Pune is a major city in Maharashtra known for its educational institutions and vibrant culture. Parli Vaijnath is a town in Beed district, famous for the ancient Vaijnath Jyotirlinga temple. This route is popular among pilgrims and travelers seeking a spiritual journey or a cultural experience.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to travel from Pune to Parli Vaijnath using trains, buses, cars, and flights. You will also find practical travel tips, step-by-step plans, and advice on what to expect upon arrival.

Getting from Pune to Parli Vaijnath – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train is a popular and economical choice for many. It offers a comfortable journey with scenic views and is suitable for those who prefer overnight travel or want to avoid road traffic.

• The nearest railway station to Parli Vaijnath is Parli Vaijnath Railway Station (PRLI), well connected to Pune Junction (PUNE) via several trains covering approximately 280 km in 6 to 8 hours.

• Trains like the Pune-Solapur Passenger and other express trains run daily, with fares ranging from ₹150 to ₹400 depending on class and train type.

• Train frequency is good, but booking in advance on IRCTC is recommended, especially during festival seasons like Mahashivratri when pilgrim traffic increases.

• Facilities at Parli Vaijnath station are basic; it is advisable to arrange local transport beforehand as auto-rickshaws and taxis may be limited during late hours.

• Monsoon season may cause occasional delays due to track maintenance or waterlogging near Solapur; plan accordingly during June to September.

Bus

Buses are widely used for this route, offering flexibility and multiple daily departures. They are suitable for budget travelers and those who prefer direct road travel without train transfers.

• MSRTC operates regular buses from Pune Swargate Bus Station to Parli Vaijnath, covering around 280 km in 6 to 7 hours via NH65 and NH548C.

• Options include ordinary, semi-deluxe, and deluxe buses with fares ranging from ₹200 to ₹450, depending on the type and timing.

• Buses run frequently from early morning to late evening, but night buses are less common; booking tickets in advance at the depot or online is advisable.

• Road conditions are generally good, but monsoon rains can cause slippery patches and occasional delays; avoid traveling during heavy rains if possible.

• There are several rest stops with food stalls along the highway near Solapur and Osmanabad, offering local snacks and refreshments.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Pune to Parli Vaijnath is a convenient option for those who want flexibility and comfort. The route is scenic and mostly on national highways, suitable for self-drive or private taxis.

• The distance is approximately 280 km via NH65 and NH548C, taking around 5.5 to 6.5 hours depending on traffic and stops.

• Major toll plazas on this route include the Daund and Solapur tolls; expect to pay around ₹200 to ₹300 in toll fees one way.

• Fuel stations and eateries are available along the highway, with popular stops near Daund and Solapur for refreshments and breaks.

• Driving during early morning or late evening helps avoid city traffic in Pune and Solapur, making the journey smoother.

• During monsoon, roads can be slippery and visibility low; ensure your vehicle is well-maintained and drive cautiously.

Flight

There is no direct flight between Pune and Parli Vaijnath as Parli does not have an airport. However, flying can be combined with other transport modes for faster travel.

• The nearest airport to Parli Vaijnath is Aurangabad Airport, approximately 150 km away, which is connected to Pune by daily flights taking about 1 hour.

• From Aurangabad, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Parli Vaijnath, which takes around 3 to 4 hours by road.

• Flight fares between Pune and Aurangabad typically range from ₹1,500 to ₹3,000 depending on the airline and booking time.

• This option is suitable if you want to reduce travel time but be prepared for additional road travel from Aurangabad to Parli Vaijnath.

• Booking flights and ground transport in advance is recommended, especially during peak pilgrimage seasons.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This plan is designed for first-time travelers from Pune to Parli Vaijnath to help you prepare and travel smoothly.

• Book your train or bus tickets early via IRCTC or MSRTC websites to secure your preferred travel date and class, especially during festivals.

• Pack light but carry essentials like water, snacks, and a power bank, as some parts of the journey may have limited food options.

• Reach Pune railway station or bus depot at least 30 minutes before departure to avoid last-minute rush and find your platform or bus easily.

• If driving, check your vehicle’s condition, fuel level, and GPS before starting; plan rest stops near Daund or Solapur for meals and breaks.

• Upon arrival at Parli Vaijnath station or bus stand, use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs like Ola or Uber for safe and reliable local transport to your accommodation or temple.

• Carry a physical or digital copy of your tickets and ID proofs, as these are often checked during boarding and travel in India.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always use prepaid taxi counters or trusted app-based cabs at stations to avoid overcharging and ensure safety, especially when arriving late at night.

• Drink bottled water and avoid street food if you have a sensitive stomach; local eateries near rest stops usually maintain good hygiene.

• Book tickets online well in advance during festivals like Mahashivratri when demand surges and trains and buses fill quickly.

• Carry a small bag with essentials like hand sanitizer, masks, and a basic first-aid kit, as medical facilities may be limited en route.

• Local transport in Parli Vaijnath includes auto-rickshaws and cycle rickshaws; negotiate fares beforehand or insist on meter usage.

• During monsoon, check weather updates and road conditions; avoid night travel as fog and waterlogging can cause delays and hazards.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Pune to Parli Vaijnath is during the cooler months from October to March. The weather is pleasant, making road and rail journeys comfortable.

Summer months can be hot and dusty, while the monsoon season brings heavy rains that may disrupt travel plans due to slippery roads and occasional train delays.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi or Diwali in Pune, as city traffic and transport bookings become challenging.

• Winter mornings may have fog near Solapur and Osmanabad, causing slight delays in train and road travel; plan departures accordingly.

• Early morning departures help avoid city traffic in Pune and provide a smoother journey on highways.

• Monsoon travel requires caution; check weather forecasts and road conditions before starting your trip.

Arrival at Parli Vaijnath & What to Expect

When you arrive at Parli Vaijnath railway station or bus stand, you will find basic facilities and local transport options. The town is small but well connected by autos and taxis.

Most travelers head to the Vaijnath temple area, which is about 2 to 3 km from the station. Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs like Ola are available but may be limited during late hours, so plan accordingly.

Accommodation options are available near the temple and town center, ranging from budget lodges to guest houses. It is advisable to book in advance during pilgrimage seasons.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to reach Parli Vaijnath from Pune is by train, offering a balance of comfort, cost, and convenience. Buses provide a good alternative for budget travelers, while driving gives flexibility for stops and sightseeing.

Plan your journey by booking tickets early, checking weather conditions, and arranging local transport in advance. With these tips, you can travel confidently and enjoy your visit to the sacred town of Parli Vaijnath.