We took the train from Bikaner to Amritsar on the Ju Jat Express. Because travelling through India is as much about the journey as it is the destination, right? While domestic flights are fast and buses are plentiful, nothing quite captures the chaos and authentic soul of Indian travel like an Indian train.
After spending time exploring the desert and golden architecture of Rajasthan, we decided to head north to the heart of Punjab.
Our reason for traveling to Amritsar was simple: we wanted to return to the Golden Temple, witness the high-energy Wagah Border ceremony, and, of course, dive back into the legendary street food scene that defines the city. We’ve been to India seven times now, and Amritsar remains one of those places that pulls us back every single time.
If you are planning to make the jump from the Camel Country of Bikaner to the Golden City of Amritsar, here is everything you need to know about the train journey from Bikaner to Amritsar.
Options for Travel: Bikaner to Amritsar
The distance between Bikaner and Amritsar is roughly 450 kilometers.
You have a few ways to bridge the gap:
- By Bus: There are private AC sleeper buses. They are relatively fast but can be bumpy, and the highway stops are hit-or-miss.
- By Car: A private taxi is the most flexible option but also the most expensive—it’s a long day of driving through the desert heat.
- By Train: This is our preferred method. It is cost-effective, allows you to travel while you sleep, is fast and lands you right in the centre of the city.
The Train: JU JAT EXPRESS #19225
The primary lifeline for this route from Bikaner to Amritsar is the JU JAT EXPRESS (Train #19225).
This train originates in Jodhpur and travels all the way to Jammu Tawi.
Why the Timing is Tricky
We made sure to arrive extra early to the station in Bikaner because there is only one train per day on this route. If you miss it, your schedule is essentially wiped for 24 hours.
However, the biggest practical challenge of the JU JAT EXPRESS is the arrival time. On the Bikaner to Amritsar leg, the train often arrives well after midnight.
Because this is a mid-overnight length of travel, it creates a bit of a sleep dilemma. We put the boys to sleep so they could stay rested, but Gavin and I stayed awake.
Important Note: The JU JAT EXPRESS does not end in Amritsar; it continues to Jammu and Kashmir. Consequently, it only stops in Amritsar for 10 minutes! You must be packed, standing by the door, and ready to hop off the second the train slows down.
The Journey: What Is It Really Like on Board?
For our trip north, we booked tickets in AC Second Class (2A) on the Ju Jat Express. Because this is the only direct train of the day connecting Bikaner to Amritsar, we made sure to arrive at the station with plenty of time to spare—missing this departure would have meant a total rethink of our travel plans!
Overall, it was a smooth and successful journey, but there are a few quirks to this specific route that you should prepare for.
The 2A Layout: Ideal for 4-Pax
The AC 2-Tier setup is ideal if you’re traveling as a family or group of four. In this class, each “cabin” area contains four bunks—two lowers and two uppers.
Since there were four of us, we essentially had our own private little pod within the carriage.
While the bunks and the general space are quite basic, they are perfectly functional for a mid-length overnight trip.
Here’s how it compares to the other classes:
- 2A vs. 1A: In 2A, your cabin is separated from the aisle by a privacy curtain. If you upgrade to First Class (1A), you get a solid, lockable door.
- 2A vs. 3A: In 3A, there are six bunks to a space instead of four, and you usually don’t have curtains at all, making it feel much more public.
The Challenge: The Late-Night Arrival
The biggest downside to the Bikaner–Amritsar leg is the timing. Because the train arrives in Amritsar well after midnight, it’s a bit of a logistical puzzle for your sleep schedule.
We decided to tuck the kids into their bunks so they could get some rest, but Gavin and I stayed awake the entire time.
The reason? We were terrified of oversleeping and missing our stop!
What You Need To Know
CRITICAL TIP: The Ju Jat Express isn’t a “terminating” train in Amritsar. It actually runs all the way from Jodhpur to Vaishno Devi Katra in Jammu and Kashmir. This means it only stops at the Amritsar platform for 10 minutes!
You need to be ready with your bags at the door at least fifteen minutes before the scheduled arrival time. If you’re a deep sleeper, set multiple alarms—you definitely don’t want to wake up halfway to Jammu!
Despite the late-night adrenaline rush of disembarking in a hurry, the convenience of waking up (eventually) in the heart of Punjab made it all worth it.
Understanding the Classes: 2A vs. 3A vs. 1A
We travelled in AC Second Class (2A), and overall, it was a good journey. For a family of four, the 2A layout is particularly convenient.
AC 2-Tier (2A)
The 2A layout consists of four bunks in a cabin space (two upper, two lower).
Because we are a family of four, we usually end up with the entire cabin to ourselves. The space is separated from the hallway by a privacy curtain.
While the bunks are basic, they are comfortable enough for this length of journey.
AC 3-Tier (3A)
This is the most popular class. It has six bunks per cabin (three on each side). There are usually no privacy curtains in 3A, and it can feel much more crowded.
It’s a great way to save money, but with kids, the extra space in 2A is worth the splurge.
AC First Class (1A)
This is the top tier. Instead of curtains, you have a lockable door for your cabin of two or four bunks. It is the quietest and most private way to travel, though it’s significantly more expensive.
Classes on Ju Jat Express
However, the Ju Jat Express from Bikaner to Amritsar (Jodhpur to Jammu) doesn’t have AC First Class (1A).
This train has 2A (AC 2-Tier) and 3A (AC 3-Tier) options only.
Logistics: Stations, Tickets, and Costs
As with all travel in India, a bit of planning ahead helps make a smoother trip.
Railway Stations
- Departure: Bikaner Junction (BKN). A well-organized station with several platforms. There are basic snack stalls and a waiting room.
- Arrival: Amritsar Junction (ASR). A bustling, high-energy station. Even after midnight, you will find e-rickshaws waiting outside to take you to your hotel.
Booking and Costs
We recommend booking as far in advance as possible via the IRCTC website or apps like 12Go or Ixigo. We always use 12Go to book our trains in India.
- AC 2-Tier (2A): Approximately ₹1,200 – ₹1,500 ($14–$18 USD)
- AC 3-Tier (3A): Approximately ₹850 – ₹1,100 ($10–$13 USD)
Practicalities on Board Bikaner to Amritsar
Bedrolls (sheets, blankets, and pillows) are provided in AC classes (2A and 3A) on the 19225 BGKT JAT EXP
- Bedding: In AC classes (2A, 3A), a sealed packet with a pillow, two sheets, and a blanket is provided.
- Snacks: There isn’t a formal dining car on this specific train, so we suggest packing your own snacks from Bikaner. However, “Chai-Chai!” vendors will pass through the corridors.
- Safety: We always use a simple chain and lock to secure our larger bags to the metal loops under the bottom bunks.
Things to Do in Bikaner
Before you board your overnight train, make sure you spend at least a day or two in Bikaner. It is far less touristy than Jodhpur or Jaipur and feels very authentic.
- Junagarh Fort: Unlike most Rajasthani forts, this one isn’t on a hill. The interior carvings and the museum (including an old biplane!) are incredible.
- Karni Mata (Rat Temple): Located about 30km away in Deshnoke. It is home to thousands of holy rats. It sounds intense, but it’s a fascinating cultural experience.
- The Old City Havelis: Take a walk through the narrow lanes to see the Rampuria Havelis. The red sandstone work is some of the most intricate in the world.
- Camel Research Centre: Perfect for families! You can learn about camel breeding and try camel milk ice cream.
Where to Stay in Bikaner
We stayed at The Prince Haveli in Bikaner.
It is a basic accommodation, but the rooms are comfortable, and it is Atik that we did a tour of Things To Do in Bikaner with and recommend.
Other Places to Stay in Bikaner:
- Narendra Bhawan: A luxury splurge in the residence of the last Maharaja.
- Bhanwar Niwas: A stunning heritage haveli in the old city.
- Vesta Bikaner Palace: A great mid-range option with a pool to escape the desert heat.
Things to Do in Amritsar
When you finally step off that train (quickly!) at Amritsar Junction, a whole new world of Punjabi hospitality awaits.
- The Golden Temple (Harmandir Sahib): The most significant shrine in Sikhism. Visit at night to see the Palki Sahib ceremony, and again at dawn.
- Langar Seva: Join the volunteers in the communal kitchen. They feed 100,000 people a day for free.
- Wagah Border: The daily border-closing ceremony between India and Pakistan. It’s a riot of shouting, marching, and music.
- Partition Museum: A heart-wrenching but essential look at the history of 1947.
- Street Food Tour: You must try the Amritsari Kulcha, Lassi, and Dal Makhani at Kesar Da Dhaba.
Where to Stay in Amritsar
These are the hotels we use regularly and can recommend for your trip.
- Amritsar – Mid-Range-Luxury: Hyatt Regency
This is our go-to for comfort. After a late-night train arrival, having a comfortable room and a great breakfast buffet at the Hyatt is a lifesaver! It’s located a short drive from the Golden Temple. - Amritsar – Budget: Hotel Sapphire
A basic hotel literally right outside the main entrance to Golden Temple though note only the upstairs rooms have a balcony and direct views.
Do You Need a Tour Guide?
For the train journey from Bikaner to Amritsar, you certainly don’t need a guide—just a bit of patience and a working clock!
In Bikaner
The old city of Bikaner is best explored on your own or with a local tuk-tuk driver.
We spent our first morning exploring with Atik Ahmed, the host from our accommodation at Prince Haveli.
Born and raised in Bikaner, Atik is incredibly passionate and knowledgeable about his hometown.
- Atik Ahmed:
+91 98290 05026
In Amritsar
We do recommend a food guide in Amritsar if it’s your first time. The back alleys where the best Jalebis and Kulcha are hidden can be a maze, and having someone to explain the history of the dhabas adds a lot of depth to the experience.
We really enjoyed the Food of Amritsar tour with Anil Sharma, a registered tour guide with @FeelMyCityTours.
- Anil Sharma:
+91 97802 34705
Final Thoughts: Bikaner to Amritsar
The overnight journey on the JU JAT EXPRESS from Bikaner to Amritsar is a classic Indian travel experience. While the midnight arrival and the 10-minute sprint off the train can be a bit stressful, it’s a small price to pay for the adventure. 🙂
Planning your own India adventure? Check out our Full Guide to Traveling India with Kids or our latest Amritsar Food Guide.
Have you braved an Indian train yet? Let us know your tips in the comments below!
Safe travels, adventurers!
Read More India Inspiration
- Ultimate India Food Tour: 10 Must-Try Treats.
- India Tourist e-Visa: Our Step-By-Step Guide.
- 10 Things To Do In Kochi & Kerala.
- Best Tourist SIM Card For India.
- What To Wear In India.
- 10 Tips To Avoid Delhi Belly In India.
- 4-Day Kochi & Kerala Itinerary.
- Travelling India By Bus: Intercity, Tourist & Sleeper Buses.
- 10 Iconic Things To Do In Kolkata.
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 and 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 – Make sure you have travel insurance before further planning the train Bikaner to Amritsar!
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.
