Leaving behind the golden sandstone fort of Jaisalmer for the sacred ghats of Pushkar involves a journey through the heart of the Thar Desert. While Jaisalmer feels like a medieval outpost frozen in time, Pushkar offers a spiritual energy centered around its holy lake and the rare Brahma Temple. The transition from the rugged dunes of the far west to the rose-scented hills of the Aravalli range is one of the most evocative travel experiences in Rajasthan.
Navigating this route requires a bit of planning, as Pushkar itself does not have a major railway station. Most travelers either take a direct bus or head to the nearby city of Ajmer by train before completing the final short leg of the trip by local taxi or bus. Whether you prefer the social atmosphere of an Indian sleeper bus or the air-conditioned privacy of a personal transfer, there are several reliable ways to make the journey across the desert plains.
Jaisalmer to Pushkar by Bus
The bus is a highly popular choice for this route because it offers direct service, saving you the trouble of changing vehicles in Ajmer. These buses typically run overnight, allowing you to save on a night of accommodation while you travel across the state. Most operators on this route provide AC Sleeper coaches, which feature tiered bunks rather than seats, allowing you to lie down fully during the 9 hour trip.
The price for a bus ticket ranges from $9 to $14, making it an excellent value for budget-conscious travelers. The journey usually takes between 8 hours and 55 minutes to 9 hours and 15 minutes. It is worth noting that while these buses are comfortable, the roads can sometimes be bumpy, so if you are a light sleeper, you might want to bring earplugs. You can easily browse availability and book your tickets for these routes on GoAsia.cc to ensure you get a lower bunk, which is generally more stable than the top ones.
Jaisalmer to Pushkar by Private Transfer
For those who value comfort and flexibility above all else, a private transfer is the most efficient way to travel. Unlike public transport, a private car takes you door-to-door, meaning you can be picked up at your desert camp or haveli in Jaisalmer and dropped directly at your resort in Pushkar without lugging bags through busy stations.
The duration for a private drive is significantly shorter, typically taking between 6 hours and 6 hours and 49 minutes. Prices vary depending on the vehicle size you choose. A standard Sedan or Hatchback is ideal for couples or solo travelers, while larger groups can opt for an SUV or a 6-passenger Van. Prices for these private services range from $109 to $299. This is the best option if you want to stop for photographs of the rural Rajasthani landscape or enjoy a meal at a specific roadside dhaba along the way.
Jaisalmer to Ajmer by Train
While there is no direct train station in Pushkar, many travelers choose to take the train from Jaisalmer to Ajmer Junction, which is only about 15 kilometers away from Pushkar. From Ajmer, it is a quick 30-minute taxi or local bus ride over the hill to reach the sacred lake. The train experience in India is legendary and offers a unique window into local life that you simply do not get on the highway.
3A - AC 3-Tier Sleeper
The 3A class is a great middle-ground option. It provides air conditioning, which is essential during the hotter months in Rajasthan, and includes padded berths with linens provided. The price for this class is approximately $15. The journey takes about 10 hours and 25 minutes, usually departing in the very early hours of the morning.
SL - Sleeper Class
For the true backpacker experience, the Sleeper Class (SL) is the most affordable way to travel, costing around $7. This class does not have air conditioning and uses open windows with bars to let the breeze in. It can be quite dusty and noisy, but it is the most social way to travel. Note that you will need to bring your own blanket or sleeping bag as bedding is not provided in this class.
Comparing Your Options
| Mode | Price (USD) | Duration | Comfort |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bus (AC Sleeper) | $9 - $14 | 9h | Moderate |
| Private Transfer | $109 - $299 | 6h - 7h | High |
| Train (3A AC) | $15 | 10h 25min | Moderate |
| Train (Sleeper) | $7 | 10h 25min | Basic |
Tips for Traveling from Jaisalmer to Pushkar
- Book in Advance: Trains in India, especially on popular routes through Rajasthan, can sell out weeks in advance. If you prefer the train, try to secure your seat as soon as your travel dates are firm.
- Stay Hydrated: The journey crosses arid desert terrain. Always carry a couple of liters of water with you, especially if taking the bus or train.
- Dress in Layers: Even if the day is scorching, the desert temperature drops at night, and air-conditioned buses and trains can sometimes be surprisingly chilly.
- Arrival in Ajmer: If you take the train to Ajmer, ignore the more aggressive touts at the station. Head to the official taxi stand or use a ride-sharing app to get a fair price for the final leg to Pushkar.
- Respect the Culture: Remember that Pushkar is a holy city. Alcohol and non-vegetarian food are prohibited within the town limits. Keep this in mind as you pack your bags for the journey.
Timetable
| Bus Jaisalmer - Pushkar $ 9.37–11.14 8h 55m – 9h 15m | |
|
|
| Taxi Jaisalmer - Pushkar $ 108.38–296.53 6h – 6h 49m | |
|
| Train Jaisalmer - Ajmer $ 7.06–28.75 10h 25m | |
|
Frequently Asked Questions
You can book train, bus, flight, taxi, van, and ferry tickets from Jaisalmer to Pushkar 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 taking the train from Jaisalmer to Ajmer in Sleeper Class, which costs about $7. From Ajmer, you can take a local bus for a very small fee to reach Pushkar.
A private transfer is the fastest option, taking between 6 hours and 6 hours and 49 minutes. This avoids the extra time needed for station transfers and the multiple stops made by buses and trains.
Depending on your mode of transport, the journey takes between 6 hours (private car) and approximately 11 hours (train to Ajmer plus the local transfer to Pushkar).
No, there is no direct train station in Pushkar. Travelers must take a train to Ajmer Junction and then complete the remaining 15 kilometers by taxi, auto-rickshaw, or local bus.
Yes, the AC Sleeper buses are generally safe and very common for tourists in Rajasthan. For added privacy and security, solo travelers often prefer booking a single upper berth.
If you take a daytime private transfer, you will see plenty of desert landscapes and rural villages. However, since many buses and trains run overnight, much of the journey may take place in the dark.