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Getting There & Away

Getting There & Away

Rajasthan, India

Air Travel

Airports & Airlines

Jodhpur Airport (JDH) serves as a domestic airport. It is a connecting point after arrival at a major international gateway in India.

Connectivity

  • Airlines: IndiGo, Vistara, SpiceJet, Air India operate flights.
  • Routes: Direct connections to Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Kolkata.
  • No direct international flights from major global hubs.

Seasonal Fluctuations

High Season (Oct-Mar): Flights are more frequent. Prices are generally higher due to increased demand. Book well in advance.

Low Season

  • April - September: Flight frequency may decrease.
  • Prices are often lower during the hot summer and humid monsoon months.
  • Flexibility with travel dates results in savings.

Flight Deals

Dollar Flight Club offers options for good flight deals.

Flight Search

Skyscanner for comparing flight options.

Airport Transfers

Pre-paid taxis, app-based cabs (Ola), or hotel transfers are common.

Airport Facilities

Airport Services

  • Jodhpur Airport facilities are basic but adequate.
  • A few shops for snacks, coffee shops, and baggage services are present.
  • Car rental desks are available, but pre-booking a taxi or hotel pick-up is advisable.
  • For first-time visitors, pre-paid taxis or hotel transfers are more transparent.

Arrival Options

  • Pre-paid Taxis: A reliable option at the airport exit. Confirm fare before departing.
  • App-based Cabs: Ola is available, but airport availability may be limited off-peak hours.
  • Hotel Transfers: Many hotels offer pick-up services, often for a fee. Arrange in advance.
  • Auto-rickshaws: Available outside the airport; negotiate fare before starting.

Car Rental Resources

Rental Comparison

DiscoverCars.com for comparing car rental options globally.

Self-Driving

Generally not recommended for foreign tourists due to chaotic traffic and varying road quality.

Car with Driver

Highly recommended for comfort, safety, and local expertise. Book through hotels or tour operators.

Land Transportation

Train Connections

Jodhpur Junction (JU) is a major railway station with excellent connectivity to various cities across India.

Services & Booking

  • Indian Railways offers express and superfast trains.
  • Routes: Delhi, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Jaipur, Udaipur, Jaisalmer, Kolkata, Chennai.
  • Booking: Recommended well in advance via official IRCTC website or agents.

Long-Distance Buses

Jodhpur Central Bus Stand serves as the main hub for long-distance bus travel.

Options & Routes

  • Operators: Rajasthan State Road Transport Corporation (RSRTC) and private companies.
  • Popular Routes: Jaipur, Udaipur, Jaisalmer, Ajmer, Delhi.
  • Booking: At the bus stand or through online aggregators.

Self-Driving

Generally not recommended for foreign tourists. Traffic conditions are chaotic, road quality varies, and driving rules are often different.

Considerations

  • Animal crossings, unwritten road rules, aggressive driving are present.
  • An International Driving Permit (IDP) is necessary.
  • Hiring a car with a driver is a safer, more convenient alternative.

Road Conditions & Safety

Highways connecting Jodhpur to other cities are generally well-maintained. Within the city, roads are congested.

Safety Measures

  • Be prepared for slow movement, stray animals, and unpredictable driving habits.
  • Driving on highways at night is generally not advised due to poor lighting.
  • Horn usage is frequent, often as a warning.

Departure Information

  • No specific exit fees or taxes are charged beyond ticket price.
  • Airport: Arrive 1.5-2 hours before domestic flight departure.
  • Train Station: Arrive 30-45 minutes before departure.
  • Bus Station: Arrive 30 minutes before departure.
  • Reconfirm your flight, train, or bus schedule a day before departure.
  • Allow ample travel time to airport/station due to unpredictable traffic.

Local Transportation

Public Transit

Jodhpur does not feature an extensive formal public transport system like a metro or widespread public bus network.

Main Modes

  • Auto-rickshaws: Most common and convenient for point-to-point travel.
  • Cycle-rickshaws: Mainly in narrow lanes of the Old City, offering a slow, immersive way to explore.
  • Local Buses: Generally crowded, lack clear English route info, not preferred by tourists.

Fares & Accessibility

Fares for auto-rickshaws and cycle-rickshaws are almost always negotiated before the ride begins, unless using an app-based service.

Transit Notes

  • Agree on price to avoid misunderstandings.
  • Hours of Operation: Auto and cycle-rickshaws operate from early morning until late evening (10-11 PM).
  • Accessibility: Public transport generally not accessible for mobility challenges.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Ola is the dominant ride-sharing app in Jodhpur. Uber has limited presence.

Rental Options

Self-drive car rentals are less common. Motorcycle/scooter rentals are available for experienced riders.

Walking & Cycling

Old City lanes are highly walkable. Limited bicycle infrastructure on main roads.

Efficient Navigation Tips

For Auto-Rickshaws

Always negotiate auto-rickshaw fares before starting the ride, or use app-based services for transparent pricing.

Smart Practices

  • Keep small denominations of cash ready for payments.
  • Use Google Maps on your phone to show destinations and monitor routes.
  • Polite bargaining is customary.

Old City Exploration

For the narrow, pedestrian-heavy lanes of the Old City, walking or using a cycle-rickshaw presents the best way to navigate and soak in the atmosphere.

Optimal Movement

  • Walking offers deep immersion in local life.
  • Cycle-rickshaws navigate tight spaces.
  • Consider hiring a local guide for invaluable context.

Specialized Transportation

Mehrangarh Fort Elevator

An elevator takes visitors to the top of the fort. There is usually a small fee.

Flying Fox Zip-lining

An adventure activity over the fort's battlements, operated by Flying Fox. Book in advance.

Accessibility Services

Hiring a private car with a driver offers the most flexibility for travelers with mobility needs.

Travel Strategy

For efficient and comfortable sightseeing, consider hiring an auto-rickshaw or car for a half-day or full-day to visit scattered attractions, then explore the Old City's core on foot.