Lonavala is a popular hill station located in the Western Ghats of Maharashtra, known for its scenic beauty and pleasant climate. Chennai, the capital city of Tamil Nadu, lies in the southeastern part of India. Many travelers from Chennai visit Lonavala to enjoy a refreshing break from city life.

This guide explains the main ways to travel from Chennai to Lonavala, including trains, buses, cars, and flights. You will find detailed travel times, fare ranges, and useful tips to plan your journey smoothly and comfortably.

Getting from Chennai to Lonavala – Main Options

Train

Train travel is a popular and economical way to reach Lonavala from Chennai. Several trains connect Chennai Central to Pune or Mumbai, from where you can catch a local train or taxi to Lonavala.

• The nearest major railway station to Lonavala is Lonavala Railway Station, well connected to Mumbai and Pune. From Chennai Central, you can take trains like the Chennai Central–Mumbai CST Duronto or Chennai–Pune Express, which take around 21 to 24 hours.

• Train fares from Chennai to Pune or Mumbai range from ₹500 to ₹1500 depending on class (Sleeper, 3AC, 2AC). Booking through IRCTC is recommended to secure confirmed seats in advance, especially during weekends and holidays.

• After reaching Pune or Mumbai, you can take a local train or taxi to Lonavala, which is about 65 km from Pune and 83 km from Mumbai. Local trains run frequently between these cities and Lonavala, taking about 1.5 to 2 hours.

• Trains are generally comfortable but can be crowded during festival seasons like Diwali or summer vacations. Booking early and choosing air-conditioned classes can improve comfort.

• Night trains are available, allowing you to save daytime for sightseeing. Carry snacks and water, as pantry car services may vary on different trains.

Bus

Bus travel from Chennai to Lonavala is less direct but possible with some planning. You will need to travel to Mumbai or Pune first by bus, then take a local bus or taxi to Lonavala.

• State transport buses operated by MSRTC and private operators run from Chennai to Mumbai or Pune, with journey times of 24 to 28 hours depending on the route and stops.

• Bus fares vary widely, from ₹800 to ₹1500 for AC and non-AC sleeper buses. Booking through online portals or bus stands like Chennai Mofussil Bus Terminus is advisable.

• From Mumbai or Pune bus stands, frequent MSRTC buses and private taxis are available to Lonavala, taking around 2 to 3 hours via NH48.

• Buses offer a budget-friendly option but can be tiring due to the long duration. Night buses help save daytime but may be less comfortable for some travelers.

• During monsoon season, roads around Lonavala can be slippery and prone to delays. Check weather updates before traveling by bus.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Chennai to Lonavala is suitable if you prefer flexibility and want to explore en route. The distance is about 1200 km and takes approximately 22 to 24 hours by car.

• The main route follows NH48 passing through Bangalore, Pune, and Mumbai before reaching Lonavala. This highway is well maintained with multiple toll plazas along the way.

• Driving allows you to stop at popular places like Bangalore, Satara, or Pune for rest and sightseeing, making the journey more enjoyable.

• Fuel costs for the trip can range from ₹6000 to ₹8000 depending on your vehicle’s mileage. Plan for toll charges at several plazas on NH48.

• Road conditions are generally good but can be affected by heavy monsoon rains near Lonavala. Drive cautiously during rainy months and avoid night driving in unfamiliar areas.

• Car rentals with driver or self-drive options are available in Chennai. Booking in advance through reputed agencies ensures better rates and vehicle condition.

Flight

There is no direct flight to Lonavala as it does not have an airport. The nearest airports are Pune and Mumbai, which are well connected to Chennai by air.

• Flights from Chennai International Airport to Pune Airport take about 1.5 hours, with multiple daily flights operated by airlines like IndiGo and Air India. Fares range from ₹2500 to ₹6000 depending on booking time.

• From Pune Airport, Lonavala is about 65 km away. You can hire prepaid taxis or app-based cabs like Ola and Uber to reach Lonavala in around 1.5 hours.

• Alternatively, you can fly to Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, about 83 km from Lonavala. Mumbai offers more flight options but longer road travel to Lonavala.

• Flight travel is the fastest way to cover the long distance but involves additional road travel from the airport to Lonavala. Planning airport transfers in advance is recommended.

• Flight prices may rise during holiday seasons and weekends, so booking early can save money. Check for baggage limits and carry-on policies to avoid extra charges.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This step-by-step plan is designed for first-time travelers from Chennai to Lonavala. It helps you organize your journey smoothly and avoid common pitfalls.

• Step 1: Decide your preferred mode of transport based on budget, comfort, and time. Trains are economical, flights are fastest, while driving offers flexibility.

• Step 2: Book your tickets early through official portals like IRCTC for trains or airline websites for flights. Early booking ensures confirmed seats and better prices.

• Step 3: Pack light but carry essentials like water, snacks, and a power bank. Indian trains and buses may have limited food options en route.

• Step 4: Reach the departure point (Chennai Central, airport, or bus stand) at least 1 hour before departure to avoid last-minute rush and check-in delays.

• Step 5: Upon arrival at Pune or Mumbai, use prepaid taxi counters or app-based cabs for safe and reliable travel to Lonavala. Avoid unmetered taxis.

• Step 6: Confirm your accommodation in Lonavala in advance, especially during weekends and holidays, to avoid last-minute hassles.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always carry a photo ID like Aadhaar or passport when traveling by train or flight as it is mandatory for ticket verification and security checks.

• Drink only bottled or filtered water during your journey to avoid stomach issues common in Indian travel, especially on long trips.

• Book tickets online to avoid queues and scams at stations or bus stands. Use official apps like IRCTC, MakeMyTrip, or RedBus for reliable bookings.

• Use local transport apps such as Ola or Uber for safe and affordable rides in Pune, Mumbai, and Lonavala. Prepaid taxis at airports and stations are also recommended.

• Pack your luggage securely and keep valuables like money and documents in a carry bag. Indian trains and buses can get crowded, so stay alert.

• During monsoon (June to September), expect delays due to heavy rains and landslides near Lonavala. Carry rain gear and check weather forecasts before traveling.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to visit Lonavala is from October to February when the weather is cool and pleasant. Summers can be hot, and monsoons bring heavy rainfall that may disrupt travel plans.

Travel conditions vary with seasons, so planning your trip accordingly can enhance your experience and safety.

• Avoid traveling during peak festival seasons like Diwali and Christmas when trains and flights are crowded and prices surge.

• Monsoon rains between June and September can cause slippery roads and occasional landslides near Lonavala, leading to travel delays.

• Early morning departures from Chennai help avoid city traffic and ensure smoother road or rail journeys.

• Winter months offer clear skies and comfortable temperatures, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities in Lonavala.

Arrival at Lonavala & What to Expect

When you arrive at Lonavala Railway Station or nearby bus stands, you will find several local transport options to reach your hotel or tourist spots. Auto-rickshaws and taxis are readily available outside the station.

Most visitors prefer staying near the Lonavala market area or around Tungarli Lake for easy access to restaurants and attractions. App-based cabs like Ola and Uber operate in Lonavala but may have limited availability during late hours.

Prepaid taxi counters at Pune and Mumbai airports or stations provide fixed fares to Lonavala, ensuring fair pricing and safety. It is advisable to agree on fares before starting your journey if using local taxis.

Conclusion

Traveling from Chennai to Lonavala offers multiple options depending on your time, budget, and comfort preferences. Trains provide an affordable and scenic journey, while flights save time but require additional road travel. Driving offers flexibility to explore en route but demands careful planning.

Booking tickets early, checking weather conditions, and planning local transport in advance will help you have a smooth and enjoyable trip. With this guide, you can confidently plan your journey from Chennai to Lonavala and look forward to a refreshing hill station experience.