Marleshwar is a popular pilgrimage and trekking destination located in the Western Ghats of Maharashtra. It is known for its ancient Shiva temple and scenic surroundings near the town of Chiplun in Ratnagiri district. Many travelers visit Marleshwar for spiritual reasons and nature treks.

This guide explains the best ways to reach Marleshwar from major nearby cities like Mumbai and Pune. You will learn about train, bus, and car travel options, step-by-step plans for first-time visitors, and practical tips to make your journey comfortable and safe.

Getting from Mumbai or Pune to Marleshwar – Main Options

Train

Train travel is popular for reaching Chiplun, the nearest major railway station to Marleshwar. It is suitable if you prefer a relaxed journey with scenic views along the Konkan Railway route.

• Chiplun station is the closest railhead to Marleshwar, located about 30 km away via NH66 and local roads. Trains from Mumbai CST or LTT take around 6 to 8 hours depending on the service.

• Konkan Railway offers several daily trains from Mumbai and Pune to Chiplun, including express and passenger trains. Booking via IRCTC is recommended to secure seats during weekends and holidays.

• Train fares range from ₹150 to ₹600 depending on class (sleeper, 3AC). Trains can get crowded during festival seasons like Ganesh Chaturthi and summer vacations.

• From Chiplun station, you can hire local taxis or state transport buses to reach Marleshwar. Auto-rickshaws are limited, so pre-booking a cab is advisable for convenience.

• Monsoon season (June to September) may cause delays due to heavy rains and landslides along the Konkan route, so plan extra travel time during this period.

Bus

Buses provide a direct and affordable way to reach Marleshwar from nearby cities. Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) operates regular services connecting Chiplun and nearby towns.

• MSRTC buses run from Mumbai, Pune, and Ratnagiri to Chiplun bus depot, which is about 30 km from Marleshwar. The journey from Mumbai takes roughly 7 to 9 hours depending on traffic and route.

• From Chiplun bus depot, local buses or shared taxis connect to Marleshwar village. These last-mile services are less frequent, so timing your arrival is important to avoid long waits.

• Bus fares from Mumbai to Chiplun range from ₹200 to ₹500 depending on the type of bus (ordinary, deluxe, or Volvo). Booking tickets online on MSRTC’s website or app is recommended.

• During monsoon, roads can be slippery and prone to landslides, causing delays. Avoid traveling at night on these routes for safety reasons.

• Rest stops along NH66 include popular dhabas and eateries near Kolad and Chiplun, offering local Maharashtrian food and refreshments.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving to Marleshwar offers flexibility and the chance to explore the scenic Western Ghats at your own pace. The route is well-connected by national highways but requires careful driving during monsoon.

• Marleshwar is about 250 km from Mumbai and 180 km from Pune via NH66 and state highways. The drive usually takes 5 to 7 hours depending on traffic and stops.

• The route passes through towns like Panvel, Pen, and Chiplun. NH66 is a well-maintained highway with toll plazas near Pen and Chiplun, so keep cash or FASTag ready.

• Driving through the ghats near Chiplun involves winding roads and steep climbs. It is advisable to drive during daylight hours for better visibility and safety.

• There are multiple rest stops and dhabas along the way, including popular spots near Kolad and Khed, where you can enjoy local snacks and refreshments.

• Self-drive car rentals are available in Mumbai and Pune with companies like Zoomcar and Revv. Booking in advance during peak seasons is recommended.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This plan is designed for first-time travelers to Marleshwar to help them navigate the journey smoothly and avoid common pitfalls.

• Book your train or bus tickets at least a week in advance, especially during weekends and festivals, using IRCTC or MSRTC online portals to secure confirmed seats.

• Arrive at Mumbai CST, LTT, or Pune station early to avoid last-minute rush and find your train platform comfortably. Carry snacks and water for the journey.

• On arrival at Chiplun railway station or bus depot, pre-book a local taxi or shared cab to Marleshwar to avoid waiting long for transport, especially in the monsoon season.

• Carry light luggage and wear comfortable shoes as the final stretch to Marleshwar involves walking and climbing steps near the temple area.

• Check weather forecasts before traveling, as heavy rains can cause roadblocks or delays. Plan to reach Marleshwar during daylight for safety and better views.

Practical Travel Tips

• Carry a refillable water bottle and drink only bottled or boiled water to avoid stomach issues common in rural areas around Marleshwar.

• Use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs like Ola or Uber in Chiplun to avoid overcharging by local drivers unfamiliar with fixed fares.

• Pack light rain gear and waterproof bags during monsoon months to protect your belongings from sudden showers and slippery paths.

• Try local Maharashtrian snacks at highway dhabas, but avoid street food near bus depots if you have a sensitive stomach.

• Keep your mobile phone charged and carry a power bank, as network coverage can be patchy in the ghats and forested areas near Marleshwar.

• Respect local customs and temple rules, such as removing footwear before entering the Marleshwar temple premises, and dress modestly.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to visit Marleshwar is from October to February when the weather is cool and pleasant. The monsoon season offers lush greenery but can cause travel disruptions.

Summer months from March to May can be hot and humid, making trekking and outdoor activities tiring.

• Avoid traveling during Ganesh Chaturthi and Diwali festivals when roads and trains are crowded with pilgrims and holiday travelers.

• Monsoon rains from June to September can cause landslides and slippery roads, especially on the ghats near Chiplun, so extra caution is needed.

• Early morning departures from Mumbai or Pune help avoid city traffic and reach Marleshwar by afternoon, allowing daylight for temple visits and trekking.

• Winter evenings can get chilly in Marleshwar, so carry warm clothing if traveling between December and January.

Arrival at Marleshwar & What to Expect

When you arrive at Marleshwar, you will find a small village centered around the famous Shiva temple. The area is peaceful with limited commercial facilities but offers basic guesthouses and eateries.

Local transport options are limited; most visitors walk from parking areas or hire local guides for trekking routes. Prepaid taxis or shared cabs from Chiplun are the best way to reach the village without hassle. Popular stay areas include nearby towns like Chiplun or Guhagar for more accommodation choices.

Conclusion

Traveling to Marleshwar is best done by train to Chiplun followed by a taxi or bus for the last 30 km. This option balances comfort, cost, and scenic experience. Self-driving is ideal for those who want flexibility and to explore the Western Ghats at their own pace.

Plan your trip by booking tickets early, checking weather conditions, and preparing for monsoon challenges if traveling during the rainy season. With these tips, you can enjoy a safe and memorable visit to Marleshwar’s serene temple and natural beauty.