A place where every traveller and weekend-goer needs a short respite from the crowded and congested life in a city is this place Lonavala, the famous hill station located in Maharashtra. Known for its stunning views of the landscapes and peaceful lakes with its history behind and its fresh cool climate in the Sahyadri range. Whether it is a short weekend trip or a long vacation, knowing all the ways to get to Lonavala, especially from major cities like Mumbai, is crucial.
In this all-inclusive guide, we’ll take you through the different travel options and routes available to reach Lonavala. We will specifically focus on how to reach Lonavala from Mumbai, one of the most common routes undertaken by tourists. So, if you are planning to explore this hill station’s scenic beauty, read on to find all the ways to get there!
1. Road travel to Lonavala
One of the most convenient and scenic ways to reach Lonavala is by road. Located approximately 83 kilometers from Mumbai and 64 kilometers from Pune, Lonavala is well connected to both cities via highways, making it a perfect road trip destination.
How to Reach Lonavala from Mumbai by Road
If you are coming from Mumbai, you can easily take a road trip to Lonavala via the Mumbai-Pune Expressway or the Old Pune-Mumbai Road. The drive takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic conditions.
Route via Mumbai-Pune Expressway (Recommended Route): This is the fastest and most comfortable route. Take the Mumbai-Pune Expressway from Mumbai toward Lonavala. The drive via expressway is one of those perfectly smooth roads with scenic views of mountains and valleys. You pass by the picturesque landscapes and several viewpoints, making the drive quite pleasing.
Route via Old Pune-Mumbai Road: If you prefer a more scenic and quieter route, you can take the old Pune-Mumbai Road (National Highway 48). The road is a little longer and winding, but it offers a beautiful drive through quaint villages, forests, and lush green countryside. It is particularly recommended if you’re driving during the monsoon season when the scenery is at its peak.
Once you enter Lonavala, there are a number of roads leading to the main town area and popular attractions which are well-marked.
Things to Remember
Ensure that your vehicle is in good condition so that you can have a smooth ride.
Carry some snacks and water, especially if you are going to make a lot of stops along the way to enjoy the view.
Plan your journey in daylight hours so that you will be safe and you can see more of the view.
Advantages of Traveling by Road
Flexibility: You can halt at many sceneries during the journey and it is perfect for photography.
Comfort: The private car helps you to travel on your own terms and comfort.
Accessibility: Road is good; there are ample number of petrol pumps and restaurants around.
2. By Train: Lonavala Railway Station
Another popular and hassle-free way to reach Lonavala is by train. The town is well connected by rail to major cities like Mumbai, Pune, and others, making it an accessible destination by train.
How to Reach Lonavala from Mumbai by Train
There are several trains that connect Mumbai to Lonavala, so it is a convenient and economical way to reach the destination. The train takes about 2 to 2.5 hours from Mumbai to Lonavala, depending on the train and route.
Train Stations in Mumbai: You can board a train to Lonavala from Mumbai CST (Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus), Mumbai Dadar, or Mumbai Lokmanya Tilak Terminus, depending on the train you choose.
Popular Trains from Mumbai to Lonavala:
Deccan Queen Express: One of the most popular and fastest trains connecting Mumbai and Pune, it stops at Lonavala. It originates from Mumbai CST and is comfortable to travel by.
Intercity Express: This is a good option for travellers who want a daytime train with comfortable seating and air-conditioning.
Sinhagad Express: This is a daily train from Mumbai, which stops at Lonavala and continues to Pune.
Once you reach Lonavala Railway Station, you can easily get a local taxi, rickshaw, or even walk to your destination if it is nearby.
Things to Remember
Always check the train schedule in advance and book your tickets well in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
The Lonavala Railway Station is small but well-equipped with basic amenities like food stalls and waiting areas.
Advantages of Traveling by Train
Comfortable: The train has air-conditioned coaches for a very comfortable journey.
Scenic: The train route offers beautiful views of the Western Ghats and surroundings, especially when you get close to Lonavala.
Cheap: Train tickets are relatively affordable compared to other transport modes.
3. By Bus: Convenient and Cheap
If you’re looking for an affordable option to reach Lonavala, buses are a good choice. Several state-run and private buses operate between Mumbai and Lonavala, providing a convenient and budget-friendly option for travellers.
How to Reach Lonavala from Mumbai by Bus
State Transport Buses: Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) runs regular buses from Mumbai’s Dadar or Bandra to Lonavala. These buses are well-maintained and are an affordable option for travellers.
Private Buses: A few private bus operators have their services available from Mumbai to Lonavala. Private buses are relatively more comfortable and could have luxury coaches equipped with amenities like air conditioning, reclining seats, and refreshments.
The duration of the bus ride is around 2.5 to 3 hours depending on traffic and the route taken. The buses are usually stopping at various points in Lonavala so that passengers can easily get down at the nearest station of their destination.
Benefits of Travelling by Bus
Cost-effective: The ticket prices of the bus are not very high, and it’s a good source for budget-friendly travellers.
Handy: There are bound bus services that operate at all hours of the day, making it easy to catch a bus in the vicinity according to your schedule.
Direct Service: Buses typically take the shortest route to Lonavala. For this reason, it becomes a hassle-free option.
4. By Air: The Nearest Airport
Although Lonavala does not have its own airport, there are nearby airports connecting it to the major cities. The closest airport to Lonavala is Pune International Airport (PNQ), approximately 70 kilometres from the city.
How to reach Lonavala from Mumbai by air:
If you’re flying into Mumbai and prefer to reach Lonavala by air, you’ll need to take a flight to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (BOM) in Mumbai and then travel to Lonavala via road or train.
Option 1: From Mumbai to Lonavala by Road: After landing at Mumbai Airport, you can hire a taxi or rent a car to reach Lonavala. The journey takes around 1.5 to 2 hours.
Option 2: From Pune Airport to Lonavala via Road: Alternatively, if you wish to come by air and land at Pune airport, you could hire a taxi or rent a car from there to Lonavala. By road, it will take you nearly 1.5 hours to reach Lonavala.
Conclusion: Choose the Best Travel Option
There are several ways through which you could reach Lonavala, depending on your convenience, budget, and time considerations. In case of a road journey, from Mumbai to Pune is one of the best quick and scenic routes that can be opted for. Those who seek to travel with maximum comfort would love taking the trains because they offer good convenience at minimal costs. A bus would also suffice for someone with a limited budget, whereas in case one hails from very distant locations, flights to either Mumbai or Pune would give access the quickest.
No matter how you choose to travel, Lonavala’s natural beauty and serene atmosphere make it an unforgettable destination.