To get around in Pune, you can use a variety of transportation options, including taxis, auto-rickshaws, buses, and trains, as well as rent a car or use ride-hailing apps.
Quick Facts
Getting There
Pune is well-connected to the rest of India and the world through its airport and railway stations. The Pune Airport, also known as Lohegaon Airport, is located about 10 kilometers from the city center and offers flights to major Indian cities as well as international destinations. Some of the direct flight hubs from Pune include Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Hyderabad. You can also reach Pune by train, with the city being an important stop on the Indian Railways network. The Pune Railway Station is a major terminal and offers connections to cities across India.
If you prefer to travel by road, Pune is connected to major cities like Mumbai, Bangalore, and Hyderabad through national highways. You can take a bus or drive to Pune from these cities, with the journey taking around 3-4 hours from Mumbai and 10-12 hours from Bangalore or Hyderabad. There are also several overland entry points to Pune, including the Pune-Mumbai Expressway and the Pune-Bangalore Highway. These entry points are well-maintained and offer a convenient way to reach the city by car or bus.
Domestic Flights
Pune has an extensive domestic air network, with flights connecting the city to major Indian destinations. Some of the major domestic airlines operating from Pune include IndiGo, SpiceJet, and Air India. You can book flights online through the airlines' websites or through travel portals like MakeMyTrip or Cleartrip. The approximate cost of a domestic flight from Pune to other major cities can range from $50 to $200, depending on the destination and the time of booking. It's a good idea to book your flights in advance to get the best deals, especially during peak travel seasons.
Trains & Rail
Pune has an extensive rail network, with the city being an important stop on the Indian Railways network. The Indian Railways operates several trains from Pune to major cities across India, including Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, and Hyderabad. You can book train tickets online through the Indian Railways website or through travel portals like IRCTC or MakeMyTrip. The cost of train tickets can range from $10 to $100, depending on the class of travel and the destination. There are also several high-speed train options available from Pune, including the Shatabdi Express and the Duronto Express.
Buses & Coaches
Pune is well-connected to other cities in India by bus, with several private and government-owned bus operators offering services to the city. Some of the major bus companies operating from Pune include MSRTC (Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation) and VRL Travels. You can book bus tickets online through the bus operators' websites or through travel portals like Redbus or Abhibus. The cost of bus tickets can range from $10 to $50, depending on the destination and the class of travel. The quality of buses can vary, with some operators offering luxury buses with air conditioning and reclining seats.
City Transport
| Mode | Available In | Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metro/Subway | Pune | $0.20-$0.50 | Limited routes, expanding network |
| City Bus | Pune | $0.10-$0.30 | Extensive network, affordable |
| Taxi | Pune | $1.50/km | Available everywhere, metered |
| Ride-Hailing | Pune | $2-$5 | Available through Uber and Ola |
| Tuk-tuk/Rickshaw | Pune | $1-$2 | Available everywhere, non-metered |
Driving
- To drive in Pune, you need to have a valid Indian driving license or an International Driving Permit.
- The road quality in Pune is moderate, with some roads being well-maintained and others being poorly maintained.
- The fuel cost in Pune can range from $1 to $2 per liter, depending on the type of fuel and the location.
- It's a good idea to rent a car from a reputable company, such as Hertz or Avis, to ensure that you get a well-maintained vehicle.
- Some of the hazards to watch out for while driving in Pune include potholes, traffic congestion, and aggressive drivers.
- It's also a good idea to have a GPS device or a mapping app on your phone to help navigate the city's roads.
Transport Tips
- Be aware of traffic scams, where drivers may try to overcharge you or take you on a longer route to increase the fare.
- Use reputable taxi services, such as Meru or EasyCabs, to ensure that you get a safe and reliable ride.
- Download transport apps, such as Uber or Ola, to book rides and track your journey.
- Carry small bills and change to pay for your fares, as not all drivers may accept large bills or credit cards.
- Be patient and courteous while driving or riding in Pune, as the city's roads can be congested and chaotic.
- Avoid driving at night, especially if you're not familiar with the city's roads, as the visibility can be poor and the traffic can be heavy.
- Use authorized parking facilities to park your vehicle, as unauthorized parking can result in fines or towing.