How to Reach Jaisalmer: Flights, Trains & Road Routes (2026)
Jaisalmer sits deep in the Thar, near India’s western border — so getting there takes a little planning. The good news: it’s now reachable by air, well connected by train, and an easy drive from Jodhpur. Here’s every way in.
- By air: Jaisalmer Airport (JSA) runs seasonal flights (Oct–March) from Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur, Ahmedabad & Bengaluru.
- By train: Direct trains run from Delhi, Jaipur and Jodhpur to Jaisalmer railway station.
- By road: ~285 km from Jodhpur (5 hrs), ~650 km from Jaipur, ~780 km from Delhi.
- Off-season (Apr–Sept): fly to Jodhpur, then train or drive to Jaisalmer.
Does Jaisalmer have an airport?
Yes. Jaisalmer Airport (JSA) sits about 17 km south of the city and operates on a seasonal schedule, roughly October to March, when desert tourism peaks. During season, direct flights connect it to Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur, Ahmedabad and Bengaluru via IndiGo and Air India. Between April and September flights are usually suspended due to extreme heat.
One quirk: it’s a civil enclave inside an Air Force base, so photography is prohibited around the terminal. Book early — seats vanish fast in peak season and around the February Desert Festival.
What is the nearest airport to Jaisalmer?
When JSA flights aren’t running (or are sold out), the reliable year-round option is Jodhpur Airport (~285 km, about a 5-hour drive). Jodhpur has far more daily flights from across India, and the drive to Jaisalmer is smooth. Many travellers fly into Jodhpur and take a cab or train onward.
How to reach Jaisalmer by train
Jaisalmer has its own railway station, well connected across Rajasthan and beyond. Direct trains run from Delhi (overnight, ~17–18 hrs), Jaipur (~12 hrs) and Jodhpur (~5–6 hrs). The overnight sleeper from Delhi or Jaipur is a popular, budget-friendly way in — you sleep through the journey and wake up in the desert.
How to reach Jaisalmer by road
Roads into Jaisalmer are good and the drive across the Thar is scenic. Approximate distances:
- Jodhpur → Jaisalmer: ~285 km, ~5 hours
- Jaipur → Jaisalmer: ~650 km, ~10–11 hours
- Delhi → Jaisalmer: ~780 km, best done overnight by train or in two legs
- Bikaner → Jaisalmer: ~330 km, ~5–6 hours
State and private buses (including Volvo sleepers) run from Jaipur, Jodhpur, Bikaner and Ahmedabad. For comfort and flexibility, a private cab from Jodhpur is the easiest door-to-door option.
The easiest way in, by season
October to March: fly direct to Jaisalmer if seats are available, or fly to Jodhpur and drive. April to September: JSA is usually closed, so route via Jodhpur (flight or train) then road. Either way, once you land we can pick you up — a private cab from the station or airport is included in our packages.
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Once you reach Jaisalmer, we handle the rest — fort, dunes, camel safari and camp, private cab included.
Plan my tripFAQ
Does Jaisalmer have its own airport?
Yes, Jaisalmer Airport (JSA) operates seasonal flights roughly October to March, with direct routes from Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur, Ahmedabad and Bengaluru. It's usually closed April to September due to extreme heat.
What is the nearest airport to Jaisalmer?
Jaisalmer's own airport when it's operating; otherwise Jodhpur Airport, about 285 km (a 5-hour drive) away, which runs flights year-round.
How far is Jodhpur from Jaisalmer?
About 285 km, roughly a 5-hour drive by road, or 5–6 hours by train.
How long is the train from Delhi to Jaisalmer?
Around 17–18 hours — usually taken as an overnight sleeper, arriving in Jaisalmer the next day.
What is the best way to reach Jaisalmer?
In season (Oct–March), a direct flight is fastest. Otherwise, fly or train to Jodhpur and drive the scenic 5 hours, or take an overnight train straight to Jaisalmer.