Pune and Mumbai are two major cities in Maharashtra, located about 150 kilometers apart. Mumbai Airport, officially known as Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, is the main gateway for air travelers in the region. Many travelers commute between Pune and Mumbai Airport for business, leisure, or connecting flights.

This guide explains the best ways to travel from Pune to Mumbai Airport. You will learn about different transport options, step-by-step travel plans, practical tips, and what to expect on arrival. This will help you plan your trip confidently and avoid common travel hassles.

Getting from Pune to Mumbai Airport – Main Options

Train

Taking a train is a popular and economical way to reach Mumbai Airport from Pune. Trains run frequently and connect Pune to Mumbai’s main stations, from where you can access the airport.

• The Pune Railway Station connects to Mumbai’s Lokmanya Tilak Terminus (LTT) and Mumbai Central, with travel times ranging from 3 to 4 hours depending on the train type and route.

• Train fares vary between ₹150 and ₹600 for second class to AC classes, making it a budget-friendly option compared to road travel during peak traffic.

• From LTT or Mumbai Central, you can take a prepaid taxi or app-based cab like Ola or Uber to the airport, which takes 30 to 45 minutes depending on traffic.

• Trains are frequent throughout the day but can get crowded during festivals or weekends; booking tickets in advance via IRCTC is recommended to secure seats.

• Monsoon season may cause delays due to waterlogging on tracks, so plan extra time if traveling between June and September.

Bus

Buses offer a direct and affordable way to travel from Pune to Mumbai Airport, with several private and government operators running services daily.

• MSRTC runs Volvo and non-AC buses from Pune’s Swargate Bus Station to Mumbai’s Dindoshi or Borivali bus depots, from where you can take a taxi to the airport.

• Travel time by bus is approximately 4 to 5 hours, depending on traffic and route, with fares ranging from ₹200 to ₹500.

• Private luxury buses also operate on this route, offering comfortable seats and onboard amenities, but they may drop passengers at central Mumbai locations requiring further transport.

• Traffic congestion on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway can cause delays during peak hours and weekends, so avoid traveling during rush hours if possible.

• Bus frequency is good, but booking tickets online or at the bus station a day in advance is advisable during holidays and festivals.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Pune to Mumbai Airport is a convenient choice if you prefer flexibility and comfort. The route is well-connected via the Mumbai-Pune Expressway.

• The distance is about 150 km, and the drive usually takes 3 to 4 hours depending on traffic, with tolls at multiple plazas along the expressway.

• Self-drive car rentals are available in Pune with companies like Zoomcar and Revv, allowing you to choose your timing and stops.

• Rest stops such as Lonavala and Khandala offer food and refreshments, making the journey comfortable and enjoyable.

• Traffic congestion increases near Mumbai city limits, especially during morning and evening peak hours, so plan your arrival time accordingly.

• Parking at Mumbai Airport is available but can be expensive; consider dropping off passengers if you do not need to park.

Flight

Though Pune and Mumbai both have airports, flying between them is generally not practical due to short distance and limited flights. However, some may consider it for connecting flights.

• Direct flights from Pune Airport to Mumbai Airport are rare and usually not cost-effective compared to road or rail travel.

• Flight time is about 30 minutes, but check-in, security, and travel to/from airports add significant time and cost.

• Flight fares can range from ₹2,000 to ₹5,000, which is higher than other modes for this short distance.

• Consider flights only if you have connecting international flights or tight schedules that justify the cost and time.

• Booking flights early through airline websites or travel portals can help secure better fares and seats.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This plan is designed for first-time travelers making the Pune to Mumbai Airport journey. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth trip.

• Book your train or bus ticket online in advance using IRCTC or MSRTC portals to avoid last-minute hassles and ensure seat availability.

• Reach Pune Railway Station or Bus Station at least 30 minutes before departure to find your platform or bus bay without stress.

• Carry light luggage and keep your travel documents and ID handy, as Indian trains and buses often require verification during boarding.

• Upon arrival at Mumbai’s station or bus depot, use prepaid taxi counters or app-based cabs like Ola and Uber for safe and reliable transport to the airport.

• Allow extra time for Mumbai city traffic, especially if traveling during peak hours or monsoon season, to avoid missing your flight.

• Keep your phone charged and have offline maps or directions ready, as network coverage can be patchy near some expressway stretches.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always use prepaid taxi counters or app-based cabs at Mumbai stations to avoid overcharging and ensure driver accountability.

• Drink bottled water and eat from trusted outlets during stops to avoid stomach issues common among travelers in India.

• Book tickets well in advance during festival seasons like Ganesh Chaturthi or Diwali when travel demand spikes sharply.

• Use local transport apps and autorickshaws cautiously; always agree on fares beforehand or use metered rides.

• Pack light and secure your luggage, as crowded trains and buses can be targets for pickpockets.

• During monsoon, carry rain gear and check weather updates, as heavy rains can cause delays and slippery roads.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Pune to Mumbai Airport is during the cooler months from November to February. Weather is pleasant and traffic is relatively smooth.

Avoid traveling during the monsoon season (June to September) due to heavy rains causing delays and slippery roads on the expressway. Also, avoid peak festival days when roads and trains are crowded.

• Peak traffic occurs during weekday mornings (8–11 am) and evenings (5–8 pm) due to office commuters; plan travel outside these hours.

• Monsoon rains can cause waterlogging and slow down trains and road traffic, so allocate extra travel time if traveling in this season.

• Festival periods like Ganesh Chaturthi and Diwali see heavy travel demand; book tickets early and expect crowded transport.

• Early morning departures (before 7 am) often face less traffic and provide a smoother journey to Mumbai Airport.

Arrival at Mumbai Airport & What to Expect

When you arrive at Mumbai Airport, you will find clear signage and multiple transport options to reach your terminal or next destination. The airport has two main terminals: Terminal 1 for domestic flights and Terminal 2 for international and some domestic flights.

Prepaid taxi counters and app-based cab services like Ola and Uber operate from designated areas outside the terminals. Auto-rickshaws are not allowed inside airport premises, so avoid unauthorized offers. Nearby hotels and guesthouses are available in areas like Andheri and Vile Parle, which are well connected by local trains and metro.

Conclusion

Traveling from Pune to Mumbai Airport offers multiple options depending on your budget, time, and comfort preferences. Trains provide an economical and reliable choice, while self-drive cars offer flexibility and comfort. Buses are affordable but may take longer during peak traffic. Flights are generally not recommended for this short distance.

Plan your journey by booking tickets in advance, allowing extra time for Mumbai city traffic, and choosing transport modes that suit your schedule. With these tips and clear steps, you can travel confidently and reach Mumbai Airport smoothly from Pune.