Mumbai, the bustling financial capital of India, is known for its fast-paced life, iconic landmarks, and diverse culture. However, for those looking for a refreshing break from city life, Lonavala from Mumbai is one of the most popular weekend getaways. Located around 83 km away, Lonavala is a picturesque hill station in the Sahyadri Hills, known for its lush greenery, misty valleys, beautiful waterfalls, and serene lakes.
Whether you’re planning a one-day trip or a relaxing weekend stay, knowing how to travel, where to visit, and what to expect will help you make the most of your journey. Since Mumbai’s weather can be humid, staying hydrated is essential while traveling. If you want a comfortable and hassle-free journey, booking a Mumbai Darshan Bus is a great option, especially if you’re traveling in a group.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best ways to travel from Mumbai to Lonavala, must-visit places, travel tips, and itinerary recommendations.
Best Ways to Travel from Mumbai to Lonavala
There are several ways to travel to Lonavala from Mumbai, depending on your budget, comfort, and time availability.
1. By Road – Drive or Hire a Cab
✔ Distance: 83 km
✔ Time Taken: 2 to 2.5 hours
✔ Best Route: Mumbai-Pune Expressway
Driving to Lonavala from Mumbai is one of the most scenic and comfortable options. The Mumbai-Pune Expressway offers smooth roads, beautiful mountain views, and quick travel time.
Why Choose a Road Trip?
✔ Flexibility – Stop at scenic spots and food joints along the way.
✔ Comfortable Journey – Ideal for families, couples, or groups of friends.
✔ Breathtaking Views – The expressway provides stunning views of the Western Ghats.
✔ Best Time for a Road Trip: Monsoon & Winter (June to February)
✔ Road Trip Stops:
- Khandala Viewpoint – Offers a panoramic view of the valley.
- Duke’s Nose – A famous trekking and rock-climbing spot.
- Shree Datta Snacks Corner – Famous for hot vada pav, misal pav, and chai.
✔ Car Rental Options:
- Zoomcar, Revv, and Myles offer self-drive cars for those who want flexibility.
- If you don’t want to drive, hire an Ola Outstation or Uber Intercity for a comfortable ride.
✔ Travel Tip: Carry sufficient water and snacks as road trips can get exhausting, especially during summer.
2. By Train – Budget-Friendly & Scenic Journey
✔ Time Taken: 1.5 to 2 hours
✔ Best Trains:
- Deccan Express (7:00 AM) – Scenic morning train.
- Intercity Express (6:40 AM & 2:00 PM) – Fast and comfortable.
- Indrayani Express (5:40 PM) – Evening travel option.
✔ Why Choose a Train Journey?
- Budget-Friendly: Ticket prices start from ₹60 for general and ₹300 for AC coaches.
- Comfortable: Avoids traffic congestion compared to road travel.
- Scenic Views: Experience green landscapes, tunnels, and waterfalls.
✔ How to Book Train Tickets?
- Use the IRCTC website or mobile app.
- Book in advance, especially during weekends and monsoon season.
✔ Travel Tip: If traveling by train, carry drinking water and light snacks for the journey.
3. By Bus – Affordable & Convenient
✔ Time Taken: 2.5 to 3 hours
✔ Best Bus Operators: MSRTC, Neeta, Shivneri (AC Volvo), RedBus.
✔ Fare Range: ₹200 to ₹700 per person.
✔ Why Choose a Bus?
- Affordable & Easily Available – Buses operate frequently from Mumbai to Lonavala.
- Comfortable for Solo Travelers – Best for students, backpackers, and budget travelers.
- Multiple Pickup Points – Buses depart from Borivali, Dadar, Sion, Vashi, and Thane.
✔ Where to Book Tickets?
- Use platforms like RedBus, MakeMyTrip, or the MSRTC website.
✔ Travel Tip: Choose AC Volvo buses for a more comfortable journey during summer.
4. By Mumbai Darshan Bus – Hassle-Free & Comfortable Travel
If you’re traveling with family or a group, booking a Mumbai Darshan Bus is one of the best ways to explore Lonavala without stress.
✔ Why Choose Mumbai Darshan Bus?
- Pre-Planned Itinerary – Covers top tourist spots without worrying about navigation.
- Comfortable & Spacious – Ideal for families and group travelers.
- Affordable – Saves the cost of hiring a private taxi.
✔ How to Book?
- Online platforms like RedBus, MakeMyTrip, and private tour operators offer Mumbai to Lonavala sightseeing buses.
✔ Travel Tip: Carry a water bottle and light snacks to stay hydrated during sightseeing.
Top Places to Visit in Lonavala
1. Tiger’s Leap
- Why Visit? A stunning cliff-top viewpoint offering panoramic views of the valley.
- Best Time to Visit: Sunrise or sunset.
2. Bhushi Dam
- Why Visit? A popular monsoon destination with gushing waterfalls and scenic surroundings.
- Best Time to Visit: June to September.
3. Karla & Bhaja Caves
- Why Visit? Ancient rock-cut Buddhist caves featuring intricate carvings and historic relics.
- Best Time to Visit: Winter (November to February).
4. Lonavala Lake
- Why Visit? A peaceful spot for boating, photography, and relaxation.
- Best Time to Visit: Monsoon and early winter.
5. Pawna Lake
- Why Visit? A popular camping and picnic destination.
- Best Time to Visit: October to March.
Best Time to Visit Lonavala
✔ Monsoon (June – September): Best for lush greenery, waterfalls, and misty hills.
✔ Winter (November – February): Ideal for trekking, sightseeing, and outdoor activities.
✔ Summer (March – May): Can be hot, but still a great escape from Mumbai’s heat.
✔ Travel Tip: Avoid peak weekends to escape the crowds and high hotel rates.
Final Thoughts – The Best Way to Visit Lonavala from Mumbai
Lonavala is one of the best weekend getaways from Mumbai, offering natural beauty, adventure, and relaxation. Whether you choose to travel by car, train, bus, or Mumbai Darshan Bus, each option has its own charm.
✔ For Road Trip Enthusiasts: A self-drive car or taxi is the best option.
✔ For Budget Travelers: Train or bus travel is affordable and convenient.
✔ For Comfort Seekers: Booking a Mumbai Darshan Bus offers a stress-free and comfortable journey.
Since traveling can be exhausting, staying hydrated is essential. Carrying a water bottle and drinking fresh juice or coconut water will help you stay refreshed throughout your journey.
So, pack your bags, plan your trip, and get ready to explore Lonavala from Mumbai for a memorable getaway!