Mumbai to Pune: Expressway, Deccan Queen or a short connection
Three main routes connect Mumbai and Pune. Each suits a different traveller. This guide helps you decide.
The Mumbai–Pune Expressway
The Mumbai–Pune Expressway is a six-lane toll road that cuts travel time between the two cities to about three hours. It climbs the Western Ghats near Lonavala and Khandala, offering views of the hills. The road is well maintained, but traffic can be heavy on weekends and during holiday periods. You can drive yourself or take a bus; private buses and state-run MSRTC buses use the Expressway regularly. The Expressway has emergency call boxes at intervals and is well lit at night.
Buses depart from Mumbai's major terminals and arrive at Swargate, Shivajinagar or Pune Station bus stands. The journey is direct and comfortable, though the final stretch into central Pune can be slow during peak hours. If you are travelling with luggage or in a group, a bus or private car on the Expressway is a practical choice. Check the current toll rates before you travel. The Expressway is the fastest road link between Mumbai and Pune.
- The Expressway is the fastest road link between Mumbai and Pune.
- Buses from Mumbai arrive at Swargate, Shivajinagar or Pune Station.
- Traffic is heavier on Friday evenings and Sunday afternoons.
- The road is well lit and has emergency services along the route.
- Fuel stations are limited on the Expressway; fill up before entering.
The Deccan Queen by rail
The Deccan Queen is the most famous train between Mumbai and Pune. It covers the distance in about three to three and a half hours. The train departs from Mumbai Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus and arrives at Pune Junction. It is an express train with reserved seating, a dining car and a long history dating back to 1930. The route passes through the ghats with tunnels and curves. The train is a reliable option for travellers who prefer a fixed schedule and a comfortable seat.
The Deccan Queen runs twice daily, once in the morning and once in the afternoon. The train is popular, so book tickets in advance, especially during holiday seasons. Pune Junction is well connected to the rest of the city by metro, auto-rickshaw and bus. For a traveller who values comfort and punctuality, the Deccan Queen is an excellent choice. The dining car serves meals and snacks during the journey.
- The Deccan Queen is a reserved-seat express train.
- It runs twice daily: morning and afternoon departures.
- The journey includes scenic views of the Western Ghats.
- Tickets should be booked in advance through IRCTC.
- A window seat on the left side from Mumbai offers the best ghat views.
Other train options
Several other trains run between Mumbai and Pune, including the Intercity Express, Pragati Express and Sinhagad Express. These trains take between three and four hours. Some are unreserved, others have reserved coaches. They depart from various Mumbai stations, including Dadar and Lokmanya Tilak Terminus. Check the current schedule on the Indian Railways website or app. The Sinhagad Express is a popular unreserved train that runs between Pune and Mumbai.
The Sinhagad Express is often crowded but frequent. If you are flexible and travelling light, an unreserved train can be a cheap and spontaneous option. For a guaranteed seat, choose a reserved train like the Deccan Queen or Intercity Express. Unreserved trains are the cheapest option from Mumbai to Pune. Board early at the originating station to get a seat on these trains.
By air
Pune International Airport at Lohegaon receives flights from Mumbai. The flight time is about 40 minutes, but you must add time for check-in, security and transfers to and from the airports. The airport is about 10 km north-east of central Pune, near Viman Nagar. It shares its runway with an Indian Air Force station, so flight schedules can be affected by military operations. Flying is the fastest option in the air, but not necessarily the fastest door to door.
For a traveller who values speed and has a tight schedule, a flight from Mumbai to Pune may be worth the extra cost. Check the current airline schedules and baggage rules. The airport is well connected by taxi and app-based cabs. Allow at least two hours before departure for domestic flights at Pune airport. The airport has a small terminal with basic facilities.
Choosing the right option
Your choice depends on your budget, schedule and comfort. The Expressway by bus or car is flexible and direct, but subject to traffic. The Deccan Queen offers a fixed timetable and a comfortable seat. Other trains are cheaper but may be crowded. Flying is fast but requires more time on the ground. Consider your arrival point in Pune: the Expressway buses stop at Swargate or Shivajinagar, trains arrive at Pune Junction, and flights land at Lohegaon.
If you are heading to Koregaon Park or Camp, Pune Junction is convenient. For Hinjewadi or Pimpri-Chinchwad, a bus or car on the Expressway may be better. The Pune Metro connects Pune Junction and Shivajinagar to several parts of the city. Check the current metro network and bus routes to plan your onward journey. If your final destination is in west Pune, consider a bus on the Expressway to avoid crossing the city.
Practical tips for the journey
Carry water and snacks, especially if travelling by train or bus. The Expressway has limited food options. The Deccan Queen has a dining car, but other trains may not. Check the weather before you travel: the ghats can be foggy in winter and slippery in monsoon. Allow extra time during heavy rain or holiday traffic. Book tickets in advance for trains and buses during peak seasons. For the Deccan Queen, book online via IRCTC.
For buses, use the MSRTC website or a private operator. If you drive, check your vehicle's condition and carry a phone charger. The Expressway has emergency call boxes at intervals. Download offline maps of Pune before you travel; mobile data can be patchy in the ghats. Keep your travel documents handy. The journey from Mumbai to Pune is straightforward with proper planning.