India is a land of extraordinary contrasts, where ancient traditions meet modern innovation, and natural wonders coexist with vibrant cities.
Maharashtra is one of India’s most well-connected states, with international airports, extensive railway networks, and well-developed roadways. Whether you're traveling from within India or internationally, getting to Maharashtra is easy and convenient. Once inside the state, travelers can explore using trains, buses, metros, taxis, and rental vehicles.
Here’s a complete guide on how to reach Maharashtra and the best ways to travel within the state.
1. How to Reach Maharashtra by Air – The Fastest & Easiest Option
✅ Maharashtra has four major airports, with Mumbai serving as India’s second busiest international hub.
✅ Well-connected to major Indian cities & international destinations.
Major Airports in Maharashtra:
1️ Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (Mumbai – BOM)
Best For: International & domestic flights to Maharashtra.
✅ India’s second busiest airport with global connectivity.
✅ Serves Mumbai, Pune, Lonavala, and the Konkan region.
2️ Pune International Airport (PNQ)
Best For: Western Maharashtra, IT hubs, historical sites.
✅ Best airport for Pune, Lonavala, Mahabaleshwar, and Nashik travelers.
3️ Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport (Nagpur – NAG)
Best For: Central & Eastern Maharashtra (Vidarbha Region).
✅ Ideal for Tadoba & Pench National Park visitors.
4️ Aurangabad Airport (IXU)
Best For: Ajanta & Ellora Caves, Aurangabad, and historical sites.
✅ Well-connected to Mumbai, Delhi, Hyderabad, and Bengaluru.
Major Domestic Flight Routes:
Mumbai ⇄ Delhi, Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad, Kolkata.
Pune ⇄ Delhi, Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad.
Nagpur ⇄ Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata.
Major International Flight Routes from Mumbai:
Dubai, London, Singapore, New York, Bangkok, Frankfurt, Doha.
Tip: Book flights 2–3 months in advance for cheaper fares!
2. How to Reach Maharashtra by Train – Best for Budget Travelers
✅ Maharashtra is part of India’s extensive railway network, making train travel affordable & scenic.
✅ Well-connected to all major Indian cities, with Mumbai serving as a central railway hub.
Major Railway Stations in Maharashtra:
Mumbai CST (Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus – CSTM) – A UNESCO World Heritage Site & the busiest station in Maharashtra.
Mumbai LTT (Lokmanya Tilak Terminus – LTT) – Important station for long-distance trains.
Pune Junction (PUNE) – Best for travelers visiting Pune, Mahabaleshwar & Lonavala.
Nagpur Junction (NGP) – Best for wildlife safaris & Central India travelers.
Aurangabad Railway Station (AWB) – Best for Ajanta & Ellora Caves tourists.
Best Train Routes to Maharashtra:
From |
Train Name |
Duration |
Delhi |
Rajdhani Express, Duronto Express |
15–18 hrs |
Bengaluru |
Udyan Express, Lokmanya Tilak Express |
24 hrs |
Kolkata |
Gitanjali Express, Azad Hind Express |
28 hrs |
Hyderabad |
Devagiri Express, Hussain Sagar Express |
12 hrs |
Chennai |
Chennai Express, Mumbai Express |
24 hrs |
Tip: Book train tickets on IRCTC (www.irctc.co.in) at least 30–60 days in advance.
3. How to Reach Maharashtra by Road – Best for Road Trip Lovers
✅ Maharashtra has an extensive road network with well-maintained highways.
✅ Connected to neighboring states via national highways (NH-66, NH-48, NH-4, NH-160).
Best Road Routes to Maharashtra:
From |
Route |
Distance |
Time |
Mumbai ⇄ Pune |
Mumbai-Pune Expressway |
150 km |
3 hrs |
Mumbai ⇄ Goa |
NH-66 (Coastal Route) |
550 km |
10–12 hrs |
Pune ⇄ Nashik |
NH-60 |
210 km |
5 hrs |
Mumbai ⇄ Aurangabad |
NH-160 |
335 km |
7 hrs |
Nagpur ⇄ Tadoba |
NH-44 |
150 km |
3 hrs |
Best Bus Services to Maharashtra:
✅ MSRTC (Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation) – Affordable state-run buses.
✅ VRL, Neeta, RedBus, Shivneri (AC Volvo Buses) – Best for long-distance travel.
Bus Prices: ₹300 – ₹1,500 (depending on the distance & type).
Tip: Take overnight sleeper buses for long distances to save time!
Best Ways to Travel Within Maharashtra
Once you reach Maharashtra, you can explore the state using various transportation modes.
1. Local Trains & Metro – Best for Budget Travel in Cities
✅ Mumbai Local Trains – The lifeline of Mumbai, best for cheap & fast travel.
✅ Pune Metro – Rapid transit system in Pune (Phase 1 operational).
✅ Nagpur Metro – Best way to explore Nagpur city.
Fare: ₹5 – ₹100 (Based on distance).
Tip: Avoid Mumbai locals during rush hours (8–10 AM & 6–8 PM).
2. Taxis, App-Based Cabs & Rental Cars – Best for Comfort
✅ Ola & Uber – Available in major cities (Mumbai, Pune, Nashik, Nagpur).
✅ GoaMiles – Best taxi service for Goa & Konkan region.
✅ Self-Drive Rentals (Zoomcar, Revv, MyChoize) – Best for long-distance road trips.
Taxi Fare: ₹15 – ₹25 per km (Based on city & service).
3. State Buses & Private Volvos – Best for Budget Intercity Travel
✅ MSRTC Shivneri Buses (AC Volvo) – Best for Mumbai-Pune & Mumbai-Nashik routes.
✅ RedBus, VRL, Neeta – Comfortable sleeper & luxury buses.
Bus Fare: ₹500 – ₹2,000 (Based on route & type).
4. Scooters & Bikes – Best for Short Trips & Hill Stations
✅ Rent Scooters in Mumbai, Pune, Lonavala & Alibaug.
✅ Available from Bounce, Royal Brothers, & local vendors.
Rental Cost: ₹300 – ₹800 per day.
Tip: Always wear a helmet & carry your driving license!