Pune and Mumbai are two major cities in Maharashtra, located about 150 kilometers apart. Mumbai Central Railway Station is a key hub in Mumbai, while Pune is a bustling city known for its culture and education.

This route is popular for daily commuters, tourists, and business travelers. This guide will help you understand the best ways to travel from Mumbai Central to Pune, including trains, buses, cars, and flights, with practical advice for each mode.

Getting from Mumbai Central Railway Station to Pune – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train is one of the most popular and convenient ways to reach Pune from Mumbai Central. Trains are frequent and affordable, making them suitable for all types of travelers.

• Several trains run daily from Mumbai Central to Pune Junction, covering approximately 192 km in 3 to 4 hours, with fares ranging from ₹150 to ₹600 depending on class and train type.

• Popular trains include the Deccan Express and Sinhagad Express, which offer comfortable seating and reliable timings, especially during weekdays.

• Trains depart from Mumbai Central station, which is well connected by local trains and metro, making last-mile connectivity easy for travelers.

• During monsoon season, trains may experience minor delays due to heavy rains and track maintenance, so plan accordingly.

• Booking tickets via IRCTC or authorized agents in advance is recommended, especially during weekends and festivals when trains get crowded.

Bus

Buses provide a flexible and economical option for traveling between Mumbai and Pune. They are suitable for travelers looking for budget-friendly transport with multiple departure times.

• MSRTC operates frequent buses from Mumbai’s various depots, including Dadar and Borivali, to Pune’s Shivajinagar and Swargate bus stations, covering around 150 km in 4 to 5 hours.

• Bus fares range from ₹150 to ₹400 depending on the type of bus, such as ordinary, deluxe, or Volvo AC coaches.

• Traffic on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway can cause delays during peak hours and holidays, so check live traffic updates before departure.

• Rest stops along the expressway offer basic food and restroom facilities, but it’s advisable to carry water and snacks for comfort.

• Booking tickets online via MSRTC’s website or apps like RedBus helps secure seats and avoid last-minute hassles.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Mumbai Central to Pune offers flexibility and comfort, especially for groups or travelers with luggage. The route is well maintained and scenic.

• The Mumbai-Pune Expressway is the fastest route, covering about 150 km in 3 to 4 hours depending on traffic, with tolls at multiple plazas costing around ₹150 to ₹200.

• Starting from Mumbai Central, you can take local transport or a taxi to reach the expressway entry points near Kalamboli or Vashi.

• Self-drive car rentals are available in Mumbai with companies offering reasonable daily rates; ensure you have a valid driving license and understand local traffic rules.

• Traffic congestion is common during morning and evening peak hours, so plan your departure to avoid city traffic and toll plaza queues.

• Fuel stations and eateries are available along the expressway, making it convenient for breaks during the journey.

Flight

While flying is an option, it is generally not practical for this short distance due to airport locations and travel times. However, it may suit travelers with connecting flights or urgent schedules.

• Flights operate between Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport and Pune Airport, with a flight time of about 30 minutes.

• Both airports are located away from city centers; Mumbai Central to Mumbai Airport takes about 1 to 1.5 hours by taxi, while Pune Airport is around 15 km from Pune city center.

• Flight fares vary widely, often costing ₹2,000 to ₹5,000 one-way, making it more expensive than train or bus options.

• Security checks and boarding procedures add extra time, so total travel time may exceed that of road or rail transport.

• Flights may be affected by weather conditions like fog during winter mornings, causing delays or cancellations.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This step-by-step plan is designed for first-time travelers moving from Mumbai Central Railway Station to Pune, helping you navigate the journey smoothly.

• Decide your preferred mode of transport based on budget, time, and comfort. Trains are reliable and economical, while cars offer flexibility.

• Book your tickets in advance through IRCTC for trains or MSRTC/RedBus for buses to avoid last-minute unavailability, especially during weekends and holidays.

• Reach Mumbai Central Railway Station early, at least 30 minutes before departure, to find your platform and avoid rush, as the station is busy and large.

• If traveling by car, plan your route via the Mumbai-Pune Expressway, check toll charges, and ensure your vehicle is fueled and in good condition.

• Carry essential items like water, snacks, and a mobile charger, especially if traveling by bus or train, as food options on the way may be limited.

• Upon arrival at Pune Junction or bus stations, use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs like Ola and Uber for safe and convenient local transport to your final destination.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always keep your valuables secure and be cautious of pickpockets, especially at crowded stations like Mumbai Central and Pune Junction.

• Drink only bottled water and avoid street food during the journey to prevent stomach issues common among travelers.

• Use official websites or apps like IRCTC, MSRTC, and RedBus for ticket bookings to avoid scams and ensure confirmed seats.

• For local travel in Mumbai and Pune, rely on app-based cabs or prepaid taxis from official counters to avoid overcharging and ensure safety.

• Pack light but include a small umbrella or raincoat during monsoon months, as sudden rains can disrupt travel plans.

• Check weather and traffic updates before starting your journey, especially during festival seasons or monsoon, to avoid unexpected delays.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The Mumbai to Pune route experiences varied weather and traffic conditions throughout the year. Planning your travel time can help avoid discomfort and delays.

Monsoon season from June to September brings heavy rains that can slow down road and rail travel. Winters from December to February may have morning fog affecting visibility.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi and Diwali when traffic and train bookings are at their peak.

• Summer months (March to May) can be hot, but road and rail services generally run smoothly with less crowding.

• Early morning departures help avoid city traffic and provide a smoother journey on the expressway and trains.

• Check for any scheduled maintenance or strikes on IRCTC and MSRTC websites before planning your trip.

Arrival at Pune & What to Expect

When you arrive at Pune Junction or the main bus stations, you will find several options for onward travel within the city. Pune is well connected by local buses, auto-rickshaws, and app-based cabs.

Prepaid taxi counters are available at major arrival points, offering fixed fares to popular areas like Koregaon Park, Shivajinagar, and Deccan Gymkhana. Using Ola or Uber apps is also convenient and often more economical.

Conclusion

Traveling from Mumbai Central Railway Station to Pune is straightforward with multiple transport options. Trains offer a balanced mix of speed, comfort, and affordability, making them the preferred choice for most travelers.

Planning your journey by booking tickets in advance, checking weather and traffic conditions, and choosing the right departure time will ensure a smooth and pleasant trip. With these tips, you can confidently travel between these two vibrant cities and enjoy all that Pune has to offer.