Quick answer: The fastest way from Mumbai to Lonavala is the Mumbai–Pune Expressway. Since 1 May 2026 the 13.3 km Connecting Link (earlier called the Missing Link) from Khopoli to Kusgaon near Lonavala bypasses the Khandala ghat, saving about 20–30 minutes at no extra toll. A car pays ₹320 one way on the Expressway with FASTag. Expect roughly 1.5 to 2.5 hours from most parts of Mumbai, depending on where you start and the traffic.
By Archana, host at Misty Palace · Updated November 2026
Mumbai to Lonavala at a glance
| Details | |
|---|---|
| Best route | Mumbai–Pune Expressway (Yashwantrao Chavan Expressway) |
| New shortcut | Connecting Link, Khopoli to Kusgaon near Lonavala, open since 1 May 2026 for cars and passenger buses |
| Expressway toll (car) | ₹320 one way with FASTag |
| Typical drive time | About 1.5–2.5 hours, depending on start point and traffic |
| From Pune | About 1–1.5 hours on the Expressway towards Mumbai |
Route options from Mumbai
1. Via Vashi or Atal Setu, then the Expressway (recommended)
From the western suburbs or central Mumbai, head to Vashi and Kalamboli, or take Atal Setu (the Mumbai Trans Harbour Link) from Sewri if you start in South Mumbai. Join the Expressway at Kalamboli. Atal Setu has its own toll, so add that to your budget.
2. Through the Connecting Link
After Khalapur, stay on the Expressway into the Connecting Link. Its tunnels and viaduct skip the steep, slow Khandala ghat and rejoin near Kusgaon, close to Lonavala. It is open to cars and passenger buses, and there is no additional toll.
3. Old Mumbai–Pune Highway (NH48)
The old highway through Khopoli and Khandala is slower but toll-light and passes viewpoints and snack stops. Use it if you want a leisurely drive, not if you are short on time.
Tolls and FASTag
- The Expressway car toll is ₹320 one way and has been unchanged since April 2023
- The main toll plazas are at Khalapur (Mumbai side) and Talegaon (Pune side)
- Keep FASTag topped up; paying without FASTag costs more
- Atal Setu and the Vashi bridge have separate tolls
Best time to leave
- Friday: leave before 3 PM or after 9 PM to avoid weekend traffic out of Mumbai
- Saturday: leave by 7 AM for an easy drive and a full first day
- Sunday return: start before noon or after 8 PM
- Monsoon: drive in daylight; heavy rain can cause landslides and temporary closures. In July 2026 a landslide near Tunnel 2 shut the Connecting Link for over 18 hours, so check traffic updates before you set off
Driving to Misty Palace
Misty Palace is in Gold Valley, Tungarli, a quiet residential area near Radisson Resort & Spa and 7 Apple Resort, about 2 km from Tungarli Lake. Exit the Expressway at Lonavala and follow Google Maps to Tungarli and Gold Valley. Directions, the address and a map are on our contact page. Parking at the villa is free.
By train
Lonavala station is on the Mumbai–Pune railway line, and many Mumbai–Pune trains stop there. From the station, take an auto-rickshaw or cab to Tungarli.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to drive from Mumbai to Lonavala?
About 1.5 to 2.5 hours on the Mumbai–Pune Expressway, depending on where in Mumbai you start and the traffic. The Connecting Link saves about 20–30 minutes compared with the old ghat section.
What is the toll from Mumbai to Lonavala?
A car pays ₹320 one way on the Mumbai–Pune Expressway with FASTag. Atal Setu or the Vashi bridge add their own tolls if you use them.
Is the Connecting Link open to cars?
Yes. It opened on 1 May 2026 and is open to cars and passenger buses, with no extra toll.
How far is Misty Palace from Pune?
Misty Palace is in Lonavala, about 1 to 1.5 hours from Pune on the Expressway, depending on traffic.
Plan the rest of your weekend
Read our weekend escape guide and the places near Misty Palace. If you are coming as a big group, see how to plan a stay for 30 guests, then check your dates on WhatsApp.
Toll and route details checked in November 2026 from MSRDC announcements and news reports. Rates and closures can change, so confirm before you travel.