Shirdi, located in Maharashtra's Ahmednagar district, is famous for the Sai Baba temple and attracts millions of pilgrims annually. Lonavala, a popular hill station in the Western Ghats, is known for its scenic beauty and pleasant climate. Traveling from Shirdi to Lonavala is a common route for tourists and devotees looking to combine spiritual visits with leisure.

This guide will help you understand the main transport options to travel from Shirdi to Lonavala. You will get practical advice on trains, buses, cars, and flights, along with a detailed travel plan and useful tips to make your journey comfortable and hassle-free.

Getting from Shirdi to Lonavala – Main Options

Train

Train travel is a popular and economical option for this route, connecting Shirdi and Lonavala via nearby railway stations. It suits travelers who prefer a relaxed journey with scenic views.

• Shirdi has its own railway station (SDE) on the Manmad–Daund line, but direct trains to Lonavala are limited; travelers often use nearby stations like Kopar or Daund Junction for better connectivity.

• The nearest major station to Lonavala is Lonavala Railway Station (LNL) on the Mumbai–Pune route, well connected by frequent trains from Mumbai and Pune.

• Typical travel time by train from Shirdi to Lonavala, including transfers, ranges from 5 to 7 hours depending on connections and waiting times; fares vary from ₹150 to ₹400 in sleeper or second class.

• Trains are generally comfortable but can get crowded during weekends and festival seasons; booking tickets in advance via IRCTC is recommended to secure seats.

• Monsoon season may cause occasional delays due to heavy rains in the Western Ghats; check train running status before departure.

Bus

Buses offer a direct and affordable way to travel between Shirdi and Lonavala, suitable for budget travelers and those without access to trains.

• MSRTC operates regular buses from Shirdi Bus Stand to Lonavala Bus Depot, with journey times around 4 to 5 hours covering approximately 150 km via NH160 and NH48 highways.

• Bus fares typically range from ₹150 to ₹300 depending on the type of bus, such as ordinary, semi-deluxe, or Volvo AC services.

• Buses run frequently throughout the day, but peak hours and weekends may see crowded vehicles; booking tickets online or at the bus stand is advisable.

• The route passes through hilly terrain near Lonavala, so expect winding roads and occasional traffic jams during holiday seasons.

• Rest stops with local food options are available near Talegaon and Kamshet, popular spots for travelers to refresh.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Shirdi to Lonavala is a flexible and comfortable option, ideal for families or groups wanting to explore at their own pace.

• The distance by road is about 150 km, taking approximately 3.5 to 4.5 hours via NH160 and NH48, depending on traffic conditions.

• The route is well maintained with toll plazas at intervals; toll charges can range between ₹150 to ₹250 for this journey.

• Driving through the Western Ghats offers beautiful views, especially near Lonavala, but roads can be narrow and winding; cautious driving is advised during monsoon.

• Fuel stations and eateries are available along the highway, including popular stops like Bhiwandi and Talegaon.

• Self-drive car rentals and cab services like Ola and Uber are available in Shirdi; pre-booking ensures availability and better rates.

Flight

Flights are not a practical option for traveling directly between Shirdi and Lonavala due to the short distance and lack of nearby airports serving both locations.

• The nearest airport to Shirdi is Shirdi Airport (SAG), with limited domestic flights mainly to Mumbai and Pune.

• Lonavala does not have an airport; the closest airports are Pune Airport (PNQ) and Mumbai Airport (BOM), both about 65-80 km away.

• Flying between these airports and then taking a taxi or bus to Lonavala is possible but time-consuming and costly compared to road or train travel.

• Flights are generally not recommended unless combined with other travel plans involving Mumbai or Pune.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This step-by-step plan is designed for first-time travelers making the journey from Shirdi to Lonavala, ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience.

• Book your train or bus tickets online in advance through IRCTC or MSRTC portals to avoid last-minute hassles and secure your preferred travel time.

• Reach Shirdi Railway Station or Bus Stand at least 30 minutes before departure to manage boarding comfortably, especially during busy seasons.

• If traveling by train, confirm the train schedule and platform on the day of travel using official apps or station inquiry counters to avoid confusion.

• For self-drive, plan your route using GPS apps like Google Maps and check for toll plazas and fuel stations along NH160 and NH48 highways.

• Carry light snacks and water, especially if traveling by bus or train, as food options may be limited en route or during night travel.

• Upon arrival at Lonavala Railway Station or Bus Depot, use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs like Ola and Uber for safe and convenient last-mile connectivity to your accommodation.

Practical Travel Tips

• Keep your belongings secure and avoid displaying valuables openly, especially in crowded trains and buses, to prevent theft or loss.

• Drink only bottled water and eat freshly cooked food from trusted vendors during stops to avoid stomach issues common in Indian travel.

• Book tickets well in advance during festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi or weekends to avoid sold-out trains and buses.

• Use local auto-rickshaws or app-based cabs for short distances in Shirdi and Lonavala; always agree on fares beforehand if not using meters or apps.

• Pack light and carry a small daypack for essentials, as crowded transport and narrow roads can make handling heavy luggage difficult.

• During monsoon (June to September), carry rain gear and be prepared for slippery roads and occasional delays on the Western Ghats route.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Shirdi to Lonavala is during the cooler months from October to February when the weather is pleasant and roads are dry. Avoid the peak monsoon months if you prefer safer and faster travel.

Traffic tends to increase during weekends, holidays, and festival seasons, so plan your departure accordingly to avoid congestion and crowded transport.

• Avoid traveling during Ganesh Chaturthi and Diwali festivals when both Shirdi and Lonavala see a surge in visitors, causing transport delays.

• Monsoon rains from June to September can cause landslides and slippery roads near Lonavala; check weather updates before traveling.

• Early morning departures help avoid city traffic in Shirdi and Pune, making the journey smoother and quicker.

• Late evening travel may be less crowded but can be challenging due to limited food stops and reduced public transport frequency.

Arrival at Lonavala & What to Expect

Arriving at Lonavala Railway Station or Bus Depot, you will find several local transport options to reach your hotel or tourist spots. Prepaid taxi counters are available at the station for safe and fixed-rate rides.

App-based cabs like Ola and Uber operate in Lonavala, offering convenient last-mile connectivity. Popular areas to stay include Lonavala town center, Tungarli, and Khandala, all accessible by local autos or cabs. Be prepared for narrow roads and occasional traffic jams during weekends.

Conclusion

Traveling from Shirdi to Lonavala is straightforward with multiple options to suit different budgets and preferences. The most efficient way is by car or self-drive, offering flexibility and comfort, especially if you want to explore the Western Ghats at your own pace. Trains and buses are economical choices but require careful planning and booking.

Remember to book tickets early during peak seasons, check weather conditions, and plan your departure times to avoid traffic. With these tips and the detailed travel plan, you can confidently enjoy a smooth and enjoyable journey from the spiritual town of Shirdi to the scenic hill station of Lonavala.