Mahur Renuka Devi is a sacred pilgrimage site located in the Nanded district of Maharashtra. It is famous for the ancient Renuka Devi temple, attracting devotees from across the region. This route is commonly traveled by pilgrims and tourists seeking spiritual experiences and scenic hill views.

This guide will help you understand the main travel options to reach Mahur Renuka Devi, including train, bus, and car routes. You will also find a step-by-step travel plan, practical tips, and advice on what to expect upon arrival.

Getting from Major Cities to Mahur Renuka Devi – Main Options

Train

Train travel is popular for pilgrims coming from major cities like Mumbai, Pune, and Hyderabad. The nearest railway station to Mahur is Nanded Railway Station, well connected by several express and passenger trains.

• Nanded Railway Station is approximately 75 km from Mahur, and you can take local buses or taxis from there to reach the temple. Trains from Mumbai to Nanded take around 12 to 15 hours, with fares ranging from INR 300 to 1,200 depending on class.

• Trains run frequently on this route, but booking in advance via IRCTC is recommended, especially during festival seasons like Navratri when pilgrim traffic increases significantly.

• The train journey offers a comfortable and economical option, but last-mile connectivity from Nanded to Mahur involves hilly roads that may be narrow and winding, so plan accordingly.

• Seasonal fog during winter mornings can cause minor train delays on this route, so check live train status before departure.

Bus

Buses are a convenient way to reach Mahur from nearby towns and cities. Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) operates regular bus services to Mahur from Nanded and other regional hubs.

• Direct MSRTC buses from Nanded to Mahur take about 2 to 3 hours, covering roughly 75 km via NH361 and state highways. Ticket prices range from INR 80 to 150 depending on bus type.

• Private buses and shared taxis also operate on this route, but MSRTC buses are preferred for safety and reliability, especially during monsoon when roads can be slippery.

• Bus frequency increases during festival periods, but buses may get crowded. Booking tickets a day in advance at the MSRTC depot in Nanded is advisable.

• There are several rest stops along the highway with food stalls offering local snacks, which is useful for travelers on longer journeys.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving to Mahur Renuka Devi offers flexibility and comfort, especially if you want to explore nearby attractions or travel in a group. The roads are mostly well maintained but can be narrow in hilly sections.

• The route from Nanded to Mahur is about 75 km via NH361 and local roads, taking approximately 2 to 2.5 hours by car. Toll plazas are minimal, but some state highway tolls may apply.

• Driving allows you to stop at scenic viewpoints and local eateries along the way, enhancing your travel experience. Fuel stations are available in Nanded and along the highway.

• During monsoon, the roads can be slippery and prone to minor landslides, so drive cautiously and check weather updates before starting your journey.

• Car rentals and self-drive options are available in Nanded, with daily rates ranging from INR 1,200 to 2,500 depending on vehicle type. Using GPS navigation apps like Google Maps is recommended for accurate routing.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This plan is designed for first-time travelers to Mahur Renuka Devi, ensuring a smooth and stress-free journey.

• Step 1:

  Book your train or bus tickets early through IRCTC or MSRTC online portals to avoid last-minute rush, especially during festivals.

• Step 2:

  Arrive at Nanded Railway Station or Bus Depot at least 30 minutes before departure to manage luggage and find local transport easily.

• Step 3:

  From Nanded, hire a prepaid taxi or board an MSRTC bus to Mahur. Confirm the fare and departure time to avoid confusion.

• Step 4:

  Carry light luggage and water bottles, as the final stretch involves hilly terrain with limited shops en route.

• Step 5:

  Upon arrival in Mahur, use local auto-rickshaws or walk to the Renuka Devi temple, which is well signposted from the town center.

• Step 6:

  Plan your return trip during daylight hours, as public transport frequency reduces after sunset and roads can be challenging at night.

Practical Travel Tips

• Carry a copy of your ID and ticket while traveling, as police checks are common on highways and at bus depots in Maharashtra.

• Drink bottled water and eat from clean, busy food stalls to avoid stomach issues during your journey.

• Book train and bus tickets online in advance, especially during Navratri and other festivals when pilgrim traffic surges.

• Use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs like Ola or Uber in Nanded for safer and transparent fares to Mahur.

• Pack comfortable walking shoes and light rain gear during monsoon, as the temple area involves some uphill walking and slippery paths.

• Be cautious with your belongings in crowded buses and stations; keep valuables secure and avoid displaying expensive items.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to visit Mahur Renuka Devi is during the cooler months from October to March. This period offers pleasant weather and clear roads for travel.

Avoid traveling during the peak monsoon months of July and August when heavy rains can cause roadblocks and slippery conditions on hilly stretches.

• Festival seasons like Navratri and Diwali see a large influx of pilgrims, leading to crowded trains and buses; book tickets well in advance.

• Winter mornings may have fog causing minor delays in train and bus services, so plan for some buffer time.

• Early morning departures from Nanded are recommended to avoid afternoon heat and ensure daylight arrival in Mahur.

Arrival at Mahur Renuka Devi & What to Expect

When you arrive in Mahur, you will find a small town centered around the Renuka Devi temple. The area is peaceful and well maintained for pilgrims.

Local transport options include auto-rickshaws and shared jeeps that can take you from the bus stand or taxi drop point to the temple entrance. Walking is also common as the temple is close to the town center.

Accommodation options range from basic guesthouses to dharamshalas near the temple. It is advisable to book in advance during festival times. Local eateries serve simple Maharashtrian vegetarian meals suitable for pilgrims.

Conclusion

Traveling to Mahur Renuka Devi is best done by train to Nanded followed by a bus or taxi ride to the temple town. This combination balances comfort, cost, and convenience for most travelers. Self-driving is a good option if you prefer flexibility and want to explore the region.

Plan your journey by booking tickets early, checking weather conditions, and preparing for hilly terrain in the last leg. With these tips, you can enjoy a safe and fulfilling pilgrimage to this revered spiritual destination in Maharashtra.