Karjat is a scenic town located in the Raigad district of Maharashtra, nestled in the Western Ghats. It is a popular weekend getaway for residents of Mumbai and Pune due to its lush greenery and proximity to nature.

This guide explains the best ways to reach Karjat from major nearby cities like Mumbai and Pune. You will find detailed information about trains, buses, driving routes, and practical travel tips to plan your trip confidently.

Getting from Mumbai and Pune to Karjat – Main Options

Train

Train travel is the most popular and convenient way to reach Karjat from Mumbai and Pune. The town is well connected by the Central Railway network with frequent local and passenger trains.

• From Mumbai, you can catch local trains from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) or Dadar to Karjat. The journey takes about 1.5 to 2 hours covering roughly 70 km, with fares ranging from ₹30 to ₹60 depending on the train class.

• From Pune, Karjat is accessible via passenger trains that take around 2.5 to 3 hours. Trains depart from Pune Junction and pass through Lonavala, covering approximately 100 km. Ticket prices usually range between ₹50 and ₹100.

• Trains run frequently throughout the day, but expect peak hour crowding during weekends and holidays as Karjat is a popular destination for day-trippers and trekkers.

• During the monsoon season, train services may face delays due to heavy rains and track maintenance. It is advisable to check IRCTC or local railway updates before traveling.

• Karjat station has basic amenities including ticket counters, waiting areas, and auto-rickshaw stands for last-mile connectivity to resorts and trekking points.

Bus

Buses offer an economical option to reach Karjat from Mumbai and Pune, suitable for travelers comfortable with road journeys and flexible schedules.

• MSRTC operates regular buses from Mumbai’s Central Bus Station (Dadar) to Karjat, covering about 75 km in 2 to 3 hours depending on traffic. Fares typically range from ₹50 to ₹100 for ordinary and deluxe services.

• From Pune, buses depart from Shivajinagar or Swargate bus stands to Karjat, taking around 3 to 4 hours via the Mumbai-Pune Expressway and NH48. Ticket prices vary between ₹80 and ₹150.

• Buses run frequently but can get crowded during weekends and festival seasons, so booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially for deluxe or air-conditioned buses.

• Road conditions are generally good on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway and NH48, but monsoon rains can cause occasional delays and slippery patches on smaller connecting roads.

• Bus stops in Karjat are close to the town center, with easy access to local transport like auto-rickshaws and shared taxis for onward travel.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving to Karjat is a flexible and comfortable option, ideal for families or groups wanting to explore the region at their own pace.

• From Mumbai, the drive to Karjat is about 70 km via the Mumbai-Pune Expressway and NH48, usually taking 1.5 to 2 hours depending on traffic. Toll charges apply on the expressway, so keep cash or FASTag ready.

• From Pune, the route covers approximately 100 km via the Mumbai-Pune Expressway and NH48, with a typical drive time of 2.5 to 3 hours. The roads are well maintained but watch for heavy traffic near Lonavala and Karjat during weekends.

• Self-drive car rentals are widely available in Mumbai and Pune with providers like Zoomcar and Revv offering hourly and daily packages. Ensure your vehicle has valid permits for highway travel.

• Rest stops with food options and fuel stations are available along the expressway, including at Khalapur and Lonavala. It is advisable to start early to avoid peak traffic and enjoy daylight driving.

• During the monsoon, roads can be slippery and visibility low, so drive cautiously and avoid night travel on smaller roads leading to trekking spots.

Flight

There are no direct flights to Karjat as it is a small town. The nearest airports are Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport and Pune Airport.

• If you are arriving from other cities, fly into Mumbai or Pune and then use train, bus, or car options to reach Karjat.

• Mumbai airport is about 80 km from Karjat, and Pune airport is about 110 km away. Both airports have good taxi and cab services to connect you to Karjat.

• Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber operate from both airports, with fares to Karjat ranging from ₹1,500 to ₹2,500 depending on the vehicle type and time of day.

• Flight schedules and fares vary seasonally, so plan your air travel to align with your onward ground transport for a smooth journey.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This step-by-step plan is designed for first-time travelers heading to Karjat, helping you organize your trip with ease and avoid common pitfalls.

• Book your train or bus tickets in advance using IRCTC or MSRTC online portals to secure your preferred travel time and class, especially on weekends and holidays.

• If traveling by train, arrive at the station at least 30 minutes early to navigate crowds and find your platform comfortably. Carry a valid ID for ticket verification.

• For bus travel, confirm the bus type and departure time at the bus stand or online. Keep small change handy for ticket purchase and tolls.

• If driving, check your vehicle’s condition, fuel level, and toll tag before starting. Use GPS navigation apps like Google Maps for real-time traffic updates and alternate routes.

• Pack light but include essentials like water, snacks, and rain gear during monsoon. Carry a power bank and keep your phone charged for navigation and communication.

• On arrival at Karjat station or bus stop, use prepaid auto-rickshaws or app-based cabs for safe and fair-priced local travel to your accommodation or trekking sites.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always carry bottled water and avoid drinking tap water in Karjat to prevent stomach issues common in travelers unfamiliar with local water quality.

• Book train and bus tickets early during weekends and festival seasons to avoid last-minute unavailability and crowded conditions.

• Use prepaid taxi counters or trusted app-based cabs like Ola and Uber for local transport to avoid overcharging and ensure safety.

• Keep your luggage light and secure, especially if you plan to trek or explore nature spots around Karjat where carrying heavy bags is inconvenient.

• During monsoon, check weather and road conditions before travel as landslides and waterlogging can disrupt road and rail services.

• Carry some cash in small denominations as many local vendors and transport services may not accept digital payments in remote areas.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to visit Karjat is from October to March when the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities. Summers can be hot, and monsoon brings heavy rains that may disrupt travel.

Planning your trip outside peak festival periods and weekends helps avoid heavy traffic and crowded trains or buses.

• Avoid traveling during Ganesh Chaturthi and Diwali weekends when roads and trains to Karjat are heavily crowded with holiday travelers.

• Monsoon season (June to September) brings lush greenery but also risks of train delays, slippery roads, and occasional landslides on the ghats.

• Early morning departures from Mumbai or Pune help you avoid city traffic and reach Karjat comfortably before noon.

• Winter mornings can have fog affecting visibility on roads and railways, so allow extra travel time during December and January.

Arrival at Karjat & What to Expect

When you arrive at Karjat railway station or bus stand, you will find basic facilities and easy access to local transport. The town is small, so getting around is straightforward.

Auto-rickshaws and shared taxis are the main local transport options. Prepaid auto counters at the station help avoid haggling. App-based cabs like Ola are also available but may have limited coverage in remote areas.

Popular areas to stay include the town center near the station and resorts on the outskirts near trekking trails. Many accommodations offer pick-up services if informed in advance.

Conclusion

Traveling to Karjat is convenient with multiple options from Mumbai and Pune. Trains offer the best balance of cost, speed, and frequency, while buses and self-drive provide alternatives for different preferences. Planning ahead and booking tickets early ensures a smooth journey.

Keep in mind seasonal factors like monsoon rains and festival crowds when scheduling your trip. With proper preparation and local travel tips, you can enjoy a comfortable and memorable visit to Karjat’s natural beauty and peaceful surroundings.