Mulshi is a scenic hill station located about 40 kilometers west of Pune in Maharashtra. Known for its lush green landscapes, Mulshi attracts many nature lovers and weekend travelers from Pune and nearby cities. This route is popular for quick getaways and offers beautiful views of the Western Ghats.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to travel from Pune to Mulshi, covering trains, buses, cars, and taxis. You will also find practical tips and a step-by-step travel plan to make your journey smooth and enjoyable.

Getting from Pune to Mulshi – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train is a less common but possible option for reaching Mulshi from Pune. The nearest railway station to Mulshi is Vadgaon, which is about 15 km away. Trains are suitable for budget travelers who do not mind additional local transport.

• Pune Junction is the main railway station in Pune, well connected to Vadgaon station by local trains and passenger services, with travel time around 30-40 minutes and fares under ₹50.

• Vadgaon station is the closest railhead to Mulshi but lacks direct transport; you will need to hire a taxi or local bus from there to reach Mulshi, which takes another 30-40 minutes.

• Train frequency between Pune and Vadgaon is moderate, with more trains during morning and evening peak hours; avoid traveling late at night due to fewer services and safety concerns.

• Trains can be crowded during weekends and holidays as many locals travel to Mulshi and nearby areas; booking tickets via IRCTC in advance is recommended for reserved trains.

• Facilities at Vadgaon station are basic, so plan accordingly for water and snacks; local auto-rickshaws and shared cabs are available for last-mile connectivity to Mulshi.

Bus

Buses are a popular and economical way to reach Mulshi from Pune. State transport and private buses run regularly, making this mode suitable for budget travelers and those without private vehicles.

• MSRTC buses depart from Pune’s Swargate Bus Station towards Mulshi and nearby villages, with journey times around 1 to 1.5 hours depending on traffic and route taken.

• Bus fares range from ₹30 to ₹70 depending on whether you take ordinary or semi-deluxe services; buses are frequent during daytime but limited after sunset.

• Buses can get crowded on weekends and during festivals, so arriving early at the bus stand is advisable to secure a seat and avoid standing for long durations.

• The route follows the Pune-Mulshi Road (NH 48 and SH 60), passing through scenic spots and small towns; expect some traffic delays during monsoon due to narrow roads and occasional landslides.

• Bus stops near Mulshi Dam and other popular spots are well-marked; local shared autos and taxis are available for last-mile travel to resorts or trekking points.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Pune to Mulshi is the most flexible and comfortable option, ideal for families and groups. The road is well-maintained and offers beautiful views along the way.

• The distance between Pune and Mulshi is approximately 40 km via the Pune-Mulshi Road (SH 60), with a typical drive time of 1 to 1.5 hours depending on traffic and stops.

• Driving yourself or hiring a cab gives you the freedom to explore multiple spots around Mulshi, including Tamhini Ghat, Mulshi Dam, and nearby waterfalls without time constraints.

• Expect toll plazas on the Pune-Mulshi route; toll charges are moderate and can be paid via FASTag or cash at the booths.

• During monsoon, the roads can be slippery and narrow in some sections; drive cautiously and avoid night travel due to poor visibility and wildlife crossings.

• Fuel stations are available along the highway, but it is wise to fill up in Pune before starting your journey to avoid delays in remote areas.

Taxi

Hiring a taxi or cab from Pune to Mulshi is convenient and hassle-free, especially if you prefer door-to-door service without driving yourself. This option suits travelers seeking comfort and flexibility.

• Ola and Uber cabs are available in Pune and can be booked for a one-way trip to Mulshi, with fares typically ranging from ₹1200 to ₹1800 depending on vehicle type and demand.

• Prepaid taxis from Pune Airport or Pune Railway Station can also be arranged, offering fixed rates and reliable service to Mulshi and nearby tourist spots.

• Taxis provide the advantage of stopping at scenic points or local eateries along the route, making your journey more enjoyable and personalized.

• During peak tourist seasons and weekends, taxi fares may surge; booking in advance and confirming rates helps avoid surprises.

• Local taxi drivers often know the best routes and can suggest places to visit around Mulshi, enhancing your travel experience.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This step-by-step plan is designed for first-time travelers going from Pune to Mulshi. It will help you prepare and navigate the journey smoothly.

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

• Step 2: Book your tickets or cab in advance, especially during weekends or holidays. Use IRCTC for trains, MSRTC website or counters for buses, and Ola/Uber apps for taxis.

• Step 3: Pack essentials like water, snacks, and rain gear if traveling during monsoon. Roads can be winding and stops limited, so be prepared.

• Step 4: Start your journey early in the morning to avoid city traffic and enjoy cooler temperatures. Early arrival also helps in finding good accommodation or picnic spots.

• Step 5: On arrival at Mulshi, use local shared autos or taxis for last-mile travel to resorts, trekking trails, or the dam. Confirm fares before boarding to avoid overcharging.

• Step 6: Keep your phone charged and have offline maps ready, as network coverage can be patchy in hilly areas around Mulshi.

Practical Travel Tips

• Carry bottled water and avoid drinking tap water in Mulshi to prevent stomach issues; local shops sell safe packaged water at reasonable prices.

• During monsoon, check weather updates and road conditions before traveling; landslides and roadblocks can cause delays or detours.

• Book bus or train tickets early via official portals like MSRTC or IRCTC to avoid last-minute rush and ensure confirmed seats.

• Use prepaid taxi services or app-based cabs to avoid haggling and ensure safety, especially if traveling late in the day.

• Pack light but include raincoats, umbrellas, and comfortable walking shoes for exploring Mulshi’s natural spots and trekking trails.

• Be cautious of wild animals when driving or walking near forested areas; avoid traveling after dark and stick to main roads.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to visit Mulshi is from October to February when the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities. Summers can be hot, while monsoon brings heavy rains and slippery roads.

Travel conditions vary with seasons, so planning your trip accordingly helps avoid discomfort and delays.

• Avoid traveling during the monsoon peak (June to September) if you are not comfortable with narrow, wet roads and possible landslides.

• Festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi and Diwali cause heavy traffic in Pune and on the Pune-Mulshi route; plan trips outside these periods for a smoother journey.

• Early morning departures help avoid city traffic and enjoy cooler temperatures, especially during summer months.

• Winter mornings can be foggy near Mulshi; give extra travel time and drive carefully to maintain safety.

Arrival at Mulshi & What to Expect

When you arrive at Mulshi, you will find a peaceful environment surrounded by hills, lakes, and forests. The main entry points include Mulshi Dam and nearby villages where most accommodations and eateries are located.

Local transport options include shared autos, private taxis, and sometimes resort shuttles. Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs are less common, so negotiate fares in advance or arrange transport through your hotel.

Popular areas to stay are near Mulshi Dam, Tamhini Ghat, and the villages of Bhugaon and Pirangut. These places offer a range of budget to mid-range accommodations and easy access to natural attractions.

Conclusion

Traveling from Pune to Mulshi is straightforward with multiple options to suit different budgets and preferences. Driving or hiring a taxi offers the most convenience and flexibility, while buses and trains provide economical alternatives for budget travelers.

Planning your trip with advance bookings, checking weather conditions, and starting early will help you avoid common travel hassles. With this guide, you can confidently plan your journey to Mulshi and enjoy the serene beauty of this popular getaway near Pune.