Kolhapur is a historic city located in Maharashtra, known for its rich culture and famous temples. Vijayawada, situated in Andhra Pradesh, is a bustling commercial hub and a gateway to South India. Traveling between these two cities is common for business, tourism, and cultural visits.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to reach Kolhapur from Vijayawada. You will learn about different transport options, travel times, fares, and practical tips to plan your journey confidently.

Getting from Vijayawada to Kolhapur – Main Options

Train

Train travel is a popular and economical choice for this route. It offers comfort and scenic views but requires advance booking due to demand.

• Vijayawada Junction (BZA) is the main railway station connecting to Kolhapur via multiple trains, including express and passenger services covering around 900 km in approximately 18 to 22 hours.

• Train fares range from INR 400 for sleeper class to INR 1500 for AC classes, depending on train and availability, making it budget-friendly for most travelers.

• Trains run daily but can get crowded during festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi and Diwali; booking tickets early on IRCTC is advisable to secure seats.

• Meals are available on long-distance trains, but carrying snacks is recommended due to variable pantry service quality on this route.

• Arrival at Kolhapur Railway Station is convenient, with easy access to local transport like auto-rickshaws and prepaid taxis for last-mile connectivity.

Bus

Buses offer flexible timing and direct routes but can be tiring due to the long distance. They are suitable for budget travelers who prefer road travel.

• State-run buses like APSRTC and MSRTC operate on this route, with Vijayawada bus station and Kolhapur Central Bus Stand as main terminals covering about 900 km in 20 to 24 hours.

• Bus fares typically range from INR 800 to INR 1200 depending on the type of bus, such as deluxe, semi-sleeper, or Volvo AC coaches.

• Night buses are common and help save daytime hours, but comfort levels vary; booking tickets in advance through official portals or agents is recommended.

• Road conditions on NH65 and NH48 are generally good, but monsoon rains can cause delays and slippery patches, especially near Western Ghats.

• Frequent stops at major towns like Solapur and Pune provide chances for refreshments and restroom breaks during the journey.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Vijayawada to Kolhapur offers flexibility and the chance to explore en route. It suits travelers who enjoy road trips and want to control their schedule.

• The route covers around 900 km via NH65 and NH48, typically taking 16 to 18 hours depending on traffic and stops, passing through cities like Hyderabad, Solapur, and Pune.

• Toll plazas are present on NH48, so keep cash or FASTag ready; toll costs can add up to INR 500 to 700 for the entire trip.

• Plan rest stops at highway dhabas or restaurants in towns like Solapur and Satara to refresh and enjoy local cuisine safely during the drive.

• Driving in monsoon requires caution due to slippery roads and reduced visibility, especially near the Western Ghats; avoid night driving in such conditions.

• Fuel stations are available along the highway, but filling up in major towns is safer to avoid running low in remote stretches.

Flight

There is no direct flight between Vijayawada and Kolhapur. However, flying to nearby airports and then taking road transport is an option for faster travel.

• Vijayawada Airport (VGA) offers flights to Mumbai and Pune, which are the closest major airports to Kolhapur, approximately 230 km and 120 km away respectively.

• From Mumbai or Pune airports, you can hire taxis or take buses to Kolhapur, which takes 4 to 5 hours by road.

• Flight fares vary widely but generally cost between INR 3000 to INR 6000 one way, depending on booking time and airline.

• Combining flight and road travel can save time but may increase overall cost and require careful coordination of schedules.

• Booking flights through official airline websites or trusted portals is recommended to avoid last-minute price surges and cancellations.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This plan is designed for first-time travelers making the journey from Vijayawada to Kolhapur. It covers essential steps to ensure a smooth and comfortable trip.

• Book your tickets early through IRCTC for trains or official bus websites to secure your seat and avoid last-minute hassles, especially during peak seasons.

• Pack light but carry essentials like water bottles, snacks, and a power bank, as long journeys can have limited access to amenities.

• Reach the departure station or bus stand at least 30 minutes before the scheduled time to avoid confusion and find your platform or bus easily.

• Use prepaid taxi counters or app-based cabs like Ola or Uber at arrival points in Kolhapur for safe and fair local transport, avoiding unmetered autos.

• Keep a printed or digital copy of your ticket and ID proof handy for verification during travel and at checkpoints.

• Inform family or friends about your travel plan and expected arrival time for safety and assistance if needed during the journey.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always drink bottled water and avoid street food during the journey to prevent stomach issues, especially when traveling by bus or train.

• Carry a small first-aid kit with basic medicines like painkillers, motion sickness tablets, and antiseptic cream for emergencies on the road.

• Use official booking portals like IRCTC for trains and MSRTC or APSRTC websites for buses to avoid scams and fake tickets.

• At Vijayawada and Kolhapur stations, use prepaid taxi counters or trusted app-based cabs to avoid overcharging and ensure safety.

• Travel light and secure your luggage with locks, especially in crowded trains and buses, to prevent theft or loss.

• During monsoon, check weather updates and road conditions before starting your journey to avoid delays caused by landslides or flooding.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel between Vijayawada and Kolhapur is during the cooler months from October to March. This period offers pleasant weather and fewer travel disruptions.

Avoid traveling during major festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi and Sankranti when trains and buses are crowded and prices may rise. Early morning departures help avoid city traffic.

• Monsoon season (June to September) can cause roadblocks and train delays due to heavy rains and landslides, especially near the Western Ghats.

• Winter mornings may have fog in parts of Maharashtra, causing slower train speeds and road visibility issues.

• Peak festival seasons see a surge in passenger traffic; booking tickets well in advance is essential to secure travel plans.

• Midday departures avoid early morning fog and late-night fatigue, making the journey safer and more comfortable.

Arrival at Kolhapur & What to Expect

Kolhapur Railway Station and Central Bus Stand are well connected to the city center. Upon arrival, you will find prepaid taxi counters and app-based cab services like Ola and Uber for easy local travel.

Popular areas to stay include the city center near Rankala Lake and Mahalaxmi Temple, offering good hotel options and easy access to attractions. Auto-rickshaws are available but agree on fares beforehand to avoid misunderstandings.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to travel from Vijayawada to Kolhapur depends on your priorities. Trains offer a balance of comfort and cost, while buses provide flexible timings. Driving allows freedom but requires stamina and planning. Flights combined with road travel save time but cost more.

Plan your journey by booking tickets early, checking weather conditions, and preparing for a long trip with essentials. With proper planning and awareness of Indian travel nuances, you can reach Kolhapur from Vijayawada confidently and enjoy your visit to this culturally rich city.