Bhuj’s local transportation is practical and tourist-friendly, though there are no metro or tram networks. Visitors typically rely on a mix of auto-rickshaws, cabs, private taxis, city buses, and rail for both local and intercity travel. Here’s an up-to-date guide with all available modes:
1. Car Rentals & Private Taxis
- Services Available: Local sightseeing, airport transfers, outstation trips.
- Cost: ₹9–₹12 per km or ₹1500–₹2000 per day.
- Booking: Available 24/7 via agencies like HurryUp Cabs or Shree Ram Tourism.
- Advantages: Comfortable, flexible for covering city heritage sites and rural villages like Bhujodi and Bhirandiyara.
2. Auto-Rickshaws
- Coverage: All within Bhuj city limits including Swaminarayan Temple, Lake, and Palace areas.
- Fares: ₹15–₹40 for short rides; ₹100–₹150 for longer areas.
- Availability: Readily available; negotiate in advance since meters are uncommon.
- Best For: Short trips within the city; economical and convenient.
3. Railway (Bhuj Junction – BHUJ)
- Connectivity: Trains connect Bhuj to Ahmedabad, Mumbai, Delhi, and Gandhidham.
- Frequency: 5–6 daily passenger and express trains.
- Fares: ₹120–₹1500 depending on class and distance.
- Facilities: Waiting rooms, food stalls, taxi stand outside station.
- Recommended Route: Vande Bharat and Express trains provide comfort and speed.
4. Vande Bharat (Fast Train Equivalent to Metro)
- Route: Bhuj to Ahmedabad via Gandhidham and Bhachau.
- Frequency: Once or twice daily (Morning departure).
- Fare: ₹100–₹300.
- Duration: approx. 5.5 hrs to Ahmedabad.
- Purpose: Serves as Bhuj’s premium high-speed travel alternative since no metro exists.
5. Bicycle & Walking
- Availability: Bicycle rentals from hotels or tourist hubs (~₹100–₹200/day).
- Best For: Bhujodi Village, old town heritage walk, and around Hamirsar Lake.
- Note: City is compact and easy to explore on foot; avoid mid-afternoon heat.
6. Airport Taxi
- Location: Bhuj Airport (3 km from city center).
- Mode: Auto-rickshaw (₹100) or Taxi (₹250–₹400).
- Flight Routes: Regular flights to Ahmedabad, Mumbai, and occasionally Delhi.
- Tip: Prepaid counters available inside airport terminal.
7. City Bus & State Transport (GSRTC)
- Coverage: City & nearby towns such as Mandvi, Gandhidham, and Rann Utsav areas.
- Fares: ₹10–₹50 (city) and ₹100–₹700 (intercity).
- Frequency: Every 30–60 minutes.
- Stations: Main GSRTC Bus Station near Jubilee Circle.
- Note: Buses are reliable for budget travelers, but limited routes to rural points like Kalo Dungar.
Bhuj Transportation Summary Table
| No | Mode | Avg. Fare | Accessibility | Ideal Use | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Private Taxi/Car | ₹9–₹12 per km | City & Rural | Sightseeing & Rann Trips | 24/7 |
| 2 | Auto-Rickshaw | ₹15–₹150 | City Only | Local commutes | Widely available |
| 3 | GSRTC City Bus | ₹10–₹50 | City & Towns | Budget Travel | Regular Intervals |
| 4 | Railway (BHUJ) | ₹120–₹1500 | State & National | Long Distance | Scheduled |
| 5 | Vande Bharat | ₹100–₹300 | Intercity (Ahmedabad) | Fast Train | Daily |
| 6 | Bicycle/Walking | ₹100–₹200 rent | Local | Short Distance | Always |
| 7 | Airport Taxi | ₹250–₹400 | Airport–City | Quick Transit | Frequent |
Key Tips for Travellers
- No metro or tram – autos and taxis dominate urban travel.
- For short trips, prefer auto-rickshaws or walking.
- For day tours, hire a private car with driver.
- Rann of Kutch excursions need early departure (private or tour taxi).
- Rail and air connectivity is excellent for intercity transfers.
- Avoid peak afternoon travel (12 PM–3 PM) due to heat.