Khadki Railway Station

Khadki Railway Station Pune: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Comprehensive Travel Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction: Khadki Railway Station and Its Significance

Khadki Railway Station, located approximately 6 kilometers from Pune Junction, is a crucial suburban and intercity transit hub in Pune, Maharashtra. Serving the northern suburbs and the historically significant Khadki Cantonment area, it facilitates seamless connectivity along the Mumbai–Pune railway corridor and immerses visitors in Pune’s colonial and military heritage. Established during the British Raj and closely linked to the 1817 Battle of Khadki, the station has evolved from a strategic military outpost into a modern passenger hub catering to commuters, tourists, and long-distance travelers.

This detailed guide covers all aspects of visiting Khadki Railway Station—from operational hours and ticketing options to accessibility features, ongoing infrastructure upgrades, and integration with Pune’s expanding transport network, including the upcoming metro connectivity. Additionally, it highlights nearby cultural and historical attractions, offering a holistic experience for all types of visitors.

For the latest information on train schedules, ticketing, and station amenities, consult official sources such as the Indian Railways website and the Pune Metro Rail Project. Digital platforms like the IRCTC booking portal and mobile apps provide real-time updates and ensure a convenient travel experience.

Welcome to Khadki Railway Station: Your Gateway to Pune’s History and Connectivity
Visiting Hours and Ticket Information
Accessibility and Travel Tips
Historical Background and Strategic Significance
- Colonial Origins and Early Development
- Military and Strategic Importance
Exploring Khadki and Nearby Attractions
Architectural and Urban Planning Highlights
Station Infrastructure and Passenger Facilities
Facilities and Connectivity
Travel Tips for Visitors
Ongoing Infrastructure Upgrades
Traffic Decongestion and Urban Mobility Improvements
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Visuals and Media
Conclusion
Call to Action
References

Welcome to Khadki Railway Station: History Meets Connectivity

Strategically located just 6 km from Pune Junction, Khadki Railway Station is not just a transportation hub but also a living testament to Pune’s rich colonial and military past. It is ideal for daily commuters, history enthusiasts, and tourists eager to explore Pune’s storied landscape.

Visiting Hours and Ticket Information

Operational Timings:

Station Access: 24 hours a day
Ticket Counters: 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Automated Ticket Vending Machines (ATVMs): Available round the clock

Ticketing Options:

At the Station: Manual counters and ATVMs for both reserved and unreserved tickets
Online: Book reserved tickets via IRCTC, UTS mobile app, and other official platforms

Fares:

Local train tickets are economical, ideal for daily commutes on the Pune–Lonavala route.
Long-distance and reserved tickets are priced as per Indian Railways tariffs.

Tip: Use digital platforms for ticketing during peak hours to avoid queues.

Accessibility and Travel Tips

For Differently-Abled Passengers:
Ramps, tactile paving, accessible restrooms, and designated seating are available.
Parking:
Secure parking for two-wheelers and four-wheelers is located near the main entrance.
Transfers:
PMPML buses, auto-rickshaws, and taxis provide seamless last-mile connectivity.
Travel Advisory:
Arrive 30 minutes before departure during peak times. Use official foot overbridges and stay alert to platform announcements.

Historical Background and Strategic Significance

Colonial Origins and Early Development

Founded during the British Raj, Khadki (formerly Kirkee) Railway Station was integral to the British military strategy. The adjacent Khadki Cantonment was established after the 1817 Battle of Khadki—a pivotal event in the Third Anglo-Maratha War. The station, constructed in the late 19th century as part of the Great Indian Peninsula Railway, was initially conceived to support military logistics between Mumbai, Pune, and beyond.

Military and Strategic Importance

Khadki played a significant role as a British military base—facilitating troop movements and ammunition transport, especially during both World Wars. Today, it remains important for the Indian Army, hosting the Central Ordnance Depot and Ammunition Factory Khadki, both of which depend on rail connectivity.

Exploring Khadki and Nearby Attractions

Multimodal Transport Hub

Khadki’s integration with the Mumbai–Pune mainline and the Pune–Lonavala suburban line positions it as a vital transit point. The upcoming Pune Metro will further enhance accessibility.

Historical and Cultural Sites

Khadki War Cemetery:
A tranquil memorial maintained by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, honoring World War soldiers.
Khadki Cantonment Area:
Explore colonial-era bungalows, parade grounds, and historic churches.
Aga Khan Palace:
A landmark in India’s freedom movement, located about 5 km away.
Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum:
Displays a vast collection of art and artifacts, approximately 6 km from the station.

Special Events and Guided Tours

Military parades and public cultural festivals occasionally take place in the cantonment area. Check with Pune tourism offices for historical walking tours focused on Khadki’s military legacy.

Architectural and Urban Planning Highlights

Khadki Railway Station marries colonial and industrial design elements, with robust platforms, metallic structures, and tree-lined avenues reflecting its cantonment heritage. The layout is optimized for efficient passenger movement and moderate crowds.

Station Infrastructure and Passenger Facilities

Platforms:
Six platforms (with recent expansions) connected by a pedestrian overbridge
Waiting Areas:
Covered seating and a sheltered waiting room for reserved ticket holders
Amenities:
Clean drinking water, restrooms, food stalls, and kiosks
Security:
CCTV surveillance, Railway Protection Force (RPF), and Government Railway Police (GRP) ensure safety
Accessibility:
Inclusive design, ramps, tactile paving, and accessible restrooms

Facilities and Connectivity

Parking:
Secure parking for vehicles beside the main entrance
Last-Mile Options:
Auto-rickshaw and taxi stands, PMPML bus routes to major city hubs
Rail Connectivity:
Frequent local and express trains (Pune–Lonavala locals, Deccan Express, Indrayani Express)
Metro Connectivity:
Khadki Metro Station (Line 1) is set to launch by January 2025, adjacent to the railway station
Taxi and App-Based Services:
Ola, Uber, and local taxis operate from designated stands

Ongoing Infrastructure Upgrades

Under the Indian Railways’ Amrit Bharat Station Scheme (ABSS), Khadki is expanding from three to six platforms, upgrading waiting areas, signage, lighting, and accessibility features. These upgrades are designed to boost operational efficiency and passenger comfort.

Traffic Decongestion and Urban Mobility Improvements

The Khadki Railway Underpass is being widened to double its capacity, easing traffic flow between neighborhoods like Aundh and Bopodi. This project—coordinated by the Khadki Cantonment Board, Pune Municipal Corporation, and Indian Railways—demonstrates a commitment to urban mobility solutions.

Travel Tips for Visitors

Use digital ticketing to avoid queues
Arrive early during peak hours
Watch digital display boards for platform updates
Carry personal hygiene supplies; amenities are basic
Plan for potential footbridge congestion if you have mobility concerns
Explore nearby markets for food and shopping

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What are Khadki Railway Station’s operational hours?
A: The station is open 24/7; ticket counters operate from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM.

Q: How can I buy tickets?
A: Use manual counters, ATVMs at the station, or online platforms like IRCTC and the UTS app.

Q: Is Khadki accessible for differently-abled passengers?
A: Yes, with ramps, tactile paving, and accessible restrooms.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: No guided tours are offered at the station itself, but local tourism offices may organize heritage walks in the area.

Q: What are the best attractions nearby?
A: Khadki War Cemetery, Khadki Cantonment, Aga Khan Palace, Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum, Bund Garden, and Vetal Tekdi.

Q: How do I reach Pune International Airport from Khadki?
A: Taxi and auto rickshaw services are readily available; the airport is about 10–12 km away.

Visuals and Media

For a richer visitor experience, interactive maps, virtual tours, and high-quality images are available on Pune tourism and Indian Railways sites. Use descriptive alt tags such as “Khadki Railway Station entrance,” “CAFVD Sports Stadium near Khadki,” and “Map showing Khadki Railway Station connectivity in Pune” for accessibility and SEO.

Conclusion

Khadki Railway Station embodies the convergence of historical legacy and modern transit infrastructure in Pune. Its evolution from a British military logistics hub to a bustling suburban and intercity station is marked by ongoing enhancements, including expanded platforms, upgraded amenities, and integration with the Pune Metro. Its strategic location offers travelers efficient connectivity and access to some of Pune’s most notable historical and cultural attractions.

For the best experience, stay informed using official sources like the Indian Railways portal and the Pune Metro Rail Project website. Download the Audiala mobile app for real-time train updates, ticket bookings, and curated travel insights.

Call to Action

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