Leaving the spiritual magnetic center of Ajmer for the romantic lakeside palaces of Udaipur is a classic Rajasthan transition. While Ajmer feels grounded in its bustling markets and the sacred echoes of the Dargah Sharif, Udaipur offers a softer, more regal atmosphere where white marble buildings reflect off the calm waters of Lake Pichola. The journey between these two cities takes you through the heart of the Aravalli Range, offering glimpses of rugged landscapes and rural village life that define the character of northern India.
This route is a favorite for those completing a circuit of the desert state, as it connects the gateway to Pushkar with the City of Lakes. Whether you prefer the rhythmic clatter of the Indian Railways or the flexibility of a private bus, the trip is relatively short and manageable in a single morning or afternoon. You can easily browse and book tickets for this route on GoAsia.cc to ensure your seat is secured before you arrive at the station.
Ajmer to Udaipur by Train
The train remains the most iconic way to traverse Rajasthan. On the line from Ajmer to Udaipur, the rail journey is generally efficient, taking anywhere from 4h 45min to 6h 33min. Because Udaipur is a terminal station for many lines, the trains are often well-maintained and provide a front-row seat to the changing topography of the Aravalli hills. Prices for the train are very budget-friendly, ranging from $5 to $20 depending on the level of luxury you choose.
The Premium Experience: AC First Class and 2-Tier
For maximum comfort, the 1A (AC First Class) and 2A (AC 2-Tier) sleepers are the top choices. These compartments offer air conditioning, cleaner bedding, and more privacy. 1A is the most exclusive, featuring lockable cabins, while 2A provides wide berths in an open-plan layout with curtains for privacy. These are excellent options for the late-night departures if you want to arrive in Udaipur refreshed and ready to explore.
The Daytime Choice: AC Chair Car (CC)
If you are traveling during the day, the AC Chair Car is arguably the best value. It features comfortable, reclining seats in a climate-controlled carriage. Large windows allow for great views of the Rajasthani countryside, and the atmosphere is typically quiet and professional. This is a popular choice for those taking the morning departures to reach Udaipur by mid-afternoon.
Budget Options: Sleeper (SL) and Second Sitting (2S)
Travelers looking for an authentic local experience or those on a tight budget often opt for Sleeper Class or Second Sitting. Sleeper class is non-air-conditioned and can get quite dusty and crowded, but it offers an unparalleled look at local life. Second Sitting (2S) is the cheapest option available, providing a reserved seat in a non-AC carriage, best suited for the shorter 4-hour transit times.
Ajmer to Udaipur by Bus
Buses offer the highest frequency of departures on this route, with coaches leaving Ajmer at almost every hour of the day and night. The duration by bus is typically between 3h 47min and 7h 35min, depending on the number of stops and the type of road used. Prices are highly variable, starting at $5 for basic seats and going up to $60 for premium, high-end luxury sleepers.
AC Sleeper and Seater Buses
Private operators run a variety of AC Sleeper buses that are perfect for those who want to lie down during the journey. These buses feature individual berths (single or double) with sliding doors or curtains. If you prefer sitting upright, AC Seater buses provide reclining chairs and a cooler environment than the standard local buses. These are generally faster than the train and can drop you off at various points in Udaipur closer to the tourist hub of Jagdish Chowk.
Non-AC Options
For the shortest travel times or for those traveling during the cooler winter months, Non-AC Seater and Sleeper buses are available. These are significantly cheaper but can be noisy and breezy. They are a solid choice for a spontaneous trip when train tickets are sold out, as they rarely require booking weeks in advance.
Comparing Your Options
| Mode | Price (USD) | Duration | Comfort |
|---|---|---|---|
| Train (2S/SL) | $5 - $8 | 5h - 6h | Basic |
| Train (AC Classes) | $10 - $20 | 4h 45min - 6h | High |
| Bus (Non-AC) | $5 - $12 | 4h - 7h | Moderate |
| Bus (AC Sleeper) | $15 - $60 | 3h 47min - 6h | High |
Tips for Traveling from Ajmer to Udaipur
- Book Train Tickets Early: The Ajmer-Udaipur rail line is busy, especially the faster morning trains. If you want an AC seat or sleeper, try to book at least a few days in advance.
- Station Logistics: Ajmer Junction is a busy hub. Arrive at least 30 minutes before your train departure to navigate the overhead bridges and find your platform.
- Bus Pickup Points: Private buses in Ajmer often depart from specific agency offices or the main bus stand. Double-check your ticket for the exact GPS location of the boarding point.
- Scenic Views: If taking a daytime train or bus, try to get a window seat on the right side when heading south toward Udaipur to catch the best views of the hills.
- Stay Hydrated: While many AC buses and trains provide water for a fee, it is always wise to carry your own bottle and some light snacks like nuts or fruit for the 5-hour journey.
- Arrival in Udaipur: The Udaipur City Railway Station and the main bus stand are fairly close to the Old City (Lake Pichola area). An auto-rickshaw should take about 10-15 minutes to reach most lakeside hotels.
Timetable
| Bus Ajmer - Udaipur $ 5.57–60.12 3h 47m – 7h 35m | |
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| Train Ajmer - Udaipur $ 5.02–21.36 4h 45m – 6h 25m | |
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Frequently Asked Questions
You can book train, bus, flight, taxi, van, and ferry tickets from Ajmer to Udaipur 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 Second Sitting (2S) on the train or a Non-AC Seater bus, both starting at approximately $5. These options provide a basic seat and are ideal for budget-conscious travelers.
The fastest way is usually by bus, with certain express AC Sleeper services completing the journey in about 3 hours and 47 minutes. Some trains are also quite fast, taking roughly 4 hours and 45 minutes.
The journey typically takes between 4 and 6 hours. Trains range from 4h 45min to 6h 33min, while buses vary more widely from 3h 47min to 7h 35min depending on traffic and stops.
The train is generally more comfortable and stable, offering beds and toilets, which is great for families. However, buses run much more frequently throughout the day and night, offering more flexibility if you haven't booked in advance.
Yes, there are several overnight train and bus options. Trains with sleeper berths depart late in the evening, as do many AC Sleeper buses, allowing you to arrive in Udaipur early the next morning.
You can choose from AC First Class (1A), AC 2-Tier (2A), AC 3-Tier (3A/3E), AC Chair Car (CC), Sleeper Class (SL), and Second Sitting (2S). The AC classes are recommended for comfort and climate control.