Solapur and Pandharpur are two important cities in Maharashtra, located about 90 kilometers apart. Solapur is a major urban center known for its textile industry, while Pandharpur is a famous pilgrimage town dedicated to Lord Vitthal. Many travelers make this journey for religious visits, business, or leisure.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to travel from Solapur to Pandharpur. You will learn about train, bus, and car options along with practical tips to make your trip comfortable and hassle-free.

Getting from Solapur to Pandharpur – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train from Solapur to Pandharpur is a popular and convenient choice for many. The rail route connects these cities directly, offering affordable and comfortable travel.

• Solapur Railway Station (SUR) is the main departure point, well-connected to Pandharpur Railway Station (PVR) on the Solapur–Miraj line, covering approximately 90 km in about 2 to 3 hours.

• Train fares range from ₹50 to ₹150 depending on the class, with options like passenger and express trains available daily, making it budget-friendly and frequent.

• Trains are generally punctual but can be crowded during festivals like Ashadhi Ekadashi when pilgrims travel to Pandharpur, so booking in advance via IRCTC is recommended.

• Facilities on trains vary; some have reserved seating while others are unreserved, so choose based on comfort needs and travel time.

• Both stations have basic amenities, with food stalls and waiting areas, but carrying water and snacks is advisable for longer waits or delays.

Bus

Buses are a flexible and widely used option to travel between Solapur and Pandharpur. State-run and private buses operate regularly, catering to different budgets and preferences.

• MSRTC buses depart from Solapur Central Bus Stand to Pandharpur Bus Stand frequently, with journey times around 2.5 to 3.5 hours depending on traffic and route.

• Bus fares usually range between ₹70 and ₹150, with options including ordinary, semi-deluxe, and air-conditioned services for varying comfort levels.

• Buses run throughout the day from early morning to late evening, but the morning and evening slots are more crowded, especially during pilgrimage seasons.

• The route mainly follows NH52 and SH67, passing through towns like Akkalkot and Mangalwedha, with several rest stops offering local snacks and tea.

• During monsoon, road conditions can slow travel, and occasional toll plazas on the highway may add minor delays and costs.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Solapur to Pandharpur gives you flexibility and control over your schedule. The route is straightforward and suitable for self-drive or hiring a taxi.

• The distance is about 90 km via NH52 and SH67, taking roughly 2 to 2.5 hours depending on traffic and road conditions, ideal for a day trip or overnight stay.

• Car rentals or taxi services like Ola and Uber are available in Solapur, with fares typically ranging from ₹1500 to ₹2500 for a one-way trip, depending on vehicle type.

• The roads are mostly in good condition, but watch out for occasional potholes and local traffic near villages; toll plazas on NH52 may add small fees.

• Driving allows stops at local eateries and temples along the way, enhancing your travel experience with cultural insights and refreshments.

• During festivals, parking in Pandharpur can be challenging; pre-booking accommodation with parking or using local transport after arrival is advisable.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

If this is your first time traveling from Solapur to Pandharpur, follow these steps to ensure a smooth journey.

• Check train and bus schedules online via IRCTC and MSRTC websites or apps to pick the best departure time and book tickets in advance to avoid last-minute hassles.

• Pack light but carry essentials like water, snacks, a hat, and a power bank, as Indian travel can involve waiting times and variable weather conditions.

• Arrive at Solapur Railway Station or Bus Stand at least 30 minutes before departure to find your platform or bus easily and avoid rush, especially during peak seasons.

• If traveling by car, confirm your taxi or rental booking a day before, check the vehicle condition, and plan your route using GPS apps like Google Maps for real-time traffic updates.

• Upon arrival in Pandharpur, use prepaid taxi counters or app-based cabs like Ola for safe and fair local transport to your accommodation or temple.

• Keep local emergency numbers handy and inform someone about your travel plans, a common safety practice in Indian travel.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always carry bottled water and avoid drinking tap water during your journey to prevent stomach issues common in Indian travel.

• Book train tickets through IRCTC or bus tickets via MSRTC apps to secure confirmed seats and avoid overcrowded unreserved compartments or buses.

• Use prepaid taxi services or app-based cabs at stations and bus stands to avoid overcharging and ensure safe local travel.

• Pack light luggage with secure locks, as crowded trains and buses can increase the risk of theft or loss during travel.

• During monsoon, check weather updates and road conditions before traveling, as heavy rains can cause delays or detours on highways.

• Carry some cash in small denominations for tolls, local transport, and small purchases, as digital payments may not be accepted everywhere.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Solapur to Pandharpur depends on weather and crowd patterns. Avoiding peak festival times can make your journey more comfortable.

Monsoon season brings lush greenery but can cause road and rail delays due to heavy rains and occasional flooding.

• Avoid traveling during Ashadhi Ekadashi and Kartiki Ekadashi festivals when Pandharpur sees a massive influx of pilgrims, causing transport and accommodation shortages.

• Summers (March to June) can be hot and dry, so start early in the day to avoid afternoon heat and stay hydrated.

• Winter mornings (December to February) may have fog affecting train and road visibility, so plan extra travel time during these months.

• Early morning departures are generally smoother with less traffic and cooler temperatures, especially for road travel.

Arrival at Pandharpur & What to Expect

When you arrive at Pandharpur Railway Station or Bus Stand, you will find several local transport options to reach your hotel or the temple area. Prepaid taxi counters and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber operate here.

Many travelers stay near the main temple area or in nearby guesthouses and lodges, which are within walking distance of the pilgrimage sites. Local rickshaws are also available for short trips but agree on fares beforehand.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to travel from Solapur to Pandharpur depends on your priorities. If you want an economical and straightforward journey, trains are a reliable choice. For flexibility and comfort, driving or hiring a taxi works well. Buses offer a middle ground with frequent services and moderate fares.

Plan your trip by booking tickets in advance, checking weather and festival calendars, and preparing for local travel conditions. With these tips, you can confidently make your journey to Pandharpur smooth and enjoyable, whether for pilgrimage or leisure.