Marine Drive and Andheri are two prominent locations in Mumbai, Maharashtra. Andheri is a bustling suburb in the western part of the city, while Marine Drive is a famous seaside promenade in South Mumbai. Many travelers, office-goers, and tourists often commute between these points daily.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to reach Marine Drive from Andheri using different transport modes. You will find detailed information on trains, buses, cars, and taxis, along with practical travel tips to make your journey smooth and comfortable.

Getting from Andheri to Marine Drive – Main Options

Train

The local train is the most popular and fastest mode to travel from Andheri to Marine Drive. It is suitable for daily commuters and budget travelers.

• Andheri station is on the Western Line, while Marine Drive station is on the Western Line near Churchgate, about 25 km apart, with trains running frequently every 5-10 minutes during peak hours.

• The journey takes approximately 45-60 minutes depending on train type (fast or slow local), with fares ranging from ₹10 to ₹30, making it an economical choice.

• Trains can be crowded during morning and evening rush hours, so plan accordingly and avoid peak times if possible for a comfortable ride.

• Marine Drive station is a short walk from the promenade, and local trains operate from early morning till midnight, providing good connectivity.

• Keep your ticket or use a smart card like the Mumbai One card for faster entry and exit at stations, especially during busy hours.

Bus

Bus travel is an affordable option but can take longer due to Mumbai’s traffic. It suits travelers who want a direct route or do not prefer trains.

• MSRTC and BEST buses run from Andheri bus depot to areas near Marine Drive, such as Churchgate or Nariman Point, with routes like 210, 212, and 214 covering this stretch.

• The bus journey can take 90 minutes to 2 hours depending on traffic, especially during peak hours or monsoon season when delays are common.

• Fares typically range between ₹15 and ₹30, making it a budget-friendly option, but buses can get crowded and may not have reserved seating.

• Bus stops near Marine Drive include Churchgate and Marine Lines, from where you can walk or take a short cab ride to the promenade.

• BEST buses run from early morning till late night, but frequency reduces after 10 pm, so check timings in advance on the BEST app or website.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Andheri to Marine Drive is convenient for those who prefer privacy and flexibility. It suits travelers with their own vehicle or self-drive rentals.

• The distance is about 25-30 km via Western Express Highway and Marine Drive Road, taking roughly 45 minutes to 1.5 hours depending on traffic conditions.

• During peak hours, especially mornings and evenings, heavy traffic on Western Express Highway and Marine Drive can cause delays, so plan your trip accordingly.

• Toll plazas on the Western Express Highway may apply, so keep change handy; fuel and parking charges near Marine Drive can be high and limited.

• Rest stops and fuel stations are available along the highway, and you can enjoy scenic views while driving along Marine Drive’s coastal road.

• Use navigation apps like Google Maps or Waze for real-time traffic updates and alternate routes to avoid jams.

Taxi / App-Based Cabs

Taxis and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber offer door-to-door service and are popular for comfort and convenience.

• The ride from Andheri to Marine Drive typically takes 45 minutes to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic, with fares ranging from ₹300 to ₹600 based on time and demand.

• App cabs provide options like shared rides, sedans, or SUVs, allowing you to choose based on budget and group size.

• Prepaid taxi counters at Andheri station help avoid fare disputes; app-based cabs offer upfront fare estimates and digital payments.

• Traffic congestion during peak hours can increase travel time and fare, so booking in advance or traveling during off-peak hours is advisable.

• Drop-off points near Marine Drive include the promenade itself and nearby landmarks like Nariman Point, making last-mile connectivity easy.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This step-by-step plan is designed for first-time travelers moving from Andheri to Marine Drive, helping you navigate the city’s transport options confidently.

• Step 1: Decide your preferred mode of transport based on budget, comfort, and time. Trains are fastest and cheapest; cabs offer convenience.

• Step 2: If taking a train, purchase your ticket or recharge your smart card at Andheri station to avoid queues and save time during entry and exit.

• Step 3: For bus travel, check the BEST bus routes and timings using the official app or website to plan your departure and avoid long waits.

• Step 4: If driving, check traffic conditions on navigation apps before starting, and keep toll cash and parking info ready for Marine Drive.

• Step 5: For taxis or app cabs, book your ride in advance during peak hours and confirm the drop-off location near Marine Drive to avoid confusion.

• Step 6: Upon arrival at Marine Drive station or drop point, use local transport like auto-rickshaws or walk to your final destination along the promenade.

Practical Travel Tips

• Safety: Avoid traveling alone late at night on local trains or buses; prefer app cabs or prepaid taxis for safer journeys after dark.

• Food and Water: Carry bottled water and light snacks, especially during long bus or train rides; avoid street food near stations if unsure of hygiene.

• Booking Strategy: Use IRCTC or Mumbai One smart cards for train tickets; BEST bus passes can save money for frequent travelers.

• Local Transport: Auto-rickshaws are available near stations but agree on fares before starting; app-based autos offer transparent pricing.

• Luggage: Keep your belongings secure and close, especially on crowded trains and buses; use backpacks or bags with locks.

• Seasonal Warnings: Monsoon rains can cause train delays and road traffic jams; carry rain gear and check weather forecasts before traveling.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Andheri to Marine Drive depends on weather and traffic conditions. Avoiding peak hours can make your journey smoother.

Mumbai’s monsoon season from June to September often brings heavy rains and traffic jams, so plan extra travel time during these months.

• Avoid traveling during morning (8-10 am) and evening (5-8 pm) peak hours to reduce time spent in crowded trains or traffic jams.

• During winter months (November to February), fog is rare in Mumbai, so travel conditions are generally good throughout the day.

• Festive seasons like Diwali and Ganesh Chaturthi can increase crowding on trains and roads, so book tickets early and expect delays.

• Early morning (6-8 am) or late evening (after 9 pm) departures offer less crowded trains and roads, making travel more comfortable.

Arrival at Marine Drive & What to Expect

When you arrive at Marine Drive, you will find a scenic and popular promenade along the Arabian Sea. The Marine Drive railway station is close to the promenade, and several bus stops are nearby.

Local commute options include auto-rickshaws, taxis, and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber. Prepaid taxi counters are available at the station for safe and fair rides. Popular areas to stay near Marine Drive include Nariman Point, Churchgate, and Colaba, offering easy access to the promenade and city center.

Conclusion

Traveling from Andheri to Marine Drive is straightforward with multiple options to suit different needs. The local train is the fastest and most economical choice, while taxis and self-drive cars offer comfort and flexibility. Buses provide a budget alternative but may take longer during traffic.

Planning your trip by checking train schedules, traffic conditions, and weather forecasts will help you avoid delays and enjoy a smooth journey. With this guide, you can confidently choose the best mode of transport and make your visit to Marine Drive a pleasant experience.