Travel

Flight

Mumbai

Fly directly to Mumbai (BOM) – most major airlines have nonstop options! Getting to Pune: From Mumbai airport, it’s a 3.5–4 hour drive to Pune (traffic-dependent) The easiest and safest way: book an Uber Intercity through the Uber app for transparent pricing and comfort. This is the same app you use in USA. Avoid negotiating with local taxi drivers outside the airport, as they may charge higher rates for foreigners Exploring Mumbai: Mumbai is a vibrant city with iconic spots like Gateway of India, Marine Drive, Colaba, Bandra, and Chowpatty Beach Use Uber, Ola, or prepaid taxis for safe and easy travel around the city Be mindful of traffic jams — plan extra travel time, especially during rush hours Stay in well-known areas like Colaba or Bandra for the best experience and easier access to sights Carry small change in cash for quick payments, as some local vendors may not accept cards

Flight

Delhi

Fly into Delhi (DEL) and spend a day or two exploring India’s vibrant capital! Make a trip to the Taj Mahal (about 3.5 hours by car/train to Agra). Don’t miss sights like Qutub Minar, Humayun’s Tomb, Red Fort, and some of the best street food ever! Next Stop: Pune! Book a domestic flight from Delhi to Pune (PNQ) Important Tip on Delhi Airport: Delhi airport has multiple terminals (T1, T2, and T3). If you’re flying internationally into T3 and then catching a domestic flight, you may need to change terminals. Use the free airport shuttle – it’s safe, easy, and reliable. Avoid local drivers outside the airport—they often charge more, especially if you look like a tourist. Allow at least 2.5–3 hours between your arrival and your next domestic flight, if you are changing terminals!

Flight

Bengaluru

If you're flying from the U.S., especially San Francisco (SFO), consider landing in Bengaluru (BLR) — it often has cheaper international flight options than Mumbai or Delhi! Getting to Pune from Bengaluru: Take a domestic flight from BLR to Pune (PNQ) – about 1.5 hours Multiple daily flights available via Indigo, Vistara, and Air India Booking your international and domestic flights separately can sometimes be cheaper, but: You will need to collect your checked baggage in Bengaluru and check in again for your Pune flight Allow at least 3 hours between flights to manage this comfortably BLR Airport & City Tips: Bengaluru is India’s biggest startup hub with a vibrant tech scene Traffic from the airport to the city can be very heavy, especially during rush hours — plan accordingly! To connect to free airport WiFi, ask any English-speaking staff for the WiFi PIN — it’s easily available! Use the free airport shuttle if switching terminals Avoid local taxis — use Uber or airport-authorized cabs via app or official counters

Travel Note

General Tips

Welcome to India — full of color, culture, and chaos (in the best way)! Here are a few practical tips to make your trip smooth, safe, and memorable: Essentials: Install Google Maps + Uber/Ola app before arriving Get a local SIM or eSIM at the airport (Airtel or Jio recommended). Use apps like Airalo for getting eSIM Money & Payments You will need cash – local shops, drivers, and vendors usually don’t accept cards Google Pay / UPI apps won’t work with international cards or phone numbers Bring Indian Rupees (INR) – exchange at the airport or use ATMs inside malls or banks for safety Travel credit cards like Chase Sapphire Reserve often work in hotels and upscale restaurants, but not everywhere — keep cash on hand Tipping is not customary in India — you do not need to tip at restaurants, hotels, or taxis unless you genuinely want to. No one will expect it. Connectivity WiFi is available in most hotels/cafés, but a local SIM is more reliable Google Translate and Google Lens are super helpful for reading signs or menus