Hubballi and Dharwad are twin cities located in Karnataka, offering a range of transportation options to help you explore both cities. Whether you are traveling by road, bus, train, or taxi, there are multiple options available for visitors. Below is a complete guide to local transportation in Hubballi-Dharwad.
1. Car Rentals
Overview:
- Renting a car in Hubballi-Dharwad gives you the flexibility to explore both cities at your own pace, especially for visiting nearby attractions like temples, forts, lakes, and scenic spots.
- You can hire cars with or without a driver.
How to Rent:
- Online Booking: Websites like Zoomcar, Revv, and Savaari offer car rentals with delivery options to your location.
- Local Car Rental Agencies: You can also find car rental services at Hubballi Railway Station and the airport.
Cost:
- Economy Cars: ₹1,000 – ₹1,500 per day
- Luxury Cars: ₹3,000 – ₹5,000 per day
- With Driver: Additional ₹500 – ₹1,000 per day
2. Buses
Overview:
- Bhopal is well-connected by local bus services, which are operated by the Hubli-Dharwad City Bus Services (Hubli-Dharwad City Link Ltd.). Buses are an affordable way to explore both cities.
- There are frequent bus services between Hubballi and Dharwad and other major areas.
Types of Buses:
- City Buses: Operate within Hubballi-Dharwad, covering key areas like markets, railway stations, and temples.
- Inter-City Buses: Regular buses between Hubballi and Dharwad, as well as to nearby cities like Bangalore and Goa.
How to Use:
- Bus Timetable: You can get the timetable for city buses from the local bus station or through the official city bus service website.
- Bus Ticket: Available at the bus station or from the conductor in the bus.
Cost:
- City Bus Fares: ₹10 – ₹50 per trip (depending on distance)
- Inter-City Buses: ₹100 – ₹300 (depending on the destination)
3. Trains
Overview:
- Hubballi is a major railway hub, and the Hubballi Junction connects the city to many parts of India. The station offers both long-distance and local train services. Dharwad, though not as big as Hubballi, is connected by a small railway station.
How to Use:
- Hubballi Junction: Major hub for trains heading to Bangalore, Mumbai, Pune, and other cities. Trains to Dharwad are available from here.
- Dharwad Railway Station: Offers local train connections to Hubballi, with other trains linking it to nearby cities.
Cost:
- Local Train Fares: ₹30 – ₹100 per trip
- Long-Distance Trains: ₹300 – ₹1,000 (depending on class and distance)
4. Taxis and Auto Rickshaws
Overview:
- Taxis: Available for hire at major points like Hubballi Railway Station, Dharwad, and the airport. They offer a more comfortable and private mode of travel around both cities.
- Auto Rickshaws: Ideal for short distances. They can be hired directly or via apps like Ola and Uber in Hubballi.
How to Use:
- Ola/Uber: These apps are available in Hubballi-Dharwad, allowing easy ride-booking from your mobile device.
- Local Taxis: These can be hired from stations or booked through travel agents. Ensure to agree on the fare before starting the trip.
Cost:
- Auto Rickshaw: ₹20 – ₹100 per trip (depends on distance)
- Taxis: ₹300 – ₹1,500 per day (depending on type and distance)
- Ola/Uber: ₹150 – ₹600 (depending on the ride category)
5. Metro and Local Rail (Upcoming)
Overview:
- Currently, Hubballi-Dharwad does not have a metro system. However, plans for introducing metro and monorail services are being discussed by local authorities for the near future.
How to Use:
- When Available: The local metro will likely operate between key parts of both cities. Details on stations and routes will be available once the system is operational.
6. Private and Shared Cabs
Overview:
- Private Cabs: You can book private cabs for city tours, day trips, and outstation travel.
- Shared Cabs: These are available for budget-friendly travel options to neighboring cities and popular tourist spots.
How to Use:
- Booking: Private and shared cabs can be booked online through apps like Savaari or through local travel agencies.
- Availability: Cabs are available from the airport, bus stations, and railway stations.
Cost:
- Private Cabs: ₹1,500 – ₹4,000 per day (depending on the type and distance)
- Shared Cabs: ₹300 – ₹1,000 per person (depending on the destination)
7. Roads and Cycling
Overview:
- Road Travel: Hubballi and Dharwad are well-connected by good roads, making them easy to explore by car, taxi, or bus. You can also take short road trips to nearby places.
- Cycling: The cities have some cycling rental services, and biking through the scenic routes of both cities can be an exciting experience for tourists.
How to Use:
- Road Travel: The National Highway 67 connects Hubballi to Dharwad and nearby cities. You can hire taxis, use public transport, or rent a car to travel by road.
- Cycling: Several local services offer cycle rentals in both cities, especially around key tourist spots.
Cost:
- Car Rentals: ₹1,000 – ₹5,000 per day
- Cycling Rentals: ₹100 – ₹300 per day
8. Local Bicycles and Rickshaws for Short Rides
Overview:
- Local Bicycles: In some areas, you can rent a bicycle for short trips around the city. It’s an eco-friendly way to explore the streets at your own pace.
- Cycle Rickshaws: Although rare, cycle rickshaws are available for short distances in some parts of the city.
Cost:
- Bicycles: ₹50 – ₹150 per day
- Cycle Rickshaws: ₹30 – ₹100 per trip
Table: Hubballi-Dharwad Local Transportation
| Transportation Mode | Description | Cost Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Car Rentals | Hire a car with or without a driver. | ₹1,000 – ₹5,000 per day | Flexibility, exploring both cities. |
| Buses | Local and inter-city buses connecting areas. | ₹10 – ₹300 per trip | Budget travelers, city and inter-city travel |
| Trains | Local and long-distance trains (Hubballi Junction). | ₹30 – ₹1,000 per trip | Long-distance and local train travel |
| Auto Rickshaws | Ideal for short-distance travel. | ₹20 – ₹100 per trip | Short distances within the city. |
| Taxis | Available for local and day-long travel. | ₹300 – ₹1,500 per day | Comfortable, private travel. |
| Ola/Uber | Ride-hailing apps available in both cities. | ₹150 – ₹600 per trip | Convenient for tourists, private rides. |
| Shared Cabs | Affordable, shared ride options for outstation. | ₹300 – ₹1,000 per person | Budget travelers, group travel. |
| Cycling | Rent a bike for a leisurely tour. | ₹100 – ₹300 per day | Eco-friendly exploration. |
| Local Bicycles | Rental bikes available for short distances. | ₹50 – ₹150 per day | Casual rides around the city. |
Conclusion
Hubballi-Dharwad offers a variety of transportation options catering to all budgets and travel preferences. Whether you’re traveling by car, bus, or taxi, you’ll find it easy to explore these twin cities and their surroundings. For a more eco-friendly approach, renting a bicycle or using public transport is an excellent way to navigate through the cities. Enjoy your time in Hubballi-Dharwad!