Travelling to Mumbai
Mumbai is a major city with excellent connectivity both domestically and internationally. Here are the various ways you can travel to Mumbai:
By Air
- Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (BOM) is the main airport in Mumbai, which has both domestic and international terminals.
- International Flights: Mumbai is well connected to major global cities such as London, New York, Dubai, Singapore, and more.
- Domestic Flights: Mumbai has daily flights to/from all major cities in India like Delhi, Bangalore, Kolkata, and Chennai.
- Airport to City: The airport is about 20-30 minutes from central areas like Bandra and about 45-60 minutes from South Mumbai (Colaba).
- You can use taxis, app-based cabs (Uber/Ola), or the Mumbai Airport Metro (expected to expand soon).
By Train
Mumbai has several key railway stations, and it is well-connected by train to all parts of India.
- Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT): For long-distance and suburban trains, especially from central and eastern India.
- Mumbai Central: Another major station for western India connections.
- Bandra Terminus: For northern and western train routes.
- Lokmanya Tilak Terminus (LTT): Handles long-distance trains from various parts of India.
- Train Options: You can choose between different types of trains such as Rajdhani Express (high-speed), Shatabdi Express, or sleeper trains.
By Bus
- Intercity Buses: Mumbai is connected to neighboring states like Gujarat, Goa, and Karnataka through long-distance buses.
- State Transport Buses: Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) runs buses to Mumbai from major towns and cities.
- Private Operators: You can also opt for private bus services (luxury buses, Volvos) which run regularly between cities like Pune, Nashik, Surat, and Ahmedabad.
- Major bus terminals are located in Dadar, Bandra, and Mumbai Central.
By Car
- Driving to Mumbai is also an option, especially from nearby cities:
- Pune: About 3-4 hours via the Mumbai-Pune Expressway.
- Goa: Approximately 10-12 hours by road.
- Ahmedabad: About 8-9 hours via the NH48 highway.
- Toll Roads: Be prepared for toll fees, especially on expressways.
Local Transportation Options Upon Arrival
- Taxis: Prepaid taxis are available at the airport and major railway stations.
- Mumbai Suburban Trains: One of the most efficient ways to travel within the city.
- Mumbai Metro: For routes not covered by trains, metro lines (currently expanding) are useful.
- App-Based Cabs: Uber and Ola are widely available.
- Auto Rickshaws: Available in most parts of the city (not allowed in South Mumbai though).