Mumbai, the bustling financial capital of India, is located on the west coast, while Lucknow, the capital of Uttar Pradesh, lies in the northern plains. This route connects two major cities with rich cultural heritage and economic importance.

Many travelers journey between Mumbai and Lucknow for business, tourism, or family visits. This guide helps you understand the best ways to travel, including trains, buses, cars, and flights, with practical tips for a smooth journey.

Getting from Mumbai to Lucknow – Main Options

Train

Train travel is popular for this long-distance route, offering a balance of comfort and affordability. Multiple trains connect Mumbai's major stations to Lucknow, suitable for different budgets and schedules.

• The primary departure stations in Mumbai are Mumbai CST, Lokmanya Tilak Terminus (LTT), and Mumbai Central, connecting to Lucknow Charbagh station, with travel times ranging from 24 to 30 hours depending on the train.

• Popular trains include the Lucknow Express, Gyan Ganga Express, and the Kushinagar Express, with fares from sleeper class ₹600 to AC 3-tier ₹1500 approximately, offering various comfort levels.

• Trains run daily or several times a week, but booking early on IRCTC is essential, especially during festival seasons like Diwali or Holi, when trains get crowded quickly.

• Facilities on trains vary; some offer pantry cars with meals, while others require you to carry food. Night travel is common, so bring essentials for comfort and safety.

• Delays can occur during monsoon due to track maintenance or fog in winter mornings, so plan some buffer time if you have connecting travel from Lucknow station.

Bus

Buses are less common for this long route but still an option for budget travelers. State transport and private operators run services connecting Mumbai to Lucknow.

• Buses depart mainly from Mumbai’s Dadar or Borivali bus depots, heading to Lucknow’s Kaiserbagh or Alambagh bus stands, covering approximately 1400 km in 30 to 36 hours.

• Options include Volvo AC and non-AC sleeper buses, with fares ranging from ₹1200 to ₹2000, depending on comfort and operator reputation.

• Frequency is limited compared to trains and flights, so booking in advance through MSRTC or private portals is advised to secure seats.

• Long bus journeys can be tiring; frequent stops at highway dhabas provide food and restroom breaks, but hygiene standards vary widely.

• Monsoon season may cause road delays due to waterlogging or traffic jams near toll plazas on NH 52 and NH 27, so check weather and road conditions before departure.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Mumbai to Lucknow offers flexibility and the chance to explore en route. The journey covers about 1400 km via NH 52 and NH 27, taking roughly 26 to 30 hours without long stops.

• The route passes through major cities like Nashik, Indore, Bhopal, and Kanpur, allowing you to plan rest stops and sightseeing along the way.

• Fuel costs vary but expect around ₹7000 to ₹9000 for a round trip, considering tolls at multiple plazas and fuel prices on highways.

• Road conditions are generally good on national highways, but monsoon rains can cause slippery patches and occasional flooding near river crossings.

• Driving at night is not recommended due to poor lighting and occasional stray animals on highways; plan to drive during daylight hours for safety.

• Ensure your vehicle is well-serviced, carry a physical map or GPS device, and download offline navigation apps as mobile signals may be weak in some rural stretches.

Flight

Flying is the fastest and most convenient option for most travelers between Mumbai and Lucknow. Multiple daily flights connect the two cities with a flight time of about 2.5 hours.

• Flights depart from Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (BOM) and arrive at Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport (LKO) in Lucknow.

• Airlines like IndiGo, Air India, and SpiceJet operate direct flights with fares ranging from ₹2500 to ₹6000 depending on booking time and season.

• Booking tickets at least 2-3 weeks in advance can secure better prices, especially around festivals or holidays when demand spikes.

• Airport transfers in Mumbai and Lucknow are easily available via prepaid taxis, Ola, and Uber, but allow extra time for security checks and traffic congestion near airports.

• Flights may be delayed during monsoon due to heavy rains or fog in winter mornings, so check real-time flight status before heading to the airport.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This plan is designed for first-time travelers making the Mumbai to Lucknow journey, ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience.

• Book your tickets early on trusted platforms like IRCTC for trains or airline websites for flights to avoid last-minute price hikes and seat unavailability.

• Pack light but include essentials like water, snacks, and a power bank, especially if traveling by train or bus where onboard services may be limited.

• Arrive at your departure point—train station, bus depot, or airport—at least 1.5 to 2 hours before departure to manage check-ins and security smoothly.

• Use prepaid taxi counters or app-based cabs like Ola and Uber for last-mile connectivity in Mumbai and Lucknow to avoid overcharging and ensure safety.

• During the journey, stay hydrated and avoid street food if unsure about hygiene; carry hand sanitizer and masks for crowded places.

• On arrival in Lucknow, confirm your onward local transport options in advance, whether it’s auto-rickshaws, cabs, or metro, to reach your accommodation without hassle.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always keep a copy of your ID and travel tickets handy, as Indian trains and airports require verification multiple times during the journey.

• Drink only bottled water sealed by trusted brands and avoid tap water to prevent stomach issues common among travelers.

• Book train and flight tickets well in advance through official portals like IRCTC and airline websites to avoid scams and inflated prices.

• In cities, prefer app-based cabs over local taxis for fair pricing and safety, especially when arriving late at night.

• Carry your luggage securely and keep valuables close, as crowded stations and buses can attract pickpockets.

• During monsoon, carry rain gear and check weather forecasts regularly to avoid travel disruptions due to heavy rains or floods.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Mumbai to Lucknow depends on weather and festival seasons. Winters are pleasant but fog can delay trains and flights in northern India.

Monsoon season brings heavy rains, which may cause road and rail delays, while summers are hot and uncomfortable for long road trips.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Diwali and Holi, as trains and flights are heavily booked and prices surge.

• Winter fog in Lucknow can cause morning flight delays and slower train speeds, so plan afternoon departures when possible.

• Monsoon rains between June and September can lead to waterlogging on highways and railway tracks, increasing travel time.

• Early morning or late evening departures from Mumbai help avoid city traffic and provide smoother access to stations and airports.

Arrival at Lucknow & What to Expect

Lucknow’s Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport and Charbagh Railway Station 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 safe and convenient travel.

The city offers a range of accommodation options near Hazratganj, Gomti Nagar, and Aminabad areas, which are popular for tourists and business travelers. Auto-rickshaws are also widely available but agree on fares beforehand.

Conclusion

For most travelers, flying is the quickest and most comfortable way to reach Lucknow from Mumbai, especially if time is limited. Trains offer a budget-friendly alternative with scenic views and multiple classes to suit your needs.

Planning ahead by booking tickets early, checking weather conditions, and arranging local transport in Lucknow will make your journey smooth. With this guide, you can confidently choose the best travel mode and enjoy your trip between these two vibrant Indian cities.