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Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Airport (IATA code: BOM) is one of the busiest in India and among the most active in Asia. Located in the suburb of Sahar, about 30 kilometers north of South Mumbai, the airport connects travelers across India and beyond.
Over 50 million passengers pass through the airport every year. It supports both long-haul and regional routes, making it a major transit point for those traveling across cities in India.
Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Airport serves as a key travel hub for passengers connecting between long-distance arrivals and domestic flights. Travelers arriving at the International Terminal often continue their journey by switching to the Domestic Terminal. Understanding how to make this transfer can help avoid delays and confusion.
Siddhesh Mangela on The airport operates two main terminals:
Terminal 2 (T2): Handles all arrivals from outside India. It also supports a range of domestic departures, especially those operated by full-service carriers such as Air India and Vistara. Some low-cost carriers like IndiGo also use this terminal for select domestic flights.
Terminal 1 (T1): This terminal is used for domestic flights, especially those operated by low-cost carriers such as SpiceJet, Go First, and a portion of IndiGo flights.
The two terminals are about 5 kilometers apart and not walkable. Travelers often transfer between them when catching a connecting domestic flight after arriving at T2.
Step-by-Step: From International Terminal to Domestic Terminal
Arrival at Terminal 2
All flights from outside India land at Terminal 2. After landing, passengers go through immigration. Those carrying an e-Tourist visa usually complete this step quickly. Officers at the counters check documents, stamp passports, and direct travelers to the baggage claim.
Once you collect your luggage (unless it is already tagged to your final stop), you move through customs screening. This process includes scanning your bags and answering basic questions.
After customs, you enter the arrivals hall. From here, your next steps depend on the location of your domestic departure.
If Your Domestic Flight Departs from Terminal 2
Some domestic flights depart from Terminal 2, especially those operated by Air India, Vistara, and select IndiGo routes.
In this case, you don’t need to leave the building.
Follow these steps:
1. Look for signs labeled “Domestic Transfers.”
2. Follow the arrows toward the internal transfer point.
3. Go through security again.
4. Head to the gate displayed on your boarding pass or monitor.
If your flights are on the same ticket and baggage is already checked through, this transfer takes about 60–90 minutes. You can find restrooms, snack counters, ATMs, and cafes in the terminal if you have extra time.
If Your Domestic Flight Departs from Terminal 1
Many domestic flights, especially those from budget airlines like SpiceJet or Go First, depart from Terminal 1. This terminal is in a separate location and not accessible by foot.
Getting from T2 to T1
Option 1: Free Airport Shuttle
Shuttle location: Ground level, near the exit of the Arrivals Hall at T2
Runs every: 20–30 minutes, 24 hours a day
Travel time: 15–25 minutes, depending on traffic
The shuttle drops passengers at Terminal 1 directly. Each bus has space for standard luggage. If your baggage includes large or oversized items, staff may ask you to wait for the next shuttle with more space.
The shuttle is the most reliable method for transfer and preferred by most travelers with time to spare.
Option 2: Uber or Ola
You can also book an Uber or Ola ride from the pickup zone outside Terminal 2.
Challenges:
Ride cancellations can happen during peak times
Mumbai traffic may slow you down
Fare is higher compared to the free shuttle
Most app-based rides arrive within 10–15 minutes of booking. If traveling during daylight or in mild traffic, the total transfer time remains close to 30 minutes.
Can You Leave the Airport During the Wait?
If you have a long layover, you might consider stepping outside. But once you leave the airport building, you must go through full screening to come back in. This includes identity checks, bag scans, and possible delays at the gate.
Travelers with layovers under 6 hours usually find it better to stay inside the terminal. Inside, you can:
Use airport Wi-Fi
Visit a café or snack shop
Rest in one of the seating areas
Withdraw money or shop at small outlets
Early-morning travelers have fewer options open, but coffee and snacks become available by 6:00 AM in most parts of the terminal.
Later, they took the shuttle to Terminal 1, checked in, and boarded without issue.
How Much Time Should You Leave for a Transfer?
Allow 1 to 2 hours if your flights are on the same ticket and within the same terminal. If they're on the same ticket but in different terminals, plan for 2 to 3 hours. For separate tickets and different terminals, give yourself 3 to 4 hours
Final Tips for a Smooth Transfer
Always check your terminal before your trip. IndiGo uses both terminals.
Carry snacks or water during longer waits.
Use airport staff if unsure about direction. Most speak basic English and are used to helping with transfer questions.
How Much Time to Allow for Airport Transfers
Keep your documents and ID easy to reach at all times.
Transferring from the International Terminal to the Domestic Terminal at Mumbai Airport is common, especially for those heading to cities like Delhi, Trivandrum, Bengaluru, or Goa. The airport offers clear signs, a regular shuttle service, and trained staff to help. Most travelers complete the transfer without problems when they give themselves enough time and follow the process.
Whether you stay inside Terminal 2 or head across to Terminal 1, a bit of planning goes a long way.
Getting from Mumbai Airport to City Center
There are three ways to get from Mumbai Airport to the city center of Mumbai after you land at Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport, including train, taxi and private transfers. A pre-booked Mumbai Airport transfer option to the city gives you a smooth ride in a private, air-conditioned car without waiting in the taxi line.
Train from Mumbai Airport to City Center
Journey Time: The full trip from Mumbai Airport (CSMIA) to the city center takes about 40 minutes by train.
Key Point: There is no direct train from the airport. To start your trip, travel to either Vile Parle or Andheri station. Vile Parle is about 2.1 km from Terminal 1 and 4.6 km from Terminal 2. Andheri is about 3.6 km from Terminal 1 and 6.1 km from Terminal 2. You can reach either station by taxi, rickshaw, or bus. This ride takes about 20 minutes.
Once you get to the station, take a local train heading toward Marine Lines or Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus. Trains run every 10 minutes and take about 40 minutes to reach the city center. Most services run between 04:00 am and 01:00 am.
Trains in Mumbai get very crowded. The ride can be tough for travelers with large bags or those new to the city.
Train Fare from Mumbai Airport to City Center
The total train fare Fare from Mumbai Airport to City Center is around €1 (INR 80) per person.
Taxi from Mumbai Airport to City Center
Journey Time: The taxi ride from Mumbai Airport (CSMIA) to the city center takes around 60 minutes.
Key Point: Taxis line up outside both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 at Mumbai Airport. They use meters to calculate fares. The cost can rise during night hours or in heavy traffic. You may also find app-based taxi options like Uber or local ride services like Ola Cabs.
Taxi Fare from Mumbai Airport to City Center
The average taxi fare from Mumbai Airport to City Center is around €60. Nighttime rates may be higher.
Mumbai Airport Transfers to Mumbai City Center
Private Transfers at Mumbai Airport International
Mumbai Airport, known officially as Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Airport (CSMIA), serves as one of the largest air travel hubs in India. It has two terminals—Terminal 2 for most international flights and Terminal 1 for many domestic routes. The terminals are about 5 kilometers apart, and traffic in the area can cause delays if not planned in advance. The airport lies in the Sahar area of Mumbai, with easy access to nearby districts like Andheri, Bandra, and Santacruz.
AirportTransfer.com arranges private airport transfers from the International Terminal (T2) to the Domestic Terminal (T1) or any address in the city. A driver waits at your terminal exit with a sign and takes you directly to your destination. You can avoid taxi queues and ride in clean, air-conditioned vehicles without any shared passengers. The ride between terminals is direct, without any stops, and especially helpful for those with tight domestic connections.
You can also book bus rental in Mumbai Airport for transfers between terminals or from the airport to hotels, business addresses, or event locations. AirportTransfer.com also offers door-to-door hotel transfers in Mumbai Airport to hotels close to the airport, including Holiday Inn Mumbai, Taj Santacruz, ITC Maratha, Hilton Mumbai, and The Orchid Hotel.
You can book your transfer in advance through the website or the mobile app, available on AirportTransfer App from the Google Play Store or Airport Taxi Transfer App Store. Free cancellation and full refund are available up to 48 hours before the scheduled transfer.
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