Pune and Sangli are two important cities in Maharashtra, located about 230 kilometers apart. Pune is a bustling metropolitan city known for its IT and educational institutions, while Sangli is famous for its sugar factories and rich cultural heritage. Many travelers commute between these cities for business, education, or leisure.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to travel from Pune to Sangli. You will learn about trains, buses, driving routes, and flights, along with practical tips to make your journey comfortable and hassle-free.

Getting from Pune to Sangli – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train is a popular and economical option for Pune to Sangli. The rail network connects both cities with several daily trains, offering a comfortable and scenic journey.

• Pune Railway Station (PUNE) is the main departure point, while Sangli Railway Station (SLI) serves as the arrival station, located close to the city center for easy access.

• The distance by rail is approximately 230 km, with travel times ranging from 4.5 to 6 hours depending on the train type and stops along the route.

• Train fares vary from INR 150 to INR 600, depending on the class (Sleeper, Second Sitting, or AC classes), making it affordable for most travelers.

• Trains run frequently throughout the day, but booking in advance via IRCTC is recommended, especially during festivals or weekends when trains get crowded.

• During monsoon season, slight delays can occur due to track maintenance or waterlogging, so plan accordingly and check live train status before departure.

• Station facilities at Pune and Sangli include waiting rooms, food stalls, and prepaid taxi counters, ensuring convenience for travelers.

Bus

Buses are a flexible and widely used mode of transport between Pune and Sangli. Both government and private operators run regular services connecting the two cities.

• Pune’s Swargate Bus Station is the main hub for buses heading towards Sangli, while Sangli’s MSRTC Bus Stand is centrally located for easy onward travel.

• The road distance is about 230 km via NH48 and NH166, with travel times ranging from 5 to 7 hours depending on traffic and bus type.

• Bus fares typically range between INR 200 and INR 500, with options including ordinary, semi-deluxe, and Volvo AC buses for varying comfort levels.

• Buses run frequently from early morning to late night, but night buses may be less comfortable due to road conditions and fewer stops.

• During peak holiday seasons or weekends, buses can be crowded, so booking tickets online through MSRTC or private portals is advisable.

• Rest stops along the highway offer basic food and restroom facilities, but carrying water and snacks is recommended for longer journeys.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Pune to Sangli is a good choice if you prefer flexibility and want to explore en route. The roads are generally in good condition and well-marked.

• The most common route is via NH48 and NH166, covering around 230 km, with an average driving time of 4.5 to 6 hours depending on traffic.

• Toll plazas are present on the highways, so keep cash or FASTag ready for smooth passage through tolls.

• Fuel stations and eateries are available along the route, including popular stops near Satara and Karad for refreshments and breaks.

• Driving during early morning or late evening can help avoid city traffic in Pune and Sangli, making the journey faster and more comfortable.

• Monsoon season may cause slippery roads and occasional waterlogging, so drive cautiously and check weather updates before starting.

• Self-drive car rentals and cab services like Ola and Uber are available in Pune, but confirm intercity travel policies and fares before booking.

Flight

There is no direct flight between Pune and Sangli as Sangli does not have a commercial airport. The nearest airport to Sangli is Kolhapur Airport, about 50 km away.

• Pune Airport (PNQ) offers flights to Kolhapur Airport (KLH), which is the closest option for air travel near Sangli, though flights are infrequent and mostly regional.

• From Kolhapur Airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Sangli, which takes about 1 to 1.5 hours by road.

• Flight duration between Pune and Kolhapur is approximately 40 to 50 minutes, but considering airport formalities and transfers, total travel time may exceed 3 hours.

• Flight fares vary widely depending on the season and airline, often costing more than train or bus travel, so it is less economical for most travelers.

• Booking flights well in advance is necessary due to limited flights and high demand during festivals or holidays.

• This option is suitable mainly for travelers with time constraints or those connecting from other cities via Pune airport.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

If you are traveling from Pune to Sangli for the first time, this step-by-step plan will help you organize your trip smoothly and avoid common pitfalls.

• Decide your preferred mode of transport based on budget, comfort, and time. Trains and buses are economical, while driving offers flexibility.

• Book your tickets early using IRCTC for trains or MSRTC/private portals for buses to secure your seat, especially during weekends or festivals.

• Pack light but carry essentials like water, snacks, and a power bank, as some journeys can be long and rest stops limited.

• Reach the departure point (Pune Railway Station or Swargate Bus Stand) at least 30 minutes before departure to avoid last-minute rush and find your platform or bus easily.

• If driving, check your vehicle’s condition, fuel level, and route on GPS before starting. Carry a physical map as backup in case of network issues.

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

Practical Travel Tips

• Always carry a photo ID like Aadhaar or Voter ID for ticket verification and hotel check-ins, as it is mandatory in most places.

• Drink only bottled water and avoid street food during travel to prevent stomach issues, especially if you have a sensitive stomach.

• Use official websites or trusted apps like IRCTC and MSRTC for booking tickets to avoid scams and get accurate schedules.

• For local travel in Sangli, use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs instead of hailing autos on the street to ensure fair pricing and safety.

• Pack your luggage securely and keep valuables like phone, wallet, and documents in a carry bag that stays with you during travel.

• During monsoon, carry rain gear and check weather forecasts to avoid travel disruptions caused by heavy rains or roadblocks.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Pune to Sangli is during the cooler months from October to February. The weather is pleasant and roads are dry, making travel comfortable.

Monsoon season from June to September can cause delays due to heavy rains and slippery roads. Summer months can be hot, especially during afternoon travel.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi and Diwali when trains and buses are overcrowded and prices may rise.

• Fog in winter mornings can reduce visibility on highways, so plan to start travel after sunrise for safer driving conditions.

• Early morning departures help avoid city traffic in Pune and ensure a smoother journey on highways.

• Check for any road maintenance or train schedule changes during monsoon to avoid last-minute surprises.

Arrival at Sangli & What to Expect

On arriving at Sangli Railway Station or Bus Stand, you will find several options for local transport. Prepaid taxi counters and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber operate here, providing safe and convenient rides to your hotel or other destinations.

Sangli city center and nearby Miraj are popular areas to stay, offering a range of hotels and guesthouses. Auto-rickshaws are also available but negotiate fares beforehand or insist on the meter to avoid overcharging.

Conclusion

Traveling from Pune to Sangli is straightforward with multiple options available to suit different budgets and preferences. The train is the most economical and comfortable mode, while buses offer flexibility and frequent departures. Driving yourself gives freedom to explore along the way, but requires careful planning.

Booking tickets in advance, traveling during off-peak hours, and preparing for seasonal weather will ensure a smooth journey. With this guide, you can confidently plan your trip from Pune to Sangli and enjoy a hassle-free travel experience.