Mulshi is a beautiful hill station located in the Pune district of Maharashtra, known for its scenic lake and lush greenery. It lies about 120 kilometers southeast of Mumbai, making it a popular weekend getaway for city dwellers seeking nature and peace.

This route from Mumbai to Mulshi is commonly traveled by tourists and locals alike due to its easy accessibility and refreshing environment. In this guide, you will learn the best ways to reach Mulshi from Mumbai, including train, bus, car, and taxi options, along with useful travel tips for a smooth journey.

Getting from Mumbai to Mulshi – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train is a comfortable and economical option if you prefer a relaxed journey with scenic views. While there is no direct train to Mulshi, you can reach nearby stations and continue by road.

• The nearest railway stations to Mulshi are Pune Junction and Lonavala, both well connected to Mumbai via frequent trains, with travel times ranging from 2 to 3 hours depending on the train type and route.

• Popular trains from Mumbai include the Deccan Express and Sinhagad Express, departing from Mumbai CST or Dadar stations, with fares typically between ₹150 and ₹400 in sleeper and second class.

• From Pune or Lonavala station, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to Mulshi, which takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour covering approximately 40 to 50 kilometers on the Mulshi Road.

• Train services can get crowded during weekends and holidays, so booking tickets in advance via IRCTC is recommended to secure your seat and avoid last-minute hassles.

• Monsoon season may cause delays due to waterlogging or track maintenance, so check train status before traveling during June to September.

Bus

Buses offer a budget-friendly and fairly frequent way to reach Mulshi, especially for travelers comfortable with local transport and short road transfers.

• MSRTC operates buses from Mumbai’s Dadar or Borivali bus depots to Pune and Lonavala, where you can switch to local buses or shared taxis heading towards Mulshi.

• The total bus journey from Mumbai to Mulshi via Pune or Lonavala takes about 3.5 to 4.5 hours, depending on traffic and route, with fares ranging from ₹150 to ₹300.

• Direct buses to Mulshi are rare, so expect a transfer at Lonavala or Pune; local buses from these towns to Mulshi run every 30 to 60 minutes during the day.

• Bus comfort varies; Maharashtra State buses are generally well-maintained but can get crowded during weekends and festival seasons like Ganesh Chaturthi and Diwali.

• During the monsoon, roads can be slippery and prone to landslides near Mulshi, so check weather conditions and bus schedules before departure.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Mumbai to Mulshi is a popular choice for those who want flexibility and comfort, especially for groups or families.

• The distance by road is approximately 120 kilometers via NH48 and Mulshi Road, with an average driving time of 3 to 4 hours depending on traffic conditions.

• The route passes through key points like Thane, Lonavala, and Pune outskirts, with well-maintained highways and toll plazas such as the Talegaon toll, so keep cash or FASTag ready.

• Driving allows stops at scenic spots like Pawna Lake or Lonavala for refreshments and sightseeing, enhancing the travel experience.

• During peak weekends and holidays, traffic congestion near Lonavala and Pune can increase travel time, so starting early in the morning is advisable.

• Monsoon rains can make the Mulshi Road slippery and narrow in parts; ensure your vehicle’s brakes and tires are in good condition before the trip.

Taxi / Cab

Hiring a taxi or app-based cab from Mumbai to Mulshi is convenient for travelers seeking door-to-door service without driving themselves.

• Ola and Uber offer outstation rides from Mumbai to Mulshi, with fares typically ranging from ₹3,000 to ₹5,000 one way, depending on vehicle type and demand.

• Prepaid taxis are available at major Mumbai railway stations like Dadar and Mumbai CST, but negotiating fares beforehand is essential to avoid overcharging.

• Taxi rides take about 3 to 4 hours, following the same NH48 and Mulshi Road route, with options to stop en route for meals or sightseeing.

• Booking cabs in advance during weekends and holidays is recommended as availability can be limited and prices surge due to high demand.

• During monsoon, confirm with the driver about road conditions near Mulshi, as some routes may be temporarily closed or risky.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This travel plan is designed for first-time travelers from Mumbai to Mulshi, helping you organize your journey smoothly and avoid common pitfalls.

• Book your train or bus tickets early via IRCTC or MSRTC websites to secure seats, especially on weekends and holidays when demand is high.

• If traveling by train, plan to arrive at Pune or Lonavala station and pre-arrange a taxi or check local bus timings to Mulshi to avoid waiting long at the station.

• If driving, ensure your vehicle is serviced, carry a physical map or GPS device, and start early to avoid peak city traffic and reach Mulshi before dusk.

• For taxi bookings, use trusted app platforms like Ola Outstation or Uber Intercity and confirm the fare and route with the driver before starting the trip.

• Pack light but carry essentials like water, snacks, and rain gear during monsoon, as roadside facilities may be limited on the Mulshi stretch.

• Keep your phone charged and have emergency contacts handy, including local taxi numbers and hotel details in Mulshi for smooth last-mile connectivity.

Practical Travel Tips

• Safety: Avoid traveling late at night on Mulshi Road due to limited street lighting and narrow stretches; daytime travel is safer and more enjoyable.

• Food and Water: Carry bottled water and light snacks, as eateries near Mulshi are limited; try local Maharashtrian snacks available at Lonavala or Pune.

• Booking Strategy: Use official websites like IRCTC for trains and MSRTC for buses to avoid scams and get confirmed tickets; avoid last-minute bookings during peak seasons.

• Local Transport: Auto-rickshaws and shared jeeps operate in Mulshi but may be scarce; pre-book taxis or arrange hotel pickups for hassle-free local travel.

• Luggage: Travel light to manage transfers easily between trains, buses, and taxis; keep valuables secure and carry a small daypack for essentials.

• Seasonal Warnings: During monsoon, check weather updates as heavy rains can cause roadblocks or landslides near Mulshi; carry raincoats and waterproof bags.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to visit Mulshi is from October to February when the weather is pleasant and the landscape is lush after the monsoon. Summers can be warm but still comfortable compared to Mumbai’s humidity.

Monsoon season from June to September brings heavy rains, making the area beautiful but travel challenging due to slippery roads and occasional landslides.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi and Diwali when Mumbai and Pune experience heavy traffic and accommodation prices rise sharply.

• Fog can reduce visibility on Mulshi Road early mornings in winter, so plan departures after sunrise for safer driving conditions.

• Early morning departures from Mumbai help avoid city traffic and reach Mulshi by midday, allowing more time for sightseeing.

• During monsoon, mid-morning to afternoon travel is preferable to avoid night driving on wet and narrow roads.

Arrival at Mulshi & What to Expect

Upon arriving in Mulshi, you will find a peaceful environment with limited public transport options. Most visitors rely on pre-booked taxis or hotel shuttles to reach their accommodation.

Local commute is mostly by auto-rickshaw or shared jeeps, but these can be infrequent. Staying near Mulshi Dam or in resorts along Mulshi Road provides easy access to main attractions and dining options. Prepaid taxis or app-based cabs are rare, so arrange your return transport in advance.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to reach Mulshi from Mumbai depends on your preferences: trains to Pune or Lonavala followed by a taxi offer a balanced mix of comfort and cost, while driving yourself provides flexibility and scenic stops. Buses are economical but require transfers and patience.

Plan your trip by booking tickets early, checking weather and road conditions, and arranging last-mile transport in advance. With proper preparation, you can enjoy a smooth and refreshing journey from Mumbai to the serene hills of Mulshi, making your getaway truly memorable.