Mumbai, the bustling financial capital of India, is located on the west coast in Maharashtra. Bhilwara, a prominent city in Rajasthan known for its textile industry and historical sites, lies approximately 750 km northeast of Mumbai. This route is popular among business travelers, textile industry professionals, and tourists exploring Rajasthan's heritage.

This guide covers all practical ways to travel from Mumbai to Bhilwara, including train, bus, car, and flight options. You will find detailed information on travel times, ticket costs, and tips to make your journey comfortable and efficient.

Getting from Mumbai to Bhilwara – Main Options

Train

Train travel is a preferred and economical mode for many passengers between Mumbai and Bhilwara. Indian Railways connects these cities with several trains, offering a balance of comfort and affordability.

• Key stations:

  Trains depart from Mumbai Central (MMCT) or Lokmanya Tilak Terminus (LTT) and arrive at Bhilwara Railway Station (BHL). Bhilwara station is well connected to major cities in Rajasthan and Maharashtra.

• Duration and distance:

  The rail distance is approximately 750 km, with journey times ranging from 12 to 16 hours depending on the train type and route. Sleeper and AC classes are available, with fares from ₹400 to ₹1,200.

• Frequency and comfort:

  Several weekly trains run on this route, including express and superfast services. Trains like the Bandra Terminus–Bhilwara Express offer overnight travel with sleeper and AC coaches.

• Booking tips:

  Book tickets early via IRCTC or authorized agents, especially during festival seasons when demand spikes. Opt for reserved coaches to avoid last-minute hassles.

• Scenic views and stops:

  The route passes through scenic parts of Maharashtra and Rajasthan, including stops at Nasik, Ajmer, and Chittorgarh, offering glimpses of rural landscapes and historic towns.

• Challenges:

  Trains can be delayed during monsoon due to track maintenance. Arrive at the station at least 30 minutes before departure to navigate Mumbai’s busy railway hubs.

Bus

Buses provide a flexible and budget-friendly option for traveling from Mumbai to Bhilwara. Both government and private operators run services on this route.

• Operators and routes:

  Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) and Rajasthan State Road Transport Corporation (RSRTC) operate buses connecting Mumbai to Bhilwara via NH48 and NH79.

• Travel time and fares:

  The journey by bus takes approximately 16 to 18 hours covering around 780 km. Ticket prices range from ₹600 for non-AC to ₹1,200 for Volvo AC coaches.

• Comfort and frequency:

  Overnight Volvo buses are popular for comfort and convenience. Daily departures are available from Mumbai’s central bus terminals like Dadar or Borivali.

• Rest stops and amenities:

  Buses stop at major towns such as Nashik, Udaipur, and Chittorgarh for refreshments and breaks. Facilities vary by operator, so choose reputed services for better experience.

• Booking tips:

  Book tickets online on MSRTC or private bus portals. Avoid traveling during peak festival seasons to secure seats and avoid overcrowding.

• Challenges:

  Road traffic near Mumbai and on NH48 can cause delays during peak hours. Night travel is recommended for a smoother journey and to avoid daytime heat.

Car/Self-Drive

Driving from Mumbai to Bhilwara offers flexibility and the chance to explore offbeat stops en route. The route covers diverse landscapes and highways.

• Route details:

  The most common route is via NH48 and NH79, covering around 750 km. The drive typically takes 13 to 15 hours depending on traffic and stops.

• Road conditions:

  NH48 is a well-maintained highway with tolls and multiple fuel stations. NH79 towards Bhilwara has some stretches under development, so drive cautiously.

• Rest stops and sightseeing:

  Popular stops include Nashik for food and fuel, Udaipur for sightseeing, and Chittorgarh for a historic break. Plan overnight stays if you prefer not to drive continuously.

• Car rentals and permits:

  Self-drive cars can be rented in Mumbai from providers like Zoomcar or Drivezy. Ensure valid documents and check for interstate travel permits if required.

• Traffic tips:

  Avoid leaving Mumbai during morning peak hours to bypass heavy city traffic. Early morning or late-night departures are ideal for smoother drives.

• Challenges:

  Night driving through rural Rajasthan requires caution due to limited street lighting and occasional livestock on roads.

Flight

There is no direct flight from Mumbai to Bhilwara as Bhilwara lacks an airport. However, flying to nearby airports and continuing by road is an option for faster travel.

• Nearest airports:

  Udaipur Airport (UDR) is the closest, about 165 km from Bhilwara. Flights from Mumbai to Udaipur take around 1.5 hours.

• Connecting travel:

  From Udaipur, taxis or buses can be hired to reach Bhilwara in approximately 3.5 to 4 hours via NH79.

• Flight options and fares:

  Airlines like IndiGo and Air India operate daily flights between Mumbai and Udaipur. Ticket prices range from ₹3,000 to ₹6,000 depending on booking time.

• Booking tips:

  Book flights early to get better fares. Check for combined taxi or bus services from Udaipur to Bhilwara for convenience.

• Challenges:

  Last-mile connectivity from Udaipur to Bhilwara can be time-consuming and may require advance taxi bookings, especially during late arrivals.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This simple itinerary is designed for first-time travelers from Mumbai to Bhilwara, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free journey.

• Book your tickets in advance:

  Use IRCTC for trains or official bus websites for MSRTC/RSRTC. For flights, book on airline portals or aggregators to secure the best prices.

• Reach the departure point early:

  Arrive at Mumbai Central or LTT station at least 30 minutes before train departure. For buses, reach the terminal 20 minutes early to find your bus easily.

• Pack essentials for overnight travel:

  Carry water, snacks, and a light blanket or shawl for comfort during night journeys, especially on trains and buses.

• Arrange local transport on arrival:

  At Bhilwara station or bus stand, use prepaid taxis or local auto-rickshaws. Apps like Ola and Uber may have limited coverage, so confirm availability beforehand.

• Plan your stay and sightseeing:

  Book hotels in advance, especially during festivals. Bhilwara offers several mid-range hotels near the city center and industrial areas.

• Stay updated on travel conditions:

  Check weather and traffic updates before departure, particularly during monsoon or winter fog seasons.

Practical Travel Tips

• Safety on trains and buses:

  Keep your belongings secure and avoid accepting food or drinks from strangers. Use lockable bags and stay alert at crowded stations.

• Food and water:

  Carry bottled water and light snacks, especially if traveling overnight. Avoid street food near stations unless recommended by locals.

• Booking strategy:

  Use official portals like IRCTC and MSRTC for authentic tickets. Avoid agents charging extra or unverified online platforms.

• Local commute in Bhilwara:

  Auto-rickshaws are common and affordable. Negotiate fares beforehand or insist on meter use. Limited app-based taxi services are available.

• Luggage handling:

  Pack light if traveling by bus or train to manage crowded compartments easily. Label your bags clearly to avoid mix-ups.

• Seasonal travel warnings:

  Monsoon rains can cause delays on roads and railways. Winter fog may affect early morning trains, so plan accordingly.

Best Time & Conditions

The best time to travel from Mumbai to Bhilwara is during the cooler months from October to March. Summers can be hot and uncomfortable, while monsoon rains may disrupt travel plans.

Planning your journey to avoid peak traffic and festival rush ensures a more pleasant experience.

• Avoid traveling during Diwali and Holi weekends when trains and buses are crowded and prices surge.

• Monsoon season (June to September) can cause roadblocks and train delays due to heavy rains in Maharashtra and Rajasthan.

• Early morning departures help bypass Mumbai’s city traffic and provide a fresh start to your journey.

• Winter mornings may have fog affecting visibility on highways and rail lines, so allow extra travel time.

Arrival at Bhilwara & What to Expect

On arrival at Bhilwara Railway Station or bus stand, travelers find a moderately sized city with a mix of industrial and cultural attractions. The station is clean and has basic amenities like waiting rooms and refreshment stalls.

Local transport options include auto-rickshaws and limited taxi services. Prepaid taxi counters are available at the railway station. Nearby attractions include the historic Badnore Fort and the textile markets. Accommodation ranges from budget hotels to mid-range lodges near the city center.

Conclusion

Among all options, train travel stands out as the most efficient and economical way to reach Bhilwara from Mumbai. It balances comfort, cost, and scenic value, especially with overnight trains that save daytime hours.

With proper planning and early bookings, travelers can enjoy a smooth journey across Maharashtra and Rajasthan. Whether for business or leisure, this guide equips you to confidently plan your trip from Mumbai to Bhilwara.