Saputara, a charming hill station in the Dang district of Gujarat, is a popular weekend getaway from Pune, Maharashtra. Nestled amidst the Western Ghats, it offers cool weather, lush greenery, and scenic views, making it an ideal escape from city life. This route is favored by tourists looking for nature, adventure, and a peaceful retreat.

This guide covers all practical ways to travel from Pune to Saputara, including train, bus, car, and taxi options. You will find detailed information on travel times, routes, ticket costs, and tips to make your journey smooth and enjoyable.

Getting from Pune to Saputara – Main Options

Train

There is no direct train connecting Pune to Saputara, as Saputara does not have a railway station. However, train travel can be combined with road transport for a comfortable journey.

• Nearest railway stations:

  The closest major railway stations to Saputara are Nashik Road (approx. 120 km) and Waghai (approx. 20 km). Pune to Nashik Road trains are frequent and well-serviced by Indian Railways.

• Travel time and cost:

  Pune to Nashik Road takes around 3 to 4 hours by train, with fares ranging from ₹150 to ₹500 depending on class. From Nashik, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Saputara, which takes about 3 hours.

• Train frequency and comfort:

  Several daily trains run between Pune and Nashik Road, including express and passenger trains. Booking via IRCTC is recommended to secure seats, especially on weekends.

• Last-mile connectivity:

  From Nashik Road station, pre-paid taxis and MSRTC buses are available to Saputara. Buses depart from Nashik central bus stand, so a short taxi ride from the station may be needed.

• Travel tip:

  Avoid late evening trains to Nashik as onward road travel to Saputara can be challenging after dark due to hilly roads and limited public transport.

Bus

Bus travel is a popular and economical way to reach Saputara from Pune. Both government and private operators run services connecting these points.

• Direct buses:

  MSRTC and Gujarat State Road Transport Corporation (GSRTC) operate direct buses from Pune to Saputara, though frequency is limited. Booking in advance during weekends is advisable.

• Route and duration:

  The bus route covers approximately 250 km via NH60 and NH848, taking around 6 to 7 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.

• Bus types and fares:

  Options include ordinary, deluxe, and Volvo buses. Ticket prices range from ₹300 to ₹700. Volvo buses offer more comfort but are less frequent.

• Scenic journey:

  The route passes through the Western Ghats with beautiful views near Saputara. Rest stops at towns like Nashik and Vani provide opportunities for refreshments.

• Challenges:

  Buses may get delayed during monsoon due to slippery ghats. Night buses are less common; daytime travel is recommended for safety and better views.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Pune to Saputara is a preferred option for those seeking flexibility and comfort. The route is scenic and well-connected by national highways.

• Route details:

  The most common route is via NH60 and NH848, covering about 250 km. The drive takes approximately 5 to 6 hours depending on traffic and stops.

• Road conditions:

  The highways are mostly in good condition with tolls on NH60. The final stretch towards Saputara involves winding roads through the hills, requiring careful driving.

• Fuel and rest stops:

  Multiple fuel stations are available along the route, including near Nashik and Vani. Popular rest stops include highway eateries and local dhabas offering Maharashtrian and Gujarati cuisine.

• Best time to drive:

  Early morning departures help avoid city traffic in Pune and Nashik. Avoid night driving in the hilly section near Saputara, especially during monsoon.

• Parking and local driving:

  Saputara has designated parking areas near main attractions. Local taxis and auto-rickshaws are available for short trips within the town.

Taxi / Cab

Hiring a taxi or cab from Pune to Saputara offers a hassle-free and comfortable journey, especially for groups or families.

• Taxi services:

  Several taxi operators and app-based services like Ola Outstation and Uber Intercity provide Pune to Saputara rides. Pre-booking is recommended for better rates.

• Cost and duration:

  Taxi fares typically range from ₹4,000 to ₹6,000 one-way, depending on vehicle type and negotiation. Travel time is around 5 to 6 hours.

• Convenience:

  Door-to-door service with flexibility to stop en route for sightseeing or meals. Drivers are usually familiar with the best routes and local conditions.

• Seasonal considerations:

  During peak tourist seasons and weekends, taxi availability may be limited, so early booking is advised.

• Local cabs at Saputara:

  On arrival, local taxis and auto-rickshaws can be hired for sightseeing or transfers to hotels.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This simple itinerary helps first-time travelers plan their journey from Pune to Saputara efficiently, balancing comfort and convenience.

• Book your tickets early:

  Whether by train or bus, use IRCTC or MSRTC online portals to secure your seats in advance, especially on weekends and holidays.

• Start early in the morning:

  Depart Pune by 6–7 AM to avoid city traffic and reach Saputara before evening, allowing daylight travel on hilly roads.

• Pack essentials:

  Carry water, snacks, and light rain gear during monsoon. Mobile chargers and offline maps help in areas with poor network.

• Plan rest stops:

  If driving, schedule breaks near Nashik or Vani for meals and refueling. If on bus or taxi, confirm stops with the driver.

• Arrive at Saputara:

  Use prepaid taxis or local autos from the bus stand or parking areas to reach your accommodation smoothly.

• Keep emergency contacts handy:

  Save numbers of local taxi services, hotel, and emergency services for quick assistance if needed.

Practical Travel Tips

• Safety on hilly roads:

  The last stretch to Saputara involves winding roads; avoid night travel and drive cautiously during monsoon to prevent accidents.

• Food and water:

  Carry bottled water and light snacks, especially if traveling by bus. Saputara has clean eateries, but options may be limited late at night.

• Booking strategy:

  Use official portals like IRCTC for trains and MSRTC for buses to avoid scams. For taxis, confirm fares beforehand and prefer prepaid or app-based services.

• Local commute:

  Saputara is compact; walking is pleasant for nearby attractions. For longer distances, use local autos or taxis; negotiate fares in advance.

• Luggage handling:

  If traveling by bus or train, pack light and keep valuables close. For self-drive or taxi, secure luggage properly to avoid damage on bumpy roads.

• Seasonal warnings:

  Monsoon can cause landslides and roadblocks near Saputara. Check weather updates and road conditions before starting your journey.

Best Time & Conditions

The ideal time to visit Saputara from Pune is between October and March when the weather is pleasant and roads are dry. Summers can be warm in Pune but cooler in Saputara, while monsoon offers lush greenery but challenging travel conditions.

Planning your trip outside major festivals and weekends helps avoid traffic congestion and fully enjoy the serene environment.

• Avoid traveling during heavy monsoon rains (July to September) due to slippery roads and possible landslides.

• Early morning departures help bypass Pune and Nashik city traffic, especially on Fridays and Sundays.

• Winter months (December–February) offer cool weather but carry warm clothing for hill station nights.

• Plan return trips during daylight to ensure safe driving on the ghat sections.

Arrival at Saputara & What to Expect

On arrival in Saputara, travelers find a quaint hill station with well-maintained gardens, a serene lake, and panoramic viewpoints. The town is small, making it easy to explore on foot or by local transport.

Prepaid taxis and auto-rickshaws are available near the bus stand and parking areas for transfers to hotels or sightseeing spots. Popular stay areas include near Saputara Lake and the main market, offering easy access to restaurants and attractions.

Conclusion

Among all options, traveling by car or taxi is the most efficient and comfortable way to reach Saputara from Pune, especially for groups or families. It offers flexibility, scenic views, and the convenience of door-to-door service.

With proper planning and awareness of road conditions, you can enjoy a smooth journey to this beautiful hill station. Whether you choose train plus road, bus, or self-drive, this guide equips you to plan confidently and make the most of your trip to Saputara.