Is there a direct bus?

No, you will need to change buses at Kalyan or Nashik.

Akola has a small airport, but Nagpur is the major hub nearby.

The highways are generally well-maintained, but watch for construction.

The Vidarbha Express is a popular and reliable choice.

Can I drive at night?

It is not recommended due to heavy freight traffic on the highways.

Akola

Train Driving

Malshej Ghat to Akola

Updated: 22 May 2026

The journey from the scenic Malshej Ghat to the commercial hub of Akola covers approximately 480 km. You will descend the Western Ghats and traverse the plains of Vidarbha. The most practical route involves driving to Kalyan and catching a train to Akola Junction. Alternatively, a long-distance drive via NH 60 and NH 53 is possible but tiring.

Total Distance: 480 km driving distance, 410 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Train, which takes approximately 9 hours including the transit to Kalyan.

Cheapest Way

Train from Kalyan Junction, costing around 600 INR in sleeper class.

Compare Malshej Ghat to Akola Routes

	Train Direct from Kalyan	Driving Direct
Duration	9 hours	10 hours
Avg Price	600-1500 INR	5000-7000 INR
Operator	Vidarbha Express	Self-drive
Route	Kalyan Junction to Akola Junction	NH 60 and NH 53
Tip	Book your tickets in advance as this route is heavily patronized.	Ensure your vehicle is serviced for a long highway drive.

Travel Tips

Book Early
Train tickets sell out fast; use the IRCTC portal well in advance.
Highway Stops
Plan your stops at major towns like Nashik or Jalgaon for food.
Hydration
Keep water and snacks handy for the long highway stretch.
Navigation
Use offline maps as network connectivity can be spotty in the Ghat sections.
Vehicle Check
Check tire pressure and engine oil before starting the long drive.

Safety Tips

Ghat Driving
Drive slowly on the Malshej Ghat descent, especially during fog or rain.
Night Driving
Avoid driving on NH 53 at night due to heavy truck traffic.
Emergency Kit
Carry a basic first-aid kit and a puncture repair toolset.
Stay Alert
Take breaks every 3 hours to avoid driver fatigue.