Pune to Mumbai Travel Guide: Best Routes, Travel Modes & Cost
The Pune-Mumbai route is one of the busiest travel corridors in India, connecting two major cities known for their IT hubs, financial centers, and tourism. Whether you’re traveling for business, leisure, or airport transfers, choosing the right Pune to Mumbai travel options can save you time and money. This guide explores the best routes, transport modes, and costs to help you plan your journey efficiently.
- Pune to Mumbai: Best Travel Routes
A. Pune to Mumbai Expressway (Fastest Route)
🚗 Distance: 150 km
⏳ Travel Time: 2.5 – 3 hours
✔ Best for: Road trips, private cars, and cabs
The Mumbai-Pune Expressway is a six-lane, toll road offering the fastest and safest journey.
Avoid traveling during peak hours (Friday evenings & Monday mornings) to escape heavy traffic.
B. Old Mumbai-Pune Highway (Budget-Friendly Route)
🚗 Distance: 160 km
⏳ Travel Time: 3.5 – 4 hours
✔ Best for: Budget travelers, scenic drives
This route takes NH48, passing through Lonavala, Khandala, and smaller towns.
Ideal for those who enjoy scenic drives and roadside food joints.
- Pune to Mumbai Travel Modes & Costs
A. Self-Drive Car / Road Trip
🚗 Best for: Families, groups, and road trip lovers.
💰 Cost: ₹1,500 – ₹3,000 (including fuel & tolls)
Perfect for flexible travel and enjoying stops in Lonavala, Khandala, or Panvel.
Toll Fees: ₹320 for a one-way trip via the expressway.
Best Stops: Lonavala (Maggie Point, Tiger Point), Food Mall on Expressway.
💡 Tip: Rent a self-drive car from Zoomcar, Revv, or Myles if you don’t have a personal vehicle.
B. Pune to Mumbai Cab (Private Taxi)
🚕 Best for: Business travelers, airport transfers, and hassle-free trips.
💰 Cost: ₹2,500 – ₹5,000 (One-way)
Sedan Cabs: ₹2,500 – ₹3,500
SUVs/Luxury Cars: ₹4,000 – ₹6,000
Shared Cabs (Ola Outstation/Uber Intercity): ₹1,500 – ₹2,500
💡 Tip: Book a one-way cab to save costs instead of a round trip.
C. Pune to Mumbai Train (Budget-Friendly & Comfortable)
🚆 Best for: Budget travelers, solo commuters.
💰 Cost: ₹100 – ₹1,400 (Depending on class)
⏳ Travel Time: 3 – 4 hours
Popular Trains from Pune to Mumbai:
Deccan Express (Train No. 11007) – Comfortable & fast.
Indrayani Express (Train No. 22106) – Morning option, great for business travelers.
Deccan Queen (Train No. 12124) – Best for comfort, includes a dining car.
Udyan Express (Train No. 11301) – Long-distance train but reliable.
💡 Tip: Book AC Chair Car for a comfortable journey (~₹400-₹600).
D. Pune to Mumbai Bus (Budget & Frequent Options)
🚌 Best for: Budget travelers, late-night journeys.
💰 Cost: ₹300 – ₹1,200 (Sleeper & AC buses available)
⏳ Travel Time: 3.5 – 5 hours
Best Bus Operators:
✔ MSRTC Shivneri Volvo – ₹600-₹800 (Most reliable, frequent service).
✔ Neeta, VRL, Prasanna Tours – ₹400-₹1,200 (Luxury & sleeper options).
✔ RedBus, AbhiBus – Apps to book buses with discounts.
💡 Tip: Choose AC Volvo buses for comfortable overnight travel.
E. Pune to Mumbai Flights (Fastest but Expensive)
✈ Best for: Business travelers, urgent travel.
💰 Cost: ₹3,000 – ₹8,000 (One-way)
⏳ Travel Time: 45 minutes (Flight) + Airport commute
Flights operate from Pune Airport (PNQ) to Mumbai Airport (BOM).
Best for connecting flights from Mumbai International Airport.
Airlines: IndiGo, Air India, Vistara.
💡 Tip: If you have international travel from Mumbai, take a Shivneri Volvo Bus or private cab for a cheaper transfer instead of flights.
- Travel Tips for Pune to Mumbai Journey
✔ Plan for Peak Hours: Avoid traveling on Friday evenings & Monday mornings to escape traffic.
✔ Book in Advance: Train tickets sell out fast, and cab fares surge during weekends.
✔ Carry Snacks & Water: Especially for long drives and train journeys.
✔ Check Weather Conditions: Monsoon travel can be tricky with landslides on the expressway.
Conclusion
Your choice of Pune to Mumbai travel options depends on your budget, comfort, and urgency. Trains and buses are great for budget travelers, while cabs and self-drive cars offer flexibility. If you’re in a hurry, flights are an option but pricey.