Mumbai- the ‘City of Dreams’: High-rise buildings, bustling streets and bound by the Arabian Sea! However, the hectic work schedule, traffic woes and loud chaos of the city is bound to get to you.
The best way to recover?
Planning a weekend getaway!
From the lush greens of Mahabaleshwar to the sprawling vineyards of Nasik, Mumbai is blessed with neighbouring serene and picturesque locations to help you escape the routine drudgery.
25 Best Weekend Getaways From Mumbai
- Karjat
- Kashid
- Lonavala
- Nasik
- Mahabaleshwar
- Panchgani
- Matheran
- Alibaug
- Karnala Bird Sanctuary
- Kamshet
- Raigad
- Igatpuri
- Kolad
- Malshej Ghat
- Murud Janjira
- Jawhar
- Bhandardara
- Silvasa
- Daman
- Bhimashanka
- Khandala
- Amboli
- Tarkarli
- Kolhapur
- Mahad
1. Karjat– 62.9 km
Tucked away in the lush green Western Ghats, Karjat is one of the most popular weekend destinations from Mumbai. Known for its scenic panoramic view, ancient caves, temples and forts, it is an ideal place for you to rejuvenate.
Adventure lovers can give their getaway a spin by trekking their way to the famous attractions like Chanderi Fort, Matheran or Peth Fort. You can also enjoy water sports like river rafting and parasailing in Ulhas River.
If you are a history enthusiast, make sure you include a visit to Kondana Caves in your itinerary. First discovered in 1-century, these caves have been gaining traction among travellers. The main highlight of the Kondana Caves is intricate carvings of the Buddhist architecture and Buddhist teachings.
Best Time: Round the year
What to Eat: There are a number of eateries as soon as you enter the town and you will get all sorts of food item here like toasts and eggs, rice with vegetables and there are a number of non- vegetarian restaurants as well which sell good fish.
What to buy: The streets here are filled with local people who sell local, handmade products. You can get wooden and stone sculptures and they make for great gifts.
2. Kashid – 125. 5 km
This quaint Konkan beach town lying on the shores of the Arabian Sea is a welcome change from the city chaos. Clear skies and white sands are Kashid’s prime attractions.
Take a walk on the Kashid Beach, as puffs of wind rustle the leaves of casuarinas trees. Enjoy jet-skiing or surfing in the waters of the Arabian Sea or take a ferry ride across the sea to reach Alibaug.
Other popular attractions are Revdanda Fort and Beach. The ruins of the ancient Portuguese Revdanda Fort now bloom with wild vegetation, yet the cannon holes in the fort walls bordering the sea are a quick reminder of its history. Its historic charm coupled with the beauty of the Revdanda Beach makes it a must-visit site in Kashid.
If you are a bird lover and wildlife enthusiast looking for a tryst with nature, do visit the Phansad Bird Sanctuary. The sanctuary houses many avian species, amphibians, and mammals. Unknown to most travelers, the sanctuary lends peace and serenity. So, enjoy a stroll through the park, breathing in the mild musty fragrance of the rich foliage and hearing the twitter of birds echoing through the sanctuary.
Best Time: November to April
What to Eat: There are restaurants selling both vegetarian and non- vegetarian food and there are snacks stalls here are very refreshing, though they are often not allowed inside the sanctuaries.
What to buy: You can buy books on birds and aviation and you will love the handmade items sold in the shops lining the streets of the town.
3. Lonavala- 83.1 km
Remember “Aati kya Khandala”? Well, Khandala is the heart of Mumbaikars. This hill station nestled in Sahyadri Hills offers an alluring experience to the visitors. Surrounded by dense forests and waterfalls, Lonavala is the place to be if you seek a quiet getaway in the lap of nature.
Hike to Tiger’s point and Lion’s point for a beautiful panoramic view of the valley. Trek to the historic Rajmachi Fort to explore the ancient fortress. In the evening, take a stroll along Tungarli Lake or relax amidst the rich floral gardens in the Ryewood Park.
If history excites you, a visit to Karla and Bhaja Caves is a must. Dating back to 160 century B.C., the Bhaja Caves are 22 rock cut caves, existing since an ancient Buddhist phase while the Karla Caves is the largest temple of the Hinayana Buddhist period in India.
Best Time: October to April
What to Eat: Since it is a tourist town, there is no dearth of decent eateries here. The restaurants serve all kinds of popular food but the coffee here is good. There are confectionery and sweet shops here as well.
What to buy: You can buy small statues and figures of Buddha and others inspired by the figures in the cave.
4. Nasik- 166.2 km
From sprawling vineyards to exotic temples, Nasik offers a refreshing sojourn to all travelers.
Carry your picnic baskets to the milky white Dudhsagar falls that are bestowed with a scenic beauty apt for a postcard. Explore the 1-century rock-cut caves of Pandav Leni, placed on Trivashmi Hills. For the sheer brilliance of their architecture and spiritual ambiance, visit the Kapileshwara Temple and Trimbakeshwar Temple.
Wine lovers can enjoy a tour of Sula Vineyards and relax over a glass of Rosé.
Best time: Round the year
What to Buy: Do buy some of the local wine for your home from the vineyards. They will also make for some lovely gifts.
What to Eat: The food here is wonderful as many people visit Nasik in huge numbers and the restaurants sell everything from Chinese, Indian, continental and Mughlai food.
5. Mahabaleshwar – 231.2 km
With magnificent cascades, manicured lush forests and majestic peaks, Mahabaleshwar is a hill station famous for its captivating beauty. Head here for a revitalizing experience. Go boating in the blue waters of Venna Lake as dense foliage of trees surrounds you. The beauty of Mahabaleshwar lies in its scenic views. Head to Arthur’s Seat Point, Echo Point, Wilson Point or Bombay Point for a breathtaking view. A visit to Mahabaleshwar is incomplete without witnessing the cascading Chinaman’s fall, flanked by rich gardens.
Make sure you collect some souvenirs for friends and family from the Mahabaleshwar market.
Best time: Round the year
What to Buy: All kinds of trinkets and souvenirs can be got from the market, especially jewelry made from semi-precious stones
What to Eat: The place is a haven for traditional Maharashtrian food and they are prepared by locals with great delight.
Explore Hotels in Mahabaleshwar
6. Panchgani – 244.1 km
Picturesque backdrop of hills on one side, coastal plains on the other and strawberry fields galore make Panchgani a mesmerizing weekend resort.
The city is home to Table Land, the second highest table top mountain in Asia and Bollywood’s favourite shooting spot. Go for horse riding here and enjoy the splendid view of the valley.
Treat your taste buds to refreshing strawberries and fruit produce at the one of a kind Mapro Gardens. Shop for marmalades, squashes and fruit cocktails here.
Another site worth a visit, especially for the connoisseurs of art is the Devrai Art Village. This non-profit initiative is aimed at promoting arts. The village is inhabited by craftsmen from disturbed areas of Gadchiroli and Chattisgarh. These artists are skilled in fusing and making amalgams of different materials like iron, brass, stone, wood, bamboo and fabric.
Rajpuri Caves, Parsi Point and Sydney Point are among other key attractions of Panchgani. The town was a British favorite in the early 1900s. Once you visit you will know exactly why!
Best time: October to April
What to Buy: You will get handcraft items like carpets, doormats, and table linen. The fabric painted items here are a special draw.
What to Eat: You will love the upma that is cooked in some of the stalls here. Dahi Vada and kachoris are popular snacks that practically every stall sells.
7. Matheran- 42.5 km
Situated at a height of 2516 feet above sea level, Matheran is naturally abundant with picturesque landscapes and pristine hills nestled in tranquil surroundings.
Escape to this bountiful destination for a day trip with your friends and family. While at Matheran, do not forget to experience the Neral-Matheran toy train ride if you want to experience a tryst with the natural beauty closely.
What to Eat: There are cafes selling all kinds of food like sandwiches, pav bhaji, filter coffee, pagodas and parties with an assortment of vegetables.
What to buy: There are a number of souvenir shops here from where you will be able to pick up knickknacks for your home.
The best time to visit here is from October to May.
8. Alibaug- 95 km
If you love beaches, Alibaug won’t disappoint you. Take a ferry ride or drive your car to Alibaug and experience the rich ancient history here.
This is the perfect weekend gateway for people who love adventure and are up for outdoor activities. You can visit Nagaon beach, Underi, Kankneshwar temple, Kihim beach, Vikram Vinayak temple, and Hirakot fort.
Best time: October to July is the best time to visit this destination.
What to Eat: You will love the food from the shacks by the beach and if you come to stay in a homestay, then you will get to enjoy authentic Maharashtrian food as well.
What to buy: The beach stalls are a wonderful place to shop slippers and coir items. The items sold here are most sustainable and eco-friendly.
9. Karnala Bird Sanctuary- 47.3 km
It is located on the Mumbai – Goa highway. Visitors often pick this place to relax, unwind and rejuvenate.
Home to over 150 bird species, it is also a perfect location for trekkers. The best time to visit is from October to April. Visit the sanctuary with family and friends on a pleasant morning and discover the various species of birds.
Nominal entry fee of INR 30 for adults and INR 15 for kids makes it an interesting place to visit.
Best Time: October to March
What to Eat: There are a few restaurants and canteens inside the park and food is not generally allowed from outside due to littering. You will get poha and rajma and a number of snacks here.
What to buy: You can buy books on birds and wildlife from the sanctuary office.
Within 50 to 100 km
10. Kamshet – 110 km
Once you’ve explored Khandala-Lonavala, drive 16 kilometres further to explore another interesting spot – Kamshet, a popular destination among the paragliding community.
During the peak season, Kamshet invite a lot of travellers from across the city. Other than paragliding you can also visit Raikar farm, Karla caves, Bhairi cave, Bedsa caves, and Vadivali Lake.
Best time: The best time to visit is from October to May.
What to Eat: The tourists here especially head for the stalls by the bus stands that sell sandwiches and vada pavs. You will also come across stalls selling noodles and magi.
What to buy: You must visit the local markets for wooden jewelry and hand spun carpets and linen.
11. Raigad- 169.2 km
If you are considering a quick 2-day trip near Mumbai with family, then Raigad could be next best choice. Enjoy hiking, trekking, and cable car ride along with exploring the Raigad Fort.
Situated at a height of 2700-feet above the sea level, you can take the cable car to reach the fort or else climb up 1,737 stairs. The choice is yours! It is an ideal destination to visit with family. Children love to explore the fort owing to its historical magnificence.
Along with the Raigad fort, don’t forget to visit the Raigad museum too, your kids will love it. The best time to visit is from September to November.
Best time: The best time to visit is from September to November.
What to Buy: The streets and shops mostly sell trinkets here but you can pick up handmade slippers and chappals as well. There are also tea shops that sell good blend of tea.
What to Eat: The food here is mostly Maharashtrain and South Indian and you can get an assortment of dishes here.
12. Igatpuri – 120. 7 km
Igatpuri lies amidst the beautiful Western Ghats. It is known for its picturesque beauty. The minimal arduous trekking route is breath-taking.
People from across the city travel here to visit the famous Vipassana meditation centre. It is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Mumbai.
Visit this place from June to September and from November to March. Other sightseeing options include Trigalwadi Fort, Dhammagiri, Kalsubai Peak, Camel Valley, and Bhatsa River Valley.
Best time: Visit this place from June to September and from November to March.
What to Eat: You will love some of the products that are sold in the meditation centers like handmade soaps and organic oils. They will make for great gift items and you will carry some goodness back home with you.
What to buy: The food here is mostly made from local produce and there are both vegetarian and non- vegetarian fare to be enjoyed.
13. Kolad- 121. 8 km
Another interesting place for you to enjoy an enthralling weekend is Kolad. If you love rafting, boating, rappelling, kayaking, and hiking, then this is just the right place for you.
This quaint little village offers an array of adventurous activities for the daredevils. Come here with friends and create experiences of a lifetime. Kolad is not only popular for the vivid outdoor activities but is also famous for several waterfalls and the scenic beauty. Best time to visit is from June to February.
In addition to this, Kolad offers the best weekend resorts near Mumbai too. Stay here, have fun, and create memories. Don’t forget to visit Kuda Caves, Kundalika River, Kansai Falls, and Tamhini Falls.
Best time: October to April
What to Eat: The samosas and pav bhajis here are very famous. You will also love the chaats that are sold in the streets along with cotton candies and sweets.
What to buy: Statues and figures of animals are very famous which are made from wood and stones. You can also buy small, stone made jewelry.
14. Malshej Ghats – 126. 7 km
Set off on a long drive with your best company to Mahshej Ghat. The perfect romantic weekend getaways begin from here. Mahshej Ghat is blessed with flora and fauna in abundance.
Visit this destination from July to September to experience the majestic Siberian migratory birds. If you are looking for a 2-day getaway hub, then, Malshej Ghat must feature as the top pick in your list.
You can walk along the ghats, enjoy bird watching, and experience trekking and paragliding too. There are lots of options to choose from that engages partners at the same time in addition to spending some quality time together. Don’t miss the Shivneri Fort, Mahshej Falls, Pimpalgaon Joga Dam, and Shivneri Fort.
Best time: October to March
What to Eat: There are cafes selling all kinds food like sandwiches, pav bhaji, filter coffee, pakodas and parthas with an assortment of vegetables.
What to buy: There are a number of souvenir shops here from where you will be able to pick up knickknacks for your home.
150 km to 200 km
15. Murud Janjira- 158.6 km
Amidst a small village “Murud”, stands a majestic fort names Murud-Janjira. If you love history and are always looking for spots that have the essence of the past, then Murud-Janjira is the place for you.
It is said that no one could conquer this fort in any of the battles. The architecture of this fort is worth visiting. The best time to visit is from October to March and this place is popular for sightseeing, horse riding and the obvious fort exploring.
What to Buy: The local shops here sell junk jewelry and household stuff mostly and they are reasonably priced.
What to Eat: Indulge in masala chai and fritters of all kinds, especially during the monsoons. There are also shacks selling parathas and pani puris.
16. Jawhar- 160.7 km
Young couples, group of friends or small families can beat the city stress by visiting to this beautiful weekend getaway near Mumbai – Jawhar. The quaint location, rich cultural background and home of the famous Warli tribe are some of the key highlights of this place.
Warli tribe is famous for its painting and traditional craft and art. This is one place which attracts tourists not only from the city but across the globe. The best time to visit is from September to April, it is 155 kilometres away from Mumbai and ideal weekend duration is for two days. You can visit Jai Sagar Dam, Kal Mandvi, Dabhosa Waterfalls, Jai Vilas Palace, Bhopatgad, Shirpamal, and Hanuman Point.
Best time: Round the Year
What to Buy: You can buy traditional art and craft pieces like lamp shades, carpets, linen and household items from the locals.
What to Eat: The region will give you a wonderful taste of rustic food, made from fresh ingredients and they can be enjoyed at the town markets.
17. Bhandardara- 165.3 km
Bhandaradara offers a relaxed weekend to all travellers. People from across the city travel here quite often.
The lush green environment and picture-perfect moments capture every traveller’s heart with joy. You can visit Bhandardara Lake, Wilson Dam, Randha Falls, Arthur Lake, Sandhan Valley, and Agastya Rishi Ashram.
The distance from Mumbai to Bhandardara is 165 kilometres. You can plan for a two day stay here. Indulge yourself in adventurous activities like trekking, and cycling.
Best time: September to February
What to Buy: You will find a number of items like handmade soaps and candles at some of the shops. The fresh flowers and nuts are bought by most visitors.
What to Eat: Gorge on the local food like chapatti and parathas made by locals with an assortment of vegetables. The fruit juices here are to die for.
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18. Silvassa- 173.1 km
Silvassa is the capital of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and is famous for being the best weekend destinations for tourists.
Come here to experience the authentic and rich Portuguese experience. Silvassa has Roman Catholic population in quite a significant number. This is one of the other reasons why people make a plan to visit here.
It is just 167 kilometres away from Mumbai. You can visit Silvassa from November to March. Book a stay at some of the best weekend resorts near Mumbai and stay here for 2 days. Places that you can visit here are Dadra Park, Balaji temple, Vrindavan temple, and Ban Ganga Lake. It’s popular for boating, motorbiking, shopping, and water sports.
Best time: Round the year
What to Buy: You can buy trendy scarves and stoles from the markets here, and costume jewelry is also quite famous. Silver jewelry with semi precious stones can be found as well.
What to Eat: You will get an assortment of local food but the restaurants that sell Portuguese inspired food are a special draw. The dinners here are great with Portuguese music playing in the background.
19. Daman- 177 km
Daman is a beautiful tourist spot to visit with your friends and family. You can make a 2-day trip to Daman and spend some quality time with your family.
Daman was once filled with Portuguese families. It continues to echo the charm and essence of that era. Spend a good time with your partner while walking along the seashore. Church of Bom Jesus is also a must visit spot. It is 171 kilometres away from the main city.
Best time to visit is from October to April. Don’t forget to visit Jampore Beach, Moti Daman, Devka Beach, Somnath Mahadev Temple, and Nani Daman. You can try paragliding and basking on the beach too.
Best time: October to April
What to Buy: You will find all the standards items that are sold in beach shops, though the bags and footwear are a special draw.
What to Eat: The coffee here is very good and the confectionary and sweet shops are quite famous. Some shops will offer special packaging if you want to carry them home.
20. Bhimashankar – 216. 8 km
Jyotirlinga Temple has made Bhimashankar a popular religious attraction. Devotees from across the nation visit here to take a look at the elaborate carvings. It’s beautiful and the surroundings make Bhimashankar a must visit destination.
This place is also popular for its wildlife reserve. Bring in your family and kids and stay here for 2-3 days. The best time to visit is from August to February. You can explore the Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary by taking a tour on a Wildlife safari.
Best time: August to February
What to Buy: Do buy the booklets that will prove to be quite informative when you want to know about the various birds and bees here.
What to Eat: The Prasad from the temple is a must try, and do not miss it even if you have to wait in the cue for some time.
21. Khandala – 79. 7 km
The enthralling beauty of Khandala attracts tourists from Mumbai in each year during weekends. A lush green landscape is the main highlight of the region which is further enriched by history. It is also widely known for the number of treks that this little place has. Khandala is a haven for the nature lovers and adrenaline adventurers alike.
Best time: Round the year
What to Eat: Khandala will not let you down with its variety of food choices. There are stalls lining the streets and the pakoras here are a must-try.
What to buy: The stalls here are mostly well known for buying trinkets of all kinds. There are lampshades to be picked up that are made by craftsmen around the villages.
Within 100 km to 150 km
Note:
It is 82 Km from Mumbai
Some of the special attractions are Rajmachi Fort, Bhushi Lake, Valvan Dam, Shooting point and Reversing station.
22. Amboli – 489 km
The beauty of the place as small as Amboli valley is in the romantic essence that it has been blessed with. The combination of the cascading waterfalls and the majesty of hills in this little town makes it a most preferred place to go for a weekend getaway near Mumbai.
Other than the tranquillity of this place, it is a perfect escape from the scorching temperatures of south-western India during summer and the monsoon seasons.
Best time: Round the year
What to Buy: You will love the knickknacks that have a distinct South Indian feel to them and they will make quite an eclectic mix in your bag.
What to Eat: The food here is a mixture of Maharashtrian and South Indian cuisine which is why it is very distinctive in taste.
Note:
Amboli is 290 Km away from Mumbai.
You must checkout Madhavgarh Fort, Nagatta Falls, Parikshit Point, Hiran Yakeshi Temple and Kawaleshlet Valley when in Amboli.
23. Tarkarli – 529 km
Tarkarli is a beautiful place comprising a fort and a sea. It is the main highlight of this region, whereas the serenity is an additional benefit of visiting this quaint town. The romanticism of Tarkarli is further adorned by the architectural history of the place. Additionally, the availability of the few water sports like snorkelling and scuba diving make this place a great destination for a weekend trip.
Best time: October to May
What to Buy: The wonderful clothes here have a very marine feel to it and they are great for resort wear. Jewelry made from shells are also very much preferred.
What to Eat: Do not miss out the fresh sea food from the shacks by the beach and coconut water mocktails are very delicious.
Note:
It is 490 km from Mumbai
When in Tarkarli, you must try Snorkelling, Scuba Diving, Bison National Park, Parasailing, Tarkarli Beach, Dolphin Spotting and Sindhudurg Fort.
24. Kolhapur
Kolhapur is one of those cities that boasts of a rich heritage and a vibrant display of culture. Popular for its local cuisine and its wide collection of footwear, Kolhapur proves to be a perfect getaway destination for more than one reasons. The temples and the museums of this town further enhance the importance of this place, making it a must-visit destination.
Best time: Round the year
What to Buy: All kind of knickknacks that you need for your home. The spices here are good and some of the saree shops store high quality silk sarees.
What to Eat: You will love the delicious poha and upma sold here and the locals also sell rajma chawal and other snack items.
Note:
It is 376 km away from Mumbai.
You must visit Mahalaxmi Temple, Rankala Lake, Temlabai Mandir, Jyotiba Temple, and Shri Chhatrapati Shahu Museum.
25. Mahad – 170 km
It is yet another wonderful option for spending a weekend far from the maddening crowd of Mumbai. Mahad is located at a short distance of 163 km from the city. It is no less than a little heaven that is blessed with several sightseeing spots. The main attractions of the place are owed to the perfect combination of the historic forts and temples in the lap of the lush green region.
Note:
It is 169 km away from Mumbai.
Gandhar Pale Buddhist caves and Lingana
Best time: Round the year
What to Buy: All the knickknacks of house like linen, cutlery and especially spices are to be found here. However, you might have to out your bargaining skills to good use.
What to Eat: You will get a wide range of food items here, made from fresh produce like cauliflour, carrots and eggplants. You will also get some Tibetan food, inspired from the Buddhist caves around.
Above 200 km
Doesn’t that already nudge the traveller’s nerve in you? So, what are you waiting for? Pack you backpacks and get ready to hit the road to add the much needed zest to your weekends!
P.s. You might like these related resources:
- You Can’t Afford To Miss These Places When Planning a Visit to Mumbai
- Visit Mumbai’s famous places- The City That Never Sleeps
- Visit these unmissable Historical places if you are travelling to Mumbai
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