Mangi Tungi is a famous twin-pinnacled peak located in the Nashik district of Maharashtra. It is a popular pilgrimage and trekking destination known for its ancient Jain temples and scenic views. Nashik, a major city in Maharashtra, serves as the primary gateway for travelers heading to Mangi Tungi.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to travel from Nashik to Mangi Tungi. You will learn about train, bus, and car options, along with practical travel tips and step-by-step plans to make your journey smooth and enjoyable.

Getting from Nashik to Mangi Tungi – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train is a comfortable and economical option if you want to reach close to Mangi Tungi. However, there is no direct train to Mangi Tungi, so you will need to combine train travel with road transport.

• Nashik Road Railway Station is the main rail hub in Nashik, well connected to major cities like Mumbai, Pune, and Ahmedabad with frequent trains throughout the day.

• The nearest railway station to Mangi Tungi is Nandurbar, approximately 40 km away, but trains to Nandurbar are less frequent and may require advance booking on IRCTC.

• From Nandurbar or nearby stations like Shahada, you will need to hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach Mangi Tungi, which takes around 1 to 1.5 hours depending on road conditions.

• Train fares from Nashik to Nandurbar range from ₹150 to ₹400 depending on the class, and trains may be crowded during festival seasons like Navratri or Diwali.

• Monsoon season can cause delays on this route due to fog and waterlogging, so plan accordingly and check live train status on IRCTC before traveling.

Bus

Buses are a popular and affordable way to travel from Nashik to Mangi Tungi. Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) operates buses on this route with varying comfort levels.

• Buses depart from Nashik MSRTC Bus Stand and head towards Shahada or Nandurbar, the closest towns to Mangi Tungi, covering about 90 km in 3 to 4 hours depending on traffic.

• Both ordinary and deluxe buses are available, with fares ranging from ₹100 to ₹250, making it economical for budget travelers.

• Frequency is good during the day, but buses may be less frequent early morning or late evening, so plan your departure accordingly.

• During monsoon, roads can be slippery and prone to landslides near the Western Ghats, so check weather updates and avoid traveling during heavy rains.

• Last-mile connectivity from Shahada or Nandurbar to Mangi Tungi is available via shared jeeps or local taxis, which take about 30 to 45 minutes.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Nashik to Mangi Tungi is the most flexible and comfortable option, especially if you want to explore the area at your own pace. The route is scenic and well connected by national and state highways.

• The distance from Nashik to Mangi Tungi is approximately 90 km via NH60 and State Highway 4, taking around 2.5 to 3 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.

• The route passes through towns like Malegaon and Shahada, with good road quality and several toll plazas along NH60, so keep some cash ready for toll payments.

• There are multiple rest stops and dhabas on the way offering local Maharashtrian food and refreshments, which is convenient for breaks during the drive.

• Driving during early morning or late afternoon is advisable to avoid city traffic in Nashik and reach Mangi Tungi before sunset for a safe trek experience.

• Parking is available near the base of Mangi Tungi hills, but it can get crowded during weekends and festivals, so arrive early to secure a spot.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

If this is your first time traveling from Nashik to Mangi Tungi, follow these simple steps to ensure a smooth journey.

• Book your train or bus tickets in advance through IRCTC or MSRTC websites to avoid last-minute hassles and secure preferred timings.

• Reach Nashik Road Railway Station or MSRTC Bus Stand at least 30 minutes before departure to find your platform or bus easily and avoid rush.

• If traveling by train, get down at Nandurbar or Shahada station and arrange for a local taxi or shared jeep to Mangi Tungi; confirm the fare beforehand to avoid overcharging.

• If driving, use GPS navigation apps like Google Maps for real-time traffic updates and road conditions, and carry a physical map as backup in remote areas.

• Carry sufficient water, snacks, and comfortable footwear for the trek at Mangi Tungi, as local food options near the hills are limited and basic.

• Inform a local contact or hotel about your travel plans and expected arrival time for safety, especially if trekking alone or during monsoon season.

Practical Travel Tips

• Carry a bottle of purified water or use water purification tablets, as tap water in rural areas near Mangi Tungi may not be safe for drinking.

• Use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs like Ola or Uber in Nashik to avoid bargaining and ensure reliable service when heading to bus or train stations.

• Pack light but include rain gear and a hat, especially during monsoon and summer months, as weather can change quickly in the hills.

• Book bus or train tickets early during festivals like Mahavir Jayanti or Navratri, when pilgrim traffic to Mangi Tungi increases significantly.

• Keep your luggage secure and avoid carrying valuables openly in crowded buses or stations to prevent theft or loss.

• Use local transport options like shared jeeps from Shahada or Nandurbar to reach Mangi Tungi, as private taxis can be expensive and less available.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to visit Mangi Tungi from Nashik is during the cooler months from October to March. The weather is pleasant for trekking and sightseeing during this period.

Avoid traveling during the peak monsoon months of July and August, as heavy rains can cause slippery roads and landslides, making travel unsafe and uncomfortable.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals in Nashik and nearby towns, as roads and transport can be crowded and accommodation limited.

• Early mornings are best for starting your journey to avoid city traffic and reach Mangi Tungi before noon for the trek.

• Winter mornings can be foggy, especially near the hills, so allow extra travel time and drive carefully if self-driving.

• Summer afternoons can be hot and humid, so carry sun protection and hydrate well during the journey.

Arrival at Mangi Tungi & What to Expect

When you arrive at Mangi Tungi, you will find a small parking area and a base village with basic amenities. The area is peaceful and ideal for pilgrims and trekkers.

Local transport options are limited, so it is best to arrange your return taxi or jeep in advance. Accommodation options near Mangi Tungi are basic, so many travelers prefer staying in Nashik or Shahada.

Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs are not available at the hill base, so plan your last-mile travel carefully. Walking from the parking area to the temples involves a moderate trek, so wear comfortable shoes.

Conclusion

Traveling from Nashik to Mangi Tungi is straightforward with several options to suit different budgets and preferences. The most efficient way is to drive or hire a taxi directly, which offers flexibility and comfort. However, trains and buses are good economical choices if you plan your connections well.

Remember to book your tickets early, check weather conditions, and prepare for a moderate trek at Mangi Tungi. With proper planning and these practical tips, you can enjoy a safe and memorable journey to this beautiful pilgrimage site.