Lonavala to Mumbai Complete Travel Guide 2026
Planning a trip from Lonavala to Mumbai? This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the 83km journey. Watch the interactive route animation above to visualize your journey, then explore detailed information about travel options, costs, attractions along the way, and insider tips to make your trip memorable.
analytics Travel Comparison: Lonavala to Mumbai
| Mode | Duration | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|
| directions_car Private Car | 2h 00m | ₹793 Fuel & Tolls |
| train Train | 12h – 16h | ₹109 – ₹297 |
| bus Bus | 12h – 16h | ₹150 – ₹916 |
How to Travel: Lonavala to Mumbai
Compare different travel modes to find the best option for your budget, schedule, and preferences.
By Car
Flexibility, scenic stops, family trips
By Train
Comfort, scenic views, budget-friendly
By Bus
Budget travel, multiple stops
lightbulb Our Recommendation
For this 83km journey, driving is your best option. The 2h 00m drive gives you flexibility to stop at attractions along the way and explore at your own pace.
Before You Leave Lonavala
Fuel up with these authentic local dishes before hitting the road:
Local Specialties
- local_dining Chikki - a traditional sweet made of nuts and jaggery (try at Maganlal Chikki Mart)
- local_dining Vada Pav - a popular street food snack consisting of a potato fritter in a bun (try at local stalls)
- local_dining Misal Pav - a spicy curry made of sprouts and served with bread (try at local restaurants)
Mapro Garden • Near Lonavala
Worth Stopping: Cities Along Your Route
These cities are within 50km of your Lonavala to Mumbai route and offer excellent attractions worth a brief detour:
Pune
Pune, located in the state of Maharashtra, is a vibrant city known as a major educational and cultural hub. It's also a gateway to nearby hill stations like Lonavala and Khandala. Pune offers a blend of historical significance and modern development.
attractions Top Attractions
Aga Khan Palace
Aga Khan Palace is a historical landmark with significant connections to India's independence movement. Mahatma Gandhi was imprisoned here, and it now houses a museum dedicated to his life and work.
Shaniwar Wada
Shaniwar Wada was the historical seat of the Peshwa rulers of the Maratha Empire. The fort now mainly consists of ruins, but it still reflects the grandeur of its time.
Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum
The Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum houses a vast collection of Indian artifacts and art objects collected by Dr. Dinkar G. Kelkar. It showcases a diverse range of items, including textiles, sculptures, and musical instruments.
restaurant Must Try Local Food
Vada Pav - A popular street food snack consisting of a potato patty in a bun (try it at Garden Vada Pav Centre).
Pimpri-Chinchwad
Matheran
Matheran is a small hill station in Maharashtra, India, known for being vehicle-free and offering panoramic views. Its red soil paths wind through dense forests and lead to numerous viewpoints. The absence of cars makes it a peaceful escape from city life.
attractions Top Attractions
Louisa Point
Louisa Point offers panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and the Prabalgad Fort. It's one of the most popular viewpoints in Matheran.
Charlotte Lake
Charlotte Lake is a serene water body surrounded by lush greenery. It's the main source of drinking water for Matheran.
Panorama Point
Panorama Point offers a 360-degree view of the surrounding landscape. You can see the Neral town, the Western Ghats, and several other prominent landmarks.
restaurant Must Try Local Food
Vada Pav - a popular Maharashtrian street food snack (try at Matheran Market)
Thane
Alibaug
Alibaug is a coastal town located in the Raigad district of Maharashtra, India. Known for its beaches, forts, and laid-back atmosphere, it's a popular weekend destination for Mumbaikars.
attractions Top Attractions
Kolaba Fort
Kolaba Fort is a historic sea fort located about 1-2 km from the shore. It was an important naval base during Shivaji Maharaj's reign.
Alibaug Beach
Alibaug Beach is the main beach in the town, known for its black sand and scenic views. It's a popular spot for relaxing, strolling, and enjoying the sunset.
Varsoli Beach
Varsoli Beach is known for its clean sands and water sports activities. It's a quieter alternative to Alibaug Beach.
restaurant Must Try Local Food
Fresh Seafood - Try any seafood preparation, especially at a beachside shack.
Top Attractions in Mumbai: What to See and Do
Once you arrive in Mumbai, explore these must-visit attractions that showcase the best of the city:
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Gateway of India
⏱ 1-2 hours • 💰 Free • 🕐 Open 24 hoursThe Gateway of India is an iconic arch-monument built during the British Raj. It overlooks the Arabian Sea and serves as a symbolic entrance to India.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning to avoid crowds and heat.
💡 Insider Tip: Visit early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid the worst of the crowds.
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Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CST)
⏱ 1 hour • 💰 ₹20 (Indians), ₹300 (foreigners) • 🕐 24 hours (exterior), 09:00-17:00 (Heritage Gallery)CST is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a stunning example of Victorian Gothic architecture. It's a fully functional railway station and a major transportation hub.
Best Time to Visit: Daytime to appreciate the architecture.
💡 Insider Tip: Take a guided tour to learn more about the history and architecture.
-
Elephanta Caves
⏱ 4-5 hours (including travel) • 💰 ₹40 (Indians), ₹600 (foreigners) • 🕐 09:00-17:30Elephanta Island is home to ancient cave temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. The caves are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and feature impressive rock-cut sculptures.
Best Time to Visit: Morning to avoid the midday heat.
💡 Insider Tip: Hire a guide on the island to learn more about the sculptures and history.
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Shree Siddhivinayak Temple
⏱ 1-2 hours • 💰 Free • 🕐 05:30-22:00 (varies daily)Shree Siddhivinayak Temple is a famous Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha. It's one of the most visited temples in Mumbai.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late evening to avoid long queues.
💡 Insider Tip: Check the temple's website for the daily schedule and aarti timings.
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Marine Drive
⏱ 1-2 hours • 💰 Free • 🕐 Open 24 hoursMarine Drive is a 3.6-kilometer-long promenade along the Arabian Sea. It's a popular spot for locals and tourists to relax and enjoy the sea breeze.
Best Time to Visit: Evening to enjoy the sunset.
💡 Insider Tip: Grab some street food and enjoy the sunset views.
-
Dhobi Ghat
⏱ 1 hour • 💰 Free (small fee may be requested by locals for taking photos) • 🕐 Open 24 hours, best during daylight hours.Dhobi Ghat is an open-air laundry where clothes from all over Mumbai are washed and dried. It's a unique and fascinating sight.
Best Time to Visit: Morning or afternoon to see the activity.
💡 Insider Tip: Visit during the day to see the dhobis at work.
Where to Eat in Mumbai: Local Cuisine Guide
Must-Try Dishes in Mumbai
Don't leave Mumbai without tasting these local specialties:
- Vada Pav - a deep-fried potato patty served in a bun (try Ashok Vada Pav in Dadar)
- Pav Bhaji - a vegetable curry served with buttered bread rolls
- Pani Puri - small, crispy puris filled with flavored water, tamarind chutney, and potatoes
- Misal Pav - a spicy lentil curry served with bread rolls (try Aaswad in Dadar)
Recommended Restaurants in Mumbai
Britannia & Co.
Parsi • ₹₹ (₹800-1200 for two)
Specialty: Berry Pulao
A legendary Parsi restaurant serving traditional dishes in a charming setting. The food is delicious and the atmosphere is nostalgic.
📍 Fort
Cafe Leopold
Multi-cuisine • ₹₹₹ (₹1200-1800 for two)
Specialty: Continental and Indian dishes
A historic cafe with a lively atmosphere, popular with tourists and locals alike. It's known for its diverse menu and its connection to the 2008 Mumbai attacks.
📍 Colaba
Trishna
Seafood • ₹₹₹ (₹1500-2500 for two)
Specialty: Butter Garlic Crab
A renowned seafood restaurant serving fresh and flavorful dishes. The crab is a must-try.
📍 Kala Ghoda
Gajalee
Seafood • ₹₹ (₹1000-1500 for two)
Specialty: Fish Thali
A popular seafood restaurant serving authentic Maharashtrian cuisine. The fish thali is a great way to sample a variety of dishes.
📍 Vile Parle East
Where to Stay in Mumbai: Accommodation Options
Budget Hotels (₹500-1500/night)
Hotel Godwin
Price: ₹1500-2500/night
Location: Colaba
A decent budget option in a prime location. It offers basic amenities and clean rooms.
YMCA Colaba
Price: ₹1000-2000/night
Location: Colaba
A budget-friendly option with basic rooms and a central location. It's a good choice for solo travelers and backpackers.
Mid-Range Hotels (₹2000-5000/night)
The Residency Hotel
Price: ₹3000-5000/night
Location: Fort
A comfortable hotel with well-appointed rooms and a convenient location. It offers good value for money.
Hotel Sea Princess
Price: ₹4000-6000/night
Location: Juhu
Located near Juhu Beach, this hotel offers comfortable rooms and a swimming pool. It's a good option for families.
Luxury Hotels (₹8000+/night)
The Taj Mahal Palace
Price: ₹20000+/night
Location: Colaba
An iconic luxury hotel with stunning architecture and world-class service. It offers panoramic views of the Gateway of India.
The Oberoi Mumbai
Price: ₹18000+/night
Location: Nariman Point
A luxurious hotel with elegant rooms and exceptional dining options. It offers stunning views of the Arabian Sea.
Best Time to Travel from Lonavala to Mumbai
Plan your trip according to the season for the best experience in Mumbai:
Best Time: November to February
Temperature: 22-30 degrees C
Weather: The weather is pleasant and dry, with clear skies and comfortable temperatures. This is the ideal time for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Why Visit: The cooler weather makes exploring the city's attractions much more enjoyable. It's also the season for various festivals and events. The humidity is significantly lower, making it more comfortable for walking around.
Important Note: This is peak tourist season, so expect higher prices for accommodation and flights. Booking well in advance is essential.
Shoulder Season: March to May
Temperature: 28-35 degrees C
Weather: The weather starts to get hot and humid, with temperatures gradually increasing. Afternoon heat can be intense.
Why Visit: Fewer crowds compared to the peak season and potentially lower prices on accommodation. However, the heat can be uncomfortable for extended outdoor activities.
Important Note: Carry water and wear light, breathable clothing. Air conditioning is essential.
Avoid: June to September
Temperature: 27-32 degrees C
Weather: The monsoon season brings heavy rainfall, high humidity, and occasional flooding. Travel can be disrupted.
Why Visit: Avoid visiting during this time due to the heavy rains and potential for flooding. Many outdoor activities are limited.
Important Note: Some attractions may have reduced hours or be temporarily closed. If you must travel, be prepared for delays and disruptions.
Practical Travel Tips for Mumbai
💰 Money & Budget
Daily Budget: Budget: ₹1500, Mid: ₹3000, Luxury: ₹8000+
ATMs: Widely available
Payment Methods: Cash is essential for street food and small shops. Credit cards are accepted in most hotels and restaurants.
Bargaining: Expected in street markets and with auto-rickshaw drivers
🏥 Health & Safety
Water: Drink bottled water or filtered water only. Avoid drinking tap water.
Food Safety: Eat at reputable restaurants and avoid street food from questionable sources. Be cautious of spicy food if you're not used to it.
Common Health Issues: Heatstroke, dehydration, and stomach problems are common. Carry sunscreen, a hat, and insect repellent.
📱 Communication
SIM Cards: Available at the airport and from local vendors. Jio and Airtel are popular networks. You'll need a passport and visa for purchase.
WiFi Availability: Available in most hotels, cafes, and restaurants
👕 What to Wear
Wear light, breathable clothing, especially during the summer months. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites. Carry a scarf or shawl for covering your head.
Frequently Asked Questions: Lonavala to Mumbai
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Other Routes to Mumbai
Traveling to Mumbai from a different city? Explore these alternative routes:
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