Arriving at Pune Airport (PNQ) and getting to your hotel or onward destination doesn’t have to be stressful. Several options are available, ranging from quick and convenient taxis to more budget-friendly public transport. This guide will help you understand your choices, estimate costs, and plan a smooth journey into Pune.
Official taxi stands are generally well-signposted within the airport arrival areas. Look for clearly marked booths or designated pickup zones immediately outside the terminal buildings. Pre-paid taxi counters are often available, allowing you to agree on a fare before you travel, which can provide peace of mind. When joining a queue, be sure to check that it’s for officially licensed taxis. It’s a good idea to ask the driver to use the meter, and confirm this before starting your trip. Expect a journey to the city center to take between 30 minutes and an hour, depending on traffic.
Pre-booked private transfers offer a comfortable and direct service. These are usually arranged online before your trip. Your driver will typically meet you in the arrivals hall, often holding a sign with your name. Confirm the meeting point details in your booking confirmation. Prices for private transfers are generally fixed when you book, offering transparency. Expect to pay between $20 and $40 USD for a transfer to the city center, depending on the vehicle type.
Shared shuttle services and minibuses can be a cost-effective option, especially if you’re traveling alone. These services typically operate on a set schedule and may involve multiple stops to drop off other passengers. This means the journey will take longer – potentially 60 to 90 minutes. Public buses are the most affordable option, but they can be crowded and require navigating the local bus network. The airport is also connected to the city by train, offering a relatively quick and comfortable ride, but you may need to take a connecting taxi or auto-rickshaw to reach your final destination.
Traffic in Pune can be heavy, particularly during peak hours (morning and evening commutes). Allow extra time for your journey if you’re traveling during these times. Having some small US dollar bills handy for tipping is also a good idea.
| Option | Typical Time | Approximate Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Taxi | 30-60 minutes | $10 - $25 |
| Private Transfer | 30-45 minutes | $20 - $40 |
| Shared Shuttle | 60-90 minutes | $5 - $15 |
| Train/Metro | 45-75 minutes | $1 - $5 |
| Bus | 60-120 minutes | $0.50 - $2 |
Times and prices vary by traffic and season.
Popular destinations from Pune Airport include the city center, areas like Shivaji Nagar and Hinjawadi, and nearby cities such as Mumbai (approximately a 3-hour drive) and Lonavala (around 1.5 to 2 hours).
Official taxi stands are located outside the arrival terminals. Look for signposted booths or designated pickup zones.
Yes, using official pre-paid taxis or those with meters is generally safe. Confirm the driver will use the meter before you start your journey.
Expect to pay between $20 and $40 USD for a private transfer to the city center, depending on the vehicle.
A shared shuttle is a minibus that transports multiple passengers, making it a more affordable option, but slower.
Public transport is the cheapest option, but can be crowded and may require connections.
A taxi or private transfer typically takes 30-60 minutes, depending on traffic.
If you’ve pre-booked a private transfer, contact the company to inform them of the delay.
Tipping is not mandatory, but it’s customary to round up the fare or offer a small tip for good service.
While you can’t book official airport taxis online, you can pre-book a private transfer.
Check your booking confirmation for the designated meeting point and contact the transfer company immediately.
Yes, there are ATMs available in the arrival halls at Pune Airport.