Mumbai and Pune are two major cities in Maharashtra, located about 150 kilometers apart. Mumbai, the financial capital of India, and Pune, known for its educational institutions and cultural heritage, are connected by a well-developed transport network. This route is popular for business trips, weekend getaways, and tourism, making it one of the busiest corridors in the state.

In this guide, you will find detailed information on how to travel from Mumbai to Pune using various modes of transport. Whether you prefer the speed of a train, the flexibility of a car, or the convenience of a flight, this article covers all practical options with tips to help you plan your journey smoothly.

Getting from Mumbai to Pune – Main Options

Train

Train travel between Mumbai and Pune is highly popular due to its affordability and frequency. Indian Railways operates multiple trains daily, connecting key stations in both cities.

• Key stations:

  Trains depart mainly from Mumbai CST, Dadar, or LTT and arrive at Pune Junction. These stations are well connected by local transport.

• Duration and cost:

  The journey takes approximately 3 to 4 hours, covering around 150 km. Ticket prices range from ₹100 for sleeper class to ₹600 for AC classes.

• Frequency and comfort:

  Over 20 trains run daily, including express and passenger trains. The Deccan Queen is a famous fast train offering comfortable seating and punctual service.

• Booking tips:

  Book tickets via IRCTC website or app in advance, especially on weekends and holidays, to secure preferred classes.

• Scenic route and timing:

  The train passes through the Western Ghats with beautiful views, best enjoyed during daylight. Avoid traveling late at night for safety and convenience.

• Challenges:

  Trains can get crowded during festivals and peak hours. Arrive early to avoid last-minute rush and platform confusion.

Bus

Bus travel is another convenient and economical option between Mumbai and Pune. Both government and private operators run frequent services.

• Operators and routes:

  MSRTC runs regular Shivneri and Vajra buses from Mumbai’s Dadar or Borivali to Pune’s Swargate or Shivajinagar bus stations.

• Duration and fares:

  The journey takes 3 to 4 hours depending on traffic, with fares ranging from ₹150 to ₹400 depending on bus type.

• Bus types:

  Options include ordinary, deluxe, and Volvo AC buses. Volvo buses offer more comfort and are preferred for business travelers.

• Booking and boarding:

  Tickets can be booked online on MSRTC’s website or at bus stands. Boarding points in Mumbai are well marked but arrive 15 minutes early.

• Traffic and timing tips:

  Avoid peak traffic hours in Mumbai (7–10 AM and 5–8 PM) to reduce travel time. Early morning or late evening buses are less crowded.

• Rest stops:

  Buses usually stop at Lonavala for refreshments and restroom breaks, which is a good opportunity to stretch and enjoy local snacks.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Mumbai to Pune is a popular choice for those seeking flexibility and comfort. The Mumbai-Pune Expressway offers a smooth and scenic drive.

• Route details:

  The Mumbai-Pune Expressway (NH48) is a 94 km toll road connecting the two cities. It is the fastest and safest route, bypassing the older Mumbai-Pune highway.

• Duration and tolls:

  The drive takes about 2.5 to 3 hours depending on traffic. Expect to pay tolls totaling around ₹300 one way.

• Car rentals and self-drive:

  Several companies like Zoomcar and Revv offer self-drive cars in Mumbai. Alternatively, taxis and cabs (Ola, Uber) provide outstation rides.

• Traffic tips:

  Avoid peak hours and weekends when the expressway can get congested. Early mornings or late nights are ideal for smooth travel.

• Scenic views and stops:

  The expressway passes through the Western Ghats with viewpoints near Lonavala and Khandala. There are multiple fuel stations and eateries along the way.

• Safety considerations:

  Drive cautiously during monsoon due to slippery roads and fog in ghats. Ensure your vehicle is well-maintained before the trip.

Flight

Flying between Mumbai and Pune is possible but not very common due to the short distance and efficient road and rail connectivity.

• Airports:

  Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (BOM) and Pune Airport (PNQ) are the two terminals.

• Flight duration and cost:

  The flight takes about 30 minutes, but ticket prices usually start from ₹2,000, making it less economical than other modes.

• Frequency:

  Few daily flights operate, mainly by IndiGo and Air India, catering mostly to business travelers.

• Check-in and transit time:

  Considering check-in and security, total travel time can exceed 2 hours, reducing the time advantage.

• Booking tips:

  Book early for better fares. Use airline websites or aggregators like MakeMyTrip or Cleartrip.

• Local commute:

  Pune Airport is about 10 km from the city center. Use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs for convenient transfers.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This simple itinerary helps first-time travelers plan their Mumbai to Pune journey efficiently, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

• Book your tickets in advance:

  Whether by train, bus, or flight, secure your tickets online early, especially on weekends or holidays, to avoid last-minute unavailability.

• Reach the departure point early:

  Arrive at Mumbai CST, Dadar station, or bus stand at least 30 minutes before departure to navigate crowds and find your platform or boarding area.

• Pack essentials for the journey:

  Carry water, snacks, and a light jacket, especially if traveling by train or bus. Keep your ID and ticket handy for verification.

• Use local transport or app cabs:

  In Mumbai, use local trains, buses, or Ola/Uber to reach departure points. In Pune, prepaid taxis or app-based cabs are reliable for last-mile connectivity.

• Plan arrival time wisely:

  If you have connecting plans in Pune, consider traffic and transit time from the station or airport to your accommodation or meeting point.

• Stay updated on travel conditions:

  Check weather and traffic updates on apps like Google Maps or IRCTC before starting your journey to avoid delays.

Practical Travel Tips

• Safety on trains and buses:

  Keep your belongings secure and avoid traveling in unreserved compartments during peak hours to prevent overcrowding and pickpocketing.

• Food and water:

  Carry bottled water and light snacks, especially if traveling by bus or train. Avoid street food near stations if you have a sensitive stomach.

• Booking strategy:

  Use IRCTC for train tickets and MSRTC’s official site for buses. For cabs, prefer Ola or Uber with verified drivers and fare estimates.

• Local commute in Pune:

  Pune’s public transport is limited; use app-based cabs or auto-rickshaws. Negotiate fares beforehand if hailing autos manually.

• Luggage handling:

  Keep your bags close, especially in crowded trains and buses. Use lockable bags and avoid carrying valuables in outer pockets.

• Seasonal travel warnings:

  Monsoon can cause delays on roads due to landslides near the ghats. Check weather forecasts and consider alternate travel times during heavy rains.

Best Time & Conditions

The Mumbai-Pune route is busy year-round, but travel conditions vary with seasons and time of day. Planning your trip accordingly can save time and enhance comfort.

Peak traffic hours in Mumbai and Pune can significantly increase travel time, especially on roads. Weather conditions like fog in winter mornings or heavy monsoon rains can also affect safety and punctuality.

• Avoid traveling during Mumbai’s peak office hours (7–10 AM and 5–8 PM) to reduce congestion on roads and local transport.

• Monsoon season (June to September) may cause slippery roads and occasional delays on the expressway; drive cautiously if self-driving.

• Early morning departures (6–8 AM) are ideal for trains and buses to enjoy less crowded conditions and scenic daylight views.

• Winter fog in December and January can delay trains and flights; allow extra buffer time if traveling during these months.

Arrival at Pune & What to Expect

Upon arrival at Pune Junction or Pune bus stations, travelers find well-connected local transport options. Prepaid taxi counters are available at major stations, ensuring safe and fixed-rate rides to your destination.

Pune city offers a range of accommodation near the railway station and bus terminals, including budget hotels and guesthouses. Popular nearby attractions include Shaniwar Wada, Dagdusheth Halwai Ganapati Temple, and the vibrant Koregaon Park area.

For late arrivals, booking app-based cabs like Ola or Uber is recommended for safety and convenience. Pune’s local buses are limited and may not be ideal for tourists unfamiliar with routes.

Conclusion

Among the various options, traveling by train remains the most efficient and economical way to reach Pune from Mumbai. The Deccan Queen and other express trains offer a comfortable and scenic journey with frequent departures, making it ideal for most travelers.

For those seeking flexibility, driving via the Mumbai-Pune Expressway is a great choice, especially for groups or weekend trips. With proper planning and awareness of traffic and weather conditions, you can confidently plan your Mumbai to Pune journey and enjoy the rich experiences both cities offer.