Wondering if it’s worth taking a cab from Udaipur to Jodhpur? Learn how you can make a side trip and pass by Ranakpur Jain Temple and Kumbhalgarh Fort when you do!
While planning my itinerary, I had difficulty choosing which Rajasthan cities to include. Because according to the internet, everything was worth a visit!! Eventually, I decided on Udaipur and Jodhpur. The main reasons being the additional places to see in between.
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Choosing Rajasthan Car Hire
Jodhpur is about 300 km away from Udaipur. When I went to India last year, there were no direct trains between the two cities. The plane tickets were also expensive. Bus was another option, but I thought hiring a cab was the most affordable and convenient way. It took roughly five hours to reach my destination.
I found two service providers—Rajputana Cabs and Rajasthan Car Hire—and emailed them my suggested itinerary for rates. My trip was in November, and the canvassing happened in May. Super advanced!
Anyway, I was keen on booking Rajputana Cabs but when I confirmed, the rates were higher than what they told me beforehand. So, I ended up with Rajasthan Car Hire.
Contact Rajasthan Car Hire
- Website: rajasthancarhire.com
- Mobile: +91 96609 01450
- Email: carhirerajasthan@gmail.com
- Reviews: TripAdvisor
Chanced upon this man and his cow while on route 
Lovely view on the way
Everything went smoothly. They provided me with the details the day before I leave. The driver picked me up at my Airbnb in Udaipur on time. There was a bottle of water for free. And off we went to Jodhpur! But first, we visited the following two spots on the way.
Ranakpur Jain Temple
Built in the 15th century, the Ranakpur Temple is one of the largest and most important temples of Jain culture. It is located in the Pali district of Rajasthan. Dharma Shah, a wealthy merchant had a vision and with the help of Rana Kumbha, a Rajput monarch, the temple complex and its township rose. Ranakpur Jain Temple is dedicated to Adinatha, the founder of the religion.
Go here and admire the intricate carvings and stunning architecture. Built in Māru-Gurjara style, it is said that its 1,444 decorated pillars are completely unique and unlike any other. The white marble temple stretches 48,000 square feet with 29 halls, 80 domes, and 426 columns.
I spent an hour or two here, just roaming around and learning about the temple’s history through the audio guide. I had a great time admiring it and the craftsmanship that comes with. However, I’m not sure if I got scammed because a man (who looks like he’s part of the temple) suddenly appeared in front of me and asked for money. Out of complete shock, I gave Rs. 500. Maybe I was just stupid. 😂 So, take note of that!
Hours, fees, and some tips
- The Ranakpur Jain Temple is open every day from 7:00 to 21:00.
- There is a fee that comes with an audio guide. Plus another fee for mobile phones or camera equipment.
- Check this page for ways to reach Ranakpur Jain Temple. As for me, I went there by road on a cab from Udaipur to Jodhpur.
- Being a temple, of course you have to take your shoes off. Also, watch out for people asking for money. Actually, just prepare loose change to give them or donate to the temple.
Kumbhalgarh Fort
Ever wondered what the world’s second (or maybe third) longest wall after the Great Wall of China? Yes, it’s the Kumbhalgarh Fort in India which stands at 3,600 ft tall and 38 km long. Built in the 15th century, it became a UNESCO World Heritage Site, together with four other forts, in 2013.
Much of the present structure of the fort is attributed to Rana Kumbha, ruler of the Mewar Kingdom of western India. Occupied until the late 19th century, the Kumbhalgarh Fort features at least 360 Hindu and Jain temples. Today, it’s open to the public and is lit for a few minutes in the evening.
Went here right after visiting the Ranakpur Jain Temple. Although it was breathtaking, I didn’t enjoy the experience that much. They didn’t let my cab beyond the outside gate, so I had to walk around 500 meters to get to the entrance. That distance was nothing, but there were no people around!
Moreover, when I got to the entrance, there were no foreign tourists in sight. So, being myself, I was highly cautious and chose not to enter the fort. While I was enjoying the view, there was a couple who asked me to take their photo. Before they left, the girl approached me and told me not to stay too long alone. 🙃 I was already about to leave anyway.
I still think it’s worth the visit. Interestingly, I haven’t seen the Great Wall of China yet so I couldn’t compare. Have you been to both? What do you think?
Hours, fees, and some tips
- The Kumbhalgarh Fort is open every day from 9:00 to 18:00.
- Entry fee for foreign travelers is Rs. 100 while it is Rs. 10 for Indian nationals.
- Check this page for ways to reach the Fort. As for me, I went there by road on a cab from Udaipur to Jodhpur.
- Wear comfy shoes and do visit in the winter to avoid the extreme heat!
Final thoughts
That’s my quick side trip while on a cab from Udaipur to Jodhpur. Funny thing is, while I was doing my research, I was shocked about “taking a cab” for a distance that far. Because in the Philippines, we use the term “cab” for inter-city travel only. Of course, Indians also use “car” but I find these nuances of the English language in different parts of the world really interesting.
In summary, I highly recommend Rajasthan Car Hire. We actually arrived earlier than expected. I have nothing bad to say about them! But I want to note that the driver did a Fast and Furious kind of driving on me… like most Indian drivers I encountered. 😁
Have you read about my commuting experience in India? See here for the observations I made about Indian drivers and how to prepare yourself for when you commute in India!
