Nanded to Lonar
The road journey from Nanded to Lonar covers 123 km and takes about 2 hours, making it an ideal extension for pilgrims and history buffs exploring Maharashtra. Nanded, a major Sikh
Tentative Fare Estimate
Round trip · incl. driver allowance & GST
Tentative estimate only, based on typical Indian public-transport tariffs (state transport bus fares, IRCTC sleeper/AC class rates, standard outstation taxi per-km rates) — not a live quote from any operator.
Overview
The road journey from Nanded to Lonar covers 123 km and takes about 2 hours, making it an ideal extension for pilgrims and history buffs exploring Maharashtra. Nanded, a major Sikh pilgrimage site, and Lonar, famed for its meteorite crater lake, are often combined in a single trip. The route passes through the Deccan plateau, offering glimpses of rural Maharashtra. Lonar's ancient temples and unique geology await, while Nanded's Takht Sachkhand Sri Hazur Sahib draws devotees year-round. This guide details road, train, and bus options, plus stopovers and practical tips for a smooth journey.
Route Map
By Car: Nanded to Lonar
123 km · ~2h 28m · About 2h of driving, plus stops.
- Start from Nanded
An early start keeps you ahead of city and highway traffic.
123 km · 2h 28m drive from previous stop
Arrive in LonarLonar, Maharashtra
Stops are typical for this road, not a fixed itinerary. Timings assume about 50 km/h on average — traffic, tolls and road conditions vary.
By Bus: Nanded to Lonar
123 km · ~2h 44m · Buses on this route are usually available as direct services. Operators and departure times vary — check live availability.
- Board at Nanded
Go to the main bus stand / ISBT in Nanded. Overnight buses usually leave in the evening; book a seat in advance for sleeper and Volvo services.
- Nanded → Lonar
Non-AC or AC Seater · ~123 km
~2h 44m|Tentative fare ₹140–₹390
- Arrive in Lonar
Lonar, Maharashtra
Halts and change points are typical for this route, not a specific operator’s schedule — check live availability and timings when booking.
By Train: Nanded to Lonar
Nearest railway stations: Huzur Sahib Nanded for Nanded, Paradgaon (about 53 km away) for Lonar.
Direct trains
Train details come from a 2015 railway timetable snapshot — newer trains, changed timings and running days are not included, so confirm on IRCTC before you plan around a train.
Stops & Places Along the Route
Good places to break the journey from Nanded to Lonar.
- Dhamangaon60 km from Nanded from Nanded
A small town midway between Nanded and Lonar, Dhamangaon is a convenient pit stop for refreshments. It has a few local eateries and tea stalls.
Tea and snacksPublic restroomsFuel station - Parbhani70 km from Nanded from Nanded
A major city and railhead, Parbhani is often used as a transit point. It offers restaurants, hotels, and a chance to stretch your legs.
RestaurantsHotelsRailway station
Hotels in Lonar
Comfortable 3-star stays in Lonar. Tell us your dates and we'll get you a rate.
3 Star Hotel
Lonar
Things to Do in Lonar
Birdwatching at Lonar Lake’s shallow edges
Walk along the lake’s southern shore (where it’s accessible) to spot resident and migratory birds, including brahminy ducks, black-winged stilts, and grey herons. Early…
1.5 hours
Visit the ancient Daitya Sudan temple
Explore this 12th-century Hemadpanthi-style temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, located right on the crater’s edge. The intricate black stone carvings and the temple’s…
1 hour
Walk the rim of Lonar Crater Lake
Take a gentle, guided walk along the crater’s rim to see the ancient basalt rock layers and panoramic views of the greenish-blue lake below. Stop at the small Hanuman…
2 hours
Explore the Shankar Ganesha temple complex
Wander through this cluster of old temples (Shiva, Ganesha, and Ram) located near the crater’s edge, known for their weathered stone pillars and peaceful atmosphere.…
45 minutes
Visit the Lonar Meteorite Museum and Interpretation Centre
Learn about the crater’s formation, the science of basalt impacts, and the lake’s unique salinity and alkalinity through exhibits and a short film. The centre also has…
1 hour
Short trek to the crater’s inner slope (for the fit)
For those comfortable with uneven steps, descend a short way down the inner crater wall to feel the ancient impact rock up close and see the lake’s changing colours…
1 hour
Suggested Lonar Itinerary
Day 1Day 1
- Visit Lonar Crater Lake viewpoint and walk along the eastern rim for the best photo opportunities
- Explore the 12th-century temples on the rim, including the Daitya Sudan Temple and Kamalja Devi Temple
- Take a short nature walk around the crater’s edge to spot local birdlife and the unique saline-alkaline water
Day 2Day 2
- Descend the crater steps to the lake shore (approx. 300 steps down and up) for a close view of the water and floating algae
- Visit the Ganesh Temple and the Maruti Temple on the crater floor, both with intricate carvings
- Take a short jeep or cycle-rickshaw ride around the Lonar Wildlife Sanctuary to spot peacocks, foxes, and migratory birds
Day 3Day 3
- Visit the Shree Gajanan Maharaj Temple in Lonar town, known for its peaceful atmosphere and local devotees
- Drive 20 minutes to the village of Pimpalgaon to see traditional Maharashtrian mud houses and try local jowar bhakri snacks
- Shop for local items like turmeric, jowar, and handwoven cotton cloth at the Lonar weekly market (if open) or local shops
Travel Tips
Budget Estimate
road
Sedan (e.g., Dzire): ₹1,500–₹1,800
SUV (e.g., Ertiga): ₹2,000–₹2,500
Driving is the fastest and most flexible way to reach Lonar from Nanded. The well-maintained roads pass through scenic countryside, with options for a quick stop at Dhamangaon.
train
General class: ₹30–₹50
Sleeper class: ₹100–₹150
There is no direct train to Lonar. The nearest railhead is Jalna (130 km from Lonar) or Parbhani (110 km). From Nanded, you can take a train to Parbhani or Jalna, then hire a taxi or bus to Lonar.
bus
Ordinary bus: ₹80–₹100
Semi-luxury: ₹120–₹150
MSRTC buses run regularly from Nanded to Lonar, though some require a change at Dhamangaon or Parbhani. Buses are economical but may be crowded.
Extend Your Trip
Add a nearby place to your Lonar trip and see the full Nanded → Lonar → next stop route.
Plan My Trip: Nanded to Lonar
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Frequently Asked Questions
The distance is 123 km by road, and the journey takes about 2 hours by car.
Yes, MSRTC runs direct buses, but some may require a change at Dhamangaon. The journey takes 2.5–3 hours and costs ₹80–₹150.
No, Lonar has no railway station. The nearest railheads are Parbhani (110 km) and Jalna (130 km). You can take a train to Parbhani, then a taxi or bus.
The best time is from October to March when the weather is pleasant. Avoid summer months as it gets very hot.
The Lonar Crater Lake, ancient temples like Daitya Sudan and Kamalja Devi, and the unique rock formations are must-see.
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