How to Reach Jaisalmer: A Complete Travel Guide

                                 How to Reach Jaisalmer: A Complete Travel Guide

Jaisalmer, the "Golden City," is well-connected to the rest of India, making it accessible by air, rail, and road. Here's a comprehensive guide on how to reach Jaisalmer:

By Air:

Jaisalmer has its own airport (JSA), but it has limited connectivity. The most convenient option is to fly to Jodhpur Airport (JDH), which is about 300 km away from Jaisalmer.

• From Jodhpur:
  • Taxi/Cab: You can hire a pre-paid or private taxi from Jodhpur Airport to Jaisalmer. The journey takes around 4-5 hours and offers scenic views.
  • Bus: Both state-run and private buses operate between Jodhpur and Jaisalmer. You can find buses from the main bus stand in Jodhpur, which is easily accessible from the airport by taxi or auto-rickshaw.
  • Train: Jodhpur is well-connected to Jaisalmer by train. You can take a taxi or auto-rickshaw from the airport to Jodhpur Railway Station and then take a train to Jaisalmer.

By Train:

Jaisalmer Railway Station (JSM) is well-connected to major cities in India, especially Delhi, Jaipur, and Jodhpur.

• From Delhi: Several trains operate between Delhi and Jaisalmer, including the Jaisalmer Express and Howrah-Jaisalmer Express. The journey takes approximately 17-20 hours.
• From Jaipur: You can find direct trains like the Leelan SF Express, Runicha Express, and Ranikhet Express from Jaipur to Jaisalmer. The train journey takes around 12-14 hours.
• From Jodhpur: There are frequent trains between Jodhpur and Jaisalmer, with the journey taking about 5-6 hours.

By Road:

Jaisalmer is well-connected by road to other cities in Rajasthan and Gujarat.

• By Bus:
  • State-run buses: Rajasthan State Road Transport Corporation (RSRTC) operates regular buses to Jaisalmer from cities like Jaipur, Jodhpur, Bikaner, and Udaipur. These are usually a budget-friendly option.
  • Private buses: Several private bus operators also offer services to Jaisalmer from major cities. These might be slightly more comfortable, with options like sleeper coaches.
• By Car:
  • Self-drive: You can rent a car and drive to Jaisalmer from nearby cities. The roads are generally well-maintained.
  • Taxi: Hiring a taxi for a road trip to Jaisalmer is also a comfortable option, especially if you're traveling in a group.

Getting Around Jaisalmer:

Once you reach Jaisalmer, you can use auto-rickshaws, cycle-rickshaws, or taxis to get around the city. Walking is also a good option for exploring the main areas of the city, especially the fort and nearby markets.

Things to Consider:

• Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Jaisalmer is during the winter months (October to March) when the weather is pleasant.
• Booking in Advance: It's advisable to book your train or bus tickets and accommodation in advance, especially during the peak tourist season.
• Flexibility: Be prepared for potential delays, especially with trains.