Leaving behind the sacred Brahma Temple and the serene ghats of Pushkar for the yoga capital of the world involves a transition from the golden sands of Rajasthan to the emerald foothills of the Himalayas. This journey is a rite of passage for many spiritual seekers in India, moving from the desert's quiet intensity to the rushing waters of the holy Ganges. While the two towns feel worlds apart, they are connected by a network of sleepers, private cars, and the legendary Indian railways.
Because Pushkar is a small town, many travelers find themselves making a short hop to nearby Ajmer to catch long-distance connections. Whether you prefer the social atmosphere of a train carriage or the door to door convenience of a private car, navigating the route requires a bit of planning to ensure you arrive in Rishikesh refreshed and ready for an ashram stay or a white water rafting adventure.
Pushkar to Rishikesh by Train
For those looking for a classic Indian travel experience, taking the train is often the most comfortable way to cover the distance. Since Pushkar itself has limited rail connectivity, you will need to head to Ajmer Junction, located about 30 minutes away by taxi or local bus. The train from Ajmer to Rishikesh is a popular overnight option, allowing you to save on a night of accommodation while watching the landscape transform from arid plains to lush northern greenery.
Classes and Comfort
The train service offers several tiers to suit different budgets. For the highest level of privacy and comfort, the 1A (AC First Class Sleeper) provides lockable compartments and bedding. The 2A (AC 2-Tier) and 3A (AC 3-Tier) options are excellent middle-ground choices, offering air conditioning and cushioned berths in an open-plan layout. If you are on a tight budget, the SL (Sleeper Class) provides a more authentic and breezy experience without air conditioning, though it can get dusty. Prices for this rail journey range from $8 for basic sleeper berths to $34 for the premium first-class experience. The journey typically takes around 15 hours and 50 minutes, making it a long but steady ride. You can check availability and book your tickets for this route on GoAsia.cc to ensure you secure a berth in your preferred class.
Pushkar to Rishikesh by Bus
If you prefer to depart directly from Pushkar without the extra step of going to Ajmer, the long-distance bus is a reliable alternative. Buses on this route are designed for overnight travel, catering to travelers who want to sleep through the bulk of the transit time. The journey by bus takes between 14 hours and 30 minutes to 15 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
You can choose between AC Seater and AC Sleeper classes. The AC Sleeper is highly recommended for this distance, as it provides a flat bed in a small cubicle, allowing for a much better night's rest than a standard reclining seat. Prices for the bus are quite affordable, ranging from $15 to $23. These buses usually depart in the late afternoon or early evening, arriving in Rishikesh the following morning.
Pushkar to Rishikesh by Private Transfer
For travelers who value time and comfort above all else, or those traveling in a small group, a private transfer is the fastest and most flexible option. A private car can cut the travel time down significantly, taking between 9 hours and 10 hours. This is the only door to door service available, picking you up at your hotel in Pushkar and dropping you directly at your destination in Rishikesh.
There are several vehicle types available depending on your group size and luggage needs. A standard Sedan is perfect for couples, while Hatchbacks offer a budget-friendly private option for up to four passengers. For larger groups or those with more gear, SUVs and Vans can accommodate up to six people comfortably. While this is the most expensive way to travel, with prices ranging from $335 to $603, the convenience of stopping for breaks whenever you like and avoiding crowded stations is a major benefit.
Comparing Your Options
| Mode | Price (USD) | Duration | Comfort |
|---|---|---|---|
| Train (from Ajmer) | $8 - $34 | 15h 50m | High (Sleeper) |
| Bus | $15 - $23 | 14h 30m - 15h | Medium |
| Private Transfer | $335 - $603 | 9h - 10h | Luxury / Private |
Tips for Traveling from Pushkar to Rishikesh
- Book Trains Early: Indian Railways tickets can sell out weeks in advance, especially for the AC tiers. If you plan to take the train from Ajmer, try to book as soon as your travel dates are confirmed.
- Prepare for Temperature Changes: While Pushkar can be scorching, the overnight AC on buses and trains can be surprisingly cold. Keep a light jacket or a shawl in your carry-on bag.
- Snacks and Water: While some trains have pantry cars and buses make rest stops, it is always wise to carry enough bottled water and some dry snacks for the 15 hour journey.
- Station Transfers: If taking the train, remember to factor in the 30 minute drive from Pushkar to Ajmer. Taxis are easily available in the Pushkar town center.
- Arrival in Rishikesh: Most buses and trains arrive in the Rishikesh town area. If your accommodation is in the popular Laxman Jhula or Ram Jhula areas, you may need to take a short auto-rickshaw ride from the drop-off point.
Timetable
| Bus Pushkar - Rishikesh $ 15.50–20.47 14h 30m – 18h 35m | |
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| Taxi Pushkar - Rishikesh $ 332.54–595.30 9h – 10h 8m | |
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| Train Ajmer - Rishikesh $ 7.71–21.66 14h 40m – 15h 50m | |
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Frequently Asked Questions
You can book train, bus, flight, taxi, van, and ferry tickets from Pushkar to Rishikesh 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 from Ajmer to Rishikesh, with Sleeper Class (SL) tickets starting as low as $8. If you prefer a direct route from Pushkar, the bus is also very affordable, with prices starting at $15.
The fastest way to reach Rishikesh is by private transfer, which takes between 9 and 10 hours. This is significantly quicker than the bus or train, which both take approximately 15 to 16 hours.
The duration depends on your choice of transport: a private car takes about 9 to 10 hours, a bus takes 14.5 to 15 hours, and the train from Ajmer takes nearly 16 hours.
No, there is no direct train station in Pushkar for this route. Travelers usually take a 30 minute taxi or bus to Ajmer Junction, where they can catch a direct overnight train to Rishikesh.
Yes, AC Sleeper buses are a popular choice for this route. They offer individual berths where you can lie down completely, making the 15 hour trip much more manageable than a standard seat.
Generally, yes. Both the overnight trains and buses are commonly used by solo travelers and tourists. For added security on the train, choosing a berth in the AC classes (1A, 2A, or 3A) is recommended as these carriages are more regulated.