Bandra Terminus is a major railway station located in Mumbai's western suburbs, serving as a key hub for long-distance trains. Pune, situated about 150 kilometers southeast of Mumbai, is a vibrant city known for its cultural heritage and educational institutions. Traveling between Bandra Terminus and Pune is a common route for daily commuters, tourists, and business travelers.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to travel from Bandra Terminus to Pune. You will learn about different transport options, travel times, fares, and practical tips to make your journey smooth and comfortable.

Getting from Bandra Terminus to Pune – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train from Bandra Terminus to Pune is popular due to its convenience and affordability. Several express and passenger trains connect these cities daily, offering a comfortable journey.

• Bandra Terminus is well connected to Pune Junction via trains like the Deccan Express and Sahyadri Express, covering approximately 150 km in 3 to 4 hours depending on the service.

• Train fares range from ₹150 to ₹600, depending on the class of travel such as Sleeper, Second Class, or AC Chair Car, making it budget-friendly for most travelers.

• Trains run frequently throughout the day, but booking tickets in advance through IRCTC is recommended, especially during weekends and festival seasons to avoid last-minute hassles.

• The route passes through scenic Western Ghats, but monsoon season can cause occasional delays due to heavy rains and track maintenance.

• Pune Junction station is centrally located, with easy access to local buses, auto-rickshaws, and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber for last-mile connectivity.

Bus

Buses are a flexible and economical option to travel from Mumbai to Pune, with several services operating from Bandra and nearby areas. This mode suits travelers looking for frequent departures and moderate comfort.

• MSRTC and private operators run buses from Bandra to Pune via the Mumbai-Pune Expressway, covering around 150 km in 3 to 4.5 hours depending on traffic.

• Bus fares typically range from ₹150 to ₹400, with options including ordinary, semi-deluxe, and Volvo AC coaches for varying comfort levels.

• Departure points near Bandra Terminus include the Bandra East bus depot and nearby hubs; confirm exact boarding points while booking tickets online or at counters.

• Traffic congestion is common during peak hours and weekends, especially near Mumbai city limits and Lonavala, so plan your travel time accordingly to avoid delays.

• Rest stops along the expressway offer clean washrooms and food stalls serving local snacks and meals, useful for longer journeys.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Bandra Terminus to Pune offers flexibility and comfort, ideal for travelers who prefer private transport or want to explore en route. The route is well maintained and scenic.

• The Mumbai-Pune Expressway is the fastest route, covering approximately 150 km in 3 to 4 hours depending on traffic and driving speed.

• Toll charges on the expressway range between ₹150 and ₹250, payable at multiple plazas; keep cash or FASTag ready for smooth passage.

• Fuel costs for a one-way trip typically range from ₹1,200 to ₹1,800 depending on your vehicle’s mileage and fuel type.

• Driving during early morning or late evening helps avoid heavy traffic near Mumbai and Pune city limits, especially on weekdays.

• Several highway dhabas and restaurants along the expressway provide good food and rest options, but avoid stopping at unregulated spots for safety reasons.

Flight

Although Pune has an airport, flying from Bandra Terminus (Mumbai) to Pune is generally not practical due to the short distance and lack of direct flights. However, it may be considered in rare cases.

• Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport is about 20 km from Bandra Terminus and well connected by local transport.

• Flights from Mumbai to Pune are rare and usually not cost-effective considering the travel time to and from airports and security checks.

• Flight duration is around 30 minutes, but total travel time including airport transfers can exceed 3 hours, making trains or road travel more efficient.

• For urgent travel, booking flights in advance is essential, and fares can vary widely depending on demand and season.

• Local transport options like prepaid taxis and app-based cabs are available from Pune Airport to city center, costing around ₹300 to ₹500.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

If you are traveling from Bandra Terminus to Pune for the first time, this step-by-step plan will help you organize your journey efficiently and avoid common pitfalls.

• Check train or bus schedules online via IRCTC or MSRTC websites to find departure times that suit your itinerary; booking tickets in advance ensures availability and better prices.

• Arrive at Bandra Terminus or the bus boarding point at least 30 minutes before departure to navigate crowds and find your platform or bus easily.

• Carry a valid photo ID and your ticket (printed or digital) as these are mandatory for boarding trains and buses in India.

• If traveling by car, ensure your vehicle is serviced, and you have sufficient fuel and FASTag for toll payments to avoid delays on the expressway.

• Pack light but carry essentials like water, snacks, and a power bank, especially if you choose bus or train travel where stops may be limited.

• Upon arrival in Pune, use app-based cabs or prepaid taxi counters at Pune Junction or bus stands for safe and hassle-free local transport to your accommodation.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always keep your belongings secure and avoid displaying valuables openly, especially at crowded stations and bus stops, to prevent theft or loss.

• Drink only bottled water sealed by trusted brands and avoid street food unless you are familiar with the vendor to prevent stomach issues during travel.

• Book train tickets through the official IRCTC website or app to avoid scams and get confirmed seats; for buses, use MSRTC’s online portal or reputed private operators.

• Use local auto-rickshaws or app-based cabs like Ola and Uber for last-mile connectivity in Mumbai and Pune, and insist on metered fares or app-based billing.

• Carry a small bag with essential documents, medicines, and a change of clothes in case of travel delays or emergencies common during monsoon season.

• During monsoon, check weather updates and train/bus running status as heavy rains can cause delays or cancellations on the Mumbai-Pune route.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The Mumbai to Pune route experiences varied weather and traffic conditions throughout the year. Understanding these can help you plan your trip better.

Peak travel times include weekends, public holidays, and festival seasons like Ganesh Chaturthi and Diwali, when trains and buses are crowded and fares may rise.

• Avoid traveling during the monsoon months of June to September if possible, as heavy rains can cause landslides and slow traffic on the expressway.

• Winter mornings (December to February) often have dense fog near Pune, which can delay trains and reduce visibility for drivers.

• Early morning departures from Bandra Terminus help avoid Mumbai’s rush hour traffic and ensure a smoother journey on the expressway.

• Late evening travel is less crowded but ensure you have safe transport options upon arrival in Pune, as public transport frequency reduces at night.

Arrival at Pune & What to Expect

When you arrive at Pune Junction or Pune bus stand, you will find several options to reach your final destination within the city. Pune is well connected by local transport, making onward travel convenient.

Prepaid taxi counters and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber are available at major arrival points, offering reliable and transparent fares. Auto-rickshaws are also common but negotiate fares before starting your ride.

Popular areas to stay in Pune include Koregaon Park, Shivaji Nagar, and Deccan Gymkhana, all easily accessible from the station by short cab rides. Local buses also connect these areas but may be crowded during peak hours.

Conclusion

Traveling from Bandra Terminus to Pune is straightforward with multiple transport options to suit different budgets and preferences. Trains offer a comfortable and affordable choice, while buses provide flexibility and frequent departures. Driving on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway is ideal for those seeking convenience and control over their schedule.

Plan your journey by checking schedules and booking tickets in advance, especially during busy seasons. Keep practical tips in mind for safety and comfort, and choose travel times that avoid peak traffic and weather challenges. With this guide, you can confidently make your trip from Bandra Terminus to Pune smooth and enjoyable.