In case you are wondering whether to take the bus Jaisalmer to Jodhpur – and if we’d recommend it – read on.
The stretch between the Golden City of Jaisalmer and the Blue City of Jodhpur is a classic desert traverse, taking you past those sprawling dunes, rural villages, and the occasional camel. While many travellers opt for the train, we reckon for this stretch, the bus is the unsung hero of Rajasthani travel. It’s flexible, frequent, and offers a front-row seat to the vibrant roadside life of the Thar Desert.
So, do we recommend it?
Yep! Having made this trip from the far west multiple times, we’ve put together this guide to help you navigate the journey by bus Jaisalmer to Jodhpur like a pro.
Indian Bus Over the Train?
Why Choose the Bus Jaisalmer to Jodhpur Over the Train?
In India, the train is legendary, but on the Jaisalmer–Jodhpur route, the bus has several distinct advantages:
- Frequency: While there are only a handful of trains per day, buses depart almost every hour.
- Last-Minute Planning: Train tickets in Rajasthan often sell out weeks in advance. But you can almost always secure a bus seat just a day before—or even on the morning of—departure.
- The Views: The highway (NH11) is (fairly) well-maintained and offers a fantastic look at desert life that the rail lines often bypass.
Part 1: Types of Buses in India – Jaisalmer to Jodhpur
Not all buses in Rajasthan (or India) are created equal.
Depending on your budget and tolerance for (ahem) character, you have three main choices:
1. RSRTC (Government Buses)
The Rajasthan State Road Transport Corporation operates the “standard” buses.
These are basic, non-air-conditioned buses. Expect bench seating, open windows (which is great for photos but dusty), and plenty of local character.
We take these kinds of buses for shorter distances: in Bikaner to get out to the famous Rat Temple or in Delhi to get further out in the south.
- Best for: Budget travellers (like, extreme budget) and those making shorter hops.
Read All About Travel By Bus In India.
2. Private AC Seater/Sleeper
This is the sweet spot for most travellers. These buses are usually more modern and offer air conditioning, which is a lifesaver from March through October.
You can choose between a standard reclining seat or a “sleeper” berth. The sleeper berths are essentially small cabins with a sliding door—perfect if you want to nap or have a bit of privacy.
This is what we would recommend for the bus Jaisalmer to Jodhpur.
- Best for: Comfort and escaping the desert heat. A great choice (best) for the bus Jaisalmer to Jodhpur.
3. Volvo or Luxury Coaches
These are the top-tier private buses. They are smoother, have better suspension, and often feature charging ports and more reliable AC.
Part 2: About the Bus Jaisalmer to Jodhpur
In fact, there are more than ten operators that run buses between Jaisalmer and Jodhpur, meaning there are plenty of choices.
How Often Do They Run?
Buses depart from Jaisalmer to Jodhpur starting as early as 6:00 AM and continue until roughly 10:00 PM.
During the peak morning hours (8:00 AM to 11:00 AM), you can expect a departure every 30 to 45 minutes.
What Does it Cost?
- Government Bus: Roughly 300 to 450 INR ($3.50–$5.50 USD).
- Private AC Seater: Roughly 500 to 700 INR ($6.00–$8.50 USD).
- Private AC Sleeper: Roughly 800 to 1,200 INR ($9.50–$14.00 USD) for a single or double berth.
Where to Buy Tickets for Bus Jaisalmer to Jodhpur
These are standard (and classic) ways to buy a ticket for the bus Jaisalmer to Jodhpur.
Though to be honest each time we’ve taken a bus from Jaisalmer we have been fortunate to have Wanderlust Guesthouse owner and host, Padam arrange it for us.
You can buy bus tickets online or through a travel agency in India. But the way I’d recommend is to talk to your host.
- Online: We use RedBus or 12GoAsia. These platforms allow you to see the bus layout, choose your specific seat (aim for the front or middle to avoid the bumpy back), and pay with international cards.
- Travel Agencies: Around the Jaisalmer Fort entrance (Gopa Chowk), you’ll find dozens of small travel desks. They can book private buses for a small commission.
- The Bus Stand: You can simply show up at the bus stand and buy a ticket for the next departing RSRTC bus.
Part 3: The Journey – What to Expect
The trip by bus Jaisalmer to Jodhpur covers roughly 280 kilometres and takes between 4.5 to 6 hours, depending on the number of stops and the ambition of your driver.
The Departure
Most private buses depart from the Private Bus Stand located near the Union Circle, about a 5-minute rickshaw ride from the fort.
Government buses depart from the Main Roadways Bus Stand.
Double-check your ticket for the exact boarding point!
Stops Along the Way
About halfway through the journey (usually near Pokhran or Dechu), the bus will pull over at a roadside Dhaba or restaurant.
- The Food: This is your chance to grab a hot sweet chai, some fresh samosas, or a quick plate of dal bati.
- Facilities: The bathrooms at these stops are rustic. Always carry your own toilet paper and hand sanitiser.
The Landscape
Keep your eyes peeled. As you leave Jaisalmer the sand is deep and golden. Then as you approach Jodhpur, the landscape becomes rockier and the vegetation changes to hardy shrubs and acacia trees.
You’ll see nomadic shepherds with their flocks and brightly painted trucks that make for pretty unique drive-by photography.
Arriving in Jodhpur by Bus from Jaisalmer
There are two main bus terminals in Jodhpur and the good news is that they are next to each other.
- Jodhpur Bus Stand
72RQ+QQW, Raika Bagh Station Rd
Bhadwasiya, Paota, Jodhpur
It is easy to get a rickshaw or taxi from the bus stand to your accommodation. You won’t be short for choice!
Part 4: Where to Stay in Jaisalmer and Jodhpur
When you arrive, having a great base camp makes the transition between cities much smoother.
Here is where we recommend staying in Jaisalmer and Jodhpur.
Where To Stay In Jaisalmer
We always stay at Wanderlust Guesthouse.
It’s located outside the fort walls, but close to the centre of the incredible old town, offering the best rooftop views in the city.
Owner Padam and the staff here are experts in desert logistics and can help you arrange your ride or rickshaw to the bus stand on the morning of your trip.
Plus, their banana lassi is the perfect pre-bus fuel!
Where To Stay In Jodhpur
Once you reach the Blue City, you want to be in the historic centre near the Clock Tower.
- Budget: Raj Mandir Boutique Homestay
Good location, spacious room with small balcony inside Haveli style home. This is where we stayed! - Budget: Hotel Bawarri Haveli
Friendly, budget Haveli-style accommodation with a rooftop restaurant and less than 1km away from the Stepwell. - Hostel: Zostel Jodhpur
Located well near the Clock Tower offering Haveli-inspired architecture for backpackers. - Luxury: Umaid Bhawan Palace
Want to try some serious luxury? This one of the world’s largest private residences!
Part 5: Tips for a Smooth Trip by Bus Jaisalmer to Jodhpur
As with all travel in India, a little bit of planning makes for a slightly smoother journey. The bus Jaisalmer to Jodhpur is no exception!
We found it comfortable and were pleased to have chosen an early morning departure. The sun is hot through the window in the morning and although for part of the journey I had my window open, they eventually close all windows to best operate the air conditioning.
- Arrive Early: Aim to be at the boarding point 20 minutes before departure. Bus “stations” can be chaotic, and finding your specific bus takes a moment.
- Choose a Middle or Front Seat: If you are prone to motion sickness, book a seat from the middle of the bus. The back of the bus bounces significantly over any road bumps.
- Pack Snacks: While the bus stops once, it’s always smart to have water and some dry snacks (like nuts or fruit) in your day bag.
- Keep Valuables with You: Large luggage goes in the hold underneath the bus. Always keep your passport, electronics, and money in a small bag at your feet or in your sleeper berth.
- Dress in Layers: The desert is a land of extremes. The AC on private buses can be surprisingly icy, while a government bus can be quite hot until you get moving and the breeze kicks in.
- Download Your Map: Signal can be spotty in the deep desert. Having an offline map of Jodhpur will help you navigate to your hotel once you get dropped off.
Feeling ready? 🙂
Final Thoughts
Taking the bus from Jaisalmer to Jodhpur isn’t just a transfer; it’s part of the Rajasthani adventure. It’s affordable, reliable, and gives you a chance to see the in-between parts of India that many travellers fly right over.
As you pull into Jodhpur and see the massive Mehrangarh Fort looming, you’ll realise that the journey through the Thar was the perfect preparation for the next chapter of your trip. Enjoy!
Planning a bigger Rajasthan loop? Check out our Ultimate Golden Triangle Itinerary to see how to connect Jaisalmer and Jodhpur with Jaipur and Agra!
Do you have questions about bus travel in Rajasthan? Drop them in the comments below—we’ve ridden those Indian roads many times and are happy to help!
Safe travels, adventurers!
Read More India Inspiration
- Our Detailed & Easy 2-Day Itinerary Of Jaipur.
- Train Travel In India.
- India Tourist e-Visa: Our Step-By-Step Guide.
- 10 Things To Do In Mumbai.
- 10 Things To Do In Kochi & Kerala.
- Doing A Camel Safari In Jaisalmer.
- What To Wear In India.
- 4-Day Kochi & Kerala Itinerary.
- Travelling India By Bus: Intercity, Tourist & Sleeper Buses.
Travel Planning for India & Beyond
These are the companies we use while traveling and that we would recommend to anyone planning and booking travel.
- Booking.com – The best all-around accommodation booking site. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. It’s easy to filter and sort into price and availability with all the extras you are looking for personally.
- 12GoAsia – Book trains anywhere in Asia through 12Go.
- Skyscanner – Our favourite flight search engine. They can search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites often miss. We book all our flights through Skyscanner.
- GetYourGuide – A huge online marketplace for tours and excursions offered all around the world. Everything from walking tours to street-food tours, cooking classes, desert safari’s and more!
- SafetyWing – A global travel insurance that covers people from all over the world while outside their home country. You can buy short or longterm; and even if you are out of the country.
- World Nomads – Travel insurance tailored for short or longterm travel and nomads (including those who have already left home). Make sure you have travel insurance before planning that bus Jaisalmer to Jodhpur!
Hi! I’m Sarah. I am the self-confessed dreamer, travel-schemer and the main editor behind this blog. I love to write, and it is a dream come true to share so many experiences together and inspire others in our stories.
