As the calendar turns the page to 2026, the urge to escape the humidity and chaos of Mumbai for the cool, misty embrace of the Sahyadris is stronger than ever. Lonavala isn’t just a hill station; for Mumbaikars, it’s an emotion. It’s the nostalgia of sticky chikki, the thrill of the ghats, and the promise of a foggy sunrise after a night of celebration.
However, planning a Mumbai to Lonavala drive for New Year 2026 requires strategy. With the festive rush, new infrastructural marvels reshaping how we exit the city, and the ever-present threat of traffic jams, you need a plan that ensures you spend more time partying and less time honking.
Mumbai to Lonavala road Trip
Whether you are looking for a one day Lonavala tour package from Mumbai or a luxurious weekend staycation to ring in the New Year, this guide covers everything—routes, costs, pitstops, and why booking a chauffeur-driven cab with MTC India Mobility is your ticket to a stress-free 2026.
The New Route: Mumbai to Lonavala via Atal Setu
For decades, the drive to Lonavala meant battling traffic through Sion, Chembur, and Vashi before even reaching the highway. In late 2025 and moving into 2026, the game has changed completely for South and Central Mumbai residents.
The Game Changer: Atal Setu (MTHL)
Mumbai to Lonavala via Atal Setu
If you are starting from Colaba, Worli, Dadar, or Lower Parel, the Mumbai to Lonavala via Atal Setu route is a revelation. The Atal Bihari Vajpayee Sewri–Nhava Sheva Atal Setu allows you to zip across the ocean, bypassing mainland suburban traffic entirely.
Key Highlights:
The Drive: Enter the sea bridge at Sewri and exit at Chirle in Navi Mumbai. A connector road leads to JNPT Road and merges with the Mumbai–Pune Expressway near Panvel.
Time Saved: Nearly 45 minutes to 1 hour during peak traffic.
The Experience: Open-sea views with the Mumbai skyline fading behind you make for a cinematic start to your New Year holiday.
Bonus: Toll waiver for Electric Vehicle (EV) owners.
The Traditional Expressway Route
For suburban travellers (Andheri, Borivali, Thane), the traditional route via Vashi/Navi Mumbai to the Mumbai–Pune Expressway remains relevant.
Distance: Approximately 85–90 km
Why Choose It: Smoother drive than NH 48
Food Stops: Legendary dhabas like Sunny Da Dhaba
MTC Pro Tip for NYE 2026:
New Year’s Eve traffic peaks between 9:00 AM and 1:00 PM on December 31st. Start early at 6:00 AM or travel late on December 30th to cross the Khalapur toll plaza smoothly.
MTC Car Hire: Why Chauffeur-Driven Wins on NYE
New Year’s Eve means celebrations, late nights, and often a few drinks. Driving back the next morning can be exhausting—and unsafe.
1. Zero “Designated Driver” Stress
Why decide who stays sober? With a professional chauffeur from MTC Car Hire, everyone celebrates freely. Our drivers are police-verified, ghat-experienced, and safety-trained.
2. Navigating the “Missing Link”
The upcoming Missing Link Project aims to bypass Khandala Ghat traffic. Whether it launches by NYE 2026 or not, our chauffeurs know the smartest lanes to avoid heavy truck congestion.
3. Comfort Over Fatigue
Relax in the captain seats of an Innova Crysta, play your favourite music, and let our driver handle traffic while you recover from the celebrations.
Understanding the Costs: Mumbai to Lonavala Taxi Fare
Mumbai to Lonavala Taxi Fare
At MTC Car Hire, pricing is transparent—no 3x or 4x surge like app-based cabs on New Year’s Eve.
Fare Structure (Round Trip – Garage to Garage)
Sedan (Dzire / Etios)
Rate: ₹12–₹14 per km
Minimum: 250 km/day
Estimated Cost (2 days): ₹6,000–₹7,000*
SUV (Ertiga / Innova)
Rate: ₹17–₹19 per km
Estimated Cost (2 days): ₹8,500–₹9,500*
Premium SUV (Innova Crysta)
Rate: ₹20–₹24 per km
Estimated Cost (2 days): ₹10,000–₹12,000*
*Tolls, parking, state taxes & driver allowance (₹300–₹500/day) extra.
The Ultimate One Day Lonavala Tour Package from Mumbai
Lonavala Tour Package from Mumbai
Short on time? You don’t need an overnight stay to enjoy the hills. Our one day Lonavala tour package from Mumbai is ideal for families and corporate groups.
Best Time for Mumbai to Lonavala Drive
Sample Itinerary (6:00 AM – 9:30 PM)
06:00 AM: Pickup from Mumbai
08:00 AM: Breakfast at Datta Snacks or Rama Krishna
09:30 AM: Lohagad Fort or Karla Caves
12:30 PM: Lunch at Sunny Da Dhaba or Kinara Village Dhaba
02:30 PM: Bhushi Dam
04:30 PM: Tiger’s Leap / Lion’s Point (sunset & tea)
06:30 PM: Cooper’s Fudge shopping
07:00 PM: Return to Mumbai
09:30 PM: Drop at home
One Day Package Price
Sedan: ₹5,500 – ₹6,000
SUV (Ertiga): ₹7,500 – ₹8,500
Premium (Crysta): ₹9,500 – ₹11,000
New Year 2026 Specials: Where to Party?
Pawna Lake Camping – Bonfires, live music & fireworks
Della Resorts – Luxury NYE gala with celebrity DJs
Fariyas Resort – Family-friendly carnival vibe
Wet’nJoy Waterpark – Neon DJ parties with thrill rides
Pitstops: The Joy of the Journey
Breakfast: Datta Snacks – Sabudana Khichdi
Lunch: Kinara Village Dhaba – Village-themed dining
Snacks: Authentic Maganlal Chikki outlets
Checklist for Your NYE 2026 Trip
Book early (December dates sell out fast)
Ensure FASTag is active
Carry warm clothes
Keep cash for ghat areas
Ready to Welcome 2026?
Ready to Welcome 2026
Don’t let driving stress spoil your New Year plans. Whether you need a Mumbai to Lonavala taxi fare or a one day Lonavala tour package from Mumbai, MTC India Mobility is ready to serve you.
Book Your New Year Ride Now
Call / WhatsApp: +91-7081609090
Email: info@mtccarhire.com
Website: www.mtccarhire.com
MTC India Mobility – Your Partner for Every Milestone