Pune, a bustling city in Maharashtra known for its educational institutions and IT hubs, lies about 215 km east of the serene coastal town of Dapoli. Dapoli is famous for its pristine beaches, historic temples, and a peaceful getaway from city life. This route is popular among weekend travelers and nature lovers looking to escape Pune’s urban pace.

This guide covers all practical ways to travel from Pune to Dapoli, including train, bus, car, and taxi options. You’ll find detailed travel times, ticket costs, route tips, and advice to help you plan your trip confidently.

Getting from Pune to Dapoli – Main Options

Train

Train travel between Pune and Dapoli is limited but possible with some planning. The nearest railway station to Dapoli is Khed, about 30 km away, which connects to Pune via local trains and express services.

• Route and stations:

  Board a train from Pune Junction to Khed station on the Konkan Railway route. The distance is approximately 180 km by rail, taking around 5 to 6 hours depending on the train.

• Ticket costs and classes:

  Train fares range from ₹150 to ₹500 depending on the class (sleeper, second seating, or AC). Booking through IRCTC is recommended for confirmed seats.

• Frequency and timing:

  Few trains run daily on this route, so check schedules in advance. Early morning trains are preferable to avoid delays and reach Dapoli by afternoon.

• Last-mile connectivity:

  From Khed station, you can hire local buses or taxis to Dapoli town, which takes about 45 minutes. Prepaid taxis are available at the station but negotiate fares beforehand.

• Scenic views:

  The Konkan Railway offers beautiful views of the Western Ghats and coastal landscapes, especially during monsoon. Carry light snacks and water for the journey.

• Challenges:

  Train delays are common during monsoon due to landslides. Also, limited direct trains mean you may need to change at Ratnagiri or Panvel.

Bus

Bus travel is a popular and affordable way to reach Dapoli from Pune, with several state-run and private operators servicing this route daily.

• Bus types and operators:

  Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) runs regular buses, including non-AC and deluxe Volvo services. Private operators also offer comfortable options.

• Departure points:

  Buses depart from Pune’s Swargate bus station, which is well connected by local transport. Arrive early to get preferred seats.

• Travel time and cost:

  The journey takes around 5 to 6 hours covering 215 km via NH66 and NH166. Ticket prices range from ₹150 for ordinary buses to ₹400 for Volvo coaches.

• Frequency:

  Buses run frequently throughout the day, with early morning and evening services being the most convenient for travelers.

• Comfort and stops:

  Volvo buses offer reclining seats and onboard amenities. Regular buses stop at towns like Chiplun and Khed, where you can stretch and grab refreshments.

• Seasonal tips:

  During monsoon, roads can be slippery and prone to delays. Avoid traveling late at night due to limited bus services and safety concerns.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Pune to Dapoli is a flexible and scenic option, ideal for travelers who want to explore at their own pace and stop en route.

• Route details:

  The most common route is via NH66 and NH166, covering approximately 215 km. The drive takes about 5 to 6 hours depending on traffic and stops.

• Road conditions:

  The highways are mostly well-maintained, with some narrow stretches near the Western Ghats. Watch out for tolls at multiple points along NH66.

• Rest stops and attractions:

  Popular stops include Chiplun and Khed, which have good dhabas and restaurants. You can also visit the scenic Amboli Ghat if you take a slight detour.

• Best time to drive:

  Start early morning to avoid Pune’s city traffic and reach Dapoli before dusk. Avoid night driving during monsoon due to slippery roads and fog.

• Car rentals and costs:

  Self-drive car rentals in Pune start around ₹2,000 per day for hatchbacks. Fuel costs for the trip will be approximately ₹1,500 depending on vehicle mileage.

• Parking in Dapoli:

  Most hotels and guesthouses offer parking. Public parking near beaches can get crowded during weekends and holidays.

Taxi / Cab

Hiring a taxi or cab from Pune to Dapoli is a convenient but more expensive option, suitable for groups or travelers seeking door-to-door service.

• Booking options:

  You can book prepaid taxis from Pune airport or railway station, or use app-based services like Ola and Uber for outstation rides.

• Fare estimates:

  Taxi fares typically range from ₹4,000 to ₹6,000 one way depending on vehicle type and negotiation. Confirm the fare before starting the trip.

• Travel time:

  The journey takes around 5 to 6 hours via NH66. Drivers often take breaks at highway dhabas for refreshments.

• Comfort and luggage:

  Taxis offer air-conditioned comfort and ample space for luggage, making them ideal for families or groups with heavy bags.

• Flexibility:

  Taxis provide flexibility to stop at scenic spots or detours, unlike buses or trains.

• Seasonal considerations:

  During monsoon, confirm driver experience with coastal routes to ensure safety on slippery roads.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This simple itinerary is designed for first-time travelers from Pune to Dapoli, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey.

• Book your tickets in advance:

  Whether by train or bus, use IRCTC or MSRTC online portals to secure your seats and avoid last-minute rush.

• Reach the departure point early:

  Arrive at Pune Junction or Swargate bus station at least 30 minutes before departure to find your platform or bus stand easily.

• Pack essentials for the journey:

  Carry water, light snacks, and a power bank. Monsoon travelers should bring rain gear and waterproof bags.

• Plan your arrival time:

  Aim to reach Dapoli before sunset to settle into your accommodation comfortably and explore local eateries.

• Arrange last-mile transport:

  If arriving by train at Khed, pre-book a taxi or check local bus timings to avoid waiting long at the station.

• Keep local contacts handy:

  Save numbers of your hotel, taxi services, and emergency contacts for quick assistance upon arrival.

Practical Travel Tips

• Safety on roads:

  Coastal highways can be narrow and winding. Drive cautiously, especially during monsoon when visibility is low and roads are wet.

• Food and water:

  Prefer bottled water and eat at well-known dhabas or restaurants to avoid stomach issues. Pune and Dapoli both have good options for local Maharashtrian cuisine.

• Booking strategy:

  Use official portals like IRCTC for trains and MSRTC for buses to avoid scams. For taxis, always confirm fares beforehand.

• Local commute in Dapoli:

  Auto-rickshaws and shared jeeps are common for short distances. For beach visits, renting a scooter is convenient and economical.

• Luggage handling:

  If traveling by bus or train, pack light and secure your bags. Keep valuables close to you during transit.

• Seasonal warnings:

  Avoid traveling during heavy monsoon spells due to landslides and roadblocks on the Konkan route. Check weather updates before starting.

Best Time & Conditions

The best time to travel from Pune to Dapoli is during the cooler months from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for beach activities. Avoid the monsoon peak from June to September if you want uninterrupted travel.

Traffic conditions vary; weekdays and early mornings are less congested compared to weekends and festival periods when many locals visit Dapoli.

• Avoid traveling during Ganesh Chaturthi and Diwali weekends as highways get crowded with holiday traffic.

• Summer months can be hot and humid; start early to avoid midday heat.

• Early morning departures help beat Pune city traffic and ensure timely arrival.

• Monsoon travel requires caution due to slippery roads and occasional delays on the Konkan Railway.

Arrival at Dapoli & What to Expect

Upon arrival in Dapoli, travelers are greeted by a laid-back coastal town with clean beaches and friendly locals. The main bus stand and taxi drop points are close to the town center, making it easy to reach hotels and guesthouses.

Local transport includes auto-rickshaws and shared jeeps, but many visitors prefer renting scooters to explore nearby beaches like Murud and Karde. Popular stay areas include Dapoli town and Anjarle, both offering a range of accommodations from budget lodges to resorts.

Conclusion

For most travelers, taking an MSRTC bus or driving by car offers the best balance of comfort, cost, and convenience when traveling from Pune to Dapoli. Buses are affordable and frequent, while self-driving allows flexibility to explore the scenic Konkan coast.

With proper planning and awareness of seasonal conditions, you can enjoy a smooth journey to Dapoli’s tranquil beaches and cultural sites. This guide equips you with all the practical details to plan your trip confidently and make the most of your coastal escape.