Lonavala and Kamshet are two popular hill stations located in the Western Ghats of Maharashtra. Lonavala is well-known for its scenic beauty and tourist attractions, while Kamshet is famous for paragliding and serene landscapes. Many travelers visit both places during their Maharashtra trip, making this route commonly traveled.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to travel from Lonavala to Kamshet. You will learn about different transport options, travel times, fares, and practical tips to make your journey smooth and enjoyable.

Getting from Lonavala to Kamshet – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train is a popular and convenient option between Lonavala and Kamshet. Both stations lie on the Mumbai-Pune railway route, making trains frequent and affordable.

• Local trains run regularly between Lonavala and Kamshet, covering the 20 km distance in about 30 to 40 minutes, with fares typically under ₹20 for second class.

• Trains depart every 30 minutes during peak hours but may be less frequent early morning or late night, so check the timetable on the Indian Railways or IRCTC app before planning.

• The train journey offers scenic views of the Western Ghats, but trains can get crowded during weekends and holidays, so board early to get a seat.

• Both Lonavala and Kamshet stations have basic facilities, but last-mile connectivity from Kamshet station to paragliding sites may require local auto-rickshaws or taxis.

• Monsoon season can cause occasional delays due to heavy rains and track maintenance, so allow extra travel time during June to September.

Bus

Buses provide a budget-friendly way to travel between Lonavala and Kamshet, suitable for travelers comfortable with local transport and flexible timings.

• State transport buses operated by MSRTC run between Lonavala and Kamshet, covering the distance in about 45 minutes to 1 hour, with fares around ₹30 to ₹50.

• Buses depart from Lonavala bus stand frequently during the day, but service reduces after sunset, so plan accordingly.

• The route follows the NH48 highway, offering good road conditions except during heavy monsoon rains when landslides may cause delays.

• Bus interiors are basic and can get crowded during weekends and festivals, so avoid peak travel times for a comfortable journey.

• There are no direct luxury buses on this short route, so expect standard non-AC buses with frequent stops.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Lonavala to Kamshet is a flexible and comfortable option, especially if you want to explore nearby attractions or travel at your own pace.

• The distance is about 20 km via NH48 and local roads, taking roughly 30 to 45 minutes depending on traffic and weather conditions.

• The route is well-maintained with clear signboards, but watch out for narrow stretches and occasional fog during early mornings and winters.

• Toll plazas on NH48 may apply, so keep some cash handy for toll payments during the drive.

• Fuel stations and eateries are available along the highway, making it easy to stop for refreshments or refueling.

• Self-drive car rentals are available in Lonavala, with daily rates starting around ₹1500, and app-based cab services like Ola and Uber operate between the two towns for hassle-free travel.

Taxi

Hiring a taxi or cab is a convenient choice for travelers seeking door-to-door service and comfort without driving themselves.

• Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber are available in Lonavala, offering rides to Kamshet at fares ranging from ₹600 to ₹900 depending on vehicle type and time of day.

• Taxi rides take about 30 to 45 minutes, with drivers familiar with the best routes to avoid traffic and roadblocks.

• Booking a taxi in advance is recommended during weekends and holidays to avoid surge pricing and availability issues.

• Taxi drivers can also act as local guides, helping you reach paragliding sites or other attractions around Kamshet.

• During monsoon, road conditions may slow down travel, so confirm estimated arrival times with your driver before starting.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

If this is your first time traveling from Lonavala to Kamshet, follow this simple plan to ensure a smooth journey.

• Check train and bus schedules online or via apps like IRCTC and MSRTC to choose the best departure time based on your convenience and weather conditions.

• Book train tickets in advance if possible, especially on weekends, to secure a seat and avoid last-minute rush at Lonavala station.

• If traveling by bus, arrive early at the Lonavala bus stand to get a seat and avoid crowded conditions during peak hours.

• If you prefer driving or taxi, confirm your booking a day ahead and check the vehicle condition and driver credentials for safety.

• Pack light and carry water and snacks, especially if you plan to explore paragliding or trekking spots after reaching Kamshet.

• On arrival at Kamshet station or bus stop, use prepaid auto-rickshaws or app-based cabs for last-mile connectivity to your accommodation or activity sites.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always carry a photo ID when traveling by train or bus, as ticket checks are common on this route.

• Drink bottled water and avoid street food during transit to prevent stomach issues, especially if you are not used to local cuisine.

• Book tickets online through IRCTC or MSRTC apps to avoid queues and confirm schedules, especially during festival seasons.

• Use local auto-rickshaws or Ola/Uber for short distances in Kamshet, and insist on prepaid fares or app bookings to avoid overcharging.

• Carry a small backpack with essentials like raincoat, sunscreen, and a power bank, as mobile signals can be weak in some hilly areas.

• During monsoon, check weather updates and road conditions before traveling, as landslides and waterlogging can disrupt transport services.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Lonavala to Kamshet is during the cooler months from October to February when the weather is pleasant and roads are clear. Avoid heavy monsoon months for safer and faster travel.

Peak tourist seasons like weekends, holidays, and festivals can cause crowded trains and buses, so plan your trip on weekdays if possible.

• Avoid traveling during the monsoon months of June to September due to frequent rains and possible landslides on NH48.

• Early mornings and late evenings in winter can have dense fog, reducing visibility on roads and rail tracks.

• Weekends and festival periods see high passenger traffic, leading to crowded trains and buses, so book tickets early or choose off-peak hours.

• Mid-morning to afternoon departures generally offer smoother journeys with less fog and traffic congestion.

Arrival at Kamshet & What to Expect

When you arrive at Kamshet railway station or bus stand, you will find basic facilities and local transport options to reach your final destination. The town is small but popular among paragliding enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Prepaid auto-rickshaws and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber operate in Kamshet, providing easy last-mile connectivity. Common areas to stay include near the station or close to paragliding sites, with guesthouses and budget hotels widely available.

Conclusion

Traveling from Lonavala to Kamshet is straightforward with multiple transport options to suit different budgets and preferences. The train is the most economical and scenic way, while taxis and self-drive cars offer flexibility and comfort.

Plan your trip by checking schedules, booking tickets in advance, and considering seasonal weather conditions. With these practical tips and clear travel options, you can confidently enjoy your journey from Lonavala to Kamshet and explore the beautiful Western Ghats region.