Traveling from the historic city of Aurangabad to the bustling metropolis of Mumbai is a journey many take for business, leisure, or family visits. While trains and buses are available, booking a private cab offers a level of comfort, privacy, and flexibility that public transport simply cannot match. A road trip allows you to dictate your own schedule, pause for a hot cup of chai, and enjoy the changing landscapes of Maharashtra at your own pace.
However, a smooth journey requires smart planning. From choosing the right departure time to selecting the best route, here is your comprehensive guide to mastering the Aurangabad to Mumbai cab trip.
The “Right Time” to Start Your Journey
The distance between Aurangabad and Mumbai is approximately 330 to 360 km, depending on the route you choose. The total travel time can range from 5 to 8 hours. To ensure a stress-free experience, timing your departure is critical.
The Early Bird Strategy (Recommended)
Best Departure Time: 5:00 AM – 6:00 AM
Leaving early is the golden rule for this route. By starting at dawn, you gain two major advantages:
- Beat the City Traffic: You exit Aurangabad before the morning rush begins.
- Smooth Entry into Mumbai: You will likely reach the outskirts of Mumbai (Thane/Vashi) by early afternoon (12:00 PM – 1:00 PM), avoiding the notorious evening peak-hour traffic that starts building up after 4:00 PM.
The Post-Lunch Slot
Departure Time: 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM
If you cannot leave in the morning, aim for a post-lunch departure. This slots you to arrive in Mumbai late at night (around 9:00 PM – 10:00 PM). While you might encounter some traffic exiting Aurangabad, the entry into Mumbai will be relatively smoother as the city traffic begins to thin out.
Choosing Your Route: Speed vs. Scenery
When booking your cab, you generally have two primary route options. Your choice depends on your priority: speed or sightseeing.
1. The Samruddhi Mahamarg (The Express Route)
This is the modern choice for travelers who value time. The newly developed expressway offers a wide, high-speed corridor that significantly reduces travel time.
- Pros: Excellent road quality, consistent high speeds, and reduced fatigue.
- Cons: Limited food courts and fuel stations compared to older highways.
- Verdict: Best for business travelers or those in a rush.
2. The Nashik Route (Old Highway)
This is the traditional route passing through Yeola, Niphad, and Nashik.
- Pros: Scenic views (especially near Kasara Ghat), plenty of restaurants (dhabas), and opportunities for spiritual stops (like Shirdi or Trimbakeshwar).
- Cons: Heavy traffic in patches and longer travel time due to ghat sections.
- Verdict: Ideal for families who want to enjoy a leisurely road trip with multiple breaks.
Practical Tips for a Comfortable Cab Ride
To make the most of your journey, keep these actionable tips in mind:
- Snack Smart: If you choose the Samruddhi Mahamarg, carry sufficient dry snacks and water. Amenities are still being developed, and you don’t want to be left hungry.
- FastTag Balance: Ensure your driver has a sufficient FastTag balance. This avoids cash delays at toll plazas, which can save you 20-30 minutes overall.
- Luggage Planning: If you are traveling with a full car of 4 passengers, request a sedan or SUV (like an Innova) rather than a hatchback. The extra boot space is essential for a comfortable 6-hour ride.
- Stay Connected: Network coverage can be patchy in ghat sections. Download offline maps and your favorite music playlists before you leave.
Connecting Maharashtra: Other Popular Cab Routes
Aurangabad is a central hub, and many travelers often plan multi-city itineraries. Here is how other popular routes compare:
Aurangabad to Pune Cab
If your itinerary involves the IT hub of the state, an Aurangabad to Pune Cab is a frequent choice.
- Travel Time: Approx. 4–5 hours.
- Route Insight: Most drivers prefer the Ahmednagar route. It is a bustling highway with plenty of amenities (perfect for a break at a classic Misal Pav joint).
- Tip: Try to avoid entering Pune between 6:00 PM and 8:00 PM to skip the dense city traffic at Viman Nagar or Hadapsar.
Aurangabad to Nagpur Cab
For those heading towards the winter capital, booking an Aurangabad to Nagpur Cab is a convenient option, though it is a longer haul.
- Travel Time: Approx. 7–9 hours via the Samruddhi Mahamarg.
- Route Insight: The expressway has revolutionized this route, turning what used to be a tiring overnight journey into a manageable day trip.
- Tip: Since this is a long drive, ensure your cab has a working charging port and comfortable seating.
Conclusion
A road trip from Aurangabad to Mumbai is more than just a commute; it is an experience of Maharashtra’s changing geography and infrastructure. Whether you are speeding down the expressway or enjoying the scenic charm of the Nashik route, a private cab ensures you arrive fresh and ready for your time in Mumbai.