Mumbai, the bustling financial capital of India, is located on the west coast in Maharashtra. Rajkot, a major city in Gujarat, lies northwest of Mumbai and is known for its rich culture and history. Traveling between these two cities is common for business, tourism, and family visits.

This guide will help you understand the main ways to travel from Mumbai to Rajkot. You will learn about trains, buses, driving routes, and flights, along with practical tips to make your journey smooth and comfortable.

Getting from Mumbai to Rajkot – Main Options

Train

Train travel is a popular and economical choice for many passengers between Mumbai and Rajkot. It offers a comfortable journey with several daily options and scenic views along the way.

• Mumbai Central and Bandra Terminus are the main departure stations in Mumbai for Rajkot-bound trains, with Rajkot Railway Station as the arrival point.

• The distance is about 790 km, and trains usually take between 12 to 16 hours depending on the service, with fares ranging from ₹400 to ₹1500 for sleeper and AC classes.

• Popular trains include the Saurashtra Express and the Rajkot Express, which run daily or multiple times a week, offering reserved seating and catering services.

• Trains can get crowded during festival seasons like Navratri and Diwali, so booking tickets early on IRCTC is advisable to secure your preferred class and berth.

• Night trains are convenient for saving daytime hours, and onboard vendors provide snacks, but carrying some water and food is recommended for comfort.

Bus

Buses are a flexible and affordable option, especially for travelers who prefer road journeys. Several private and government operators run services between Mumbai and Rajkot.

• Mumbai’s major bus depots like Dadar and Borivali offer direct buses to Rajkot’s main bus station, covering about 790 km via NH48 and NH27 highways.

• Travel time ranges from 14 to 18 hours depending on the bus type, traffic, and road conditions, with fares between ₹600 and ₹1200.

• Volvo AC and sleeper buses provide comfortable overnight travel, while non-AC buses are cheaper but less comfortable for long journeys.

• Frequent stops at highway dhabas and toll plazas allow for meals and restroom breaks, but monsoon rains can cause delays on some stretches.

• Booking tickets online through MSRTC or private operators like RedBus is recommended to avoid last-minute hassles and confirm seat availability.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Mumbai to Rajkot offers freedom to explore en route and travel at your own pace. The route is well connected by national highways and has several rest stops.

• The most common route is via NH48 and NH27, covering approximately 790 km, taking about 14 to 16 hours depending on traffic and stops.

• Key towns on the way include Surat, Bharuch, and Vadodara, where you can find fuel stations, restaurants, and rest areas.

• Toll plazas are present on NH48 and NH27, so keep cash or FASTag ready; toll charges may total around ₹500 to ₹700 for the entire route.

• Driving during daylight is safer due to better visibility and more open dhabas; avoid night driving in rural stretches to reduce risks.

• Ensure your vehicle is well serviced before the trip, and carry a physical map or GPS device as mobile network coverage can be patchy in some areas.

Flight

Flying is the fastest way to reach Rajkot from Mumbai, suitable for travelers prioritizing time over cost. Rajkot Airport connects well with Mumbai’s airports.

• Flights depart from Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (BOM) and arrive at Rajkot Airport (RAJ), located about 7 km from the city center.

• Flight duration is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, with fares typically ranging from ₹2500 to ₹6000 depending on the airline and booking time.

• Airlines like IndiGo and SpiceJet operate multiple daily flights, offering convenient morning and evening options.

• Booking flights in advance through airline websites or apps can secure better prices, especially during peak travel seasons.

• From Rajkot Airport, prepaid taxis, Ola, and Uber are available for quick and safe transfers to your accommodation or city destinations.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

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

• Decide your preferred mode of transport based on budget, time, and comfort. For example, choose train for economy and experience, or flight for speed.

• Book your tickets early using trusted platforms like IRCTC for trains, RedBus for buses, or airline websites for flights to avoid last-minute price hikes and unavailability.

• Pack light but carry essentials such as water bottles, snacks, chargers, and a small first-aid kit, especially for long train or bus journeys.

• Reach your departure point (station, bus depot, or airport) at least 1 to 2 hours before scheduled departure to manage check-in, security, and boarding calmly.

• Use reliable local transport apps like Ola or Uber for last-mile connectivity in Mumbai and Rajkot to avoid overpaying or delays caused by local taxis.

• Keep your ID proofs and ticket confirmations handy throughout the journey, as Indian transport authorities often check documents during travel.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always carry a refillable water bottle and drink bottled or boiled water to avoid stomach issues common in Indian travel.

• Choose trains or buses with good reviews for cleanliness and punctuality; sleeper class trains are comfortable but book AC classes during summer for better comfort.

• Use IRCTC’s official app or website for train bookings to avoid scams and get real-time updates on train status and platform changes.

• In Mumbai and Rajkot, use prepaid taxi counters or app-based cabs rather than hailing street taxis to ensure fair pricing and safety.

• Pack a small bag with essential medicines, hand sanitizer, and masks, as crowded Indian transport hubs can expose you to germs.

• During monsoon season, expect possible delays due to waterlogging or fog, so plan extra travel time and check weather updates before departure.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Mumbai to Rajkot depends on weather and traffic conditions. Avoiding peak festival seasons and extreme weather will make your journey more comfortable.

Summer months can be hot in both cities, while monsoon rains from June to September may cause road and rail delays. Winter months offer cooler and more pleasant travel conditions.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Navratri, Diwali, and Eid when trains and buses are heavily booked and crowded.

• Monsoon rains can cause waterlogging and slow traffic on highways like NH48, so check weather forecasts and road conditions before starting your trip.

• Early morning departures are best for road travel to avoid city traffic and reach your destination before nightfall.

• For flights, book early morning or late evening slots to avoid delays caused by fog or air traffic congestion common in Mumbai airport.

Arrival at Rajkot & What to Expect

Rajkot Railway Station and Rajkot Airport are well connected to the city center. Upon arrival, you will find several transport options to reach your accommodation or explore the city.

Prepaid taxi counters are available at the railway station and airport, offering fixed fares and safer rides. App-based cabs like Ola and Uber operate widely in Rajkot, providing convenient and affordable local travel.

Popular areas to stay include Race Course Road, Kalawad Road, and near Rajkot Airport, which have good hotels and easy access to city attractions.

Conclusion

Traveling from Mumbai to Rajkot offers multiple options to suit different budgets and preferences. Trains provide an economical and scenic route, buses offer flexibility, driving gives freedom, and flights save time. Planning ahead and booking tickets early will ensure a smooth journey.

By following the practical tips and step-by-step plan, you can confidently navigate the travel process. Whether you choose the comfort of a flight or the adventure of a train ride, this guide helps you prepare for a safe and enjoyable trip from Mumbai to Rajkot.