Jaipur to Jaisalmer : Distance, How to Reach, Road Trip – Jaipur, the Pink City, and Jaisalmer, the Golden City, are two of Rajasthan’s most iconic destinations. Jaipur, known for its grand forts and vibrant bazaars, boasts attractions like Amber Fort, Hawa Mahal, and City Palace. The bustling streets of Johari and Bapu Bazaar offer traditional Rajasthani handicrafts and jewelry.
Jaisalmer, nestled in the heart of the Thar Desert, is famous for its golden sandstone architecture. The majestic Jaisalmer Fort, Patwon Ki Haveli, and Gadisar Lake showcase its historical charm. The city’s biggest attraction is its vast sand dunes, where visitors can enjoy camel safaris, dune bashing, and cultural performances under the starlit sky.
The 560 km journey between Jaipur and Jaisalmer can be covered by train, bus, or private taxi, offering travelers a scenic drive through Rajasthan’s rustic landscapes. Together, Jaipur and Jaisalmer provide a perfect blend of royal heritage, desert adventure, and rich cultural experiences.
Places to See on Your Jaipur to Jaisalmer Trip
A Jaipur to Jaisalmer road trip covers approximately 560 km and offers several fascinating stopovers along the way. Here are some must-visit places:
1. Jaipur
- Amber Fort – Stunning fort with a mix of Hindu and Mughal architecture.
- Hawa Mahal – Iconic pink sandstone palace.
- City Palace & Jantar Mantar – Royal residence and astronomical observatory.
2. Ajmer (135 km from Jaipur)
- Ajmer Sharif Dargah – Famous Sufi shrine of Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti.
- Ana Sagar Lake – Scenic artificial lake perfect for relaxation.
3. Pushkar (15 km from Ajmer)
- Pushkar Lake & Brahma Temple – Sacred lake and one of the few Brahma temples in the world.
- Camel Fair (Seasonal) – A vibrant annual fair in November.
4. Nagaur (140 km from Pushkar)
- Nagaur Fort – A historic fort with Mughal and Rajput influences.
- Nagaur Cattle Fair (Seasonal) – A large livestock fair.
5. Bikaner (230 km from Pushkar, Optional Detour)
- Junagarh Fort – An impressive fort with well-preserved palaces.
- Karni Mata Temple – The famous “Rat Temple” in Deshnok.
- Bikaneri Bhujia & Sweets – Try local delicacies.
6. Khichan (150 km from Bikaner, Optional Detour)
- Demoiselle Crane Sanctuary – A paradise for birdwatchers (best in winter).
7. Jaisalmer
- Jaisalmer Fort – A UNESCO-listed living fort.
- Patwon Ki Haveli & Salim Singh Ki Haveli – Ornate mansions showcasing intricate carvings.
- Sam Sand Dunes – Enjoy camel safaris, dune bashing, and cultural performances.
- Kuldhara Village – An abandoned, mysterious village with a haunting past.
- Gadisar Lake – A scenic lake offering boating and picturesque views.
This road trip offers a mix of heritage, spirituality, wildlife, and desert landscapes, making the journey as exciting as the destination!
Best Time to Travel from Jaipur to Jaisalmer
The best time to travel from Jaipur to Jaisalmer is between October and March, when the weather is pleasant for sightseeing and desert activities. During this time, daytime temperatures range from 10°C to 27°C, making it ideal for exploring forts, enjoying camel safaris, and experiencing cultural performances at Sam Sand Dunes.
Summer (April to June) is extremely hot, with temperatures exceeding 45°C, making outdoor activities uncomfortable. The monsoon season (July to September) brings occasional rain, but Jaisalmer remains mostly dry. Winter is the perfect season for an unforgettable desert experience!
How to Reach from Jaipur to Jaisalmer
You can reach Jaisalmer from Jaipur by road, rail, or air:
By Road (560 km) – Drive via NH11 for 9-10 hours or take a private taxi, luxury bus, or Tempo Traveller for a comfortable journey. Rajasthan State Road Transport Corporation (RSRTC) operates buses.
By Train – Direct trains like Ranikhet Express and Jaisalmer Express take 11-12 hours from Jaipur.
By Air – The nearest airport is Jaisalmer Airport, with seasonal flights from Jaipur. Alternatively, fly to Jodhpur and drive 280 km to Jaisalmer.
Each option offers a unique experience, depending on budget and time preference.
