How to get to Jodhpur

A trip to Jodhpur, the famous "Blue City" in the state of Rajasthan, promises to be an unforgettable adventure in the heart of India. You can reach this historic centre via various routes: from a quick flight to a scenic journey by train or car through desert landscapes. Regardless of the chosen route, tourists can look forward to immersing themselves in the unique culture and architectural magnificence of the region.

The fastest way to reach the walls of Mehrangarh Fort is by air. The city is served by Jodhpur Airport (JDH), which receives regular flights from major Indian cities. The airport is located just a few kilometres from the centre, allowing you to save significant travel time.

If direct tickets are unavailable, flights to neighbouring cities followed by a transfer can be an alternative. The nearest airports are located in the cities of Kishangarh (187 km) and Udaipur (196 km), from where it is easy to continue the journey by ground transport.

Contrary to some outdated information, Jodhpur is an important railway hub in the region, and travelling by train is one of the most popular ways to get here. The main station, Jodhpur Junction, receives direct trains from Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur, and other major cities, offering tourists an authentic experience of travelling across India.

The state's railway network is well-developed, but tickets, especially for air-conditioned classes, are best booked in advance. If a direct route is unavailable, you can consider connections via stations in the cities of Kishangarh or Udaipur.

Bus services connect Jodhpur with neighbouring tourist centres, offering an affordable travel option. A scenic drive from the city of Udaipur (about 221 km) will take approximately 5.8 hours, while the route from the city of Kishangarh (248 km) will require about 4.9 hours of travel time.

Travellers departing from the city of Bikaner should expect a trip lasting 5–6 hours (the distance is about 250 km), which is significantly faster than outdated sources sometimes indicate. For comfort in the hot climate, it is recommended to choose modern Volvo or Sleeper class buses with air conditioning.

Travelling by car offers freedom of movement and the opportunity to stop at beautiful places along the way. The drive from the city of Kishangarh (231 km) usually takes about 4 hours, and the road from the city of Bikaner (233 km) will require approximately 4.2 hours.

The route from the city of Udaipur is slightly longer (264 km) and takes about 4.8 hours, passing through picturesque landscapes. Many tourists prefer to hire a taxi with a driver—this is a common and relatively inexpensive practice in the region, eliminating the difficulties of self-driving in heavy traffic.

To ensure your immersion in the atmosphere of Rajasthan is as comfortable and safe as possible, it is worth considering a few local features in advance. Here is a list of practical recommendations for preparing for a visit to the "Blue City".

1. Clothing and Seasonality. Given the hot desert climate, choose loose clothing made of natural cotton or linen. Out of respect for traditions, shoulders and knees should be covered, and a head covering will provide reliable protection from the sun.
2. Transport within the city. For short trips, auto-rickshaws are ideal. Be sure to agree on the price before boarding or insist on using the meter.
3. Finances and Cash. The country's currency is the Indian Rupee. Although cards are accepted in hotels, you will need cash, preferably in small denominations, at colourful bazaars and small shops.
4. Health and Water. Drink exclusively bottled water, checking the seal on the cap when purchasing. Avoid ice in drinks at street cafes.
5. Language and Communication. Locals speak Hindi and Rajasthani, but English is widely spoken in the tourism sector. A few words in Hindi (for example, "Namaste") always bring a smile and encourage communication.
6. Local Etiquette. It is customary to remove shoes when entering temples and private homes. Also, remember that the left hand is considered "unclean", so eat and pass items only with your right hand.
7. What to Avoid. Be cautious of intrusive "helpers" on the streets offering to take you to the "best spice shop"—this is often a trap with inflated prices for the sake of a commission.
8. Best View. Be sure to plan a dinner at a rooftop restaurant in the old city—the view of the illuminated Mehrangarh Fort will be one of the most vivid impressions of the trip.

Following these simple rules will help you feel confident and enjoy the famous Indian hospitality without unnecessary worries.