Mumbai is a fast-paced city known for its towering skyline, buzzing streets, and the glitz of Bollywood. But if you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle, there are plenty of beautiful places near Mumbai to explore. Just a short drive away, you’ll find peaceful spots with stunning views, rich culture, and plenty of opportunities to unwind. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, these nearby destinations offer something for everyone. Let’s dive into some of the best places to visit near Mumbai.
Looking for a quick break from the hustle and bustle of Mumbai? Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat, a taste of nature, or an adventure-filled weekend, there are plenty of weekend getaway places near Mumbai that cater to every kind of traveller. These destinations are just a few hours’ drive away, making them perfect for a quick escape from the city.
For those in need of some peace and fresh air, Khandala, Matheran, and Lonavala are popular hill stations located in the Western Ghats. These scenic spots offer lush greenery, cool weather, and stunning views of valleys and hills. You can take long walks, enjoy a peaceful picnic, or simply relax and enjoy the natural surroundings. Matheran, in particular, is unique as it is a vehicle-free hill station, making it a perfect place for those seeking peace.
If you’re craving coastal beauty, Alibaug and Jawhar are great choices. Alibaug, with its serene beaches and historical forts, is ideal for a relaxing weekend. Don’t miss a visit to Kolaba Fort, located just off the coast. Jawhar, on the other hand, is known for its scenic waterfalls, tribal culture, and rich history. It’s a great place to unwind while immersing yourself in nature and local heritage.
Lonavala, just a 2-hour drive from Mumbai, is an ideal weekend getaway for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Surrounded by lush green hills, it offers scenic spots like Tiger’s Leap, Bhushi Dam, and Lion’s Point. You can enjoy short treks, peaceful walks, and cool weather. The famous Rajmachi Fort offers a glimpse of the region’s history, while the cascading waterfalls during the monsoon make it even more enchanting. Don’t forget to try Lonavala’s famous chikki. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing break or some outdoor fun, Lonavala is the perfect escape from the city.
Best Time to Visit: October to May
Distance from Mumbai: 83 km
Khandala is an alluring hill station in Western Ghats, offering breathtaking views and cool weather. The present time is ideal for visiting Khandala, known for its green hills, and Metros D, which cater to those looking to escape the city rush. Trekkers and photographers visit these stunning mountain ranges and valleys visible from the Duke’s Nose viewpoint to capture the beauty and surroundings. This is one of the best places to visit near Mumbai. It is rich in flora and fauna and has numerous picturesque trekking paths. Visitors can enjoy the climate by participating in paragliding and rock climbing activities.
Distance from Mumbai: 83 km
Of all the hill stations in India, Matheran is considered the most beautiful and is one of the top offbeat places near Mumbai. This distinction means no vehicles are allowed in the town, preserving its peaceful atmosphere. Travellers can walk along the narrow toy train tracks to reach scenic spots like Panorama Point and Charlotte Lake. The contrasting rich red soil amid dense greenery provides a refreshing escape from the city’s concrete jungles. Additionally, horse riding here offers a delightful way to explore the area, while numerous vantage points ensure that sunsets are consistently breathtaking.
Distance from Mumbai: 95 km
Alibaug is a beautiful town situated along the western coastline of India, renowned for its sandy beaches and historic forts. The coastline, adorned with swaying palm trees, offers a peaceful, relaxing environment. With its stunning sunset views, Alibaug Beach is a sight to behold. Nearby, Kolaba Fort can be accessed during low tide, giving visitors a glimpse into the region’s historical significance. For water sports enthusiasts, opportunities for jet skiing and banana boat rides are readily available. The local seafood, known for its exquisite flavours, enhances Alibaug’s culinary appeal, making it a prime tourist attraction near Mumbai.
Distance from Mumbai: 121 km
Igatpuri is known for its stunning views and calm environment. This hill station is a paradise for trekkers and offers several trails, including the challenging trek to Bhatsa River Valley. The famous Vipassana International Academy attracts visitors and tourists seeking meditation and peace. The lush hills and calm lakes make it an ideal destination for a peaceful retreat. The local flora and fauna add to the area’s biodiversity, making it an excellent spot for birdwatching and nature walks.
Distance from Mumbai: 83 km
Lonavala is a popular hill station known for its misty mountains and dense green valleys. Famous for its chikki (a sweet snack), this getaway destination near Mumbai offers beautiful viewpoints like Lion’s Point and Tiger’s Leap. The surrounding area is dotted with caves, lakes, and waterfalls, providing ample opportunities for exploration and relaxation. The cool climate and breathtaking scenery make it a favourite among Mumbaikars.
Distance from Mumbai: 60 km
Pandavkada Falls is a beautiful waterfall cascading down from about 107 metres in the heart of Kharghar. It is an ideal weekend getaway from Mumbai, and it is a spot for picnics and nature walks surrounded by lush greenery. The falls are most spectacular during the monsoon season, providing a picturesque setting for photography. The nearby Kharghar Hills also offer trekking opportunities. Additionally,
Distance from Mumbai: 145 km
Jawhar is one of Maharashtra’s offbeat places near Mumbai, and it is known for its natural beauty and rich tribal heritage. Nestled within the Western Ghats, this hill station features numerous waterfalls and dense forests. History enthusiasts will appreciate the historical significance of the Jai Vilas Palace and its surrounding hills. The local Warli art adds a cultural touch, enhancing the visitor experience. Additionally, the breathtaking landscapes provide excellent opportunities for photography, especially during sunset when the vibrant colours illuminate the forested hills and green valleys, creating unforgettable moments.
Distance from Mumbai: 165 km
Bhandardara village is a perfect tourist destination because of its lakes and waterfalls. The calm, clear water of Arthur Lake is ideal for boating and picnics; on the other hand, the exciting Randha Falls, however beautiful, is a bit of looking into the wild. The region also has aged Ratangad Fort, an adventurous trekking destination offering 360-degree views at the summit. The peace and greenery around the area make it a perfect place to unwind. Moreover, the annual flowering of the area poses a spectacular view, which is why nature walks and pictures are abundant in this environment.
Distance from Mumbai: 70 km
Karjat is a quaint town known for its dense greenery and trekking trails. It is one of the best places near Mumbai for adventure enthusiasts, offering numerous hiking opportunities, including the popular Bhivpuri Waterfalls trek. The town is also home to ancient temples and forts, making it culturally rich. You can enjoy a peaceful getaway while exploring this charming town’s natural beauty. Furthermore, the scenic beauty of the monsoon season attracts many visitors who enjoy the sight of cascading waterfalls and vibrant landscapes.
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Ans: The preferable means to get to any of these locations is by road since most of their places are easily reachable from Mumbai. Various means you could use include car rentals, taxi hiring, or state and commercial buses. Especially places like Alibaug, a boat from Mumbai is also available.
Ans: Popular places for camping include Bhandardara, Lonavala and Karjat. These sites have an alluring environment with lakes and hills and an open atmosphere where one can do camping.
Ans: Yes, some destinations like Jawhar have a lot of cultural significance and you can take part in tribal festivals as well as experience Warli art. There are also beach festivals and other events in Alibaug especially during the peak tourist season.
Ans: Yes, many of these destinations are family-friendly and offer activities suitable for all age groups. For example, Alibaug and Lonavala are great for beach and nature activities, while Khandala and Matheran offer scenic spots and relaxed environments ideal for families.
Ans: Yes, you can visit these places in the monsoon season. Most of these places have a beautiful view in the monsoon season for instance, Pandavkada Falls, Karjat and Bhandardara are one of these, as this is when more waterfalls are flowing and the scenery is greener. But checking weather and road conditions in case of very strong rain is important.
Ans: Yes, most popular tourist spots near Mumbai, such as Lonavala and Alibaug, offer parking, though it can get crowded during peak times.
