Leaving the spiritual quiet of the Ajmer Sharif Dargah and the rugged beauty of the Aravalli Hills for the high-octane energy of Delhi is a classic North Indian transition. This route connects the heart of Rajasthan's heritage with the sprawling political and cultural capital of India. Whether you are a pilgrim returning from the shrine or a traveler continuing your Golden Triangle adventure, the journey across the semi-arid plains toward the Yamuna River offers a fascinating window into the changing landscape of the subcontinent.
The distance between these two cities is roughly 400 kilometers, and the infrastructure is robust. You have the choice between the rhythmic reliability of the Indian Railways or the door-to-door flexibility of private and state buses. Each mode offers a vastly different perspective on the local life that thrives along the highways and tracks of Rajasthan and Haryana.
Ajmer to Delhi by Train
Taking the train is widely considered the most iconic and comfortable way to travel this route. The Indian Railways network serves this corridor with exceptional frequency, offering everything from high-speed day trains to overnight sleepers. Prices range from a very budget-friendly $6 to around $29 for premium classes. The journey duration varies between 5 hours and 20 minutes on the fastest expresses to nearly 9 hours on slower passenger services.
Premium and Chair Car Options
For those traveling during the day, the AC Chair Class (CC) and Extended AC Chair Class (EC) are excellent choices. These trains, including the famous Shatabdi and Vande Bharat expresses, provide a comfortable seat, large windows for sightseeing, and often include meals served at your seat. These are the fastest options, perfect for business travelers or tourists who want to maximize their time in Delhi. You can easily check availability and book these seats on GoAsia.cc to ensure you secure a spot on the faster day trains.
Sleeper Classes for Every Budget
If you prefer to lie down or are traveling on a night service, there are several tiers available. The AC First Class (1A) offers the most privacy and comfort, while the AC 2-Tier (2A) and 3-Tier (3A or 3E) provide a social yet air-conditioned environment. For the ultimate budget experience, the Sleeper Class (SL) is non-air-conditioned and open to the sights and sounds of the Indian countryside. While Second Sitting (2S) is the cheapest option available at around $6, it is best suited for shorter hops or those who don't mind basic padded seating for several hours.
Ajmer to Delhi by Bus
Buses offer a different kind of flexibility, often picking up and dropping off at various points in both cities. The bus journey typically takes between 6 hours and 45 minutes and 9 hours and 30 minutes, depending on traffic and the number of stops. Prices for bus tickets are quite broad, starting at $8 and going up to $70 for luxury private services.
AC and Non-AC Seater/Sleeper Services
The most popular choice for long-distance bus travel in India is the AC Sleeper. these buses feature individual berths where you can lie flat, which is ideal for the many late-night departures from Ajmer. If you are looking to save money, Non-AC Seater and Non-AC Sleeper options are available, though they can be quite dusty and warm during the summer months. For those who prefer sitting upright, the AC Seater provides a middle ground of comfort and climate control. The higher-priced bus options usually involve premium Volvo or Scania coaches that offer better suspension and more reliable air conditioning.
Comparing Your Options
| Mode | Price (USD) | Duration | Comfort |
|---|---|---|---|
| Train (AC Classes) | $12 - $29 | 5h 20min - 8h 44min | High |
| Train (Budget Classes) | $6 - $11 | 5h 20min - 8h 44min | Moderate |
| Bus (AC Sleeper) | $15 - $70 | 6h 45min - 9h 30min | Moderate to High |
| Bus (Non-AC) | $8 - $12 | 7h 00min - 9h 30min | Basic |
Tips for Traveling from Ajmer to Delhi
- Book in Advance: Trains on the Ajmer-Delhi route are extremely popular and often sell out weeks in advance, especially during festival seasons like Diwali or the Urs at Ajmer.
- Station Choice: Delhi has several major railway stations. Most trains from Ajmer will arrive at New Delhi (NDLS), Old Delhi (DLI), or Delhi Sarai Rohilla (DEE). Check which one is closest to your hotel before booking.
- Luggage Safety: If traveling in Sleeper or 3-Tier classes on the train, bring a small chain and padlock to secure your bags to the metal loops under the lower seats.
- Stay Hydrated: While many trains and buses offer water for sale, it is always wise to carry a couple of liters of bottled water for the journey.
- Winter Travel: Between December and February, North India often experiences heavy fog. This can cause significant delays for both trains and buses, so factor in extra time if traveling during this period.
Timetable
| Bus Ajmer - Delhi $ 10.48–31.46 6h 50m – 8h 45m | |
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| Train Ajmer - Delhi $ 6.12–28.81 5h 20m – 8h 44m | |
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Frequently Asked Questions
You can book train, bus, flight, taxi, van, and ferry tickets from Ajmer to Delhi directly on GoAsia.cc. Use the booking tool on this page to compare all available options and prices in real time.
The cheapest way to travel is by train in the Second Sitting (2S) class, which costs approximately $6. Some non-AC bus options are also very affordable, starting at around $8.
The fastest way to reach Delhi is by taking one of the high-speed express trains, which can complete the journey in about 5 hours and 20 minutes.
The travel time varies depending on your choice of transport. Trains take between 5 hours 20 minutes and 8 hours 44 minutes, while buses typically take between 6 hours 45 minutes and 9 hours 30 minutes.
Yes, there are several overnight train and bus services. Many buses depart Ajmer between 9:00 PM and midnight, arriving in Delhi early the next morning, allowing you to save on a night's accommodation.
On premium train classes like EC or CC on certain express trains, meals may be included or available for purchase. For most other trains and buses, you should bring your own snacks or buy food from vendors at major station stops.
Most major trains depart from Ajmer Junction (AII), which is the primary station serving the city and is centrally located near the main markets and the Dargah.