Pune airport guide: Lohegaon

Getting to and from the airport

Pune International Airport is at Lohegaon, next to Viman Nagar. The main access road is the Nagar Road, which connects to the city centre and the Mumbai–Pune Expressway. Traffic on Nagar Road can be heavy during peak hours, especially in the morning and evening. The drive from the city centre typically takes between 30 and 60 minutes, but this can extend significantly during rush hours. Pre-paid taxis and app-based ride services operate from the arrival terminal, offering a convenient door-to-door option. Auto-rickshaws are also available, but you should negotiate the fare before starting the journey. The Pune Metro does not yet serve the airport directly; the nearest metro station is on the Aqua Line at Ramwadi, about 3 km away. A shuttle or auto-rickshaw connects the two, and the metro ride from Ramwadi to other parts of the city is efficient.

For those arriving at the airport, the same transport options are available in reverse. The pre-paid taxi counter is located inside the terminal building, and app-based rides can be booked from the arrival area. If you are travelling with heavy luggage, a taxi or ride service is the most comfortable option. Auto-rickshaws are cheaper but less comfortable for long distances. The bus stop is outside the terminal, and PMPML buses run to various parts of the city, including Swargate and Shivajinagar. These buses are frequent but can be crowded during peak hours. For a budget-friendly option, take a bus to Swargate and then connect to the metro or another bus. Always check the current metro schedule for the first and last trains, as timings may change.

Where to stay near the airport

Viman Nagar is the most convenient area for airport accommodation. It has a range of lodging options, from budget guesthouses to mid-range hotels. The neighbourhood is well-served by restaurants and shops, and a large mall is nearby. The proximity to the terminal makes it ideal for travellers with early morning or late night flights. Many hotels in Viman Nagar offer airport shuttle services, which can save time and money. The area is busy during the day but quiets down at night. Street food stalls and small eateries line the main roads, offering local snacks. However, noise from the airport and traffic can be a concern for light sleepers. Check the location of your hotel on a map before booking, as some properties are closer to the runway than others.

Other areas within a short drive include Kalyani Nagar and Koregaon Park. Both are quieter than Viman Nagar and offer more green space. Kalyani Nagar is about 5 minutes by taxi and has a leafy, residential feel with a few good restaurants. Koregaon Park is about 10 minutes away and is known for its cafes, parks, and relaxed atmosphere. Nagar Road itself has several hotels, but traffic noise can be an issue, especially for rooms facing the main road. For a peaceful stay, choose a hotel set back from the road. If you have a layover or a delayed flight, consider staying in Viman Nagar for easy access to the terminal. Always read recent reviews to check the condition of the property and the quality of the shuttle service.

• Viman Nagar: closest to the terminal, many dining options.
• Kalyani Nagar: about 5 minutes by taxi, leafy and residential.
• Koregaon Park: about 10 minutes, known for cafes and parks.
• Nagar Road: budget-friendly but can be noisy.

Timing your trip

Pune Airport is busiest in the early morning (6 am to 9 am) and late evening (8 pm to 11 pm), when most domestic flights operate. International flights are fewer and often depart in the late night or early morning. Arrive at least two hours before a domestic flight and three hours before an international one. During peak travel seasons, such as Diwali and the summer holidays, the terminal can become crowded, and security lines may be longer. Allow extra time during these periods. The airport operates 24 hours a day, but some facilities, such as the food court, may have limited hours overnight. Check with your airline for any specific check-in requirements.

Traffic on Nagar Road peaks between 8 am and 10 am and again between 5 pm and 8 pm. If your flight is during these windows, add extra travel time. On weekends, the road is generally lighter, but the airport itself can be crowded with leisure travellers. For a morning flight, consider staying overnight in Viman Nagar to avoid early-morning traffic from the city centre. If you are driving, factor in time to find parking, which can be tight during busy periods. The best time to travel to the airport is mid-morning or early afternoon, when traffic is lightest. Always check the current traffic conditions on a navigation app before leaving.

Parking at the airport

Pune Airport has a multi-level car park near the terminal. Parking is available for short stays (up to a few hours) and long stays (several days). The car park is secure and monitored by CCTV. Short-term parking is ideal for picking up or dropping off passengers, while long-term parking is suitable for travellers leaving their vehicle for a trip. The parking lot can fill up during peak travel seasons, such as Diwali and the summer holidays. If you plan to park for more than a day, check availability in advance. Alternatively, use a ride service or taxi to avoid parking hassles. The car park is well-lit and has designated spaces for two-wheelers and four-wheelers.

The parking fee is calculated based on the duration of stay. For long-term parking, there may be a daily rate that is cheaper than the hourly rate. Payment can be made in cash or by card at the exit booth. The car park is located a short walk from the terminal, and there are covered walkways to protect from the weather. If you are parking for an extended period, consider using a valet service if available. Some nearby hotels also offer parking for non-guests at a lower rate, but this is less secure than the airport car park. Always lock your vehicle and remove valuables before leaving it. For the most up-to-date information on parking rates and availability, check the airport's official website.

• Short-term parking: for pick-ups and drop-offs.
• Long-term parking: for trips of several days.
• Parking fills up during festivals and holidays.

Public transport options

Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal Limited (PMPML) runs buses from the airport to various parts of the city. The bus stop is outside the terminal. Routes include services to Swargate, Shivajinagar, and Pune Station. Buses are frequent but can be crowded during peak hours. The journey to Swargate takes about 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic. Buses are an economical option, but they may not be comfortable with large luggage. The PMPML also operates air-conditioned buses on some routes, which are more comfortable. Check the current bus schedule online or at the bus stop, as frequencies may vary by time of day.

The Pune Metro Aqua Line's Ramwadi station is about 3 km from the airport. A shared auto-rickshaw or a short taxi ride connects the two. The metro runs from early morning to late evening. Check the current schedule for the first and last trains. The metro is a fast and reliable way to reach areas like Deccan Gymkhana, Pune Station, and Kalyani Nagar. From Ramwadi, you can also transfer to the Purple Line at the district court interchange to reach Pimpri or Swargate. For a budget option, take a PMPML bus from the airport to Swargate and then connect to the metro or another bus. The metro is air-conditioned and generally less crowded than buses during off-peak hours.

Facilities at the terminal

The terminal has a single building for both domestic and international flights. Inside, you will find check-in counters, security screening, and baggage claim areas. There are a few shops and kiosks selling snacks, beverages, and travel essentials. Free Wi-Fi is available for a limited time; you can connect by obtaining a password at the information desk. Charging points are located near seating areas, allowing you to charge your devices while waiting. Restrooms are clean and maintained. There is no dedicated smoking zone inside the terminal. For meals, a food court is located after security. The food court offers a selection of Indian and continental dishes, as well as beverages.

The terminal is compact, so navigating it is straightforward. Signage is in English and Marathi. There is a currency exchange counter for international travellers. ATMs are available in the arrival area. For passengers with reduced mobility, wheelchair assistance can be arranged through your airline. The airport has a small lounge for premium passengers, but it is not open to all travellers. If you have a long layover, consider stepping out to Viman Nagar, which is a short walk or ride away. The terminal is clean and well-maintained, but facilities are limited compared to larger airports. Plan to eat before or after your flight if you have specific dietary requirements.

• Free Wi-Fi: limited duration, connect at the information desk.
• Food court: located after security screening.
• Charging points: available near seating areas.
• No smoking inside the terminal.