How to Reach Jaisalmer from Mumbai – The Ultimate Travel Guide

If you’re planning a trip to the golden sands of Rajasthan and are wondering how to reach Jaisalmer from Mumbai, this guide is exactly what you need. The good news is that you have multiple options—flights, trains, or even a scenic road trip.

To answer your query directly: Jaisalmer can be reached from Mumbai by air, train, or road, depending on your preferences, time availability, and travel budget. Each option offers a unique travel experience, whether you’re looking for speed, scenery, or adventure.

Located deep in the heart of the Thar Desert, Jaisalmer is a jewel of heritage, desert culture, and celestial beauty. This blog will walk you through every detail you need to know about how to reach Jaisalmer from Mumbai, with travel tips, route insights, ideal seasons, and much more.

Mumbai to Jaisalmer – Distance and Travel Overview

Before you decide how to reach Jaisalmer from Mumbai, it helps to understand the distance and approximate travel times for each mode of transport. Here’s what to expect:

• By Flight: The aerial distance between Mumbai and Jaisalmer is approximately 895 kilometers. A direct flight takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, whereas indirect flights via Jodhpur or Jaipur can take 4 to 6 hours depending on layovers.

   

• By Train: The rail distance from Mumbai to Jaisalmer is around 1,180 kilometers. The average train journey can take between 17 to 22 hours depending on the service.

   

• By Road: The driving distance is approximately 1,065 kilometers. If you plan a road trip, the journey may take around 18 to 20 hours depending on traffic, breaks, and road conditions.

   

Choosing the right way to travel depends on your budget, the time you have, and the kind of experience you’re looking for. In the sections below, we’ll break down each option to help you decide how to reach Jaisalmer from Mumbai most conveniently.

How to Reach Jaisalmer from Mumbai by Flight

The quickest and most convenient option for those short on time is to take a flight. Although direct flights are limited, they are the fastest way to cover the distance.

• Direct flights from Mumbai to Jaisalmer are operated by SpiceJet during the peak tourist season, typically from October to February. These flights take approximately 1.5 hours and are a great option for travelers looking to avoid long travel times.

   

• If direct flights are unavailable, you can take a flight from Mumbai to Jodhpur or Jaipur and continue the journey by taxi, train, or bus. Mumbai to Jodhpur flights are frequent and the onward journey from Jodhpur to Jaisalmer by road takes about 4 to 5 hours.

   

This route is ideal for families, luxury travelers, or anyone prioritizing convenience. Among all options for how to reach Jaisalmer from Mumbai, flights save the most time but may cost more during high season.

Make sure to book your flights well in advance, especially between October and February when demand is at its highest.

How to Reach Jaisalmer from Mumbai by Train

For travelers who enjoy watching the landscapes unfold and want to travel on a budget, the train is an excellent choice. Indian Railways offers both direct and connecting trains to Jaisalmer.

• The most popular direct train is the Bandra Terminus – Jaisalmer Superfast Express (22931), which operates twice a week—on Wednesdays and Sundays. It takes roughly 22 hours to reach Jaisalmer from Mumbai.

   

• If the direct train doesn’t align with your schedule, consider taking a train to Jodhpur, which has several daily trains from Mumbai. From Jodhpur, you can board another train or take a taxi to reach Jaisalmer.

   

Train travel is affordable, comfortable (especially in AC classes), and offers a chance to see the gradually changing terrain—from green Maharashtra to arid Rajasthan. It’s one of the most popular answers to how to reach Jaisalmer from Mumbai if you value cost-efficiency and want a more immersive experience.

Always book tickets in advance, especially during holidays and festival seasons.

How to Reach Jaisalmer from Mumbai by Road

If you are an explorer at heart, enjoy long drives, or plan to stop at multiple cities along the way, traveling by road is an adventurous way to reach Jaisalmer.

• The driving route from Mumbai to Jaisalmer covers approximately 1,065 kilometers via NH48 and NH68. The journey can take 18 to 20 hours, depending on your driving speed and breaks.

   

• Recommended stopovers along the way include Surat, Ahmedabad, and Barmer. These cities offer excellent food and rest options.

   

• If you don’t wish to drive yourself, you can book intercity buses operated by private companies like K.R. Jakhar Travels or SRS Travels. Tickets can be booked via RedBus or other travel portals.

   

• Self-drive cars from providers like ZoomCar, Revv, and MyChoize are available in Mumbai and can be dropped off in Jodhpur or Jaipur if needed.

   

For many travelers wondering how to reach Jaisalmer from Mumbai while exploring the diversity of western India, a road trip is the perfect answer.

Make sure your vehicle is serviced, carry plenty of water and snacks, and avoid driving late at night on remote stretches.

Best Time to Visit Jaisalmer

Once you’ve decided how to reach Jaisalmer from Mumbai, the next crucial factor is timing your trip well.

• The ideal time to visit Jaisalmer is between October and February. During these months, the weather is pleasant, making it perfect for sightseeing, desert safaris, and stargazing. (learn more about what is stargazing).

   

• Summer months (March to June) should be avoided as temperatures can soar up to 45°C, making outdoor activities extremely uncomfortable.

   

• The monsoon season (July to September) brings occasional rains but is still dry overall. While hotel prices drop, many outdoor attractions remain closed or limited.

   

To get the best experience of the desert, plan your trip in winter and combine it with events like the Jaisalmer Desert Festival, which is usually held in February.

Suggested 3-Day Itinerary from Mumbai to Jaisalmer

If you’re still thinking about how to reach Jaisalmer from Mumbai and how to make the most of your trip, here’s a simple 3-day plan:

Day 1: Arrival and Local Exploration

• Reach Jaisalmer by flight, train, or car

   

• Visit Gadisar Lake and enjoy a sunset boat ride

   

• Explore local markets and try Rajasthani cuisine

   

Day 2: Forts and Desert Adventure

• Morning visit to Jaisalmer Fort, Patwon Ki Haveli, and Salim Singh Ki Haveli

   

• Afternoon camel safari at Sam Sand Dunes

   

• Overnight stay in a desert camp with cultural programs

   

Day 3: Sunrise and Departure

• Sunrise photography at the dunes

   

• Quick visit to Kuldhara, the abandoned village

   

• Depart via your chosen mode of return

   

This itinerary works no matter how you reach Jaisalmer from Mumbai, and ensures you experience the best of the city in a short time.

Add Stargazing to Your Thar Desert Trip

Jaisalmer isn’t just about forts and camels—it’s also one of the best places in India for stargazing. Once you figure out how to reach Jaisalmer from Mumbai, don’t miss the chance to gaze at the night sky in the vast open desert.

Starscapes is India’s leading astrotourism brand and organizes unique skywatching events, astrophotography tours, and telescope sessions in Jaisalmer.  Explore their offerings like astro camp, astro party, Astrocontest, or join the Nakshatra Sabha for immersive celestial experiences.

Why Jaisalmer is perfect for stargazing:

• Extremely low light pollution

   

• Clear skies during winter

   

• 360-degree horizon views from the sand dunes

   

A night under the stars with trained sky guides can turn your desert trip into a cosmic adventure. Book your session in advance on Starscapes.zone.

Travel Tips for a Smooth Journey

Before you finalize how to reach Jaisalmer from Mumbai, keep these tips in mind for a safer, more enjoyable trip:

• Always book tickets (flight/train/bus) in advance during peak tourist season

   

• Carry sunscreen, lip balm, a hat, and warm clothes for desert nights

   

• Desert areas may have weak mobile signals—download offline maps

   

• Carry government-issued ID cards

   

• Confirm bookings for desert safari and stargazing before you arrive

Conclusion

There are many answers to the question of how to reach Jaisalmer from Mumbai, and the best choice depends entirely on your travel style and preferences. Whether you choose a quick flight, a scenic train ride, or a bold road trip, Jaisalmer awaits with golden sands, historic forts, and a starry night sky that feels otherworldly.

Once you’ve arrived, enhance your trip with a desert safari, cultural shows, and unforgettable stargazing experiences through Starscapes.

Consider diving into deeper stargazing content like types of constellation, Saptarishi Constellation, or which is the largest constellation to enrich your cosmic journey.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)