Mumbai, the bustling financial capital of India, is located on the west coast of Maharashtra. Karjat is a popular hill station and weekend getaway situated about 62 kilometers southeast of Mumbai in the Western Ghats. Many travelers journey from Mumbai to Karjat to enjoy its scenic beauty, trekking spots, and peaceful environment away from the city hustle.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to travel from Mumbai to Karjat. You will learn about trains, buses, cars, and taxis, along with practical tips to plan your trip smoothly and comfortably.

Getting from Mumbai to Karjat – Main Options

Train

Taking a train from Mumbai to Karjat is one of the most popular and convenient options. It is affordable, frequent, and offers a scenic route through the Western Ghats.

• Karjat is well connected by the Mumbai suburban railway network via the Central Line, with frequent local trains from Mumbai CST, Dadar, and Thane stations taking about 1.5 to 2 hours to reach Karjat.

• Long-distance trains from Mumbai Lokmanya Tilak Terminus (LTT) and Mumbai CST also stop at Karjat, providing options for reserved seating and overnight travel.

• Train fares for local trains range from ₹20 to ₹50, while reserved trains can cost between ₹100 and ₹300 depending on class and train type.

• Trains run frequently throughout the day, but mornings and evenings can be crowded due to commuter traffic, so plan accordingly to avoid rush hours.

• During monsoon season, trains may face delays due to heavy rains and track maintenance, so check live train status on the IRCTC website or app before traveling.

• Karjat station has basic amenities, and you can find auto-rickshaws and taxis outside for last-mile connectivity to resorts or trekking points.

Bus

Buses are a budget-friendly option to reach Karjat from Mumbai. State transport and private operators run regular services, though the journey can be slower than trains.

• MSRTC buses depart from Mumbai’s Eastern Express Highway bus depots, such as Kurla or Vikhroli, heading towards Karjat via NH48 and NH66, covering about 65 km in 2 to 3 hours.

• Private buses and shared taxis also operate on this route, offering flexible timings but varying comfort levels and fares ranging from ₹50 to ₹150.

• Bus frequency is good during the day, but services reduce after sunset, so plan your return accordingly.

• The road journey passes through scenic areas but can face traffic congestion near Mumbai suburbs and toll plazas, especially during peak hours and weekends.

• Rest stops along the highway provide basic food stalls and washrooms, but it is advisable to carry water and snacks for comfort.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Mumbai to Karjat is a flexible and comfortable option, especially if you want to explore nearby attractions or travel with family and friends.

• The most common route is via the Mumbai-Pune Expressway and NH48, covering approximately 62 km in 1.5 to 2 hours depending on traffic conditions.

• Driving allows you to stop at scenic spots like Matheran or Kondana Caves along the way, enhancing your travel experience.

• Toll charges apply on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway and some highway sections, so keep cash or FASTag ready for smooth passage.

• Traffic congestion is common during weekends and holidays near Mumbai exits and Karjat town, so starting early in the morning is recommended to avoid delays.

• Fuel stations and eateries are available on the highway, but it is best to fill up before leaving Mumbai to avoid last-minute stops.

Taxi / Cab

Hiring a taxi or app-based cab like Ola or Uber offers door-to-door convenience and comfort for travelers who prefer not to drive themselves.

• Ola and Uber cabs can be booked from anywhere in Mumbai to Karjat, with fares typically ranging from ₹1500 to ₹2500 depending on vehicle type and time of day.

• Prepaid taxis are available at major railway stations and airports, offering fixed fares and reliable service for tourists.

• Taxi travel time is around 1.5 to 2 hours, but traffic jams on weekends or during festivals can extend the journey.

• Booking in advance during peak seasons is advisable to ensure availability and avoid surge pricing.

• Many taxis offer sightseeing packages around Karjat, including visits to waterfalls and forts, which can be arranged during your trip.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

If this is your first time traveling from Mumbai to Karjat, follow these simple steps to ensure a smooth journey.

• Check train or bus schedules online on IRCTC or MSRTC websites to pick the best departure time avoiding rush hours and monsoon delays.

• Book train tickets in advance through the IRCTC app or website to secure reserved seats, especially on weekends and holidays.

• If traveling by car, plan your route using Google Maps and check traffic updates to avoid jams near Mumbai suburbs.

• Pack light but carry essentials like water, snacks, and a raincoat during monsoon season for comfort and safety.

• On arrival at Karjat station or bus stop, use prepaid auto-rickshaws or app-based cabs for last-mile travel to your accommodation or trekking points.

• Keep your mobile phone charged and have offline maps downloaded to navigate local areas easily without internet connectivity issues.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always carry bottled water and avoid drinking tap water in Karjat to prevent stomach issues common among travelers.

• Use official prepaid taxi counters or trusted app-based cabs to avoid overcharging and ensure safety during local travel.

• During monsoon, roads can be slippery and prone to landslides, so avoid night travel and check weather updates regularly.

• Book train or bus tickets early during festival seasons like Ganesh Chaturthi to avoid last-minute unavailability and crowded travel.

• Carry a small first-aid kit and basic medicines, as medical facilities in Karjat town are limited compared to Mumbai.

• Keep your luggage light and secure, as crowded trains and buses can make handling heavy bags difficult.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Mumbai to Karjat is during the cooler months from October to February when the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities.

Monsoon season from June to September brings heavy rains, making the journey scenic but sometimes risky due to slippery roads and train delays.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Diwali and Ganesh Chaturthi when Mumbai experiences heavy traffic and crowded trains.

• Early morning departures help avoid Mumbai’s peak traffic and provide a more comfortable journey to Karjat.

• Fog in winter mornings can cause minor train delays, so allow extra travel time if you have connecting plans.

• During monsoon, check weather and train status frequently to avoid disruptions caused by landslides or waterlogging.

Arrival at Karjat & What to Expect

Karjat railway station is small but well maintained, with clear signboards and basic facilities like waiting areas and refreshment stalls. The station exit leads to a small parking area where you can find auto-rickshaws and taxis easily.

Most travelers stay in resorts or homestays near Karjat town or the nearby hills. Local transport options include shared autos, private taxis, and app-based cabs, though availability may be limited in remote areas.

It is advisable to pre-book your accommodation and arrange for pick-up from the station, especially during weekends and holidays when local transport can be crowded.

Conclusion

Traveling from Mumbai to Karjat is straightforward with multiple options like trains, buses, cars, and taxis to suit different budgets and preferences. The train remains the most efficient and popular mode, offering frequent services and scenic views.

Planning your trip by checking schedules, booking tickets early, and considering seasonal conditions will help you enjoy a hassle-free journey. With proper preparation, you can confidently explore Karjat’s natural beauty and make the most of your visit.