Rajasthan by Train: Scenic Routes and Planning Tips

Travelling through Rajasthan by train is one of the most evocative ways to experience India’s desert state: slow rhythms of the rail, changing landscapes from scrub to sand, and towns that unfurl like film sets from curious windows. Whether you prefer a budget-friendly itinerary on regular express trains or the luxe comfort of tourist trains, this guide will help you plan scenic routes and make the most of rail travel in Rajasthan.

Why travel Rajasthan by train?

Trains in Rajasthan connect a web of historic cities, vibrant towns and remote desert outposts while offering comfortable options for most budgets. By daylight you catch the colour of rural life—camel caravans, mustard and bajra fields, and clusters of havelis—and by night you cover large distances while resting. Trains also often arrive close to old city gates and railway-side bazaars, making it convenient to step into the living heritage of each place.

Best scenic rail routes in Rajasthan

Not every train route is equal in scenery, but several stand out for their landscapes, architectural views and leisurely intervals between major stops. Here are routes to prioritise:

1. Delhi–Jaipur–Ajmer–Udaipur circuit

This classic circuit begins in Delhi and moves south-west into Rajasthan. The approach into Jaipur is dramatic as the plains flit by and the Pink City rises. Trains between Jaipur and Ajmer travel past agricultural landscapes and small towns; Ajmer is the gateway to Pushkar. The Jaipur–Udaipur leg offers some of the most scenic stretches: glimpses of arid hills, rural settlements and small lakes before Udaipur’s lakes and palaces appear.

2. Jodhpur–Jaisalmer (The Thar edge)

The rail journey from Jodhpur to Jaisalmer traces the fringes of the Thar Desert. Watch for changing colours of the earth and the occasional small towns that look like clusters of sand-coloured postcards. Arrive in Jaisalmer and you are immediately within walking distance of the fortress and the desert’s golden light.

3. Bikaner–Jaisalmer–Jodhpur loop

This loop stitches together the northwest—Bikaner’s mighty forts and camel fairs, Jaisalmer’s dunes and bazaars, and Jodhpur’s blue lanes. The Bikaner–Jaisalmer route particularly highlights arid vistas and isolated outposts, with long stretches where trains cross seemingly endless open land.

4. Shekhawati: Delhi–Jhunjhunu–Bikaner

Shekhawati’s painted havelis are best explored using local trains and a few road transfers. The rail approach to towns like Jhunjhunu and Fatehpur showcases rural Rajasthan and lends a local flavour to the journey—ideal for travellers interested in architecture and quieter lanes.

5. Luxury and tourist trains

For those who prefer all-inclusive experiences, Rajasthan features iconic tourist trains that run curated itineraries between major palaces and forts. These trains combine historic hotel stays, guided tours and fine dining aboard—excellent for travellers seeking comfort and a curated take on Rajasthani culture. Book well in advance for these seasonal departures.

Practical planning tips

When to travel

The ideal time to travel by train in Rajasthan is during the cooler months, roughly from October to March. Days are pleasant for sightseeing and early mornings or evenings are cooler for desert excursions. Summers are hot and dusty—trains run but daytime sightseeing can be uncomfortable.

Booking tickets and reservations

• Use the Indian Railways website or authorised apps for confirmed reservations on popular routes. Tatkal bookings can help with last-minute travel but are competitive.
• For tourist trains and palace trains, book directly through the operators or legitimate travel agents; these have separate pricing and availability rules.
• Reserve sleeper or AC coaches depending on comfort needs—overnight express trains often have 3A, 2A and 1A coaches for different budgets.

Choosing the right coach

AC coaches (3A, 2A, 1A) are recommended for overnight journeys and summer travel. Sleeper class is economical and popular among domestic travellers, while second seating (2S) is fine for short daytime hops. If you prefer window views for photography, book a side lower berth or a window seat in daytime coaches where available.

Packing and essentials for rail travel

• Light layers: Days can be warm and nights cooler. Carry a shawl or light jacket for air-conditioned coaches.
• Water and snacks: Carry bottled water and hygienic snacks for longer journeys; station vendors are convenient but exercise caution with perishables.
• Comfort items: Neck pillow, eye mask, wet wipes and a small torch are handy for night travel and dimly lit platforms.
• Security: Keep valuables in a small lockable bag and use the berth hooks or overhead racks wisely. Use a money belt when moving on platforms.

Local transfers and first/last-mile tips

Rajasthan’s stations vary in size—from major junctions with taxi counters to smaller halts where autorickshaws and pre-paid taxis rule. Plan transfers in advance for early morning or late-night arrivals. Many hotels offer pick-up services from stations; confirm the meeting point and any extra charges beforehand.

Sightseeing logistics

• Start early for forts and palaces to beat crowds and the afternoon heat. Many monuments open at sunrise or early morning.
• For desert activities (camel safaris, dune camps), coordinate with local operators and allow travel time from the nearest railhead—some dunes are an hour or more from the station.
• Consider day trips from railway hubs: from Jaipur you can reach Amber Fort and Samode; from Jodhpur try Mehrangarh and nearby Bishnoi villages; from Ajmer, Pushkar is a short transfer away.

Food, health and safety on board

Most long-distance trains have pantry cars or station vendors who sell hot meals. If you have dietary preferences, carry sufficient snacks and check pantry ratings on travel forums. Keep hand sanitiser handy and prefer packaged bottled water. For basic first aid, a small kit with motion-sickness tablets, band-aids and any personal medications is useful.

Photography and respecting local culture

Trains provide fantastic opportunities for photography—capture the changing landscape, stations, and local life. Be mindful when photographing people; ask permission, especially in rural areas and religious sites. Inside heritage towns, respect dress codes at temples and holy sites.

Suggested sample itineraries

Here are two practical itineraries to suit different travel styles.

Comfort-paced 7–9 day loop

1. Arrive Delhi, overnight train or day train to Jaipur.
2. 2–3 nights in Jaipur: city palace, forts, day trip to Amber.
3. Train to Ajmer/Pushkar for a day, then on to Udaipur.
4. 2 nights in Udaipur: lake palace area, boat ride, local markets.
5. Return by train to Ahmedabad or back to Delhi (depending on rail links).

Adventurous 10–12 day desert and forts route

1. Start in Delhi, train to Jodhpur.
2. Jodhpur: Mehrangarh, local bazaars, then night train to Jaisalmer.
3. Jaisalmer: fort, havelis and an overnight desert camp.
4. Train to Bikaner, then on to Jaipur or directly back towards Delhi.

Tip: Allow buffer time for trains and road transfers—Rajasthan’s charm often includes unhurried moments worth lingering for.

Final pointers

Plan for flexibility—train delays are possible, but they rarely spoil the experience if you leave sensible buffers. Balance train travel with short road transfers when necessary to access deserts or remote havelis. Embrace the slower rhythm of rail travel in Rajasthan: it’s not just a means of transport but part of the adventure, connecting you to the state’s colour, history and hospitality.

With this guide you have the tools to choose scenic routes, book smartly and travel comfortably across Rajasthan. Pack light, keep your camera ready, and let the rails take you through a landscape of forts, dunes and unforgettable sunsets.

Safe travels from TravMe Holidays—Rajasthan awaits.