Mohali, officially known as Sahibzada Ajit Singh Nagar, is a vibrant city in Punjab, located adjacent to Chandigarh. It is a key hub for IT, sports, and education, making it a popular destination for business and leisure travelers alike.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to reach Mohali from nearby cities and states. You will learn about train, bus, car, and flight options, along with practical travel tips to plan your journey confidently.

Getting from Major Cities to Mohali – Main Options

Train

Train travel to Mohali is convenient for those coming from nearby states and cities. The city is served by the Chandigarh Railway Station, which is the closest major station to Mohali.

• Chandigarh Railway Station is about 10 km from Mohali city center and is well connected to major cities like Delhi, Amritsar, and New Delhi with frequent trains daily.

• Trains from Delhi to Chandigarh take approximately 3 to 4 hours, with fares ranging from ₹150 to ₹800 depending on class and train type, making it an affordable option.

• From Amritsar, trains to Chandigarh run regularly, taking around 3 hours, with sleeper and AC coaches available for comfort and convenience.

• During peak seasons like festivals or summer holidays, trains can be crowded; booking tickets early via IRCTC is recommended to secure preferred seats.

• Upon arrival at Chandigarh station, you can take prepaid taxis, auto-rickshaws, or app-based cabs like Ola and Uber to reach Mohali in about 20-30 minutes.

Bus

Buses are a popular choice for budget travelers and those coming from nearby towns and cities. Mohali is well connected by road with Punjab and neighboring states.

• Punjab Roadways and private operators run frequent buses from Chandigarh ISBT to Mohali, covering the 10 km distance in about 30 minutes with fares around ₹30 to ₹70.

• From Delhi, Volvo and deluxe buses operate to Chandigarh, taking 6 to 8 hours, with fares ranging from ₹600 to ₹1,200 depending on the service.

• Buses from Amritsar to Mohali run regularly, taking around 3 to 4 hours, with options including non-AC and AC coaches.

• During monsoon season, road conditions may slow bus travel; it is advisable to check weather updates and bus timings before departure.

• Bus terminals in Mohali are well connected to local transport, but last-mile connectivity might require auto-rickshaws or local cabs for convenience.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving to Mohali offers flexibility and comfort, especially if you plan to explore the region or travel with family. The city is accessible via major national highways.

• From Delhi, Mohali is about 260 km via NH44 and NH205, taking approximately 5 to 6 hours depending on traffic, with tolls at multiple plazas en route.

• The route from Amritsar to Mohali covers around 230 km via NH3 and NH205, usually taking 4.5 to 5.5 hours, with good highway conditions and several rest stops.

• Self-drive car rentals are available in major cities, with providers offering GPS navigation and roadside assistance for a hassle-free journey.

• During winter mornings, fog on highways near Punjab can reduce visibility; it is safer to drive during daylight hours to avoid delays and hazards.

• Fuel stations and dhabas are available along the highways, providing options for refueling and meals during the drive.

Flight

Flying is the fastest option for travelers coming from distant cities. The nearest airport to Mohali is Chandigarh International Airport, located about 15 km away.

• Chandigarh International Airport connects Mohali with major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad, with multiple daily flights operated by airlines such as IndiGo and Air India.

• Flight duration from Delhi to Chandigarh is about 1 hour, with fares typically ranging from ₹2,000 to ₹5,000 depending on booking time and airline.

• From the airport, prepaid taxis and app-based cabs are available 24/7 to reach Mohali city center in 30 to 40 minutes.

• During peak travel seasons, such as festivals or summer holidays, flight prices may rise and availability may reduce, so booking in advance is advisable.

• Chandigarh Airport has basic amenities including food outlets and car rental services, making arrival and departure comfortable for travelers.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This step-by-step plan is designed for first-time travelers to Mohali to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey.

• Book your train or flight tickets early through IRCTC or airline websites to secure seats and get the best fares, especially during peak seasons.

• Check the local weather forecast before traveling to avoid delays caused by fog in winters or heavy rains during monsoon.

• If arriving by train, plan your last-mile transport from Chandigarh Railway Station to Mohali using prepaid taxis or app-based cabs for safety and convenience.

• For bus travelers, confirm bus departure times a day before your journey and arrive at the bus stand early to avoid missing your bus.

• If driving, ensure your vehicle is serviced, carry a physical map or GPS device, and start early in the day to avoid night driving on unfamiliar highways.

• Pack light but carry essentials like water, snacks, and a power bank, especially if you are traveling by bus or car, where stops may be limited.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always use prepaid taxi counters or trusted app-based cabs like Ola and Uber in Chandigarh and Mohali to avoid overcharging and ensure safety.

• Drink bottled water and avoid street food during your journey to prevent stomach issues, especially if you are not used to local cuisine.

• Book tickets online in advance for trains and flights to avoid last-minute hassles and higher prices, particularly during festivals and holidays.

• In Mohali, local transport includes auto-rickshaws and cycle rickshaws; agree on fares beforehand or use meter-based autos to avoid confusion.

• Carry your luggage securely and keep an eye on your belongings at crowded stations and bus stands to prevent theft.

• During monsoon, carry rain gear and check road conditions as some routes may experience waterlogging or delays due to heavy rains.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel to Mohali is during the cooler months from October to March when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Avoid traveling during the peak summer months of May and June when temperatures can soar above 40°C, making travel uncomfortable. Monsoon season from July to September may cause delays due to heavy rains.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Diwali and Baisakhi when transport services are crowded and prices may surge.

• Foggy conditions in December and January mornings can cause train and road delays; plan to travel during midday hours for safety.

• Early morning departures are recommended to avoid city traffic and reach your destination comfortably.

• During monsoon, check weather updates and road conditions before starting your journey to avoid disruptions.

Arrival at Mohali & What to Expect

When you arrive in Mohali, whether by train, bus, or flight, you will find several options for local transport to reach your accommodation or explore the city. The city is well connected with auto-rickshaws, cycle rickshaws, and app-based cabs.

Popular areas to stay include Sector 70, Sector 66, and the vicinity near the Punjab Cricket Association Stadium. Prepaid taxi counters and Ola/Uber services are readily available at Chandigarh Airport and railway station for safe and reliable transfers to Mohali.

Conclusion

Traveling to Mohali is straightforward with multiple options including trains to Chandigarh, buses, self-drive routes, and flights to Chandigarh Airport. Choosing the right mode depends on your budget, comfort preference, and starting point.

Plan your journey by booking tickets early, checking weather conditions, and arranging reliable last-mile transport. With these tips and detailed guidance, you can confidently reach Mohali and enjoy all that this lively city has to offer.