Amboli is a serene hill station located in the Sahyadri Hills of Maharashtra, known for its lush greenery and waterfalls. Situated approximately 350 km southwest of Pune, Amboli attracts nature lovers and weekend travelers seeking a peaceful retreat from city life.

This guide covers all practical ways to travel from Pune to Amboli, including train, bus, car, and taxi options. You will find detailed travel times, routes, costs, and insider tips to plan your journey confidently and enjoy the scenic Western Ghats en route.

Getting from Pune to Amboli – Main Options

Train

While there is no direct train to Amboli, rail travel can be combined with road transport for a comfortable journey. Pune is well connected by rail to nearby towns from where you can take a taxi or bus to Amboli.

• Nearest railway stations:

  Sawantwadi Road (SWV) and Kudal (KUD) are the closest major stations to Amboli, approximately 40-50 km away. Both stations are on the Konkan Railway line connecting Mumbai and Goa.

• Train options from Pune:

  Trains like the Konkan Kanya Express and Mandovi Express run daily between Pune and Sawantwadi Road or Kudal. The journey takes around 8-10 hours, with fares ranging from ₹300 to ₹900 depending on class.

• Last-mile connectivity:

  From Sawantwadi Road or Kudal station, pre-booked taxis or local buses can take you to Amboli in 1.5 to 2 hours. Taxi fares typically range from ₹1,200 to ₹1,800.

• Booking tips:

  Use IRCTC or trusted apps to book train tickets in advance, especially during weekends and holidays. Check train timings carefully as some services run only once daily.

• Travel advice:

  Trains on the Konkan route offer scenic views of the Western Ghats and coastline. However, expect some delays during monsoon due to heavy rains and landslides.

Bus

Buses are a popular and economical way to reach Amboli from Pune, though the journey involves a change at Sawantwadi or Sindhudurg. Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) and private operators run regular services.

• Route details:

  Pune to Sawantwadi or Sindhudurg by MSRTC or private Volvo buses takes about 8-10 hours. From there, local buses or taxis cover the remaining 40-50 km to Amboli.

• Bus types and fares:

  Options include non-AC, AC, and Volvo buses. Ticket prices range from ₹400 to ₹1,000 depending on comfort and operator.

• Frequency:

  Multiple buses depart Pune daily, with early morning and evening services preferred for comfort and daylight travel.

• Last-mile transport:

  From Sawantwadi or Sindhudurg bus stands, shared jeeps or private taxis are available. Shared jeeps cost around ₹150-₹200 per person but may be crowded.

• Travel tips:

  Book tickets online via MSRTC or private portals to secure seats. Avoid traveling during heavy monsoon rains as roads can be slippery and prone to landslides.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Pune to Amboli offers flexibility and the chance to enjoy scenic views at your own pace. The route covers approximately 350 km via NH48 and NH66, taking 7-9 hours depending on traffic.

• Route overview:

  The most common route is Pune – Satara – Kolhapur – Sawantwadi – Amboli via NH48 and NH66. The roads are mostly well-maintained highways with some winding sections near Amboli.

• Road conditions and tolls:

  NH48 and NH66 are mostly four-lane highways with toll plazas. Expect toll charges totaling around ₹300-₹400. The last 30 km to Amboli involves narrow, hilly roads requiring cautious driving.

• Rest stops and fuel:

  Several fuel stations and eateries like McDonald's and local dhabas are available along NH48 and NH66. Popular stops include Satara and Kolhapur for refreshments.

• Best time to drive:

  Start early morning to avoid Pune city traffic and reach Amboli by afternoon. Avoid night driving in the ghat section due to poor lighting and wildlife crossings.

• Car rental tips:

  Self-drive cars can be rented from Pune through platforms like Zoomcar or Revv. Ensure your vehicle is suitable for hilly terrain and carry a physical map or GPS device.

Taxi / Cab

Hiring a taxi or cab from Pune to Amboli is a convenient but costlier option, ideal for groups or travelers seeking door-to-door service. Several local operators and app-based services offer outstation rides.

• Taxi options:

  You can book prepaid taxis from Pune via Ola Outstation, Uber Intercity, or local travel agents. Fixed fares typically range from ₹6,000 to ₹8,000 one way for a sedan.

• Travel time and comfort:

  The journey takes 7-9 hours depending on traffic and road conditions. Taxis provide comfort and flexibility to stop en route for sightseeing or meals.

• Booking tips:

  Pre-book your taxi at least a day in advance, especially on weekends and holidays. Confirm if the driver is experienced with hilly roads near Amboli.

• Local taxi availability:

  On arrival at Amboli, local taxis and auto-rickshaws are limited. It’s advisable to arrange your return taxi in advance or use shared jeeps for local travel.

• Cost-saving tip:

  Sharing a taxi with fellow travelers can reduce costs significantly. Negotiate fixed rates before starting the journey.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This simple itinerary helps first-time travelers from Pune to Amboli plan their trip efficiently, ensuring smooth connections and comfortable travel.

• Book your tickets early:

  Whether by train, bus, or taxi, secure your bookings 2-3 weeks ahead, especially during weekends or monsoon season to avoid last-minute hassles.

• Start early from Pune:

  Begin your journey by 6-7 AM to avoid city traffic and reach Amboli before dusk, allowing time to settle in and explore nearby viewpoints.

• Choose your preferred mode:

  Decide between train plus taxi, direct bus, or self-drive based on comfort, budget, and time. For scenic travel, the Konkan Railway plus taxi is recommended.

• Arrange last-mile transport:

  If arriving by train or bus at Sawantwadi or Kudal, pre-book a taxi or check bus timings to Amboli. Avoid waiting late at night due to limited options.

• Pack essentials for hill travel:

  Carry water, snacks, rain gear during monsoon, and a power bank. Mobile network may be patchy near Amboli, so download offline maps.

• Confirm accommodation:

  Book your stay in Amboli in advance, especially during peak season, to avoid last-minute disappointments.

Practical Travel Tips

• Safety on ghat roads:

  Drive cautiously on narrow, winding roads near Amboli. Avoid overtaking and use low gears downhill. Monsoon rains make roads slippery; check weather updates before traveling.

• Food and water:

  Carry bottled water and light snacks, especially if traveling by bus or train. Local eateries in Amboli serve fresh Maharashtrian cuisine but options are limited after sunset.

• Booking strategy:

  Use IRCTC for train tickets and MSRTC or RedBus for buses. For taxis, Ola Outstation and Uber Intercity provide transparent pricing and driver details.

• Local commute in Amboli:

  The hill station is small and best explored on foot or by shared jeeps. Auto-rickshaws are rare; pre-arranged taxis are recommended for nearby sightseeing.

• Luggage advice:

  Pack light due to limited porter services. Carry waterproof bags during monsoon and secure your belongings on shared transport.

• Seasonal warnings:

  Avoid traveling during heavy monsoon spells (June to September) due to landslide risks. Winter mornings can be foggy, so plan accordingly.

Best Time & Conditions

The ideal time to visit Amboli is from October to February when the weather is cool and pleasant. Monsoon months offer lush greenery but come with travel challenges.

Planning your departure time and season carefully can enhance your experience and safety on this route.

• Avoid peak traffic hours in Pune (8-11 AM and 5-8 PM) to reduce city congestion delays.

• Steer clear of festival weekends like Ganesh Chaturthi and Diwali when roads and trains are crowded.

• Travel during daylight hours to enjoy scenic views and safer driving conditions on ghat sections.

• Monsoon travel requires extra caution; check weather forecasts and road conditions before starting.

Arrival at Amboli & What to Expect

Amboli welcomes travelers with cool mountain air, dense forests, and cascading waterfalls. The small town has limited public transport, so pre-arranged taxis or shared jeeps are the best options for local travel.

Nearby attractions include Amboli Waterfall, Hiranyakeshi Temple, and Sunset Point. Accommodation ranges from budget homestays to mid-range resorts, mostly clustered near the main market road.

On arrival, use prepaid taxis or negotiate fares upfront with local drivers. Mobile network coverage may be spotty, so plan your onward travel accordingly.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to reach Amboli from Pune combines the scenic Konkan Railway to Sawantwadi or Kudal with a comfortable taxi ride to the hill station. This option balances travel time, cost, and comfort while offering beautiful views.

Alternatively, self-driving offers flexibility and the joy of exploring the Western Ghats at your own pace. With proper planning and awareness of seasonal conditions, you can confidently embark on this refreshing journey from Pune to Amboli.