Mumbai Gets New Train To Bengaluru: 6 Places You Can Explore Along The Route

Mumbai and Bengaluru are set to get another rail connection ahead of the festive season, giving travellers an additional way to make the long journey between the two cities. The new Mumbai-Bengaluru special train will operate between Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) and Sir M Visvesvaraya Terminal (SMVT) Bengaluru.

The weekly special train will make 7 trips in each direction. The Mumbai-Bengaluru service will run every Saturday from October 10 to November 21, while the return service will operate every Sunday from October 11 to November 22. The journey will take approximately 23 hours and 30 minutes, with 24 stops along the route.

For travellers who don’t want the journey to simply be about reaching Bengaluru, several interesting destinations

can be explored along the way. Here are 6 places to consider adding to your itinerary.

Lonavala, Maharashtra

The first major getaway on the route is Lonavala, a popular hill station in the Sahyadris. Known for misty hills, waterfalls, forts and lush landscapes, it makes for an easy nature break from Mumbai. Travellers can explore attractions such as Lohagad Fort, Rajmachi Fort, Tiger’s Leap, Bhushi Dam and the Karla and Bhaja Caves. Don’t leave without trying the city’s famous chikki.

Pune, Maharashtra

The train also stops at Pune, making the city an easy option for a cultural and food-focused stopover. From historic landmarks and old neighbourhoods to cafes, Maharashtrian snacks and a thriving modern food scene, Pune offers plenty to explore. Travellers interested in history can build their itinerary around the city’s Maratha-era heritage.

Satara, Maharashtra

Nature lovers can consider getting off at Satara, particularly during the season when the surrounding Western Ghats are at their most scenic. The district is home to the UNESCO-listed Kaas Plateau, Thoseghar Waterfalls, Ajinkyatara Fort and Sajjangad. Satara is also known for Mahabaleshwar strawberries and its local Kandi Pedha.

Kolhapur, Maharashtra

While Kolhapur is not a direct halt on this particular service, it can be included as a detour from the route via Miraj. The city is known for its rich Maratha heritage, the Mahalakshmi Temple, traditional handicrafts and its distinctive food culture. A visit is incomplete without trying Kolhapuri cuisine, particularly its spicy curries and local snacks.

Belagavi, Karnataka

As the train moves into Karnataka, Belagavi offers a fascinating mix of cultural influences. The city lies close to both Maharashtra and Goa and has developed a distinctive heritage blending local Kannada traditions with influences from neighbouring regions. Belagavi Fort is among the city’s important historical attractions.

Davangere, Karnataka

Food lovers have a particularly good reason to put Davangere on their list. The Karnataka city is famous for its buttery, crisp-edged benne dosa, making it an interesting stop for anyone keen to explore the state’s regional cuisine. From here, the journey continues towards Bengaluru, with the special train also stopping at Tumakuru before reaching SMVT Bengaluru.