Introduction

Planning a trip from Mumbai to Pune? Knowing the tolls on this route can help you budget better and avoid surprises. The Mumbai-Pune Expressway is one of India's busiest and most well-maintained highways, but it includes several toll plazas.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through how many tolls you’ll encounter, their approximate costs, and some tips to make your journey smoother. Whether you’re driving your own car or hiring a cab, this information will help you plan efficiently.

Number of Tolls from Mumbai to Pune

The Mumbai to Pune route primarily uses the Mumbai-Pune Expressway, which has multiple toll plazas. Currently, there are three main toll plazas on this expressway that you will cross when traveling from Mumbai to Pune.

• Kalamboli Toll Plaza:

  Located near the start of the expressway on the Mumbai side.

• Khalapur Toll Plaza:

  Situated roughly midway along the expressway.

• Khandala Toll Plaza:

  Near the Pune side, before you exit the expressway.

These tolls are mandatory for all vehicles using the expressway. If you take alternative routes like the old Mumbai-Pune highway (NH48), you may encounter additional tolls, but the expressway is the fastest and most popular choice.

Toll Charges and Payment Options

The toll charges vary depending on your vehicle type. Here’s an approximate breakdown for a standard car:

• Kalamboli Toll Plaza: ₹50–₹60

• Khalapur Toll Plaza: ₹50–₹60

• Khandala Toll Plaza: ₹50–₹60

So, the total toll cost for a one-way trip is around ₹150–₹180 for a car. Two-wheelers pay less, typically around ₹30–₹40 per toll.

Most toll plazas accept cash, but FASTag is mandatory for all vehicles now. FASTag helps you pay tolls electronically, saving time and avoiding queues.

Alternative Routes and Toll Considerations

If you want to avoid tolls, you can take the older Mumbai-Pune highway (NH48). However, this route is longer, slower, and has more traffic signals and congestion.

• NH48 has multiple smaller toll plazas, but the total toll cost may be similar or slightly less.

• The expressway is safer and has better road conditions, making tolls worth the cost for most travelers.

For commercial vehicles or buses, toll charges are higher, so check with your transport provider for exact rates.

Tips for a Smooth Toll Experience

• Use FASTag:

  It’s mandatory and speeds up toll payments.

• Carry exact change:

  For any cash payments or backup.

• Travel during off-peak hours:

  To avoid long toll plaza queues.

• Check toll rates online:

  Rates can change, so verify before your trip.

• Plan rest stops:

  Toll plazas often have nearby amenities for breaks.

Conclusion

Traveling from Mumbai to Pune involves crossing three main toll plazas on the expressway. The total toll cost for cars is around ₹150–₹180 one way. Using FASTag makes the journey smoother and faster.

While alternative routes exist, the expressway remains the best option for quick and comfortable travel. With this knowledge, you can plan your trip better and enjoy a hassle-free drive between these two vibrant cities.

FAQs

How many tolls are there from Mumbai to Pune?

There are three main toll plazas on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway: Kalamboli, Khalapur, and Khandala.

What is the total toll cost for a car from Mumbai to Pune?

The total toll cost is approximately ₹150 to ₹180 for a one-way trip by car.

Is FASTag mandatory on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway?

Yes, FASTag is mandatory for all vehicles on the expressway for electronic toll payments.

Can I avoid tolls by taking an alternative route?

You can take the older Mumbai-Pune highway (NH48), but it is longer and may have multiple smaller tolls.

Are toll charges different for two-wheelers?

Yes, two-wheelers pay less, usually around ₹30 to ₹40 per toll plaza on this route.