Kurla and Bandra Terminus are two important railway hubs located in Mumbai, Maharashtra. Kurla lies in the eastern suburbs, while Bandra Terminus is situated in the western suburbs, making this route a common choice for daily commuters, business travelers, and weekend visitors exploring Mumbai’s vibrant neighborhoods.

This guide covers all practical ways to travel from Kurla to Bandra Terminus, including train, bus, car, and taxi options. You will find detailed information on timings, fares, routes, and insider tips to make your journey smooth and hassle-free.

Getting from Kurla to Bandra Terminus – Main Options

Train

The train is the most popular and efficient mode for traveling between Kurla and Bandra Terminus, thanks to Mumbai’s extensive suburban railway network. Trains run frequently, especially during peak hours, making it a preferred choice for daily commuters.

• Route and stations:

  Board a local train from Kurla station on the Harbour Line or Central Line and change at Dadar or Vashi for a Western Line train heading towards Bandra Terminus. The total journey covers approximately 20 km.

• Travel time and frequency:

  The journey takes about 40 to 50 minutes depending on the train and transfer time. Trains run every 10–15 minutes during peak hours and less frequently late at night.

• Ticket cost and booking:

  A single ticket costs between ₹15 to ₹25, depending on the class (second class or first class). Tickets can be purchased at the station or via the UTS app for convenience.

• Comfort and crowd:

  Trains can be crowded during rush hours (8–11 AM and 5–8 PM). First-class compartments offer more comfort but require a separate ticket.

• Tips for travel:

  Avoid traveling during peak rush hours if possible. Use the foot overbridges carefully, as stations like Dadar can be very crowded. Keep your belongings secure.

Bus

Buses operated by BEST (Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport) provide an affordable but slower alternative. The bus route covers the distance via main roads connecting Kurla and Bandra.

• Bus routes and stops:

  BEST buses like route 210 and 212 connect Kurla to Bandra Terminus with stops at key points such as Sion, Dadar, and Khar. Check the latest route maps on the BEST website or app.

• Travel time and fare:

  The journey can take 60 to 90 minutes depending on traffic. Bus fares range from ₹15 to ₹25 depending on the distance and type of bus (AC or non-AC).

• Frequency and comfort:

  Buses run every 15–30 minutes during the day but are less frequent late at night. AC buses offer more comfort but are costlier.

• Traffic considerations:

  Traffic congestion on the Western Express Highway and Sion-Dadar road can cause delays, especially during monsoon and peak hours.

• Tips for bus travel:

  Use the BEST app to check live bus timings. Carry exact change or use the BEST smart card. Avoid buses during heavy rains due to possible delays.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Kurla to Bandra Terminus is convenient for those who prefer privacy and flexibility. The route mainly follows the Western Express Highway and local roads.

• Route details:

  Take the Western Express Highway (NH48) from Kurla, then exit towards Bandra-Kurla Complex (BKC) and follow local roads to Bandra Terminus. The distance is around 18–20 km.

• Travel time and tolls:

  The drive typically takes 40 to 60 minutes depending on traffic. There are tolls on the Western Express Highway, so keep cash or FASTag ready.

• Parking and traffic:

  Bandra Terminus has limited parking; consider parking nearby or using drop-off points. Traffic congestion is common during peak hours and monsoon season.

• Car rental and self-drive:

  Self-drive car rentals are available in Kurla via platforms like Zoomcar or Revv. Ensure you have valid documents and check for parking availability at your destination.

• Tips for drivers:

  Avoid driving during peak office hours (8–11 AM and 5–8 PM) to reduce time stuck in traffic. Use Google Maps or Waze for real-time traffic updates.

Taxi / Cab

Taxis and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber offer a comfortable and direct way to travel from Kurla to Bandra Terminus. This option is popular for travelers with luggage or those seeking convenience.

• Booking and availability:

  Ola and Uber cabs are widely available in Kurla. Book via their apps for upfront fare estimates and driver details.

• Fare and travel time:

  The fare ranges from ₹250 to ₹400 depending on traffic and cab type (mini, sedan, or SUV). Travel time is usually 40 to 60 minutes.

• Pickup and drop-off points:

  Choose safe and well-lit pickup points near Kurla station or your accommodation. At Bandra Terminus, drop-off is usually at the main entrance or nearby taxi stands.

• Traffic and surge pricing:

  Be aware of surge pricing during peak hours, weekends, or rainy days. Avoid booking cabs during heavy traffic to save money and time.

• Tips for cab travel:

  Confirm the fare estimate before booking. Share your ride details with family or friends for safety. Use prepaid or digital payments to avoid cash hassles.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This simple itinerary helps first-time travelers navigate from Kurla to Bandra Terminus smoothly, focusing on train travel as the most efficient option.

• Book your train ticket:

  Use the IRCTC or UTS app to buy a ticket in advance, especially during peak hours, to avoid queues at Kurla station.

• Reach Kurla station early:

  Arrive at least 15 minutes before your train’s departure to find the correct platform and avoid last-minute rush.

• Board the correct train:

  Take a Harbour or Central Line train towards Dadar or Vashi, then transfer to a Western Line train going to Bandra Terminus. Ask station staff if unsure.

• Keep your belongings secure:

  Mumbai local trains can be crowded; keep bags close and avoid displaying valuables openly.

• Exit at Bandra Terminus:

  Use the main exit gate where prepaid taxi counters and auto-rickshaw stands are available for onward travel.

• Plan last-mile connectivity:

  Use Ola/Uber or local buses to reach your final destination from Bandra Terminus, especially if traveling late at night.

Practical Travel Tips

• Safety on trains:

  Avoid traveling in empty compartments late at night. Prefer first-class compartments if traveling alone for added security.

• Food and water:

  Carry bottled water and light snacks, as trains and buses may not have reliable food options en route.

• Booking strategy:

  Use the UTS app for local train tickets to skip queues. For buses, BEST’s app provides real-time updates.

• Local commute at Bandra Terminus:

  Use prepaid taxis or Ola/Uber for safe and hassle-free rides. Avoid accepting rides from unauthorized drivers.

• Luggage handling:

  Keep your luggage close, especially in crowded trains and stations. Use lockable bags for valuables.

• Seasonal warnings:

  Monsoon rains can cause train delays and road traffic jams. Plan extra travel time during June to September.

Best Time & Conditions

The best time to travel from Kurla to Bandra Terminus is during non-peak hours to avoid Mumbai’s notorious traffic and crowded trains. Weather also plays a significant role in travel comfort.

Avoid traveling during heavy monsoon rains when trains and roads face delays. Early mornings and late evenings are generally less crowded but may have fewer transport options.

• Avoid peak office hours: 8–11 AM and 5–8 PM to reduce travel time and crowd stress.

• Monsoon season (June–September) can cause delays and slippery roads; plan accordingly.

• Mid-morning (11 AM–2 PM) and late evening (8 PM onwards) are ideal for smoother travel.

• Check weather and traffic apps before starting your journey for real-time updates.

Arrival at Bandra Terminus & What to Expect

On arrival at Bandra Terminus, travelers find a busy railway station with multiple platforms and facilities. The station serves as a hub for long-distance trains and suburban locals, making it lively and well-connected.

For onward travel, prepaid taxi counters are located near the main exit, offering fixed fares to various parts of Mumbai. Auto-rickshaws and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber are also readily available. Nearby attractions include Bandra’s famous street art, Bandra Fort, and the bustling Linking Road shopping area. Accommodation options range from budget hotels to luxury stays in Bandra West.

Conclusion

Traveling from Kurla to Bandra Terminus is best done by train due to its frequency, affordability, and relatively short travel time. While buses and taxis offer alternatives, trains provide a reliable option for most travelers.

With proper planning, ticket booking via apps, and awareness of peak hours, you can navigate this route comfortably. Whether commuting for work or exploring Mumbai’s western suburbs, this guide ensures you can plan your journey confidently and enjoy a hassle-free experience.