Shirdi is nearer to Pune than to Mumbai. While both cities are significant hubs in Maharashtra and serve as popular gateways to Shirdi, Pune is considerably closer, making it a more convenient point of access.
Understanding the Proximity
To illustrate the difference, let's look at the approximate distances and travel times from Shirdi to both Pune and Mumbai.
Shirdi to Pune
Pune is located at a shorter distance from Shirdi, offering relatively quicker travel options.
- Distance: Approximately 150+ kilometers.
- Fastest Way to Travel: Train.
- Approximate Travel Time by Train: Around 3 hours.
- Other Options: Buses and cabs are also readily available, typically taking 3-4 hours depending on traffic and route.
Shirdi to Mumbai
Mumbai, being further away, requires a longer journey from Shirdi.
- Distance: Approximately 240+ kilometers.
- Common Ways to Travel: Buses and private cabs are the most common modes.
- Approximate Travel Time by Road: Generally takes about 5 to 6 hours, subject to road conditions and traffic, especially when entering or exiting Mumbai.
- Train Travel: While train routes exist, they often involve longer travel times or require changing trains.
Direct Comparison
The table below provides a clear comparison of the distances and typical travel times from Shirdi to both Pune and Mumbai:
| Destination | Approximate Distance from Shirdi | Typical Travel Time (Fastest/Common Mode) | Primary Modes of Transport |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pune | 150+ km | ~3 hours (by Train) | Train, Bus, Cab |
| Mumbai | 240+ km | ~5-6 hours (by Road) | Bus, Cab |
Why This Matters for Travelers
Understanding these distances is crucial for planning your visit to Shirdi, especially if you are flying into either Pune International Airport (PNQ) or Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (BOM) in Mumbai.
- For those prioritizing speed: Pune is the more advantageous starting point due to shorter distances and quicker travel options like direct trains.
- For budget travelers: While bus services are frequent from both cities, the shorter distance to Pune might result in slightly lower travel costs.
- For combined trips: If you plan to explore other parts of Maharashtra, your choice between Pune and Mumbai as a base might depend on your overall itinerary.
In conclusion, for direct travel to Shirdi, Pune holds a distinct advantage in terms of proximity and travel time.
