Nanded is a historic city located in the Marathwada region of Maharashtra, India. It is well known for its Sikh pilgrimage sites and cultural heritage. Many travelers visit Nanded to explore its religious landmarks and experience the local culture.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to reach Nanded from various parts of India. You will learn about the main transport options including trains, buses, cars, and flights, along with practical travel tips to make your journey comfortable and hassle-free.

Getting from Major Cities to Nanded – Main Options

Train

Traveling to Nanded by train is popular due to its connectivity with major cities and affordable fares. The Nanded Railway Station is well connected by several express and passenger trains.

• Nanded Railway Station (station code NED) connects to cities like Mumbai, Hyderabad, Pune, and Aurangabad with direct trains, making it a convenient option for many travelers.

• The travel time from Mumbai to Nanded by train ranges from 10 to 13 hours, with fares typically between ₹300 and ₹900 depending on the class and train type.

• Trains to Nanded run frequently, but booking in advance through IRCTC is essential during festival seasons and holidays to avoid last-minute unavailability.

• Some trains may experience delays during the monsoon season due to waterlogging or track maintenance, so plan accordingly if traveling between June and September.

• Facilities at Nanded station include waiting rooms, food stalls, and prepaid taxi counters, which help ease last-mile connectivity upon arrival.

Bus

Buses are a common way to reach Nanded from nearby cities and towns. Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) and private operators provide regular services.

• MSRTC buses connect Nanded with Aurangabad, Latur, and Hyderabad, with journey times ranging from 3 to 8 hours depending on the distance and bus type.

• Bus fares vary from ₹150 to ₹600, depending on the class (ordinary, semi-deluxe, or Volvo AC) and route taken.

• Buses depart from major depots such as Nanded Central Bus Stand and Aurangabad MSRTC Depot, with frequent schedules especially in the morning and evening.

• During peak festival periods like Diwali and Ganesh Chaturthi, buses can be crowded, so booking tickets in advance at MSRTC counters or online is advisable.

• Highways such as NH 61 and NH 161 connect Nanded to other cities, with toll plazas en route; expect occasional traffic jams near tolls during holidays.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving to Nanded offers flexibility and comfort, especially for travelers who prefer exploring at their own pace. The city is accessible via well-maintained national highways.

• Nanded is connected by NH 61 and NH 161, with good road conditions suitable for cars and two-wheelers, making it a popular self-drive destination.

• The distance from Mumbai to Nanded is approximately 580 km, which takes around 10 to 12 hours by car, depending on traffic and stops.

• Fuel stations and roadside eateries are available along the route, but it is advisable to plan refueling and meal breaks in towns like Aurangabad or Parbhani.

• Toll plazas on the highways charge fees ranging from ₹50 to ₹150; keep cash or digital payment apps ready for smooth passage.

• Monsoon season can cause slippery roads and occasional waterlogging, so drive cautiously between June and September.

Flight

Nanded has a domestic airport that connects it with major cities, making flights a fast and convenient option for many travelers.

• Nanded Airport (IATA: NDC) offers regular flights to Mumbai and Hyderabad operated by regional airlines, with flight durations around 1 to 1.5 hours.

• Airfares typically range from ₹2,000 to ₹5,000 one-way, depending on the booking time and airline promotions.

• Flights are less frequent than trains or buses, so booking tickets well in advance through airline websites or travel portals is recommended.

• The airport is located about 15 km from the city center; prepaid taxis and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber are available for last-mile connectivity.

• Flight schedules may be affected by fog in winter months (December-January), so check for updates before planning your journey.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

If you are traveling to Nanded for the first time, this step-by-step plan will help you organize your trip smoothly and avoid common issues.

• Choose your mode of transport based on budget, time, and comfort preferences; trains are economical, flights save time, and self-drive offers flexibility.

• Book your tickets early through official platforms like IRCTC for trains, MSRTC website for buses, or airline portals for flights to secure the best fares and availability.

• Pack light but include essentials like water bottles, snacks, and a power bank, as Indian travel can involve delays and waiting times.

• On the day of travel, arrive at the station or airport at least 1 hour before departure to manage security checks and boarding procedures smoothly.

• Use prepaid taxi counters or trusted app-based cabs upon arrival in Nanded to avoid overcharging and ensure safe travel to your accommodation.

• Keep local emergency numbers and hotel contact details handy, and inform someone about your travel plan for added safety.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always carry a photo ID like Aadhaar or passport when traveling by train or flight, as it is mandatory for ticket verification and security checks.

• Drink bottled water and avoid street food if you have a sensitive stomach; Nanded has many hygienic eateries near the station and bus stand.

• Book train and bus tickets well in advance during festival seasons to avoid last-minute unavailability and inflated prices.

• Use local auto-rickshaws or app-based cabs like Ola and Uber for short distances within Nanded; negotiate fares beforehand if using autos without meters.

• Keep your luggage secure and avoid carrying large amounts of cash; use digital wallets or cards for safer transactions.

• During monsoon, carry rain gear and check weather forecasts as heavy rains can cause travel delays and slippery roads.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to visit Nanded is during the winter months from October to February when the weather is pleasant and suitable for sightseeing. Summers can be very hot, and monsoon rains may disrupt travel plans.

Travel conditions vary throughout the year, so planning according to the season will help you avoid discomfort and delays.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Diwali and Ganesh Chaturthi as transport services are crowded and prices may rise.

• Monsoon season (June to September) can cause roadblocks and train delays due to heavy rains and waterlogging in some areas.

• Winter mornings may have fog affecting flights and trains, so allow extra time for connections if traveling in December or January.

• Early morning departures are recommended for road travel to avoid city traffic and reach your destination comfortably before dark.

Arrival at Nanded & What to Expect

When you arrive in Nanded, you will find several transport options to reach your accommodation or explore the city. The railway station and bus stand are centrally located, while the airport is about 15 km away.

Prepaid taxi counters and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber operate from the station and airport, providing safe and affordable rides. Auto-rickshaws are also available but always agree on a fare before starting your journey. Popular areas to stay include near the railway station and around the Gurudwara Hazur Sahib for easy access to main attractions.

Conclusion

Traveling to Nanded is straightforward with multiple options to suit different budgets and preferences. Trains offer an economical and reliable choice, while flights save valuable time for those who prefer speed and comfort. Self-drive is ideal for travelers who want to explore the region at their own pace.

Planning ahead by booking tickets early, checking weather conditions, and knowing local transport options will ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey. With this guide, you can confidently plan your trip to Nanded and experience its rich culture and heritage without stress.