Mulshi Dam is located near Pune in Maharashtra, surrounded by lush hills and scenic views. It is a popular weekend getaway for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful retreat from city life. This guide will help you understand the best ways to travel from Pune to Mulshi Dam, covering all transport options and useful travel tips.

Whether you prefer a relaxed bus journey, a scenic drive, or a quick taxi ride, this article provides detailed information on routes, travel times, and local conditions. You will also learn about the best time to visit and what to expect upon arrival at Mulshi Dam.

Getting from Pune to Mulshi Dam – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train to Mulshi Dam is limited but possible to nearby stations. It suits travelers who want a budget-friendly and scenic route combined with local transport. Trains run frequently from Pune to nearby stations, but last-mile connectivity is needed.

• The closest railway station to Mulshi Dam is Vadgaon, about 20 km away, accessible by local buses or taxis from Pune Junction, which is the main rail hub in Pune city.

• Train journeys from Pune to Vadgaon take approximately 30 to 45 minutes, with fares ranging from ₹20 to ₹50 depending on the train class and service.

• Trains are frequent during the day but less so in early mornings or late evenings, so plan accordingly to avoid waiting long for local transport to Mulshi Dam.

• Monsoon season can cause delays on this route due to waterlogging or track maintenance near the Western Ghats, so check IRCTC updates before traveling.

• From Vadgaon station, you can hire a shared auto-rickshaw or local taxi to reach Mulshi Dam, which takes around 30 minutes and costs ₹150 to ₹250.

Bus

Buses are a popular and economical way to reach Mulshi Dam from Pune. Several state-run and private buses operate on this route, offering options for different budgets and comfort levels.

• MSRTC buses depart from Pune’s Swargate Bus Station towards Mulshi or nearby villages like Paud, which is about 10 km from the dam.

• The bus journey usually takes 1.5 to 2 hours depending on traffic and road conditions, with fares ranging from ₹30 to ₹70 for ordinary and deluxe buses.

• Buses run frequently during the day but may be crowded on weekends and holidays, so boarding early is recommended to secure a seat.

• The route follows NH48 and then local roads through Mulshi taluka, with scenic views but some narrow and winding stretches that require cautious driving.

• There are limited direct buses to Mulshi Dam itself, so you might need to get off at Paud or Mulshi village and take a local taxi or auto-rickshaw for the last 5 to 10 km.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Pune to Mulshi Dam is the most flexible and comfortable option, especially for groups or families. The route offers beautiful landscapes and several stops for refreshments and sightseeing.

• The distance from Pune city center to Mulshi Dam is about 40 to 45 km via the Mumbai-Pune Expressway and Mulshi Road, taking roughly 1.5 hours depending on traffic.

• Driving via NH48 and then turning onto Mulshi Road (State Highway 60) is the most common route, with toll plazas on the expressway costing around ₹100 to ₹150 one way.

• Road conditions are generally good, but the last 10 km near the dam can be narrow and winding, requiring careful driving especially during monsoon when roads may be slippery.

• There are several rest stops and dhabas along the way, including near Paud, where you can enjoy local Maharashtrian snacks and tea.

• Parking near Mulshi Dam is limited but available; arriving early in the day helps avoid crowds and secure a good spot.

Taxi / Cab

Hiring a taxi or app-based cab like Ola or Uber from Pune to Mulshi Dam is convenient for travelers seeking door-to-door service without driving themselves. It is more expensive but offers comfort and flexibility.

• Taxi fares from Pune to Mulshi Dam typically range from ₹1,200 to ₹1,800 one way, depending on the vehicle type and time of day.

• Most taxis pick up from Pune city areas like Shivaji Nagar or Koregaon Park and take the same NH48 and Mulshi Road route, with travel time around 1.5 hours.

• Booking a cab in advance is advisable, especially on weekends and holidays when demand increases and availability drops.

• Some drivers offer waiting charges if you want to explore the dam area and return the same day, so clarify rates before starting your trip.

• Taxi rides are comfortable and air-conditioned, suitable for families or groups carrying luggage or picnic supplies.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This step-by-step plan is designed for first-time travelers from Pune to Mulshi Dam to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey.

• Step 1: Decide your mode of transport based on budget, comfort, and time. Self-drive or taxi is best for flexibility, while bus or train suits budget travelers.

• Step 2: Book your tickets in advance if using train or bus, especially on weekends. Use IRCTC for trains and MSRTC online portals or counters for buses to avoid last-minute hassles.

• Step 3: Start early in the morning to avoid Pune city traffic and reach Mulshi Dam before noon, allowing time to explore and enjoy the surroundings.

• Step 4: Pack essentials like water, snacks, and rain gear during monsoon. Mobile network coverage may be weak near the dam, so download offline maps beforehand.

• Step 5: Upon arrival, use local shared autos or taxis to reach the dam if you have not driven yourself. Confirm fares beforehand to avoid overcharging.

• Step 6: Plan your return trip considering bus and train timings if not self-driving. Pre-book taxis or check last bus schedules to avoid getting stranded.

Practical Travel Tips

• Safety: Mulshi Dam area has uneven terrain and slippery rocks near the water; wear sturdy shoes and avoid venturing too close to the dam wall for safety.

• Food and Water: Carry bottled water and light snacks, as food options near the dam are limited; Paud village has some eateries with local cuisine.

• Booking Strategy: For trains and buses, book tickets a day or two in advance during weekends and holidays to avoid sold-out situations common in Maharashtra.

• Local Transport: Auto-rickshaws and shared taxis operate from nearby villages; negotiate fares before boarding and carry small change for convenience.

• Luggage: Travel light as some last-mile transport options have limited space; if carrying picnic gear, use a sturdy bag and keep valuables secure.

• Seasonal Warnings: Avoid visiting during heavy monsoon rains due to slippery roads and possible landslides; check weather forecasts before planning your trip.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to visit Mulshi Dam is from October to February when the weather is pleasant and the skies are clear. Summers can be hot, and monsoon brings heavy rains making travel risky.

Travel conditions vary with seasons, so planning your trip during dry months ensures safer roads and better sightseeing opportunities.

• Avoid weekends during major festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi and Diwali when Pune city traffic and tourist inflow increase significantly.

• Monsoon months (June to September) bring lush greenery but also slippery roads and occasional roadblocks near the dam area.

• Early morning departures help avoid Pune city traffic and provide a cooler, less crowded experience at Mulshi Dam.

• Winter mornings can be foggy on the Pune-Mulshi route, so allow extra travel time and drive cautiously.

Arrival at Mulshi Dam & What to Expect

When you arrive at Mulshi Dam, you will find a peaceful environment with scenic views of the dam reservoir and surrounding hills. The area is less commercialized, so expect basic facilities and natural beauty.

Local transport options include shared autos and taxis to nearby villages like Paud. Accommodation is limited near the dam, so many visitors stay in Pune or at resorts in Mulshi taluka. Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs are available but may be scarce, so plan your return transport in advance.

Conclusion

Traveling from Pune to Mulshi Dam is straightforward with multiple options like train, bus, car, or taxi. Driving yourself or hiring a taxi offers the most comfort and flexibility, while buses and trains are budget-friendly choices with some last-mile travel needed.

Plan your trip by booking tickets early, starting early in the day, and checking weather conditions. With these tips and clear travel options, you can confidently enjoy a refreshing visit to Mulshi Dam and its beautiful surroundings.