Bandra Station is a major railway hub located in the western suburbs of Mumbai. Mount Mary Church, a famous Roman Catholic basilica, is situated in Bandra West, known for its serene environment and annual feast attracting thousands of devotees.

This route is popular among locals and tourists visiting the church for prayers or sightseeing. This guide will help you understand the best ways to travel from Bandra Station to Mount Mary Church using different transport modes, along with useful tips for a comfortable journey.

Getting from Bandra Station to Mount Mary Church – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train is not the most direct option to reach Mount Mary Church from Bandra Station, but it is useful if you are coming from other parts of Mumbai. Bandra Station is well connected on the Western Line.

• Bandra Station serves both Western and Harbour lines, but Mount Mary Church is about 3 km from the station, so you will need additional transport after the train.

• Local trains run frequently every 5-10 minutes during peak hours, with fares ranging from ₹5 to ₹15 depending on your boarding point.

• After arriving at Bandra Station, you can take a short auto-rickshaw or taxi ride to the church, which takes around 10-15 minutes depending on traffic.

• Trains can get very crowded during peak hours (morning and evening), so avoid traveling with heavy luggage or during rush hours for comfort.

• Monsoon season may cause delays or cancellations; check the latest train status on the Mumbai Railway website or apps like M-indicator before traveling.

Bus

Buses are a cost-effective way to reach Mount Mary Church from Bandra Station, operated mainly by BEST (Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport).

• BEST buses run from Bandra Station bus depot to Bandra West, with routes like 210, 212, and 214 passing near Mount Mary Church.

• The bus journey takes about 20-30 minutes depending on traffic, with fares between ₹10 and ₹20.

• Buses are frequent during the day but can be crowded during peak hours; seating may be limited.

• Board buses from the Bandra East or West bus stops near the station; ask the conductor to confirm if the bus stops near Mount Mary Church.

• During the annual Bandra Fair (Feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel), buses may be rerouted or crowded; plan accordingly.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Bandra Station to Mount Mary Church is convenient and offers flexibility, especially if you want to explore the area or avoid crowded public transport.

• The distance is approximately 3 to 4 km via Hill Road or Turner Road, taking about 10-20 minutes depending on traffic conditions.

• Use NH48 or local roads like Hill Road; traffic can be heavy during peak hours and weekends, so plan travel times accordingly.

• Toll charges are not applicable on this short route, but parking near Mount Mary Church can be limited during festivals.

• Fuel costs for this short trip are minimal, but be prepared for narrow roads and occasional congestion in Bandra West.

• Car rentals and app-based taxi services like Ola and Uber are widely available from Bandra Station, with fares typically between ₹100 and ₹200.

Taxi / Auto-Rickshaw

Taxis and auto-rickshaws offer a direct and hassle-free way to reach Mount Mary Church from Bandra Station, ideal for those carrying luggage or traveling in groups.

• Auto-rickshaws are available outside Bandra Station but may refuse short trips; negotiate the fare before boarding, usually around ₹50 to ₹80 for this distance.

• Prepaid taxi booths at Bandra Station provide fixed fares to Mount Mary Church, generally between ₹150 and ₹250, ensuring no overcharging.

• App-based cabs like Ola and Uber are convenient and safe, with estimated fares around ₹120 to ₹200 depending on traffic and time of day.

• Travel time by taxi or auto is about 10-20 minutes, but can increase during rush hours or festival days.

• During the Bandra Fair, traffic diversions may affect taxi routes; check with drivers or apps for live updates.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This plan is for first-time travelers going from Bandra Station to Mount Mary Church, ensuring a smooth and stress-free journey.

• Step 1: Arrive at Bandra Station and exit from the western side to access Bandra West easily; this saves time and walking distance.

• Step 2: Decide your preferred transport mode based on time, budget, and comfort; for quick travel, book an Ola or Uber cab via the app immediately.

• Step 3: If taking a bus, check the BEST bus number and timings on the M-indicator app; board from the Bandra West bus stop near the station.

• Step 4: For auto-rickshaws, negotiate the fare before starting the trip to avoid confusion; carry small change as drivers may not have large notes.

• Step 5: If driving, use Google Maps or local navigation apps to avoid traffic jams; park in designated areas near the church to avoid fines.

• Step 6: Upon arrival, follow signboards to the church entrance; if unsure, ask locals or shopkeepers for directions to the Mount Mary Basilica.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always carry a bottle of water and light snacks, especially during hot weather or long waits, as food options near the church are limited.

• Use prepaid taxi counters or app-based cabs to avoid overcharging by local drivers, particularly during festivals or weekends.

• Wear comfortable footwear as you may need to walk short distances from parking or bus stops to the church entrance.

• Carry a small umbrella or raincoat during monsoon months (June to September) to stay dry while walking around Bandra West.

• Keep your belongings secure and avoid displaying expensive items, as crowded areas near the church can attract pickpockets.

• Plan your visit early in the day to avoid heavy traffic and crowds, especially on weekends and during the annual Bandra Fair.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to visit Mount Mary Church from Bandra Station is during the cooler months from November to February when Mumbai experiences pleasant weather.

Avoid traveling during the monsoon season if possible, as heavy rains can cause traffic jams and delays on local roads.

• Avoid weekends and the Bandra Fair period (early September) if you prefer less crowded travel and easier parking.

• Early mornings (7 am to 9 am) and late evenings (after 7 pm) are ideal for smoother traffic and quicker travel times.

• During peak monsoon months, allow extra travel time due to waterlogging and slower traffic on Hill Road and surrounding areas.

Arrival at Mount Mary Church & What to Expect

When you arrive at Mount Mary Church, you will find a peaceful environment with well-maintained gardens and a large courtyard. The church is a popular pilgrimage site, especially on weekends and during the annual feast.

Local transport options include auto-rickshaws and taxis available near the church entrance for onward travel. Many visitors prefer to stay in Bandra West, where there are numerous guesthouses, hotels, and homestays within walking distance.

Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs can be booked for return trips to Bandra Station or other parts of Mumbai. The church area has clear signage, and locals are generally helpful if you need directions or assistance.

Conclusion

Traveling from Bandra Station to Mount Mary Church is straightforward with multiple transport options to suit different needs. The most efficient way is usually by taxi or app-based cab, offering direct and comfortable travel in about 15 minutes.

Planning your trip with real-time apps like M-indicator and Ola/Uber ensures you avoid delays and get the best fares. By following this guide’s practical tips and travel plan, you can confidently enjoy your visit to this iconic Mumbai landmark without stress.