How to Reach Imagica from Borivali – Travel Guide
Learn how to reach Imagica from Borivali using train, bus, car, or taxi with practical tips on travel time, routes, and local transport options.
Imagica is a popular theme park located near Khopoli in Maharashtra, known for its thrilling rides and family-friendly attractions. Borivali is a major suburb in Mumbai, well-connected by rail and road, making this route frequently traveled by locals and tourists heading for a fun day out.
This guide will help you understand the best ways to travel from Borivali to Imagica, covering trains, buses, cars, and taxis. You will get practical advice on travel times, fares, and tips to make your journey smooth and enjoyable.
Getting from Borivali to Imagica – Main Options
Train
Traveling by train is a popular choice for those who want an affordable and scenic route. While there is no direct train to Imagica, you can combine train and taxi or bus for the last leg.
Take a local train from Borivali station towards Khopoli on the Central Railway line; the journey takes about 2 to 2.5 hours covering roughly 80 km, with fares ranging from ₹50 to ₹100 depending on class.
Khopoli station is the closest railway station to Imagica, located about 7 km away; from here, you can hire a prepaid taxi or local bus to reach the park.
Trains run frequently during the day, but expect crowding during peak hours (morning and evening), so plan accordingly to avoid discomfort.
During monsoon months, train services may face delays due to waterlogging or track maintenance, so check IRCTC or local railway updates before traveling.
Local trains do not have onboard food services, so carry snacks and water, especially if traveling with children.
Bus
Buses offer a budget-friendly option and connect Borivali to Khopoli and nearby areas. However, there is no direct bus to Imagica, so you will need to combine bus and taxi or walk.
MSRTC buses run from Borivali bus depot to Khopoli regularly, with a journey time of about 2.5 to 3 hours covering 85 km; fares are usually between ₹70 and ₹120.
Buses can be crowded during weekends and holidays when many visitors head to Imagica, so boarding early is advisable to secure a seat.
From Khopoli bus stand, you can take an auto-rickshaw or local taxi to Imagica, which is about 7 km away and takes 15–20 minutes.
Bus routes pass through National Highway 48, which is well-maintained but may experience traffic jams during festival seasons or peak hours.
Carry bottled water and light snacks as bus stops have limited food options and hygiene standards vary.
Car / Self-Drive
Driving from Borivali to Imagica is one of the most convenient and flexible options, especially for families or groups. The route is straightforward via NH48.
The distance from Borivali to Imagica is approximately 90 km, and the drive typically takes 2 to 2.5 hours depending on traffic conditions.
Start from Borivali and take the Western Express Highway (WEH) to join NH48 towards Khopoli; the route is well signposted and has multiple toll plazas.
There are several rest stops and dhabas along NH48 where you can take breaks and enjoy local snacks during the journey.
Traffic congestion is common near Mumbai city limits during peak hours, so starting early morning or late evening can help avoid delays.
Parking is available at Imagica but can get crowded on weekends and holidays; arriving early ensures better parking spots.
Taxi / Cab
Hiring a taxi or app-based cab like Ola or Uber is a hassle-free option for direct travel from Borivali to Imagica. It offers door-to-door convenience but at a higher cost.
Taxi fares for the 90 km journey typically range from ₹1,500 to ₹2,500 depending on cab type and time of day, with travel time around 2 to 2.5 hours.
Prepaid taxis from Borivali station or local taxi stands are available, but booking via apps ensures fixed fares and driver details for safety.
During weekends and holidays, demand for cabs increases, so booking in advance is recommended to avoid surge pricing and availability issues.
Some cab drivers may offer to wait and return, which can be convenient if you plan a short visit to Imagica; confirm the waiting charges beforehand.
Ensure your driver follows the NH48 route via Khopoli for the fastest and safest journey to Imagica.
Step-by-Step Travel Plan
This step-by-step plan is designed for first-time travelers from Borivali to Imagica, helping you navigate the journey smoothly and confidently.
Step 1: Decide your mode of transport based on budget, comfort, and group size; trains and buses are economical, while cars and taxis offer more convenience.
Step 2: If choosing train, book tickets through IRCTC or local counters for Borivali to Khopoli; check train timings to avoid peak crowd hours.
Step 3: On arrival at Khopoli station or bus stand, look for prepaid taxi counters or authorized auto-rickshaws to reach Imagica safely and at regulated fares.
Step 4: If driving, plan your route via NH48 using GPS apps like Google Maps; start early to avoid Mumbai traffic and toll delays.
Step 5: Carry essentials like water, snacks, and rain gear during monsoon; keep mobile chargers and offline maps handy for navigation.
Step 6: Confirm your return travel plan in advance, especially if using public transport, to avoid last-minute rush or unavailability of services.
Practical Travel Tips
Safety: Always use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs from official stands; avoid accepting rides from unknown drivers for last-mile travel.
Food and Water: Carry bottled water and light snacks, especially if traveling by train or bus, as food options en route can be limited or unhygienic.
Booking Strategy: For trains, book tickets early on IRCTC to secure seats; for cabs, pre-book via Ola or Uber to avoid surge pricing during weekends.
Local Transport: At Khopoli, use prepaid auto-rickshaws or taxis to reach Imagica; negotiate fares beforehand if prepaid options are unavailable.
Luggage: Travel light if using local trains or buses, as space is limited and crowding is common; secure your belongings to avoid loss.
Seasonal Warnings: Avoid traveling during heavy monsoon rains when roads can flood and trains may be delayed; check weather forecasts before your trip.
Best Time & Travel Conditions
The best time to visit Imagica from Borivali is during the cooler months from November to February when the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities. Summers can be hot and humid, while monsoons bring heavy rains that may disrupt travel plans.
Planning your journey outside of peak festival seasons and weekends will help you avoid traffic jams and crowded transport, making your trip more comfortable.
Avoid major festivals like Diwali and Ganesh Chaturthi when Mumbai and surrounding highways experience heavy traffic and accommodation near Imagica fills quickly.
Monsoon months (June to September) can cause delays on trains and slippery roads on NH48, so travel cautiously or consider postponing your visit.
Early morning departures from Borivali help you beat city traffic and reach Imagica before crowds build up at the park.
Late evening returns are less congested but ensure transport options are available back to Borivali, especially if using public buses or trains.
Arrival at Imagica & What to Expect
Upon arrival at Imagica, you will find a well-marked entrance with ample parking and clear signage. The park is located near Khopoli, so local transport options are limited beyond this point, making private vehicles or prepaid taxis the best choice.
For accommodation, nearby towns like Khopoli and Panvel offer budget hotels and guesthouses. Within the park, you can find food courts and rest areas, but carrying some snacks is advisable. Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs are available for your return journey, and it is best to book them in advance during weekends.
Conclusion
Traveling from Borivali to Imagica is straightforward with multiple transport options to suit different budgets and preferences. The train combined with a taxi from Khopoli is economical, while driving or hiring a cab offers more comfort and flexibility. Planning your trip outside peak hours and seasons will save time and reduce stress.
By following this guide’s practical tips and step-by-step plan, you can confidently organize your journey to Imagica. Whether you are traveling solo, with family, or friends, this route offers a fun and accessible escape from Mumbai’s hustle, ensuring a memorable visit to one of Maharashtra’s top theme parks.