Mumbai to Pune by Train — Deccan Express and More

Mumbai to Pune by train is 192 km — a distance that sounds short until you realize the train has to climb through the Bhor Ghat, one of the steepest mountain passes on Indian Railways. This Ghat section between Karjat and Lonavala is what makes the journey both beautiful and slow. Expect 3-4 hours depending on the train.

The Mumbai-Pune corridor is India's busiest suburban-to-intercity route. Lakhs of people commute or travel between these cities weekly. Here's how to navigate it.

Train Options

Train	Number	From	Departs	Arrives	Duration	Fare Range
Deccan Express	11007/08	CSMT	07:15	10:30	~3h 15m	₹120–₹500
Shatabdi Express	12027/28	CSMT	06:25	09:30	~3h 05m	₹500–₹1,100
Pragati Express	12125/26	CSMT	07:45	11:00	~3h 15m	₹120–₹500
Sinhagad Express	11009/10	CSMT	08:25	12:25	~4h	₹120–₹500
Deccan Queen	12123/24	CSMT	17:10	20:25	~3h 15m	₹120–₹500
Indrayani Express	22105/06	CSMT	16:40	20:00	~3h 20m	₹120–₹500
Duronto Express	12263/64	CSMT	14:25	18:00	~3h 35m	₹500–₹1,500

Current availability at indianrail.app.

Deccan Queen — The Legend

Train 12123/24 Deccan Queen holds a special place in Indian railway history. Introduced in 1930, it's one of the oldest named trains still running. The evening departure from Mumbai (5:10 PM) works perfectly for office-goers heading to Pune for the weekend.

The Deccan Queen has maintained a certain prestige over the decades. The CC (Chair Car) coaches are decent, and the train has a dedicated dining car — a rarity on Indian trains. The vegetarian thali served on board has its loyal fans.

It's punctual by Mumbai standards, usually arriving within 10-15 minutes of schedule. The return morning service from Pune reaches Mumbai by 11:30 AM.

Shatabdi — Fastest Option

The Mumbai-Pune Shatabdi (12027/28) is the quickest at just over 3 hours. It departs CSMT early (6:25 AM), which means you need to reach the station by 6 AM in Mumbai — not trivial if you live in the suburbs.

The Shatabdi is AC only (Chair Car and Executive). Meals are included. It's the preferred choice for business travelers making day trips. The return service departs Pune at 17:30, reaching CSMT by 20:30.

The Bhor Ghat Section

The real show on this route happens between Karjat and Lonavala — the Bhor Ghat incline. The train climbs roughly 550 meters over 28 km, winding through tunnels, over viaducts, and past waterfalls (spectacular during monsoon, July-September).

The reversing station at Neral is where the Matheran toy train branches off. You'll see the narrow-gauge tracks running alongside. Between Karjat and Lonavala, the train slows considerably as it negotiates the gradient. Some trains use banking engines (helpers) to push from behind.

During monsoon, this section frequently faces speed restrictions or temporary closures due to landslides and waterlogging. Delays of 2-4 hours are common in heavy rain. If you're traveling in peak monsoon, keep flexible plans.

Lonavala — The Halfway Mark

Most Mumbai-Pune trains stop at Lonavala, which is roughly the halfway point (elevation-wise, it's the top of the Ghat). Many Mumbaikars get off here for weekend getaways. If you're headed to Lonavala specifically, any of these trains work.

The Lonavala platform has excellent chikki (a jaggery-nut brittle that's a local specialty). The vendors know which trains stop long enough for purchases.

Which Station?

Mumbai departure: Almost all Pune-bound intercity trains leave from CSMT (Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus). A few start from Dadar, which might be more convenient for Western Line suburb residents. Pune arrival: Most trains arrive at Pune Junction (PUNE). Some terminate at Shivajinagar (SNR), which is closer to Deccan Gymkhana and the university area. Khadki (KK) is another stop useful for defense establishments.

Pune Junction is well-connected by auto, cab, and PMPML buses. The Swargate bus stand for onward travel to Mahabaleshwar, Satara, or Kolhapur is about 3 km away.

Booking Strategy

This route doesn't need advance planning for most trains. General unreserved tickets are available for ₹120 (2S class), and you can buy them on the spot at the station counter or through the UTS app.

For AC chairs on Shatabdi or Deccan Queen, book a few days ahead. These fill up only during Friday evenings and Sunday evenings. Weekday travel is usually available on the day itself.

Season pass holders: If you commute weekly, the monthly/quarterly season ticket is incredible value. You can use any train between the two cities (except Rajdhani/Shatabdi classes).

Express Highway vs Train

The Mumbai-Pune Expressway takes about 3 hours by car (if traffic cooperates). The train also takes about 3 hours. So timing is similar.

But the train costs ₹120-500 per person vs ₹1,500+ in fuel and tolls by car. No driving fatigue, no expressway tunnel anxiety, and the Ghat scenery is better from the train than from inside a car staring at tail lights.

The expressway wins only for door-to-door convenience when your destination in Pune isn't near a station. For city-center to city-center, the train is hands down better.

Vande Bharat — Coming Soon?

A Vande Bharat service for the Mumbai-Pune route has been discussed. Given the distance (under 200 km), a Vande Bharat could theoretically do this in under 2 hours. Track upgrades in the Ghat section would be needed for higher speeds. Watch indianrail.app for updates.

Practical Tips

• Sit on the right side heading from Mumbai for the best Ghat views.
• Vada pav at Karjat station is legendary. If your train stops for 2+ minutes, sprint out and grab one.
• Monsoon travelers: Carry a light raincoat. Stations in the Ghat section have open platforms and rain blows in.
• Return on Sunday evening is the toughest booking. Plan early or consider Monday morning.
• Lonavala to Pune local trains run frequently if you want to break the journey.