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How to Get to Jodhpur

How to Get to Jodhpur

Jodhpur Rajasthan, India Travel Guide

Air Travel

Airports & Airlines

Jodhpur Airport (JDH) serves as a domestic airport. It is a connecting point after arrival at a large 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 at shorter intervals. 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 features 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 houses, plus bags services are present.
  • Vehicle 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 you go.
  • App-based Cabs: Ola is available, but airport availability may be limited off-peak hours.
  • Hotel Transfers: Many hotels offer pick-up services, frequently 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 tourists from other countries due to chaotic traffic and varying pavement quality.

Car with Driver

Highly recommended for comfort, safety, and local know-how. Book via hotels or tour operators.

Land Transportation

Train Connections

Jodhpur Junction (JU) is a major rail depot with great 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 Depot 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 station or by way of online aggregators.

Self-Driving

Generally not recommended for international visitors. 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 more secure, easier alternative.

Road Conditions & Safety

Highways connecting Jodhpur to other metropolises 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 particular exit fees or taxes are charged beyond ticket price.
  • Airport: Arrive 1.5-2 hours before domestic flight departure.
  • Train Station: Get THERE 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 time it takes to get to airport/station due to unpredictable traffic.

Local Transportation

Public Transit

Jodhpur does not feature an extensive structured public transport system like a metro or widespread municipal 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.
  • Opening hours: 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 application in Jodhpur. Uber has limited presence.

Rental Options

Self-drive rental cars are available 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

Be sure to 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 by means of a cycle-rickshaw has 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 nominal charge.

Flying Fox Zip-lining

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

Accessibility Services

Hiring a 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.

How to Get to Jodhpur. Flights, Transportation, Airlines