Cheapest Way to Travel from Mumbai to Pune (Complete Practical Guide)
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Cheapest Way to Travel from Mumbai to Pune (Complete Practical Guide)
Your real-world comparison of trains, buses & cabs based on cost, comfort, timing & actual travel conditions.
Travelling from Mumbai to Pune looks simple, but choosing the cheapest and smartest mode isn’t easy. Fares change, traffic patterns differ by time, and each option (train, bus, cab) has a different value depending on who is travelling, at what time, and for what purpose.
This guide gives you practical insights from Mumbai Cabs Rental, who have extensive experience on this route.
No fluff, only what matters when you're actually travelling.
Why Choosing the Right Mumbai – Pune Travel Option Matters
The Mumbai-Pune route is one of the busiest in India, with thousands of travelers every day. But choosing the right travel mode isn’t just about picking the cheapest option. Depending on your priorities, you may want:
A fast journey without compromising safety
Comfortable travel within your budget
The most reliable option for families or groups
Travel options that work late at night
The best value for your money
Quick Verdict
Cheapest overall:
Train (2S class)
Cheapest comfortable:
AC Seater bus
Fastest & most convenient:
Cab
Best for families:
Cab
Best for night travel:
Volvo sleeper
Best for senior citizens:
Cab
Best for students:
Train
➡ Best overall value for money : AC Volvo Bus or Sedan Cab (based on situation)
Mumbai–Pune Travel Basics People Usually Miss
Distance
Mumbai to Pune: 148–160 km
Depends on pickup point (Borivali vs Dadar vs Navi Mumbai)
Tolls
Total one-way toll: Rs. 400–Rs. 460
Traffic Windows (Based on actual route patterns)
Fastest time:
10 AM – 4 PM
Slowest:
Fridays 5 PM – 10 PM, Mondays 7 AM – 11 AM
Danger periods:
post-midnight fog on Khandala Ghat (Nov–Jan)
Weather Impact
Monsoon slows ghats by 20–30 minutes
Fog increases risk; cabs drive cautiously, trains unaffected
All Travel Modes Compared
A. Mumbai to Pune by Train - Cheapest but Limited Convenience
The absolute cheapest option.
Fares:
2S: ₹95–₹120
CC: ₹350–₹450
EC: ₹900–₹1,100
Travel Time:
3–4 hours
Pros:
Cheapest among all
Predictable timing
Good for solo/student budget
Cons:
No doorstep pickup → you spend extra ₹100–₹300 on local commute
Crowds can be overwhelming
Luggage space very limited
Not ideal for elderly or families
B. Mumbai to Pune by Bus — Ideal Balance of Budget + Comfort
The absolute cheapest option.
Fares:
Non-AC seater: ₹250–₹350
AC seater: ₹350–₹550
Volvo/Mercedes sleeper: ₹700–₹1,200
Shivneri: ₹380–₹460
Travel Time:
3.5–5 hours
Pros:
Very comfortable for night travel
Multiple boarding points
Safer for women at night compared to trains
Cons:
Slow due to pickup points
Weekend surge pricing
No guaranteed washroom break time
C. Mumbai to Pune by Cab - Fastest, Safest & Most Convenient
How long does it take to travel from Mumbai to Pune by cab?
On average, a cab takes 2.5–3.5 hours depending on traffic, pickup point, and route. Cabs provide door-to-door convenience, making it the fastest option for families, corporate travelers, and senior citizens.
Which is the cheapest way to travel from Mumbai to Pune?
The train (2S class) is the absolute cheapest option. AC buses are affordable if you want more comfort, while cabs are more expensive but offer speed, flexibility, and convenience.
Can I book a Mumbai to Pune cab online?
Yes! You can book your Mumbai to Pune cab online with Mumbai Cabs Rental for transparent pricing, door-to-door service, and professional drivers.
What are the hidden costs of traveling from Mumbai to Pune?
Hidden costs include:
Train + auto/taxi at both ends (~₹200–₹400)
Weekend bus surge pricing (+20–40%)
Driving your own car → fuel (~₹800–₹1,200) + toll (~₹460) + fatigue
Cab fares may vary slightly during peak hours
Enquiry
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