Leaving behind the cool, misty heights of Mount Abu for the sprawling Blue City of Jodhpur feels like stepping between two different worlds of Rajasthan. While the hill station offers lush greenery and serene lake views, Jodhpur greets you with the massive Mehrangarh Fort towering over a sea of indigo-painted houses. This journey takes you from the Aravalli Range down into the edge of the Thar Desert, a transition that reveals the incredible geographic diversity of northern India.
Because Mount Abu is a hilltop retreat, the journey actually begins at Abu Road (ABR), the railway station located at the foot of the mountain. Most travelers find the rail connection to be the most reliable and atmospheric way to bridge the gap between these two iconic destinations. Whether you are looking for a budget-friendly sleeper or a comfortable air-conditioned seat, the rail network provides a steady stream of options to suit your schedule.
Mount Abu to Jodhpur by Train
The train is the primary mode of transport for this route, offering a journey that typically lasts between 3 hours and 30 minutes to nearly 5 hours. Prices are highly accessible, ranging from $6 for basic sleeper classes to $25 for the most premium air-conditioned cabins. You can easily browse schedules and book tickets for this route on GoAsia.cc to ensure your seat is secured before you descend from the hills.
AC First Class and 2-Tier Sleeper
For those seeking the highest level of comfort, the AC First Class (1A) and AC 2-Tier (2A) options are excellent. 1A provides the most privacy with lockable compartments, while 2A offers wide berths in a curtained-off section. These classes are perfect for those who want to rest undisturbed. With prices reaching up to $25, you are paying for space, cleaner bedding, and a much quieter environment compared to the rest of the train.
AC 3-Tier and Economy Options
The AC 3-Tier (3A) and the newer 3-Tier Economy (3E) are the most popular choices for middle-class Indian travelers and backpackers alike. These carriages are climate-controlled and feature six berths per bay (plus two on the side). While 3E is slightly more crowded than 3A, both provide a cool escape from the Rajasthani heat. This is a great middle-ground option where you can enjoy the social aspect of Indian rail travel without sacrificing comfort.
Chair Class and Sleeper Class
If you prefer to sit upright and watch the desert landscape fly by, the AC Chair Class (CC) and Extended AC Chair Class (EC) are available on specific evening departures. These are similar to airplane seating but with much more legroom. For the true budget traveler, the Sleeper Class (SL) is the cheapest way to travel, starting at just $6. Note that Sleeper Class is not air-conditioned and can get quite dusty and crowded, but it offers an unfiltered look at local life and the cooling breeze from open windows as the train speeds along.
Comparing Your Options
| Mode | Price (USD) | Duration | Comfort |
|---|---|---|---|
| Train (Sleeper Class) | $6 | 3h 30m - 5h | Basic |
| Train (AC 3-Tier) | $10 - $12 | 3h 30m - 5h | Standard |
| Train (AC 2-Tier) | $15 - $18 | 3h 30m - 5h | High |
| Train (AC First Class) | $25 | 3h 30m - 4h | Premium |
Tips for Traveling from Mount Abu to Jodhpur
- The Abu Road Transfer: Remember that the train station is not in Mount Abu itself. You will need to take a shared taxi or a local bus from the Mount Abu town center down to Abu Road station. This drive takes about 45 to 60 minutes and involves several hairpin bends, so factor this into your departure time.
- Advance Booking: Indian trains often sell out weeks in advance, especially during the peak tourist season from October to March. It is highly recommended to book your tickets early to avoid the dreaded "Waitlist" status.
- Hydration and Snacks: While some long-distance trains have pantry cars or vendors selling chai and samosas, it is always wise to carry a large bottle of water and some light snacks for the 4-hour journey.
- Arrival in Jodhpur: Jodhpur Junction is centrally located. Once you arrive, you will be met by a swarm of rickshaw drivers. If you are staying in the Old City near the Clock Tower, a small auto-rickshaw is the only vehicle that can navigate the narrow blue alleys.
- Night vs Day: Since the journey is relatively short, a daytime train is wonderful for seeing the transition from the rocky Aravalli hills to the flat, sandy plains leading toward Jodhpur.
Timetable
Frequently Asked Questions
You can book train, bus, flight, taxi, van, and ferry tickets from Mount Abu to Jodhpur 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 Sleeper Class (SL) on the train from Abu Road, which starts at approximately $6. This class is non-air-conditioned but very budget-friendly.
The fastest trains complete the journey from Abu Road to Jodhpur in about 3 hours and 30 minutes. Be sure to check the specific transit times when booking as some services take up to 5 hours.
The rail journey typically takes between 3 hours and 30 minutes and 4 hours and 55 minutes, depending on the specific train service you choose.
You must travel from the hill station down to Abu Road (ABR) station. This is roughly a 28-kilometer drive that takes about one hour by taxi or bus due to the winding mountain roads.
While private and state-run buses do operate, the train from Abu Road is generally considered more comfortable and faster for this specific route. Buses often take longer due to road conditions and frequent stops.
For a balance of comfort and price, AC 3-Tier (3A) or AC 2-Tier (2A) are highly recommended. They provide air conditioning and a reserved berth, making the journey across the warm Rajasthani plains much more pleasant.