Pune is a major city in Maharashtra known for its educational institutions and vibrant culture. Manipal, located in Karnataka, is famous for its university and serene environment. Many travelers journey between these two cities for education, work, or tourism.

This guide explains the best ways to travel from Pune to Manipal using trains, buses, cars, and flights. You will find detailed information on travel times, fares, routes, and local tips to help you plan your trip confidently.

Getting from Pune to Manipal – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train is a popular and economical option for Pune to Manipal. Although Manipal does not have a direct railway station, nearby stations connect you to the town.

• The nearest major railway station to Manipal is Udupi, about 60 km away, connected by regular trains from Pune via Konkan Railway route. The total journey takes around 14 to 16 hours, including transfers.

• Trains depart from Pune Junction, with popular options including the Konkan Kanya Express and Matsyagandha Express, offering sleeper and AC classes with fares ranging from ₹500 to ₹1500 depending on class.

• Train frequency is moderate, with most trains running daily or every alternate day. Booking through IRCTC is recommended to secure seats, especially during holiday seasons.

• During the monsoon (June to September), Konkan Railway may face delays due to heavy rains and landslides, so plan extra buffer time if traveling then.

• From Udupi station, you can take a taxi or local bus to Manipal, which takes about 1.5 hours and costs ₹300 to ₹500 depending on the mode of transport.

Bus

Buses offer a direct and flexible way to reach Manipal from Pune. Several private and state-run buses cover this route daily.

• MSRTC and private operators run Volvo and non-AC buses from Pune’s Shivaji Nagar and Swargate bus stations to Manipal, with journey times of approximately 14 to 16 hours covering around 700 km.

• Volvo buses provide comfortable seating and onboard amenities, with fares ranging from ₹900 to ₹1400, while non-AC buses are cheaper but less comfortable for long journeys.

• Buses usually depart in the evening or night, allowing you to travel overnight and save daytime hours. Booking tickets online via MSRTC or private portals is advised to avoid last-minute hassles.

• Frequent stops are made at major towns like Kolhapur and Mangalore for refreshments and rest, with decent roadside dhabas offering local food options.

• During peak festival seasons like Ganesh Chaturthi and Diwali, buses tend to get crowded, so book tickets well in advance.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Pune to Manipal is a good choice if you prefer flexibility and want to explore en route. The route covers scenic Western Ghats and coastal highways.

• The distance is about 700 km via NH48 and NH66, taking roughly 13 to 15 hours depending on traffic and stops. Starting early morning helps avoid city traffic in Pune and Bangalore.

• The route passes through Kolhapur, Belgaum, Hubli, and Mangalore, offering multiple options for food, fuel, and rest breaks at highway dhabas and restaurants.

• Toll plazas are present on NH48 and NH66, so keep cash or FASTag ready; toll charges may total around ₹500 to ₹700 for the entire trip.

• Road conditions are generally good, but monsoon season can cause slippery patches and occasional landslides near the Western Ghats, so drive cautiously during June to September.

• Self-drive car rentals are available in Pune with daily rates starting from ₹2500, including fuel and driver options if needed.

Flight

Flying is the fastest option but involves connecting transport since Manipal does not have its own airport.

• The nearest airport to Manipal is Mangalore International Airport, about 60 km away, with regular flights from Pune’s Lohegaon Airport operated by airlines like IndiGo and AirAsia.

• Flight duration from Pune to Mangalore is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, with fares ranging from ₹2500 to ₹6000 depending on booking time and airline.

• From Mangalore airport, you can hire prepaid taxis or use Ola/Uber cabs to reach Manipal in about 1.5 hours, costing ₹1200 to ₹1800.

• Flights are frequent but may be limited during monsoon due to weather disruptions, so check schedules carefully before booking.

• Booking flights at least 2 weeks in advance usually secures better fares and seat availability, especially during holiday periods.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This step-by-step plan is designed for first-time travelers from Pune to Manipal, helping you navigate booking and journey smoothly.

• Check your preferred travel mode based on budget, time, and comfort. For budget travel, trains or buses are best; for speed, consider flights.

• Book tickets early through official portals like IRCTC for trains, MSRTC or private bus websites, or airline websites to avoid last-minute price hikes and unavailability.

• If traveling by train, confirm your arrival station as Udupi or Kundapura and arrange local transport to Manipal in advance via phone or apps like Ola.

• Pack light but carry essentials like water, snacks, and a power bank, especially for long train or bus journeys where food options may be limited.

• On travel day, reach the departure point at least 30 minutes early to avoid rush and secure your seat or boarding pass without stress.

• Upon arrival at Manipal, use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs for safe and reliable local transport to your accommodation.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always carry a photo ID like Aadhaar or PAN card for ticket verification and hotel check-ins, as it is mandatory across India.

• Drink only bottled or filtered water during the journey to avoid stomach issues, especially when traveling by bus or train with limited hygiene options.

• Book your tickets online in advance to get confirmed seats and avoid standing or waiting in queues, especially during weekends and festivals.

• Use local transport apps like Ola and Uber in Pune, Mangalore, and Manipal for safe and affordable last-mile connectivity instead of unmetered taxis.

• Keep your luggage secure and avoid carrying valuables openly. Use lockable bags and keep important documents in a separate pouch close to you.

• During monsoon, carry rain gear and check weather updates regularly, as heavy rains can delay trains and buses on the Konkan route.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Pune to Manipal is during the dry months from October to March when weather is pleasant and roads are clear. Avoid monsoon months if possible due to heavy rains and travel delays.

Peak travel periods include major festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi in Pune and New Year holidays, when transport services are crowded and prices rise. Planning trips outside these times ensures smoother journeys.

• Avoid traveling during monsoon (June to September) as Konkan Railway and highways may face delays and landslides.

• Early morning departures help avoid city traffic and provide a more comfortable drive or bus journey.

• Festive seasons like Diwali and Christmas see high demand for tickets, so book at least 3 weeks in advance.

• Summer months (April-May) can be hot, so carry adequate water and dress comfortably for long road travel.

Arrival at Manipal & What to Expect

When you arrive in Manipal, you will likely reach either Udupi railway station, Mangalore airport, or the local bus stand. The town is well connected by local buses, taxis, and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber.

Most travelers stay near Manipal University or in the town center, where accommodation options range from budget lodges to mid-range hotels. Prepaid taxis and shared autos are available at bus and railway stations, but app cabs offer more transparent fares and safety.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to travel from Pune to Manipal depends on your priorities. If you want comfort and speed, flying to Mangalore and then taking a taxi is best. For budget travelers, trains and buses offer affordable and reliable options with scenic routes.

Plan your trip by booking tickets early, checking weather conditions, and arranging local transport in advance. With this guide, you can travel confidently and enjoy your journey between Pune and Manipal without hassle.