How to Reach Sarangpur from Mumbai – Travel Guide
Learn how to reach Sarangpur from Mumbai by train, bus, or car with practical tips on travel time, routes, and local transport options.
Sarangpur is a small town located in the Anand district of Gujarat, known for its famous Swaminarayan temple. Mumbai, the bustling financial capital of India, lies in Maharashtra on the west coast. The route from Mumbai to Sarangpur is popular among pilgrims and travelers seeking spiritual experiences and cultural visits.
This guide will help you understand the main transport options available, including train, bus, and car travel. You will also find a step-by-step travel plan, practical tips, and advice on the best time to travel, ensuring a smooth and comfortable journey from Mumbai to Sarangpur.
Getting from Mumbai to Sarangpur – Main Options
Train
Train travel is a popular and economical way to reach Sarangpur from Mumbai. It offers comfort and scenic views along the route. Several trains connect Mumbai with Anand, the nearest major railway station to Sarangpur.
The nearest major station to Sarangpur is Anand Railway Station, about 25 km away, well connected to Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) and Lokmanya Tilak Terminus (LTT).
Trains like the Saurashtra Express and Gujarat Mail run daily between Mumbai and Anand, with journey times ranging from 6 to 8 hours depending on the train type and route.
Train fares vary from ₹300 to ₹700 for sleeper and AC classes, making it an affordable option for most travelers.
Trains are generally punctual but can face delays during monsoon season due to waterlogging on tracks, so check live status on IRCTC before departure.
From Anand, you can hire local taxis or state transport buses to reach Sarangpur, which takes about 40 to 50 minutes on National Highway 48.
Book tickets in advance via IRCTC or authorized agents, especially during festivals when trains are crowded with pilgrims visiting Sarangpur temple.
Bus
Buses provide a direct and budget-friendly option to travel from Mumbai to Sarangpur, although the journey takes longer than by train. State transport and private operators serve this route.
Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) and Gujarat State Road Transport Corporation (GSRTC) operate buses from Mumbai’s Dadar or Borivali bus depots to Anand or nearby towns.
From Anand bus stand, local buses or shared autos connect to Sarangpur, about 25 km away, with travel time around 1 hour.
The total bus journey from Mumbai to Anand can take 8 to 10 hours depending on traffic and route, with fares ranging from ₹400 to ₹700.
Buses run frequently but may get crowded during weekends and festival seasons, so booking tickets a day in advance is advisable.
Major highways used include NH48, which is well maintained but has toll plazas; carry some cash for toll payments.
Night buses are available but can be less comfortable; day buses offer better views and stops at roadside dhabas for meals.
Car / Self-Drive
Driving from Mumbai to Sarangpur offers flexibility and comfort, ideal for travelers who want to explore en route or travel in groups. The distance is about 330 km via NH48.
The drive typically takes 6 to 7 hours depending on traffic, with a route passing through Surat and Vadodara, two major cities with good road infrastructure.
NH48 is a four-lane highway with multiple toll plazas; expect toll charges totaling around ₹400 to ₹600 one way.
There are several rest stops and dhabas along the highway offering food and refreshments, including popular chains and local eateries.
Driving during early morning hours helps avoid Mumbai city traffic and makes the journey smoother, especially before entering Gujarat.
Fuel stations are available regularly along the highway; plan refueling stops near Surat or Bharuch for convenience.
Self-drive car rentals are available in Mumbai with providers like Zoomcar and Revv; ensure you have valid documents and understand local traffic rules.
Step-by-Step Travel Plan
If you are traveling from Mumbai to Sarangpur for the first time, this step-by-step plan will help you organize your journey efficiently and avoid common pitfalls.
Book your train or bus tickets online at least 3 days in advance to secure seats, especially during festival seasons when Sarangpur attracts many visitors.
Reach your departure station or bus depot at least 30 minutes early to avoid last-minute rush and find your platform or bus stand comfortably.
If traveling by train, keep your ID and ticket handy for verification; use IRCTC app for live train status and platform updates.
On arrival at Anand, use prepaid taxi counters or app-based cabs like Ola and Uber for safe and hassle-free transfer to Sarangpur temple.
Carry a small bag with essentials like water, snacks, and a power bank, as local transport options may have limited facilities.
Inform your accommodation in Sarangpur about your expected arrival time to arrange pick-up if possible, especially if arriving late.
Practical Travel Tips
Always carry bottled water and avoid drinking tap water during your journey to prevent stomach issues common in Indian travel.
Use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs from railway stations and bus stands to avoid overcharging and ensure safety.
Book train tickets through IRCTC or authorized agents only; avoid touts at stations to prevent scams.
During monsoon, check weather updates as heavy rains can cause delays on roads and railways, especially near the Western Ghats.
Pack light but include a raincoat or umbrella if traveling between June and September to stay dry during sudden showers.
Carry some cash in small denominations for tolls, local transport, and small purchases as digital payments may not be accepted everywhere.
Best Time & Travel Conditions
The best time to travel from Mumbai to Sarangpur is during the cooler months from October to March when the weather is pleasant and roads are dry. Avoid the intense summer heat and monsoon rains for a comfortable journey.
Peak travel periods include festivals like Janmashtami and Diwali when Sarangpur temple attracts large crowds, causing higher demand for transport and accommodation.
Avoid traveling during the monsoon months of June to September due to heavy rains and possible flooding on NH48 and railway tracks.
Early morning departures help avoid Mumbai’s city traffic and provide a smoother drive or train boarding experience.
Weekdays generally have less crowded trains and buses compared to weekends and public holidays.
Check local festival calendars as Sarangpur hosts special events that can increase travel time and accommodation prices.
Arrival at Sarangpur & What to Expect
Upon arrival near Sarangpur, you will likely reach Anand Railway Station or Anand bus stand first. From there, local transport options such as shared autos, private taxis, or state transport buses are available to reach Sarangpur town.
Sarangpur is a small town with limited public transport, so pre-booking a taxi or arranging a pick-up with your hotel is recommended. The town has basic accommodation options and eateries near the temple area, with most visitors staying in nearby Anand or Vadodara for more facilities.
Conclusion
Traveling from Mumbai to Sarangpur is straightforward with multiple options to suit different budgets and preferences. Train travel to Anand followed by a short taxi ride is the most efficient and comfortable way for most travelers. Buses offer a budget alternative but take longer, while self-drive gives flexibility for those who prefer road trips.
Planning ahead by booking tickets early, checking weather conditions, and arranging local transport in advance will help you have a smooth journey. With this guide, you can confidently plan your trip to Sarangpur and enjoy the spiritual and cultural richness the town offers.