Well, do go through this compilation on some weekend getaways from Mumbai. A short trip is all that you need to do away with the stress and load of your workplace. While it might be difficult to get the entire family together for a short weekend trip, it must be done. With each member facing different issues and tensions, it is important for bonding at a location far from home. I have compiled the perfect list of places near Mumbai that you can consider for your next weekend trip.
Mumbai is the commercial capital of India and is a lovely, cheerful city on the banks of the Arabian Sea. It is a part of the Western Ghats but more than that it is a place surrounded by a number of famous tourist attractions and some which are not very famous also. Weekend retreats are a great way to unwind and relax. While most of us will agree that a break from one is required from time to time, the thought of traveling too far can put one off. However, what about some places that are close to Mumbai but yet far enough so as to not be disturbed by the city life? Your family would appreciate it if you gave them a little weekend vacation just to break the monotony of everyday life. Well, to help you in this regard we have come up with a list of options that qualify as weekend getaways from Mumbai.
Known for almost everything famous, who knew Mumbai has its fair share of holidaying spots just as much? Once you’re tired of going to the Gateway of India every Saturday for a visit, choose one of these weekend spots from Mumbai every month, so your camera never sits alone on the shelf. Predominantly chosen in a way to benefit you, all these places are pocket friendly and high on what you call nothing but pure traveling.
The city that never sleeps could be giving you sleepless nights. Work deadlines and the daily commute bogging you down? There are a few proximate weekend spots to ease the strain.
The best way to beat a stressful week is to de-stress at a nearby location far from the madding crowd. There are some pretty cool weekend places you can choose from. If you are a resident of Mumbai and already aware of the more popular places, here is a list of those along with some lesser known destinations as weekend getaways from Mumbai.
1. Mandwa -
If you are look for weekend getaways from Mumbai that are proximate to the city, make the journey to Mandwa. It is here that one can try sea kayaking. The Mandwa beach makes it possible for families to get their feet wet with their array of water sports. This once sleepy village is now a hub for water sports. You can also try the variety of seafood on offer. With so much to do, there will never be a dull moment. There are a number of living options with guesthouses, tents and other places to live. Enjoy the peace and calm that beaches offer.
A place that has wowed visitors whenever they came to the place (multiple times you see), Mandwa is a beach lovers sweet spot. Not too long ago, this place was a quaint little fishing village that was developed in to a holiday destination. If all this interests you there is much more in store. Water sports, fishing, long walks, it truly is relaxation rolled up in a weekend trip here. The place is economical and plenty of guest houses provide fooding and lodging facilities. Now that everything is taken care of, what are you still waiting for? Get along to Mandwa. Mandwa, is a beach that never fails to catch ones attention! An ideal place for water sports, what was once a sleepy fishing village has now turned into a hub for those who love water sports. Private companies organize adventure t trips and activities for those who come by with the intention of shaking off the stress. There are many guesthouses that one can stay at so get those swimming trunks ready and head to Mandwa.
2. Tarkarli -
Tarkarli beach is known for its blue waters and white sand. If the entire family wants to just relax for the weekend, this is the place for you. When in Tarkarli, one must also try Malvani cuisine, which makes good use of seafood available in the area. The beach is situated in the Konkan coast, a short distance from Mumbai. The star attraction is the narrow and pristine beach. The 17th-century Singhudurg Fort, is also proximate and can be reached by ferry. If you are looking for a place less heard off, then Tarkarli in the area of Malvan in Maharashtra is where you need to be at.
Its natural surroundings, golden beaches come as a refreshing a peaceful break, away from the fast-paced life in the city of Mumbai. Famous tourist spots here in the Dhamapur Lake, the Archra Beach, the backwaters of Karli and the famous Shri Shivchhatrapati Temple. The food in this part of India is simply delicious and Tarkarli is known for its awesome pickles. So be sure to take some back with you. The place is best visited from October to March and one is reminded to carry their cameras along so as to get some very picturesque clicks. You are sure to thank us for including this place on my list of weekend getaways from Mumbai.
3. Gokarna -
There are a number of popular beaches at Gokarna. The entire family can take a cool stroll to any of them during the day. One can find a host of beach shacks, budget hotels and resorts that are pocket-friendly. The popular beaches here are Om beach and Half-moon and Paradise beach. The beaches are clean with large trees providing shade from the direct rays of the sun. The coastal cuisine is really good. Most of the eateries also have live music in the evenings. One also has the option of taking a crash course in Yoga. For those that want to fit in a little shopping, the local markets provide a few good bargains. This beach destination is among the best weekend getaways from Mumbai.
4. Matheran -
Matheran is one of the most in-demand places near Mumbai. This beautiful hill station offers stunning views of the plains. If you get the chance, you must make the journey to Hart Point at night. It offers a stunning view of Mumbai. The British-Parsi architecture is also something that might catch your fancy. Take the short trip to Charlotte Lake for a little shopping.
5. Panchgani -
This stunning hill station will offer the entire family a beautiful view of Krishna River as well as the plains. The old colonial architecture, Parsi homes, and boarding lodges will take you back in time. The best views are from Table Land, a flat mountain peak which looks down at the plains. The local bazaar also offers some local artefacts.
6. Jawhar -
This is a tribal hill station and a very less known place very close to Mumbai. The Jai Vilas Palace here is the main attraction here and was once built by the tribal kings of this region. This place does not need a lot of money to spend and thus can be visited at any time of the year. Go inside the palace and check out the ancient items and paintings including those bearing the famous Worli Art form. The Hanuman Point nearby is a place from where you get an awesome view of the whole hill station filled with natural beauty.
7. Bordi -
This is a nearby beach station and the beach is here very beautiful. Apart from the beach there are also a number of lakes formed by the Ashavari and Chepduri Dams. The beach is surrounded by beautiful lines of Chiku Trees. When you are here do not forget to buy a lot of Chikus and other items such as powder and pickles made from fresh chikus. The market here also offers fresh fish such as surmai, pomphret, Bombay duck, etc. The best time to visit this place is from June to December.
8. Malshej Ghat -
Very close to the main city of Mumbai, this is a place of extreme natural beauty in the form of hills, waterfalls and green valleys. These make this place a part an important part of the list of weekend getaways from Mumbai. You can stay here at the MTDC Hotel and enjoy spectacular views of the ghat waters rising during the monsoon. Malshej is also known for the variety of birds and flowers which can be best viewed from the Harishchandgragad Point.
9. Bandardhara -
The best views of the Bandardhara Lake and the Randha Waterfall can be enjoyed from this place. The lake was formed when the Wilson Dam was being constructed over the Pravara River. The waters when left from the dam form narrow rivulets here. Though not in a very good condition, a walking tour is worth here. The other times you can spend angling the sides of the dam. The Ratnagad fort is a nearby attraction from Bandardhara.
10. Lonar -
This is a crater which is said to have been formed long ago when a large meteorite crashed on the earth forming this crater. This is now however a trekkers’ destination and one of the best weekend getaways from Mumbai. Trek route is quite difficult for new trekkers. It is a slippery way with an undulating terrain. The steps you see here are artificial and tend to crumble away very easily. As you get successful to enter the crater, you can visit the temples of Renukadevi, Ganapati, Daityasudana and Gaimukh. Legends also say that Emperor Akbar used to bath with soaps made from the green waters of this crater cum lake.
11. Kolad -
Just about 100 kilometeres away from Mumbai is the village of Kolad. Lying on the banks of the River Kundalika, Kolad offers one a great rafting experience. Midway, between Panvel and Goa on the National Highway 17, this is one place to visit for a weekend of camping and adventure sports. The river has a number of rapids and make for a thrilling rafting adventure. Experience water activities at their best when in Kolad. River rafting, kayaking and boating are the main attractions of this scenic village. Paragliding, hiking, rappelling and camping in its jungles contribute to the rest of its adventurous allure. This place is located off the banks of the Kundalika River and is just 100 kilometers away from the city.
This little village called Kolad is the place to go to if one wants to ho rafting. It likes halfway between Panvel and Goa and makes for an exciting weekend. So here we are, concluding the article with this great place on my list of weekend getaways from Mumbai. This beautiful weekend spot is located on the eastern edge of the mighty Kundalike River. If you want to connect with the nature around you, opt for river rafting. The scenic landscape and cascading waterfalls paints a scenic picture. This location is perfect for you to take your family. One can also undertake trekking and climbing here. Kolad is definitely among the best weekend getaways from Mumbai.
12. Savarkut -
Savarkut village, about 130 kilometers away from Mumbai and is yet another place that makes it to the list of weekend getaways from Mumbai. This place is resplendent with water activities as it is situated on the banks of Vaitarna River. White water rafting, boating, kayaking and water rappelling are some of the sports that this place offers. You will soon forget the worries of your city life when yu step on the soil here.
13. Silvassa -
Silvassa is a beautiful getaway option around 167 kilometres away from Mumbai. The place happens to be a Union Territory of India and is the capital of the Dadra and Nagar Haveli. It was once called Vila de Paco d’Arcos when the Portuguese made their presence felt in the country. It was once a small village but now is filled with industries and is a town of its own. If you decide to visit the place, the Roman Catholic Church just off the Silvassa bus stand is a great monument to visit. Its museum, the Madhuban dam and Balaji Temple are great tourist attractions. Apart from that, the Dadra park,Ban Ganga Lake and Vrindaban temple offer great sightseeing options. One must sample the cuisine here that has held on to its Portuguese influence. It is an honour for us to include this place on my list of weekend getaways from Mumbai.
This place serves its purpose of being one of the top spots on this list of weekend getaways from Mumbai. Adorned with Portuguese architecture, the Catholic Church is a standing testimony of their work. Formerly known as Vile de Paco d’Acros, this place now stands as a Union Territory of India and is the capital for Dadra and Nagar Haveli. You can visit the Dadra park, the Balaji temple and many more tourist spots here. So it would be wise to take a short trip to this place, gorge on Portuguese cuisine and relax all day long.
14. Igatpuri -
About 120 kilometres away from Mumbai city, is Igatpuri that is to be found in Nashik, the wine capital of India. This is a beautiful hill station that provides a great escape option for those in need of that much needed break. If you are stressed out, the Dhamma Giri Meditation Centre here is the right place for you to relax and connect with your inner self. The Ghatandevi temple is popular with the locals and you may want to pay it a visit. For backpackers, Igatpuri offers a number of treks, ziplining, camping and other such adventure sports. The place should be visited anytime between June to September and then again from November to March. It is with much pride that we include this place of my list of weekend getaways from Mumbai.
Located at a distance of 120 kilometers away from the city of Mumbai, this place in Nashik is famous around the country for its wines. Yes, Igatpuri is known as the wine capital of India and produces some of the best wines in the country. Apart from this brewing activity, Igatpuri is a great escape and provides a plethora of options that help relax one. Try yoga at the Dhamma Giri Meditation centre or visit the Ghatandevi temple for a spiritual refreshing. If you are up for adventure, try trekking or camping out. Locals say that the best time to be here is around the month of November to March, so plan accordingly. Your weekend trip is sure to be fun and relaxation at its best.
15. Revdanda -
Just 125 kms away from Mumbai in the lesser known village of Alibaug is this quiet and quaint beachside getaway. Not yet driven by commercialization, you can revel in the solitude beauty of Revdanda Beach. Enjoy water and beach sports during the day and camp by its lakeside at night with a bonfire and barbeque to complete the picture.
Revdanda Beach lies around 125 kilometres away from the bustling city of Mumbai and is home to the beautiful place Alibaug. A less frequented beach, this place is ideal for a quiet getaway as it lies untouched by concretization. The place offers one a peaceful night of lakeside star gazing, making of a bonfire and roasting a meal, water sports and to sum it all up, fun away from the city. It is this place that will help you unwind. A beach that is lesser known is the Revdanda that is about 125 kilometeres away from the heart of Bollywood city – Mumbai. The place is less crowded and thus is the perfect place to get away to on the weekend. You will enjoy the prospect of gazing up into the night sky by a beautiful lake or camping in tents and building a bonfire to cook ones meals.
This place is tailored made by nature to help sooth frayed nerves and give people a great place to come back to time and again. It is only fair that we include this place on my list of weekend getaways from Mumbai. You will sure rave about this place to others once you have visited it. Do give it a try. Revdanda is among the more proximate places near Mumbai. It is around 125km from the heart of the city. This tiny village will ensure you get much-needed peace and quiet. Revdanda Beach is one of the secluded beaches near Mumbai. It has avoided the changes that commercialization can bring. Nature is at its best here.
16. Dehna -
The ladies, especially those who love to cook and feed others and as well as those men who fancy rustling up dishes will surely like this place – Dehna. Close to the forested area of the Western Ghats, this getaway spot is a welcome relief from the pollution of the city. If one is to plan their trip well, one can get the permission to work on a farm here and get some hands on experience of rural India. The stalls at the local market here let one grind their own chilies and spices and if a bonfire is on your mind then you can get involved in the chopping and gathering of wood to build one. The places of tourist interest here is the Valmiki Ashram and a power project that was built by the villagers at a cost of a whopping 3,500 INR. When here, don’t forget to eat the ‘Bhakharh,’ a chapatti that is made from rice and chutney of chilies.
17. Junnar -
Junnar is another winner when it comes to weekend getaways from Mumbai. The place is serene and thus offers one a time to relax and be one with nature and enjoy the blessings it bestows. This historical city at the foothills of the Sahyadri Range is home to the Shivneri Fort and a weekly vegetable market is the most happening event here that draws tourists from all across the country to visit the place. At Junnar one can get involved in milking a cow at daybreak for one’s own benefit (milk tea or coffee) and then go about picking from the freshest of vegetables for one’s daytime meal. Enjoy watching the locals dance during the night time as they try to appease the local deity or Devi. One must pay a visit to this place sometime to enjoy the best of what Mother Earth has given to us.
18. Lonavla -
This hill resort offers a refreshing change of scenery. Just a three hour road trip from Mumbai it is a popular weekend getaway abuzz with adventuresome activities from trekking, camping and waterfall rappelling. Monsoon is the best time to see this hill station come alive. A place made very popular by Bollywood is Khandala and Lonavla, twin hill resorts that are about 93 kilometres away from the city along the Mumbai-Pune Expressway. These two places stand 5 kilometres apart from each other and offer one adventures like trekking, camping under the skies, tour’s of the various farm houses that dot the place and water rappelling. The Korigad Fort is a great monument that stands here and so are the caves, Bhaja, Lohgad, the Tiger’s leap and Karla. It would also be fun to get a glimpse of the Duke’s Nose, a cliff that resembles the nose of the Duke of Wellington and aptly named after him.
19. Karnala -
At an hour’s distance from Mumbai, Karnala makes those shorts breaks from Mumbai possible. The Karnala Fort holds the greatest attraction next to the Karnala Bird Sanctuary. Bird lovers will love this place for its mixed variety of resident, migratory and certain other rare species of birds.
20. Karjat -
Spread across the Sahayadri mountain range and the Western Ghats, Karjat is a teeming expanse of natural beauty. Adventure activities like trekking, hiking, river rafting and mountain climbing have turned Karjat into a popular tourist destination. The city also boasts of the largest chain of farm houses in Asia. Monsoons are the best time to indulge in water sports while other seasons also call for a great time of fun leisure.
21. Alibag -
For those who like revisiting history Alibag is a fantastic holiday site. Of the many places of interest Kulaba Fort is the most visited, its charm lying in the fact that it is situated 1-2 kms inside the sea and is accessible during low tide. Alibag’s beaches are another wave of attraction and not far behind is the Phansad wildlife sanctuary, a treat for wildlife lovers. If you are looking to really relax during your short getaway from Mumbai, Alibag is just the place for you. It can be reached by road or by a ferry from the Gateway of India in South Mumbai. If you are a history buff, this holiday site is home to an old fort which was built during Shivaji’s rule. Alibag truly is among the sought after weekend getaways from Mumbai.
22. Kamshet -
At a 100 kms distance in Maharashtra’s Pune district, Kamshet offers one of the most pleasing short breaks from Mumbai. Mud houses and thatched roofs set amidst beautiful sunflower and paddy fields give the place its rural charm. Of all the activities one can indulge in, paragliding is the craze with paragliding sessions being held throughout the year.
23. Palghar -
Palghar with its less crowded streets and inviting atmosphere is the ideal destination just to relax and unwind. The Kelva dam in Palghar presents a great spot for picnicking with the family as does its soft sandy beaches.
24. Mudathon, Nashik -
If you are looking for an adrenaline rush, Mudathon in Nashik is the place to visit. You can choose to expend your energy by letting yourself loose by participating in water games. You could also relax and unwind near the pool. Sometimes, a little fun is needed to relax. Some of the places near Mumbai can be worth the trip.
25. Rajmachi -
One of the better known historical spot in Maharashtra, Rajmachi Fort is best visited during the winter. The place has an easy charm which will resonate with visitors. It comes as a relief to be disconnected from the crowd. A trek to the fort is quite exciting. The views from the top are quite spectacular! The age-old history of the fort should be appreciated. The natural beauty that one gets to witness throughout the trek will leave you with memories for a lifetime.
26. Maval -
The bucolic charm of the Sahyadri Ranges and the Western Ghats is on full display in this Pune village. It is among the best destinations away from Mumbai as it offers a great escape for people stressed by work. Divided into a number of sub-divisions, the experience it offers is unmatched.
27. Hampi -
Hampi has risen to the top among the list of quick travel destinations in the recent years. Known for the abundant cave temples, the detailed carvings on them are noticeably flawless. One can just stare and admire the intricacy for hours. Cut out of a single rock are the four temples called ‘Badami’- meaning the color of almonds in colloquial term. It is an ideal picnic spot with river Tungabhadra flowing and boating facilities available during seasons. There are well figured statues of Nataraja in front of Cave 1 and Lord Vishnu guarding cave 3, only adding to the extravagance. If some time away is what you’re seeking, Hampi will not fail your zeal.
28. Malvan -
If one fine morning you suddenly decide to check out the internet about weekend spots from Mumbai, look no further than Malvan. Ideal for unplanned getaways, Malvan has a long list of facilities to charm you with. First off, there’s scuba diving, which might come as a surprise to many. 600 kms away from Mumbai, Malvan has more of a serene feel detached from the busiest hub of India. Based in the Sindhugarh district, it isn’t much developed yet, but that’s what the advantage here is. With the clean backwaters, the corals will leave you captivated. Water sports are plenty, though most of them similar to the ones at Goa. Tsunami Island nearby is a leading crowd-gainer with its switching invisibility mode. It is reported to be visible with low tide and the waters own it when the tide is high. If scuba diving has got all your attention up, it’s time to start packing away!
29. Kaas Plateau -
Listed as a biodiversity site by UNESCO, Kaas Plateau is paradise on Earth with its natural volcanic soil, which is home to more than 850 species of plants among which 600 yield flowers. 40 of these are only Kaas exclusive, so that’s viable reason for you to choose this as a weekend spot from Mumbai. Drive straight towards the Mumbai-Pune highway an soon the beauty around will grasp you in a compelling approach. The road to the plateau itself is colorful enough with the range of flowers lying everywhere. Best time to visit would be any where between End August to November.
30. Khandala -
Khandala is a bang on spectacle in itself. Just 81.5 kms from Mumbai, it is located at bhor ghat, the only known link between Deccan plateau and the Konkan plain. Often chosen for hiking, Khandala has more to it than its mysterious foggy hills and high rising terrain. A complete package for an entertaining vacation, this place will keep you fun-filled throughout. Best when visited during monsoons you ought to take time out for the water laden Bhushi and Lonavala dams. It might get a little crowded, but meeting new people who are just as keen to escape the busy lifestyle of Mumbai can be a gripping experience.
31. Ratangar -
A major advantage being both train and road open communications; Ratangar is the final entry on this list of vacation destinations on a homesick weekend. About 200 kms away from Mumbai, it has mountains all around- and a perfect trekking spot hence. Nedhe, Amruteshwar temple and Ratangar Khutta are the places to visit that attract the tourists here. Local restaurants offer delicious Maharastrian thalis all round the year here, so fooding won’t be a concern despite being a hill station. It might get foggy and windy, so don’t forget to pack in light woolens.
Who doesn’t like a road trip? If you have an extended weekend off from work, head out onto the open roads. There are few places proximate to Mumbai which are perfect for a short road trip.
32. Mumbai - Mahabaleshwar - Kaas Plateau -
Mahabaleshwar makes for a great weekend getaway. It is around a 5-6 hour drive and one would have to drive on the Mumbai-Pune expressway. Kaas Plateau of Flowers is located around 40kms from Mahabaleshwar and is worth the visit especially during the monsoon. This road trip will help take the tension off your mind and these are among the best places near Mumbai to visit.
33. Mumbai - Ganpatipule - Ratnagiri – Tarkarli -
The drive from Mumbai to Ganpatipule is exhilarating. You will feel like you’re on vacation as soon as you drive through the stretch. The best route to take from Mumbia is via Panvel - Khed and Chiplun. The road is not too bad but it can get a little rough during the monsoon. The Ganpatipule-Ratnagiri region is home to some of the best beaches in Maharashtra, giving Goa tough competition. Tarkarli around 150kms from Ratnagiri and is great for water sports enthusiasts.
34. Mumbai - Malshej Ghat - Ajanta Caves - Lonar Crater -
The journey from Mumbai to Malshej Ghat is around 130km. Those 3-4 hours that you will spend in the car is worth is. Malshej Ghat is a quaint hill station in the Western Ghats, perfect for a weekend off in the midst of nature. If you want, take a trip to Ajanta caves which is around 330km from Malshej ghat via Aurangabad. You must make a visit to Lonar Crater. This beautiful lake was formed by a meteorite strike. It can be accessed by a short hike. Who said there are a dearth of places near Mumbai to visit?
35. Mumbai - Amboli – Goa -
No weekend plan is ever complete without adding Goa to the mix. However, before reaching the beach destination, stop over at Amboli. The drive past the area offers some incredible views which lead to the Amboli waterfall. Goa is just around 100km from Amboli. If you want a little adventure, visit Ganpatipule beach while on your way back from Goa.
36. Mumbai - Vadodra - Ahmedabad - Bhuj - Kutch -
This road trip might seem a little daunting. Don’t be scared, it is doable. The NH-8 will make it possible. The journey from Mumbai to Ahmedabad will take a day. If you want, you can also make a visit to Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park located near Vadodra. This is the best time to undertake this road trip.
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You should probably take a trip to some place far and enjoy the weekend. We know that you are a workaholic but at times it is necessary for one to stop what they are doing, go on a little vacation, and come back thoroughly refreshed. That is exactly what we want from you so here is a list of all the places to visit near Mumbai. These places near Mumbai will cut you off from the city. There is something for the entire family to do in each of the places. It is time to start planning a trip. Life in the faced paced city of Mumbai can take its toll on one’s health. Therefore, as prescribes, “Prevention is better than cure.” Take out time from that ever so busy schedule and plan a weekend away from all the hustle and bustle. Well, here is where we come in to the picture. We know that you don’t have that much time to do all the searching so we have come up with a list that makes mention of the best weekend getaways from Mumbai. Take a look. You may as well end up spending the weekend at one of our suggestions.
When the stress of work and life itself gets to you, all you need is a short weekend break to shake it all off. If you live or work in Mumbai all the more reason to pack your bags. There are plenty of places to visit around Mumbai and you don’t need an extended holiday for it. With just a few kms separating you from these idyllic weekend destinations you don’t have to think twice. Just pack your bags and go wherever the road leads you. Mumbai city can get a little overwhelming at times. The traffic jams and rush hour at the train stations can be a nuisance. This weekend, take a short road trip to get away from it all. It will do you a world of good.