How to pay for Mumbai Metro in 2026 — smart card, token, UPI payments, and tips for using Line 1 and Line 3.
How to Get the Mumbai Metro Smart Card
Buy at any Mumbai Metro station ticket counter or customer service centre. ₹50 deposit (refundable) + minimum ₹100 credit. Also top up at station machines via UPI, Rupay, Visa, or Mastercard.
Mumbai Metro Smart Card Benefits
- 10% discount on all metro fares vs token purchase.
- Faster entry — just tap the card, no token queue.
- Refundable ₹50 deposit when returned at station counters.
- Works across all Mumbai Metro lines (unified card for newer lines).
- Can be topped up via UPI at station machines.
Fare Reference (INR)
Payment methods: Mumbai Metro Smart Card · Token (paper ticket) · UPI (QR at machines) · Rupay/Visa/Mastercard at machines.
💡 The Mumbai Metro Smart Card (₹50 deposit + ₹100 minimum balance) gives a 10% discount on fares and is faster than buying a token each time. Available at metro station counters.
| Journey | Off-Peak (INR) | Peak (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| 0–3 km | ₹10 | ₹10 |
| 3–12 km | ₹20 | ₹20 |
| 12–18 km | ₹30 | ₹30 |
| 18–24 km | ₹40 | ₹40 |
| 24–30 km | ₹50 | ₹50 |
| 30+ km | ₹60 | ₹60 |
Peak hours: No peak surcharge — flat distance-based fares at all times.
Mumbai Metro Smart Card vs Single-Journey Ticket
| Mumbai Metro Smart Card | Single-Journey Token / Ticket | |
|---|---|---|
| Fare benefit | 10% discount on all metro fares vs token purchase. | Standard full fare |
| Queue time | Tap and go — no queue | Buy at machine each time |
| Initial cost | ₹50 | Journey cost only |
| Works on all lines | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes |
| Best for | Anyone staying 2+ days | Single one-off journey |
Tips for Mumbai Metro Visitors
- The Smart Card pays for itself after just a few journeys — always recommended over tokens.
- Use the Mumbai app or UPI at station machines for instant top-ups.
- Keep your card balance above the minimum before peak-hour travel to avoid delays.
- The Smart Card works for the airport connection — check the airport guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use UPI (GPay, PhonePe, Paytm) for Mumbai Metro?
Yes — Mumbai Metro machines accept UPI QR payments for top-ups and some lines accept UPI QR code tickets at gates. This is the most convenient option for Indian visitors with UPI apps. Scan the QR at the machine, choose your trip, and get a QR code ticket.
Is the smart card the same for Line 1 and Line 3?
Line 1 (MMRDA) and newer lines (MMRC) originally used separate systems, but unification is underway. As of 2026, a common smart card works on most lines. Ask at the station counter for the latest status as integration continues.
How do I get a refund on my Mumbai Metro smart card?
Return to any Mumbai Metro customer service centre. Present the card and your ID. The ₹50 deposit plus remaining balance is refunded. The process takes a few minutes. No minimum balance required for refund.
Are there day passes or travel cards for Mumbai Metro?
Day passes are not widely available on Mumbai Metro as of 2026 — the distance-based fares are very low (₹10–₹60) making individual fares economical. A smart card with the 10% discount is the best-value option for most visitors.
See also: Mumbai Metro ticket prices · Airport connection · Full Mumbai Metro guide
Source: Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation (MMRC) & MMRDA. Fares and card terms subject to change — verify before travel.