Getting Around Pune: A Visitor's Guide to Transport
Pune offers visitors several options for moving around the city, from buses and taxis to an expanding metro system. The city's public transport infrastructure includes buses, suburban railways, auto rickshaws, and taxis. Understanding your options will help you navigate Pune efficiently.
Public Buses
Buses are a primary way to get around Pune. The Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal Limited (PMPML) operates the city's public bus service, including regular buses and the Rainbow Bus Rapid Transit System, which uses dedicated bus lanes to move faster through congested areas. PMPML pioneered electric buses in India and operates an electric bus depot at Bhekrainagar, Hadapsar, making it an environmentally friendly travel option.
Bus services cover the city and surrounding areas through multiple depots. The Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC), known as ST (State Transport), operates buses from main stations at Shivajinagar, Pune Station, and Swargate, connecting Pune to cities throughout Maharashtra and neighboring states. Private bus operators also run services to destinations across India.
Suburban Railway
Pune's suburban railway system, operated by Central Railway, connects the city to nearby suburbs and villages. The system operates on two main routes: one from Pune Junction to Lonavala, and another from Shivaji Nagar to Talegaon. These trains offer a reliable way to reach areas outside the immediate city center and are a good option if you're planning day trips to surrounding regions.
Metro System
Pune is developing a modern metro rapid transit system to serve both Pune and the neighboring city of Pimpri-Chinchwad. Two metro lines are currently operational:
- Line 1 runs between Pimpri-Chinchwad and Swargate
- Line 2 runs between Vanaz and Ramwadi
These lines opened on March 6, 2022 with 12 km in operation. They provide a fast, grade-separated alternative to surface transport. An additional line (Line 3) connecting Hinjawadi and Shivajinagar has been approved and is in development. All three lines will meet at the Civil Court interchange station, making connections between lines convenient.
Taxis and Auto Rickshaws
Taxis and auto rickshaws are widely available throughout Pune and offer point-to-point transport. These are useful for shorter journeys or when you need direct access to specific locations. Auto rickshaws, the three-wheeled vehicles common across India, are typically more economical than taxis and are readily available on most streets.
Walkability
Pune's walkability varies by neighborhood. Some areas are pedestrian-friendly, but detailed information about specific walking routes or pedestrian infrastructure is best gathered from local sources or your accommodation once you arrive.
Getting from Pune Airport to the City
Pune Airport is an international airport located at Lohegaon and is operated by the Airports Authority of India. The airport serves domestic flights to major Indian cities as well as international flights to Dubai, Bangkok, and Singapore. From the airport, you can reach the city by taxi, auto rickshaw, or potentially by public bus, depending on your destination and preference. Arrange transport in advance through your hotel or use ride-hailing services for convenience.
Getting to Other Cities
Pune is well-connected to other parts of India by road and rail. The city is served by national highways (NH 48, NH 65, and NH 60) and the Mumbai-Pune Expressway, making it easy to travel by intercity bus or car. The main railway station, Pune Railway Station, connects the city to major destinations across the country by daily express trains.