Pune is a bustling city in Maharashtra known for its educational institutions and cultural heritage. Neral is a small town near Mumbai, famous as the gateway to the scenic hill station Matheran. Traveling from Pune to Neral is a popular route for weekend travelers and nature lovers.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to reach Neral from Pune using trains, buses, cars, and flights. You will get practical tips on travel times, fares, and local transport to plan your journey confidently.

Getting from Pune to Neral – Main Options

Train

Taking a train is a convenient and cost-effective way to travel from Pune to Neral. It suits travelers who prefer a relaxed journey and want to avoid road traffic.

• The nearest major railway station to Neral is Neral Junction, connected to Mumbai and Pune via local and passenger trains. Pune Junction is the main departure point in Pune.

• Direct trains between Pune and Neral are limited, so most travelers take a train to Karjat and then a local train or taxi to Neral, covering about 120 km in 3 to 4 hours.

• Train fares range from ₹50 to ₹200 depending on the class and train type, making it an affordable option for budget travelers.

• Trains run frequently during the day, but avoid traveling during peak monsoon months when landslides and delays are common on this route.

• Facilities at Pune Junction include waiting rooms and food stalls, but Neral station is small with limited amenities, so plan accordingly.

Bus

Buses provide a direct and economical way to reach Neral from Pune. This option is popular among locals and travelers who want flexible timings.

• State transport buses operated by MSRTC run from Pune’s Swargate Bus Station to Neral, covering around 120 km in 3.5 to 5 hours depending on traffic.

• Private buses and Volvo services are also available but less frequent; fares range from ₹150 to ₹400 based on bus type and comfort.

• Buses depart throughout the day, but early morning and late evening buses can be crowded, especially on weekends and holidays.

• The route passes through NH48 and NH61, with several toll plazas; expect occasional traffic jams near Lonavala and Karjat.

• Bus stops in Neral are close to the railway station, making last-mile connectivity easy for onward travel to Matheran.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Pune to Neral is a flexible and comfortable option, ideal for families or groups who want to explore at their own pace.

• The distance is approximately 120 km via NH48 and NH61, with a typical drive time of 3 to 4 hours depending on traffic conditions.

• Self-drive car rentals are widely available in Pune with daily rates starting around ₹1500, including fuel and tolls.

• The route is scenic, passing through Lonavala and Karjat, with several rest stops offering food and refreshments.

• Be prepared for toll plazas on the highway; carry cash or FASTag for smooth passage.

• During monsoon, roads can be slippery and visibility low, so drive carefully and avoid night driving on ghat sections.

Flight

Flying is not a practical option for Pune to Neral travel since Neral does not have an airport. The nearest airport is Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport.

• From Pune Airport, you can fly to Mumbai, which takes about 45 minutes, but this adds extra time and cost compared to road or train travel.

• After reaching Mumbai, you need to travel by train or taxi to Neral, which is about 80 km away and takes 2 to 3 hours.

• Flight fares between Pune and Mumbai vary widely, usually ₹1500 to ₹4000, making it less economical for this short distance.

• Considering airport check-in, security, and transfers, flying is generally not recommended unless combined with other travel plans.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This step-by-step plan is designed for first-time travelers from Pune to Neral to make the journey smooth and hassle-free.

• Book your train or bus tickets online through IRCTC or MSRTC websites to secure seats and avoid last-minute rush, especially on weekends.

• Reach Pune Junction or Swargate Bus Station at least 30 minutes before departure to find your platform or bus easily and avoid confusion.

• If traveling by train, check the local train timings from Karjat to Neral in advance, as these are crucial for completing the journey.

• Carry light luggage and water bottles, as facilities on local trains and buses may be limited, especially during peak travel seasons.

• On arrival at Neral, use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs like Ola and Uber for safe and reliable last-mile connectivity to your destination or Matheran.

• Keep your phone charged and have offline maps ready, as network coverage can be patchy in some hilly areas near Neral.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always keep your belongings secure and avoid displaying valuables openly, especially in crowded trains and buses to prevent theft.

• Drink only bottled water and eat from hygienic food stalls, particularly at Pune stations and highway rest stops to avoid stomach issues.

• Book tickets well in advance during festival seasons like Ganesh Chaturthi and Diwali when travel demand spikes sharply.

• Use local auto-rickshaws or app-based cabs for short trips in Pune and Neral; always agree on fares beforehand if not using meters.

• Pack a small first-aid kit and carry mosquito repellent, as some areas around Neral can be humid and prone to insects.

• During monsoon, check weather forecasts and road conditions before traveling, as landslides and waterlogging can cause delays.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Pune to Neral is during the cooler months from October to February when the weather is pleasant and roads are dry.

Avoid the peak monsoon season from June to September, as heavy rains can disrupt train and road travel with landslides and flooding.

• Avoid weekends and public holidays if possible, as roads and trains are crowded with tourists visiting Matheran via Neral.

• Early morning departures are recommended to bypass city traffic in Pune and reach Neral before afternoon rush hours.

• Winter mornings can have fog on the highway, so drive carefully and use headlights for safety.

• Summer afternoons can be hot and tiring, so carry water and plan breaks during the journey.

Arrival at Neral & What to Expect

When you arrive at Neral railway station or bus stop, you will find basic facilities like ticket counters, small eateries, and auto-rickshaw stands. The station is small but well connected to local transport.

For onward travel to Matheran, you can hire a shared jeep or taxi from outside the station. Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs are available but less common, so negotiate fares carefully.

Accommodation options are mostly in nearby towns or Matheran itself. Staying near the station is convenient for early departures, but expect limited hotel choices directly in Neral.

Conclusion

Traveling from Pune to Neral is straightforward with multiple options to suit different budgets and preferences. The train-bus combination and self-drive car are the most popular and practical choices for most travelers.

Planning ahead by booking tickets online, checking weather conditions, and knowing local transport options will make your journey smooth and enjoyable. With this guide, you can confidently plan your trip and experience the beautiful landscapes around Neral and Matheran.