Kondana Caves are ancient Buddhist rock-cut caves located near Karjat in Maharashtra. These caves are a popular destination for history lovers and trekkers looking to explore scenic hills and heritage sites close to Mumbai and Pune.

This route from Karjat Station to Kondana Caves is commonly traveled by tourists and locals alike. This guide will help you understand the best ways to reach the caves, including transport options, travel times, and practical tips for a smooth journey.

Getting from Karjat Station to Kondana Caves – Main Options

Train

While Karjat Station is well connected by train, there is no direct train to Kondana Caves. Train travel is best for reaching Karjat itself, after which other transport modes are needed.

• Karjat Station is on the Mumbai–Pune railway route, served by frequent local and long-distance trains, making it easy to reach from Mumbai or Pune in 1.5 to 2 hours.

• From Karjat Station, no direct train goes to Kondana Caves, so you must use road transport for the last 12 km journey to the caves.

• Trains are frequent and affordable, with fares from Mumbai to Karjat ranging between ₹40 and ₹150 depending on train type and class.

• Karjat Station has good facilities including ticket counters, waiting areas, and auto-rickshaw stands for onward travel.

• During monsoon season, train services may face delays due to fog or waterlogging, so plan accordingly.

Bus

Buses offer a budget-friendly way to reach near Kondana Caves, but direct buses to the caves are limited. You can take buses from Karjat to nearby villages and then hire local transport.

• MSRTC buses run from Karjat Bus Depot towards Kondana village and surrounding areas, covering about 12 km in 30–45 minutes.

• Bus frequency is moderate, with more services during morning and evening; mid-day buses may be sparse, so check timings in advance.

• Bus fares are economical, generally under ₹30, but buses can be crowded during weekends and holidays.

• Local buses may not drop you exactly at the caves; a short walk or auto-rickshaw ride from the nearest stop is usually needed.

• During monsoon, bus routes may be affected by slippery roads or minor landslides, so travel cautiously.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Karjat Station to Kondana Caves is convenient and flexible, especially if you want to explore the area at your own pace. The roads are mostly good but can be narrow near the caves.

• The distance from Karjat Station to Kondana Caves is about 12 km via NH548 and local village roads, taking roughly 30–40 minutes by car.

• Route passes through scenic Western Ghats terrain; expect some narrow and winding sections near the caves, so drive carefully.

• Toll plazas are present on NH548, so keep cash handy for toll payments during your drive.

• Parking is available near the caves but limited, so arrive early to secure a spot, especially on weekends.

• Car rentals and self-drive options are available in Karjat town, with daily rates starting around ₹1500 depending on vehicle type.

• During monsoon, roads can be slippery and visibility low; avoid driving at night or during heavy rain.

Taxi / Cab

Hiring a taxi or cab from Karjat Station to Kondana Caves is a popular choice for comfort and convenience, especially for groups or families.

• Ola and Uber services operate in Karjat town, allowing easy app-based booking for a direct ride to Kondana Caves.

• Taxi fare for the 12 km trip usually ranges between ₹300 and ₹500 depending on vehicle type and time of day.

• Prepaid taxis are available at Karjat Station, but negotiate or confirm fare before starting the trip to avoid surprises.

• Cabs offer flexibility to stop at viewpoints or nearby attractions along the way, enhancing your travel experience.

• During peak tourist season or monsoon, taxi availability may reduce, so book in advance if possible.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

If this is your first time traveling from Karjat Station to Kondana Caves, follow these steps to ensure a smooth journey.

• Arrive at Karjat Station by train from Mumbai or Pune, as it is the nearest major railway station to Kondana Caves.

• Exit the station and decide your onward transport: taxi, bus, or rental car based on your budget and comfort needs.

• If taking a taxi, use Ola/Uber apps or prepaid taxi counters for a hassle-free booking; confirm fare before starting.

• If using bus, check the MSRTC bus schedule at Karjat Bus Depot and board the bus towards Kondana village; prepare for a short walk or local auto from the bus stop.

• If self-driving, rent a car in Karjat town or use your own vehicle; follow NH548 and local roads to Kondana Caves, watching for road signs and toll plazas.

• Once at the caves, park your vehicle safely and carry water and snacks as there are limited food options nearby.

Practical Travel Tips

• Carry enough drinking water and light snacks, as food stalls near Kondana Caves are limited and may close early.

• Wear comfortable walking shoes and carry rain gear during monsoon, as the trek to the caves involves uneven paths and slippery rocks.

• Book train tickets to Karjat in advance via IRCTC, especially on weekends and holidays, to avoid last-minute rush.

• Use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs to avoid overcharging; always negotiate fares if booking offline.

• Keep your luggage light; the last part of the journey involves walking on rough terrain where vehicles cannot go.

• Be cautious during the monsoon season; landslides and slippery paths are common, so check weather forecasts before traveling.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to visit Kondana Caves is during the cooler months from October to February when the weather is pleasant and trekking is comfortable.

Avoid the peak monsoon months of July and August if you are not comfortable with slippery trails and heavy rains, although the caves look lush green during this time.

• Avoid weekends and festival periods like Ganesh Chaturthi and Diwali when local traffic and tourist crowds peak, causing delays.

• Early morning departures are best to avoid afternoon heat and secure parking near the caves.

• Winter mornings can be foggy, causing low visibility on roads; plan your drive accordingly.

• Monsoon rains may cause minor landslides on local roads, so check local news or ask locals before traveling.

Arrival at Kondana Caves & What to Expect

When you arrive at Kondana Caves, you will find a small parking area and a ticket counter for entry. The area is peaceful with lush greenery and scenic views of the Western Ghats.

Local transport options from Karjat Station include auto-rickshaws and taxis, but the last stretch to the caves requires walking on a forested trail. Nearby villages offer basic amenities and homestays for overnight stays.

Accommodation options are limited near the caves, so most travelers stay in Karjat town or nearby Lonavala, which have more hotels and guesthouses. Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs are available for return trips to Karjat Station.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to reach Kondana Caves from Karjat Station is by hiring a taxi or self-driving, as these options offer flexibility and comfort for the last 12 km journey. Train travel is ideal for reaching Karjat, but road transport is necessary afterward.

Plan your trip by booking train tickets early, checking weather conditions, and choosing transport based on your budget and convenience. With proper preparation, you can enjoy a safe and memorable visit to the historic Kondana Caves and the beautiful Western Ghats surrounding them.