Virar Maharashtra, India Travel Guide
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA), Mumbai (BOM): The main airport for the Mumbai Metropolitan Region. Located approximately 60-70 km south of Virar, CSMIA handles both international and domestic flights (Terminal 2 for international, Terminal 1 for specific domestic). Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA) is planned/under construction, further southeast.
High Season (October to February): Flight prices are typically higher due to increased demand from tourists seeking pleasant weather and those visiting for festivals like Diwali and Christmas/New Year. Book flights well in advance. Dollar Flight Club can help with deals.
Costs are generally lower during hot summer and monsoon seasons (July-September), with lowest fares.
Book flights well in advance for high season to secure better deals.
Prepaid taxis, app-based ride-sharing (Uber/Ola), or personal vehicles connect airport to Virar.
Book flights in advance for high season (October-February) due to higher demand and prices. Check Skyscanner for options.
Use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs for airport transfers to Virar for ease and reliability.
Flexibility with travel dates in shoulder/low season (March-September) helps secure better deals.
Mumbai Suburban Railway (Western Line): The lifeline for Virar. Virar serves as the northernmost major terminus on the Western Line of the Mumbai Local Train network. Trains run very frequently (every few minutes during peak hours) from early morning until late in the evening. This is the most popular plus budget-friendly way to travel long distances within the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR).
State Transport Buses (MSRTC): The Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation operates buses connecting Virar to various towns and cities within Maharashtra and neighboring states. Buses typically depart from the Virar Bus Depot. These are economical but slower than trains.
Requirements: If you plan to self-drive, you need an International Driving Permit (IDP) along with your valid home country's driving license. Ensure the rental car has all required documents. The minimum age for rental is typically 21-25 years. DiscoverCars.com offers options.
Roads: Roads connecting Virar to Mumbai (Western Express Highway, Ghodbunder Road) are generally well-maintained. Local roads inside of Virar can vary. Expect heavy traffic on key thoroughfares into Mumbai.
Virar has no direct port or ferry service. It is not on a major waterway for tourist transportation. Mumbai, accessible from Virar, serves as a significant port for coastal and island travel.
For cruise arrivals at Mumbai Port, immigration procedures similar to airport arrivals. Passengers present passports, valid visas, and complete arrival cards. Biometric data collection also occurs. Follow port authorities and cruise line staff instructions.
Vaitarna River not used for organized tourist transportation to/from Virar.
Mumbai's port access for onward sea travel from the city.
Careful planning for land transit from Mumbai Port to Virar is important.
No specific exit fees or taxes levy on departing international travelers at Mumbai Airport beyond those included in your airfare. Your airline ticket usually incorporates all airport taxes and charges.
Mumbai Airport (CSMIA) offers a wide range of facilities for departing travelers, including lounges, duty-free shopping, restaurants, cafes, currency exchange, and baggage services.
Complete online check-in for your flight whenever possible to save time at the airport.
Prepare for multiple security checks, including baggage screening and personal frisking. Follow instructions.
Have passport, boarding pass, and any required documents ready for immigration.
Arrive at Mumbai Airport 3 hours before international flights, 2 hours before domestic flights. Allow extra time if coming from Virar by local train.
