Lonavala is a popular hill station located in the Western Ghats of Maharashtra, known for its scenic beauty and pleasant climate. Surat, a major city in Gujarat, is an important commercial hub, making the Surat to Lonavala route frequently traveled by tourists and business travelers alike.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to travel from Surat to Lonavala using different transport modes. You will get detailed information on trains, buses, cars, and flights, along with practical travel tips and a step-by-step plan to make your journey smooth and enjoyable.

Getting from Surat to Lonavala – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train is a popular and affordable option for Surat to Lonavala. The rail network connects Surat to Lonavala via Mumbai, offering a comfortable journey with scenic views along the way.

• Surat Railway Station (ST) is well connected to Mumbai's major stations like Mumbai Central and Dadar, from where you can board local trains to Lonavala. The total journey takes around 7 to 9 hours depending on train connections.

• Direct trains from Surat to Lonavala are rare; most travelers change trains at Mumbai Central or Dadar. Train fares range from ₹200 to ₹700 depending on class and train type, making it a budget-friendly option.

• Trains can get crowded during weekends and festival seasons, so booking tickets early via IRCTC is advisable. Sleeper and AC coaches are available for overnight journeys, providing comfort for longer travel.

• The route passes through the Western Ghats, offering beautiful views especially during monsoon. However, heavy rains can cause delays, so check weather updates before traveling.

• Local trains from Mumbai to Lonavala run frequently from Dadar and Mumbai CST stations, taking about 2 to 2.5 hours. These trains are often crowded during peak hours, so plan accordingly.

Bus

Buses from Surat to Lonavala are available but less frequent compared to trains. This option suits travelers who prefer direct road travel and want to enjoy the scenic highway route.

• State transport buses operated by MSRTC and private operators run from Surat’s main bus depot to Lonavala, covering approximately 350 km in 7 to 9 hours depending on traffic and route.

• Bus fares typically range from ₹400 to ₹900 based on the type of bus, such as non-AC, AC, or Volvo coaches, with Volvo buses offering more comfort for long journeys.

• Buses travel via NH48, passing through Vapi, Vasai, and Panvel, with several toll plazas en route. Road conditions are generally good but can be affected by monsoon rains causing occasional delays.

• Night buses are available and preferred by travelers who want to save daytime for sightseeing. Booking tickets in advance through MSRTC or private portals is recommended to secure seats.

• Rest stops along the highway provide food and restroom facilities, but options may be limited during late-night travel, so carry snacks and water.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Surat to Lonavala offers flexibility and the chance to explore at your own pace. The route is scenic and well-connected by national highways.

• The distance between Surat and Lonavala is about 350 km via NH48, and the drive usually takes 6 to 8 hours depending on traffic and stops along the way.

• Driving allows you to stop at places like Vapi, Silvassa, and Panvel for refreshments or sightseeing. Toll charges on NH48 can add up, so keep cash or FASTag ready for smooth passage.

• Road conditions are mostly good, but during monsoon, landslides and waterlogging near the Western Ghats can slow travel. Check weather and traffic updates before starting your journey.

• Self-drive car rentals are available in Surat with companies offering vehicles suitable for hill drives. Ensure your vehicle is well-maintained and equipped for mountain roads.

• Parking in Lonavala is available near major tourist spots, but it can get crowded on weekends and holidays. Arriving early helps secure parking and avoid traffic jams.

Flight

Flying is not a direct option to Lonavala as it does not have an airport. However, you can fly from Surat to Mumbai and then continue by road or train.

• Surat Airport (STV) offers regular flights to Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (BOM), with flight durations around 1 hour and fares ranging from ₹1500 to ₹4000 depending on the airline and booking time.

• From Mumbai Airport, you can hire a taxi or take a local train to Lonavala. The road distance is about 83 km and takes 2 to 3 hours depending on traffic.

• Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber are available at Mumbai Airport, providing convenient last-mile connectivity to Lonavala with fares around ₹1500 to ₹2500.

• Flight schedules may be affected by weather conditions like fog during winter or heavy rains in monsoon, so plan accordingly and check for delays.

• This option is suitable for travelers who want to save time on the Surat to Mumbai leg and prefer comfortable onward travel by road or rail.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

If you are traveling from Surat to Lonavala for the first time, this step-by-step plan will help you organize your trip efficiently and avoid common pitfalls.

• Book your train or bus tickets in advance through IRCTC or MSRTC websites to secure seats, especially during weekends and holidays when demand is high.

• If traveling by train, check the train schedule carefully for connections at Mumbai stations like Mumbai Central or Dadar, and plan your transfer time to catch local trains to Lonavala.

• For self-drive, prepare your vehicle by checking tires, brakes, and fuel. Carry a physical map or GPS device as mobile signals may be weak in some hilly areas.

• If flying, book your Surat to Mumbai flight early and arrange prepaid taxi or app-based cab from Mumbai Airport to Lonavala to avoid waiting and overcharging.

• Pack light but include rain gear during monsoon and warm clothes for Lonavala’s cooler climate. Carry bottled water and snacks for long journeys.

• On arrival at Lonavala station or bus stand, use prepaid taxis or local auto-rickshaws for safe and reliable transport to your accommodation or tourist spots.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always carry a valid photo ID for train and bus travel as it is mandatory for ticket verification and security checks across India.

• Drink bottled water and avoid street food during the journey to prevent stomach issues, especially when traveling through different states.

• Book tickets online well in advance during peak seasons like monsoon and winter weekends to avoid last-minute unavailability and higher fares.

• Use local transport apps like Ola and Uber in Mumbai and Lonavala for safe and cashless rides, and avoid unmetered taxis to prevent overcharging.

• Pack your luggage securely and keep valuables in a carry-on bag, as crowded trains and buses can be targets for pickpockets.

• During monsoon, check weather and road conditions frequently as landslides or heavy rains can disrupt travel plans on NH48 and railway routes.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Surat to Lonavala depends on your preference for weather and crowd levels. Lonavala is especially popular during monsoon and winter seasons.

Monsoon months from June to September bring lush greenery and waterfalls but also cause travel delays due to heavy rains. Winter from November to February offers pleasant weather but higher tourist crowds.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi and Diwali when trains and roads are crowded and prices surge.

• Summer months can be hot and humid in Surat, but Lonavala remains cooler, making it a good escape from city heat.

• Early morning departures help avoid Mumbai’s peak traffic and ensure timely connections for trains or buses.

• Check weather forecasts before traveling in monsoon to avoid landslides and train cancellations common in the Western Ghats region.

Arrival at Lonavala & What to Expect

When you arrive at Lonavala Railway Station or the local bus stand, you will find several options for onward travel within the town. Prepaid taxis and auto-rickshaws are readily available outside the station.

Lonavala has many guesthouses, hotels, and resorts near the station and popular tourist areas like Tungarli and Lion’s Point. Booking accommodation in advance is advisable during weekends and holidays to avoid last-minute hassles.

Local buses and shared autos connect major attractions, but their frequency may be limited. Using app-based cabs or renting scooters is a convenient way to explore the hill station comfortably.

Conclusion

Traveling from Surat to Lonavala is straightforward with multiple options to suit different budgets and preferences. The train journey via Mumbai is economical and scenic, while buses and self-drive offer flexibility and direct routes. Flying to Mumbai and then continuing by road is fastest but costlier.

Planning ahead by booking tickets early, checking weather conditions, and arranging local transport will ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip. With this guide, you can confidently choose the best travel mode and prepare for a memorable visit to Lonavala’s beautiful hills and valleys.