Jaisalmer Fort, also called Sonar Qila (Golden Fort). Unlike most other forts in India, Jaisalmer Fort is not just a tourist attraction.