Borivali is a bustling suburb located in the northern part of Mumbai, Maharashtra. Pune, situated southeast of Mumbai, is a major city known for its educational institutions and vibrant culture. Traveling from Borivali to Pune is a common route for daily commuters, tourists, and business travelers.

This guide will help you understand the main transport options available to travel from Borivali to Pune. You will learn about trains, buses, driving routes, and flights, along with practical tips to make your journey smooth and comfortable.

Getting from Borivali to Pune – Main Options

Train

Taking a train is one of the most popular and economical ways to travel from Borivali to Pune. Trains offer a direct connection with good frequency and comfort, suitable for daily commuters and tourists alike.

• Borivali Railway Station is a major stop on the Western Line of Mumbai Suburban Railway and connects to Pune via several express and passenger trains daily, covering approximately 150 km in 3 to 4.5 hours.

• Popular trains include the Deccan Express and Sinhagad Express, which depart from Borivali and arrive at Pune Junction, offering reserved seating and sleeper options for comfort.

• Train fares range from ₹150 to ₹500 depending on the class, making it an affordable choice compared to road travel or flights.

• Trains can get crowded during peak hours and festival seasons, so booking tickets in advance through IRCTC or authorized agents is recommended to secure your seat.

• Onboard facilities vary; some trains have catering services, but it is advisable to carry water and snacks, especially during the monsoon when delays are common due to heavy rains.

Bus

Buses offer a flexible and budget-friendly option for traveling between Borivali and Pune. State-run and private buses operate on this route, catering to different comfort levels and schedules.

• MSRTC (Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation) runs regular buses from Borivali bus depot to Pune, including ordinary, semi-deluxe, and Volvo options, covering around 160 km in 4 to 5 hours.

• Private bus operators also provide services with varying comfort, often departing from Borivali or nearby Mumbai bus terminals, with fares ranging from ₹150 to ₹400.

• Volvo buses are preferred for comfort and air-conditioning, especially during summer, but they tend to be more expensive and require advance booking during weekends and holidays.

• Traffic on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway can cause delays during peak hours or festival seasons, so plan your departure accordingly to avoid long waits.

• Bus stops usually have basic amenities, but it is advisable to carry your own water and light snacks, as rest stops may be limited depending on the bus type.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Borivali to Pune is a popular choice for those who prefer flexibility and comfort. The route mainly follows the Mumbai-Pune Expressway, known for its smooth roads and scenic views.

• The distance between Borivali and Pune by road is approximately 160 km, and the journey typically takes 3.5 to 5 hours depending on traffic conditions and stops.

• The Mumbai-Pune Expressway is a toll highway with multiple toll plazas; toll charges vary but expect to pay around ₹300 to ₹400 one way for a private car.

• Rest stops along the expressway offer clean washrooms, food courts, and fuel stations, making it convenient for breaks during the drive.

• Driving during early mornings or late evenings helps avoid heavy traffic, especially near Mumbai suburbs and Pune outskirts.

• Self-drive car rentals are available in Borivali and Mumbai, with options ranging from hatchbacks to SUVs; ensure you have valid documents and check the vehicle condition before starting.

Flight

Although Pune has a domestic airport, flying from Borivali is less common due to the proximity and good road and rail connectivity. However, flights can be considered for faster travel or connecting to other cities.

• The nearest airport to Borivali is Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in Mumbai, about 25 km away, accessible by taxi or local train.

• Flights from Mumbai to Pune take about 40 minutes, but total travel time including airport transfers and security checks can exceed 3 hours.

• Flight fares vary widely, typically ranging from ₹1,500 to ₹4,000, depending on the airline and booking time.

• Flights are convenient during monsoon when road travel can be delayed, but weather disruptions can also affect schedules.

• Booking flights in advance through airline websites or travel portals is advisable to get better fares and seat availability.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This step-by-step plan is designed for first-time travelers moving from Borivali to Pune, helping you prepare and navigate the journey confidently.

• Check train or bus schedules online via IRCTC or MSRTC websites to choose a suitable departure time that fits your itinerary and avoids peak travel hours.

• Book your tickets in advance, especially during weekends, holidays, or festival seasons, to ensure seat availability and avoid last-minute hassles.

• Pack light but carry essentials like water, snacks, a mobile charger, and a light jacket or umbrella depending on the season.

• Reach the Borivali railway station or bus depot at least 30 minutes before departure to find your platform or bus stand comfortably and avoid rushing.

• For car travelers, check your vehicle’s fuel, tire pressure, and documents before starting, and plan rest stops along the Mumbai-Pune Expressway for meals and breaks.

• Upon arrival in Pune, use prepaid taxi counters or app-based cabs like Ola and Uber for safe and reliable local transport to your accommodation or next destination.

Practical Travel Tips

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

• Drink only bottled or filtered water during your journey and avoid street food unless it is from trusted vendors to prevent stomach issues.

• Use official websites or apps like IRCTC for train bookings and MSRTC for bus tickets to avoid scams and get accurate schedule information.

• In Pune and Borivali, local transport options include auto-rickshaws, taxis, and app-based cabs; negotiate fares beforehand if not using meters or apps.

• Carry a small bag with essential documents, medicines, and chargers to keep them handy during travel and avoid rummaging through large luggage frequently.

• During monsoon, expect delays due to waterlogging or landslides on the expressway; check weather updates and allow extra travel time.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Borivali to Pune depends on weather and traffic conditions. Avoiding peak hours and festival seasons can make your journey smoother.

Monsoon season brings heavy rains that can slow down road and rail travel, while summer heat can be intense, especially during daytime road trips.

• Avoid traveling during Ganesh Chaturthi and Diwali festivals when trains and roads are crowded and tickets sell out quickly.

• Fog in winter mornings can cause train delays, so plan departures after 9 AM if possible for better punctuality.

• Early morning departures help avoid Mumbai suburban traffic and Pune city congestion, reducing overall travel time.

• Monsoon months (June to September) require extra caution due to slippery roads and occasional train disruptions; check weather forecasts before traveling.

Arrival at Pune & What to Expect

When you arrive at Pune Junction railway station or Pune bus stand, you will find several local transport options to reach your final destination. Prepaid taxi counters are available at both locations for safe and fixed-rate rides.

App-based cabs like Ola and Uber are widely used in Pune and can be booked easily via mobile apps. Auto-rickshaws are also available but always agree on the fare before starting the ride. Popular areas to stay include Shivaji Nagar, Koregaon Park, and Deccan Gymkhana, all well connected by local transport.

Conclusion

Traveling from Borivali to Pune is straightforward with multiple transport options to suit different budgets and preferences. Trains offer an economical and reliable choice, while buses and self-drive cars provide flexibility and comfort. Flights are less common but useful in specific situations.

Planning ahead by booking tickets early, checking schedules, and considering seasonal factors will help you have a smooth journey. With this guide, you can confidently choose the best mode of transport and enjoy your trip from Borivali to Pune without stress.