Dadar and Kalbadevi are two important localities in Mumbai, Maharashtra. Dadar is a major transit hub connecting the western and central suburbs, while Kalbadevi is a bustling commercial area in South Mumbai known for its markets and heritage buildings.

This route is commonly traveled by daily commuters, shoppers, and tourists exploring Mumbai’s old city. This guide will help you understand the best ways to travel from Dadar to Kalbadevi using different transport modes, along with practical tips to make your journey smooth and hassle-free.

Getting from Dadar to Kalbadevi – Main Options

Train

Traveling by local train is one of the fastest and most popular ways to reach Kalbadevi from Dadar. Mumbai’s suburban railway network connects these points efficiently.

• Dadar station serves both Western and Central lines, making it easy to catch a train towards Churchgate or CST, the nearest stations to Kalbadevi, with a travel time of about 15–20 minutes.

• Trains run frequently, every 5–10 minutes during peak hours, but can get very crowded, especially in the morning and evening rush hours.

• Tickets are inexpensive, usually under ₹20, and you can buy them at the station or use a prepaid smart card for faster entry and exit.

• From Churchgate or CST station, Kalbadevi is a short 10–15 minute walk or a quick rickshaw ride, but watch out for traffic and narrow lanes.

• Monsoon season may cause delays due to waterlogging on tracks, so plan extra time during June to September.

Bus

Buses offer an affordable and direct way to reach Kalbadevi from Dadar, suitable if you prefer surface travel and want to avoid train crowds.

• MSRTC and BEST buses operate on routes connecting Dadar East and West to Kalbadevi, with buses like route 210 and 214 covering this path in about 40–60 minutes depending on traffic.

• Bus stops at Dadar are well-marked, but buses can get crowded during peak hours and may be slower due to Mumbai’s heavy road traffic.

• Fares range from ₹10 to ₹25, payable in cash or via the BEST mobile app, which also shows live bus tracking for better planning.

• Bus routes pass through major roads like Dr. Ambedkar Road and Dadabhai Naoroji Road, offering views of local markets and street life.

• During monsoon, buses may face delays due to waterlogging, so check weather updates before traveling.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Dadar to Kalbadevi gives you flexibility and comfort, especially if you carry luggage or travel in a group.

• The distance is approximately 8 to 10 kilometers via NH48 and Swami Vivekanand Road, taking about 30–45 minutes depending on traffic conditions.

• Expect heavy traffic during peak hours, especially near Dadar station and the Kalbadevi market area, so plan your trip outside morning and evening rush hours.

• Toll plazas are not on this route, but parking near Kalbadevi can be challenging and expensive; look for paid parking lots or use valet services.

• Fuel costs and tolls should be considered if renting a car; app-based self-drive services like Zoomcar operate in Mumbai for convenient rentals.

• Navigation apps like Google Maps or MapMyIndia help avoid congested roads and suggest alternate routes during traffic jams.

Taxi / App-Based Cab

Using a taxi or app-based cab like Ola or Uber is a convenient door-to-door option, especially if you prefer comfort and direct travel.

• Booking a cab from Dadar to Kalbadevi takes about 30–45 minutes depending on traffic, with fares typically ranging from ₹150 to ₹300.

• Ola and Uber cabs are readily available near Dadar railway station and bus depots, with options from budget to premium cars.

• Prepaid taxi booths are also present at Dadar station for fixed fares, but app-based cabs often offer better pricing and tracking.

• Traffic congestion near Kalbadevi can cause delays, so inform your driver about preferred drop-off points to avoid narrow lanes.

• During festivals or heavy rains, surge pricing may apply, so check fare estimates before booking your ride.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

If you are traveling from Dadar to Kalbadevi for the first time, follow this simple plan to ensure a smooth journey.

• Start by deciding your preferred mode of transport based on comfort, budget, and time. Trains are fastest but crowded; buses are cheap; cabs are comfortable but costlier.

• If taking the train, buy your ticket or use a smart card at Dadar station. Avoid peak hours if possible to travel comfortably and safely.

• Board a train heading towards Churchgate or CST on the Western or Central line respectively. Listen for announcements to get off at the correct station.

• After reaching Churchgate or CST, exit the station and either walk or take a rickshaw to Kalbadevi. Keep small change ready for rickshaw fares and negotiate if needed.

• If using a bus, check the route number and bus timings on the BEST app or at the bus stop. Board the correct bus and pay the fare in cash or via the app.

• For cabs, book your ride via Ola or Uber app from Dadar to Kalbadevi. Share your live location with a friend for safety and track the cab’s arrival time.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always keep your belongings secure, especially in crowded trains and buses, to avoid pickpocketing common in Mumbai’s busy areas.

• Drink bottled water and avoid street food during travel if you have a sensitive stomach; Kalbadevi has many food stalls but hygiene varies.

• Book train tickets or smart cards in advance via IRCTC or local counters to avoid last-minute rush and long queues at Dadar station.

• Use prepaid rickshaws or app-based cabs for last-mile travel from stations to Kalbadevi to avoid overcharging and confusion.

• Carry light luggage as narrow lanes and crowded transport make it difficult to manage heavy bags, especially during peak hours.

• During monsoon, carry an umbrella and check weather updates as flooding can disrupt train and bus services on this route.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Dadar to Kalbadevi is during non-peak hours to avoid Mumbai’s heavy traffic and crowded trains. Early mornings and late evenings are usually less crowded.

Avoid traveling during major festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi or Diwali when the city experiences heavy traffic and crowded public transport. Monsoon season can cause delays due to waterlogging and slow traffic.

• Peak traffic occurs Monday to Friday between 8:00–11:00 AM and 5:00–8:00 PM; avoid these times for faster travel.

• Monsoon months (June to September) bring heavy rains and occasional flooding, causing train delays and slow road traffic.

• Midday travel between 11:00 AM and 4:00 PM is generally smoother with less crowding on trains and roads.

• Check weather and traffic apps before starting your journey to plan the best departure time.

Arrival at Kalbadevi & What to Expect

When you arrive at Kalbadevi, you will find a busy market area with narrow lanes filled with shops selling textiles, jewelry, and spices. The area is lively and crowded, reflecting Mumbai’s old city charm.

Local transport options include auto-rickshaws and taxis, but traffic congestion is common. Walking is often the best way to explore Kalbadevi’s markets and heritage sites. Accommodation options nearby include budget hotels and guesthouses around Girgaum and Bhuleshwar.

Prepaid taxi booths and app-based cab services are available for onward travel. Be prepared for busy streets and plan your routes accordingly to avoid getting stuck in traffic.

Conclusion

Traveling from Dadar to Kalbadevi is straightforward with multiple transport options to suit different preferences. The local train offers the fastest and most economical way, while buses and cabs provide alternatives based on comfort and convenience.

Plan your trip by considering traffic patterns, weather conditions, and your comfort level. Booking tickets in advance and using navigation apps will help you avoid common travel hassles. With these tips, you can confidently navigate this popular Mumbai route and enjoy your time in Kalbadevi’s vibrant market area.