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Places to Visit near Mumbai

Situated on the banks of Kundalika River, Kolad has become popular as one of the places to visit near Mumbai and is known as Maharashtra’s white-water rafting capital. Whether you are a solo traveler or like planning vacations with family and friends, this tiny village is an ideal holiday place near Mumbai.

Kolad railway station is a landmark as it is the first station on the Konkan Railway line. Participate in various adventure sports or spend some ‘me-time’ in nature’s lap, you are sure to return to Kolad for more. Be sure to make an advance booking for white water rafting so that you don’t return disappointed.

Distance from Mumbai: 122 kms

Best Time to Visit: June to March

Attractions: Tamhini Ghat Waterfall, Ghosala Fort, Sutarwadi Lake, Devkund Waterfalls, Bhira Dam

Activities: Kundalika River White Water Rafting, Kayaking, Jet Skiing, Plus Valley Trek, Riverside Camping

Type of destination: Adventure Sports

Ideal Weekend Duration: 1 day

Check out: Places for River Rafting near Mumbai

One of the most popular weekend getaways near Mumbai, Lonavala city is the perfect balance of history and modernity. With ancient Buddhist caves on one side and modern adventure parks on the other side, this quaint hill station has something for everyone.

For those with a sweet tooth, don’t forget to try the wide variety of chikki (hard candy). You can even get some packed for home. Lonavala is host to INS Shivaji, the Indian Navy’s technical training Institute. So close to Mumbai, Lonavala gets its own share of stardom. The house of Big Boss Malayalam 1 was set up on an undisclosed estate in Lonavala.

Distance from Mumbai: 89 kms

Best time to visit: October to May

Attractions: Tiger’s Leap, Bushi Dam, Lonavala Lake, Lohagad Fort, Karla Caves

Activities: Adventure sports at Della Adventure Park, Bhimashankar Trek, Tikona Fort Trek, Picnic at Ryewood Park

Type of destination: Hill station

Ideal Weekend Duration: 2 Days

Also Checkout: Mice Tourism

Nestled in the Pune district of Maharashtra, Kamshet is one of the most crowd-pleasing weekend getaways from Mumbai. It is situated at a distance of 16 km from the twin hill stations of Khandala and Lonavla. The natural beauty of the surroundings of Kamshet and the charming little villages that comprise of houses made of mud and thatched roofs hold a special allure for travelers from all over the country and the world. The nearest railhead is the Kamshet railway station which runs parallel to the river Indrayani. The hills along this route have a number of ancient cave temples, colonial hill stations, and hill fortresses.

Another prominent setting for the spot is Shelar, which is situated at a distance of just 8 km from the highway. It offers the perfect conditions for thermal paragliding and soaring. Paragliders can take off from 175 feet or more because of the perfect landscape. The Kondeshwara Cliff is ideal for those who have enough experience to take on tough challenges. It is situated at a distance of 20 km from Kamshet and tourists can take off from a height of 2200 feet and soar above the breath-taking landscape of this beautiful destination.

Kamshet is perfect for ridge and thermal soaring and is ideal for basic, intermediate and cross-country paragliding expeditions. Tourists can happily soar over the picturesque Pawna Lake and glide over the beautiful scenery of the region. Due to the popularity of paragliding in the region, Kamshet is also known as the ‘Paraglider’s Paradise'. There are several places of interest such as the Karla Caves, Bedsa Caves, the Bhaja Caves, and the Kondeshwar Temple. This is one of the best places to visit near Mumbai.

Distance from Mumbai: 102 kms

Best Time to Visit: October-May

Attractions: Kondeshwar temple, Karla Caves, Bedsa Caves, Bhairi cave, Bhandar dongar, Vadivali Lake, Uksan Dam, Raikar Farm

Activities: Paragliding, Rock Climbing, Trekking, Boating, Swimming, Angling

Type of Destination: Adventure Activities, Hiking

Ideal Weekend Duration: 1 day

Where to stay: 10 Amazing Resorts in Kamshet

Popular for its beaches and parties, this former Portuguese colony, Goa has much more to offer. From old forts and churches that boast of the rich Portuguese history to flea markets for beautiful souvenirs and knick-knacks, Goa is an explorer’s delight and it is the perfect weekend getaways near Mumbai.

And for water sport enthusiasts, Goa is god’s gift to mankind. Paragliding, jet-skiing, scuba diving, you name it and Goa’s got it. And then choose to relax at one of the cafes overlooking one of the beaches, serving a variety of delectable seafood.

Distance from Mumbai: 585 kms

Best Time to Visit: November to March

Attractions: Fort Aguada, Candolim Beach, Arambol Beach, Tito’s Street, Palolem Beach, Bom Jesus Basilica, The Church of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception, Chapora Fort, Spice Plantations

Activities: Water Sports at Baga Beach and Calangute Beach, Scuba Diving at Grand Island, Dudhsagar Trek, Shopping at Anjuna Flea Market

Type of destination: Beach 

Ideal Weekend Duration: 4 Days

Where to stay: 45 Best Places to Stay in Goa

Know more: 45 Best Beaches in Goa

When you are heading for Pune then you will definitely want to explore a few other places nearby. Another attraction near Mumbai is Rajmachi Fort which is well known for its architecture.  Rajmachi Fort, an eminent fascination which comprises of two Fort –  Manaranjan and Shrivardhan Forts. Encompassed by a wide level, this fort overlooks the Bor Ghat that was an unmistakable exchange course associating Mumbai and Pune before. This fort is one of the best places to visit near Mumbai and has earned a lot of reputation due to its amazing architecture. 

The fort complex comprises of huge ramparts, strong walls, massive gateways, residential units, water reservoirs, administrative centers and secret gates for the exit. One can also find ancient temples near the antiquated fortress, some of which are even more established than the post itself. Between the two forts lies the temple of Kal Bhairava – the nearby divinity. Ancient Buddhist cave is also thee located d on the western side of the Rajmachi plateau, which was probably carved amid 200 BC.

Distance from Mumbai: 312 kms

Best Time to Visit: During the month of June to September

Activities: A few of the activities which are very famous here are trekking, hiking, and camping

Type of Destination: Trekking, Hiking, Adventure Activities.

Ideal Weekend Duration: 1 Day

Where to Stay: 35 Best Resorts to Stay near Mumbai

Mahabaleshwar, a renowned hill station is located in the Western Ghat Ranges in Maharashtra. This misty place boasts of one of the few evergreen forests in the country. It had once served as the summer capital of the Bombay province during the British era. Situated at an elevation of 1,353 meters, the verdant land is a wide plateau surrounded by valleys on all sides.

The city is the source of the River Krishna that flows across the three states of Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Maharashtra. The highest peak in the ranges has an elevation of 4,721 feet and is known as the Wilson or Sunrise Point.

Mahabaleshwar is a popular hill station near Mumbai. Besides being an important tourist destination, it is also a favorite honeymoon destination and pilgrimage site. The Mahabaleshwar Temple is one of the most popular places in the city. Several visitors visit Mahabaleshwar on their way to Panchgani. The city is also known for its market for strawberries and mulberries. Another major attraction in the city is the Venna Lake. Visitors can enjoy boat rides on the lake or a horse ride next to the lake.

The most notable feature about Mahabaleshwar is the presence of a number of spots in the city which mark the vantage points from where the beauty of the city can be enjoyed the most. There are as many as 14 points in the city and include Arthur’s Seat, Kate’s Point, Needle Hole Point, Wilson Point, the Three Monkey Point, etc.

Arthur’s Seat point has an elevation of 1340 meters and is named after Sir Arthur Mallet. Sir Mallet used to sit at this point and gaze into the River Savitri to which he lost his wife and children in a ferry mishap. Kate’s Point is situated to the east of Mahabaleshwar and is popular among tourists for its view of the two reservoirs of the region – Balakwadi and Dhom.

The Needle Hole Point is a very interesting rock formation and is situated near Kate’s Point. A small hole is formed in the middle of a rock and hence is named so. The Wilson Point is the only point in the city from where both the sunrise and sunset can be viewed. The Three Monkey Point is named so because of three natural stones that resemble Gandhiji’s three monkeys.

Distance from Mumbai: 263 kms

Best Time to Visit: March-June

Attractions: Wilson Point (Sunrise Point), Mumbai Point (Sunset Point), Arthur's Seat, Mahabaleshwar Temple, Babington Point, Kamalgad Fort, Chinaman's Falls, Elephant's Head Point

Activities: Rock Climbing, Trekking & Horse Riding

Type of Destination: Adventure, Family & Kid Friendly

Ideal Weekend Duration: 2 Days

Where to stay: 25 Best Mahabaleshwar Resorts

The town of Karnala is situated at a distance of about 10 km from Panvel. The two major attractions for tourists here are the Karnala Bird Sanctuary and the Karnala Fort. The Karnala Fort is of much historical significance as it overlooked the Bor Pass, which connects the Konkan coast to the interior districts of Maharashtra and it is one of the popular weekend getaways near Mumbai.

The pass was the major trade route of the area. The exact date of construction of the Karnala Fort is not known, but it is believed that the structure predates 1400 CE and was built under the patronage of the Devagiri Yadavas and later under the Tughlaq rulers. The Karnala fort consists of two forts – one at a higher level than the other. In the center of the fort situated on a higher level, there is a watchtower called the Pandu’s tower. The tower also has a water cistern that provides water throughout the year.

The other major attraction of this place is the Karnala Bird Sanctuary. In this protected zone, the fort is situated. The sanctuary is spread over 12.11 square kilometers and is much smaller than the other ones in different parts of the country. It is located near the Sanjay Gandhi National Park and the Tungareshwar Sanctuary and can be easily reached from Mumbai.

Situated at a distance of about 12 km from Panvel, it is best known for its population of birds and hence attracts a large number of bird lovers and bird watching enthusiasts. The sanctuary is home to about 150 species of resident and 37 species of migratory birds making it one of the best places to visit near Mumbai. The reserve also has a number of rare bird species such as Ashy minivet, three toes kingfisher and Malabar Trogon.

Distance from Mumbai: 55 kms

Best Time to Visit: October to April

Activities: Famous for trekking and camping near Mumbai.

Type of Destination: Family, Historical, Kid Friendly.

Ideal Weekend Duration: 1 Day

You may also like: 15 Must-Visit Waterfalls near Mumbai

The city of Karjat sprawls over Bhorghat, Sahayadri and the Western Ghats and the end of the coastal plains of the Konkan region near Deccan. The city has an average elevation of 636 feet and is situated on the banks of the River Ulhas. Besides its natural beauty, Karjat is one of the best places to visit near Mumbai and attracts a lot of tourists because of the innumerable possibilities it offers for adventure sports activities near Mumbai such as river rafting, trekking, hiking, and mountain climbing. During the rainy season, families throng in here for a holiday. 

Several people from the nearby cities of Mumbai, Pune, Thane, etc. have summer homes in Karjat, which are used to celebrate festivals and holidays. One of the major tourist attractions here is Art Director Nitin Chandrakant Desai’s ND Studio. Karjat served as the backdrop for the movie Slumdog Millionaire. Several international production houses such as Twentieth Century Fox, Walt Disney, and DreamWorks are setting up their facilities in this scenic place. The city also has the largest chain of farmhouses in Asia.

Distance from Mumbai: 62 kms

Best Time to Visit: During the monsoons

Attractions: Kondana Caves, Kothaligad (Peth) Fort, Jain Temple, Ulhas Valley, Kondeshwar temple, Bhor Ghat, Bahiri Caves, ND Studios, Blackwaters of Pali Bhutivali Dam

Activities: Trekking, White Water River Rafting, Cave Exploration

Type of Destination: Trekking, Family & Kid Friendly.

Ideal Weekend Duration: 2 Days

Where to stay: 20 Best Karjat Resorts

When you are visiting Mumbai most of you might be wondering which place to visit for that perfect adventure and fun. Get ready to feel the adrenaline rush as you try some of the exhilarating activities in Maval. What could be a better way to spend your weekend than heading out for camping under the starry night sky? Sound’s fun right! Maval is the perfect weekend getaway from Mumbai where you can spend some time with your family and friends. While in Maval head out for some camping as well as some thrilling water activities like rafting, kayaking, etc. 

The word Maval is derived from a Marathi word Maval, which means in the direction of the sunsets. This district is towards the west of  Pune range. With its hilly landscape and soothing views travelers from far and wide comes to visit this place. Another interesting thing about this region is that there are lots of forts found here.

Distance from Mumbai: 73 kms

Best time to visit: During the month of October and May

Activities: Camping, Rafting, Kayaking, Fort Exploration etc

Type of Destination: Trekking, Hiking, Friends and Family Getaway

Ideal Weekend Duration: 1 Day

Another destination near Mumbai which is a great place to spend some time with nature is Durshet. Durshet is a little town found on the banks of the Amba River, settled in the Sahyadri scopes of Maharashtra. Since it is close to Mumbai and Pune it serves as the weekend getaway for individuals to move far from the swarmed urban communities. It is one of the best places for trekking near Mumbai.

It is a village that can be found between the Ganesh temple of Pali and Mahad and is recently off the interstate close to the town of Khopoli. It is generally critical place as it filled in as a front line when Shivaji Maharaj battled Kartalab Khan for Umbarkhind in the late 1600s. It is one of the 169 towns of the Pen Block of Raigarh region. This is one of the best places to visit near Mumbai so head out to this wonderful destination to witness the beauty of nature. The vast greenery and the scenic views make it all more amazing as you head out for sightseeing.

Distance from Mumbai: 76 kms

Best Time to Visit: During the month of September to February

Attractions: Ganesh Temple, Amba River

Activities: While you visiting Durshet indulge in some activities like trekking, hiking, rafting, kayaking

Type of Destination: Trekking, Hiking, Friends and Family Getaway

Ideal Weekend Duration: 2 days

Check out: Top 20 Places for One Day Outing near Mumbai

Matheran is a celebrated hill station and a great weekend getaway from Mumbai. It is situated in the Karjat tehsil of Maharashtra and is also the smallest hill station in India. Situated in the lush green Western Ghats, the elevation of the region is around 80 m above sea level, at a distance of 90 km from Mumbai and 120 km from Pune and it is one of the amazing tourist places near Mumbai.

The name of the place means ‘forest on the forehead.’ Matheran has been declared as an eco-sensitive region by the Ministry of Environment and Forests and is Asia’s only automobile free hill station.

There are several viewpoints in this dream-like place and the most visited and is one of the best places to visit near Mumbai among them is the Panorama Point which provides a 360-degree view of the surrounding area and the Neral town. Amazing views of sunset and sunrise can also be enjoyed here. Another point called the Louisa Point offers a stunning view of the Prabal Fort. The other important points include the One Tree Hill Point, Hart Point, Monkey Point, Porcupine Point, Rambagh Point, etc

Matheran is an eco-sensitive region and the only automobile allowed in the region is an ambulance owned and operated by the Municipality. No private vehicles are allowed in here and the main modes of transportation are horses and hand-pulled rickshaws. Matheran is a treasure trove of medicinal plants and herbs. It also has a huge population of monkeys including Bonnet macaques and Hanuman langurs.

Distance from Mumbai: 83 kms

Best Time to Visit: June to September 

Attractions: Neral - Matheran Toy Train, Louisa Point, Charlotte Lake, Echo Point, Irshalgad Fort, One Tree Hill, Porcupine Point, Morbe Dam

Activities: Trekking, Valley Crossing & Horse Riding

Type of Destination: Trekking, Adventure, Kid Friendly

Ideal Weekend Duration: 2 Days

Suggested reads: Romantic Getaways near Mumbai

Dating back to the 17th century, the city of Raigad was the capital of the Maratha King Shivaji. The fort here is built at an altitude of 2700 feet above sea level on the Sahyadri Mountains. Visitors can opt to climb up the 1737 steps to reach it or else can ride the cable car which makes for an enjoyable trip. This place is among the best tourist places near Mumbai so head out and experience the real thrill.

Distance from Mumbai: 103 kms

Best Time to Visit: September to November

Attractions:   Raigad fort

Activities:  Hiking, Sightseeing, Fort Exploration

Type of Destination: Historic, trekking, family & kid-friendly

Ideal Weekend Duration: 2 Days

Where to Stay: 10 Best Places to Stay in Raigad

You may also like: 10 Best Nature Resorts near Mumbai

Another weekend gateway near Mumbai which is a must-visit for you is the Harishchandragad. Harishchandragad is an ancient fort not very far from Malshej. There are temples and a cave in its vicinity too. Plenty of waterfalls of varied sizes flows in this area, especially full after the rains. Shivneri Fort, the birthplace of the Maratha ruler Shivaji, is around 30km from Malshej and can be included on your itinerary when you are touring this area. Harishchandragad is a hill fort in the Ahmednagar, Maharashtra. 

Harishchandragad fort is a standout amongst the most difficult treks in the Western Ghats. This site is very popular among climbers and experienced trekkers; Nalichi Vaat includes a close to 80-degree climb, including steep shake patches. The trail starts on a stream bed loaded with vast man-sized rocks and in the long run prompts the foot of the crevasse. Go out and experience the real thrill by exploring this tourist place near Mumbai.

Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year

Attractions: Saptatirtha Pushkarni, Kedareshwar Cave, Kokan Kada, Taramati Peak etc

Activities:  Bird Watching, Wildlife Viewing, Trekking

Type of destination: Historic, family, and kid-friendly

Ideal Weekend Duration: 1 Day

Looking for some scenic beach with some isolation then here you have the best beach for your getaway. Revdanda Beach is an isolated beach in this area. The sand is dark in shading, which gives it an exceptional look. The shoreline is an essential piece of individuals in Revdanda, it's one of the spots where people come for a break away from the busy scheduled life and it is one of the finest tourist places near Mumbai.

As Revdanda lies in beachfront fish curry and rice forms are the people living in the Savarkut Village. Make some good memories with your friends and family while you visit this amazing destination. One can also try various activities like camping, trekking, and hiking. Camping by the beach is one of the most proffered activities here.

Distance from Mumbai: 125 kms

Best Time to Visit: During the month of June to September

Activities:  Camping, Trekking, Hiking

Type of Destination: Trekking, Hiking, Adventure activities

Suggested reads: 15 Must-Visit Beach Resorts near Mumbai

Standing right on the Arabian Sea, Kashid offers clear white sand and blue water beaches that can give any foreign location a run for their money. Popular for the Murud Janjira Fort, Kashid attracts a large number of tourists every year due to the increasing demand for adventure water sports destinations and also it is one of the best holiday places near Mumbai.

Alongside, you can also witness some rare species of birds at the Phansad Sanctuary and relive the history of the brave warriors at the Korlai Fort. Enjoy long walks along the sandy beaches, spend some leisurely time as you watch the sun go down and shop for souvenirs made of seashells and coconut shells at local shops.

Distance from Mumbai: 126 kms

Best time to visit: October to February

Attractions:  Kashid Beach, Murud Janjira Fort, Phansad Bird Sanctuary, Korlai Fort, Revdanda Beach, and Fort

Activities: Adventure Water Sports, Night Camping, Swimming

Type of destination: Beaches

Ideal Weekend Duration: 1 Day

The Malshej Ghat is a beautiful mountain pass in the Western Ghats in Maharashtra. Situated in the Thane district, the site is a well-known weekend place to visit near Mumbai. It is best recognized for its natural beauty.

Being a part of the Western Ghats, the Malshej Ghat abounds in flora and fauna, especially birdlife which includes species such as cuckoos, flamingos, crakes, rails and quails. The scenic place is situated near the borders of the Thane and Ahmednagar districts.

Situated at a distance of 154 km from Mumbai and 130 km from Pune, the destination is well connected by rail, road, and airways. The nearest railhead to Malshej Ghat is Kalyan.  By road, it can be reached by the NH 3 that will take you to Bhiwandi.  From Bhiwandi, take the road to Murbad to reach Malshej Ghat.

Malshej ghat attracts tourists from all over the country and the world because of its breath-taking beauty. It is from here, you can view the lush valleys of the Western Ghats. The region is also famous for its dark woods and the wildlife residing in them. The wildlife here includes animals and birds such as peacocks, rabbits, leopards, and tigers.

The birthplace of the great Maratha warrior Chattrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the Shivneri Fort, is another major tourist attraction. The fort is situated at a distance of 40 km from Malshej Ghat. There are other places of interest too near this charming land. One of them is the Khireshwar Village, which is situated at a distance of just 2 to 3 km from Malshej Ghat.

The hamlet is famous for its beautiful waterfalls in the hilly regions which are situated very close to the highway and hence can be viewed easily. The destination attracts a large number of migratory birds from Siberia from July to September. The most attractive phenomenon in the region is the mating dance of the flamingo birds.

Distance from Mumbai: 127 kms

Best Time to Visit: Winter season

Attractions: Malshej Ghat, Malshej Fort

Activities: Trek to Harishchandragad Fort, Rock Climbing at Ajoba Hill Fort & Birdwatching

Type of Destination: Adventure Activities, Kid Friendly

Ideal Weekend Duration: 2 Days

Where to stay: Top Resorts in Malshej Ghat

You may also like: Amazing Places for 2 Days Trip near Mumbai

Adorning the Tikona Peak, at a height of 3633 ft above sea level, the Tikona fort is among the top trekking places in Mumbai. Locally known as Vitandgad, the Tikona Fort is a historic marvel of Maharashtra and narrates the valour and courage of the Maratha Dynasty. 

Surrounded by the mesmerizing gravity of mother nature, the fort trek is embellished with the Sahyadri hillocks. While the fort reflects the momentous architecture and grandness, the Satavahana and Buddhist Caves located nearby carry a great significance in Indian History. At this trek, you can even relish the spiritual aura and seek blessings of the almighty God by offering prayers at the Trimbakeshwar Mahadev Temple. The trek is easy to moderate and even novice or amateur can climb this without much effort. The views from the top are mesmerizing and stun everyone with surreal charm.

Location: Tikona, Tikonapeth Tal, dist, Mulshi, Maharashtra 412108

Distance from Mumbai: 121.5 km

The second-largest city in Maharashtra, Pune is one of the most frequented places to visit near Mumbai. A major seat of Maratha history, Pune has a number of forts that speak of the valor of the Marathas.

There are also a number of religious sights for those who wish to offer their prayers. With a number of prominent colleges and educational institutes in the city, Pune is also called the ‘Oxford of the East’. Known in popular culture as the center of Shivaji’s empire and because of the infamous Bajirao-Mastani love story, Pune remains the cultural and political hub of Maharashtra.

Distance from Mumbai: 148 kms

Best Time to Visit: July to February

Attractions: Aga Khan Palace, Shaniwar Wada, Mulshi Lake, Sinhagad Fort, Rajmachi Fort, Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati Temple, Mastani Mahal

Activities: Hadsar Trek, Chavand Trek, Korigad Trek, Purandar Trek, Rajgad Trek

Type of Destination: Trekking

Ideal Weekend Duration: 2 Days

Where to Stay: 80 Best Places to Stay in Pune

You may also like: 15 Best Forts near Pune

Situated at a distance of 165 km from Mumbai, Bhandardara is one of the most sought-after weekend places near Mumbai. It is a holiday resort village which is situated along the River Pravara and promises a number of natural wonders such as lush greenery, waterfalls, mountains and peace, and tranquillity. Some of the famous spots here include the Bhandardara Lake and the Randha Falls. Bhandardara has a lot to offer. There are various resorts near Mumbai where you can go for a weekend and chill yourself.

According to popular belief, Shri Agasthi Rishi meditated here for a year, surviving only on air and water. Through his efforts, he pleased God who came down to Earth and blessed the sage with a stream of the River Ganga. This is stream is now called the River Pravara. There are several tourist places in and around Bhandardara. Mount Kalsubai, the highest peak in Maharashtra and has an elevation of 5,400 feet is one of the most popular tourist spots. The summit also makes for the ideal trekking destination.

The other places of interest include Ghatghar, the Randha Falls, the Arthur Lake, the Ratnagad Fort, and the Wilson Dam. Ghatghar is situated at a distance of 22 km from Bhandardara and is a great viewpoint in the area. Tourists throng to this destination to enjoy a panoramic view of the Sahayadri Range. The Randha Falls is formed as the River Pravara descends down a height of 170 feet into a deep gorge. 

The Arthur Lake is a beautiful lake which is bounded by the thick forests of the Sahayadri Range. The Wilson Dam is another popular tourist place in Bhandardara. Built over the River Pravara, it stands at a height of 150 m and is one of the oldest dams in the country. There are several other places too in Bhandardara which attract a lot of tourists from all nearby cities and all over the country and the world. These places include destinations such as Agasti Rishi Ashram, Amriteshwar Temple and the Sandhan Valley.

Distance from Mumbai: 165 kms

Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit the falls is during the monsoons when the spray is in full fury

Attractions: Arthur Hill Lake, Umbrella Falls, Radha Falls, Amrutheshwar Temple

Activities: Trekking, Camping & Star-Gazing

Type of Destination: Adventure, Family & Kid Friendly

Ideal Weekend Duration: 2 Days 

Where to stay: 15 Best Bhandardara Resorts

A popular and favored weekend getaway from Mumbai, Nashik is the largest city in Northern Maharashtra and the third largest district in the state. It is situated on the banks of the River Godavari and is the highest producer of onions and grapes in the country. It also has bagged the title for being the Most Tourist-Friendly City in India and hence attracts innumerable tourists from all over the country and the world

The area of Panchavati is of particular religious importance for Hindus. The Kalaram Temple is situated here hosts the Kumbh Mela, the largest religious congregation in the world. It is held once in 12 years in the cities of Nashik, Haridwar, Allahabad, and Ujjain.

Silvassa is the capital of the Dadra and Nagar Haveli, which is a Union Territory of India. The city was known as Vila de Paco d’Arcos during the Portuguese rule. It gained much importance in 1885 when the Portuguese decided to transfer the administration of Nagar Haveli into it and it is one of the finest holiday places near Mumbai.

Silvassa was only a small village till the 19th century and a lot of developments started happening once the seat of power was changed. It became a town in 1885 and today, has a number of factories and industries that generate enough government revenue and help the town maintain a low level of taxation.

Distance from Mumbai: 167 kms

Best Time to Visit: Between November & June

Attractions: Roman Catholic Church, Silvassa Museum, Madhuban Dam, River Daman Ganga, Dadra Park, Dudhani, Vrindaban Temple, Balaji Temple, and the Ban Ganga Lak

Activities: Boating, Wildlife Safari, Sightseeing

Type of Destination: Family, Kid-friendly

Ideal Weekend Duration: 1 Day

Where to stay: 10 Best Places to stay in Silvassa

The planned city of Lavasa is a hidden gem amongst the hills of Western Ghats. It is placed quite close to the Varasgaon Dam and the winding roads that lead up to it are popular with long-distance bikers. The mountains in this region are covered in dense vegetation and coupled with pleasant weather make this place one of the perfect weekend getaways near Mumbai. So, head out to this beautiful tourist place near Mumbai.

Distance from Mumbai: 186 kms

Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year

Attraction: The Mose River, Varasgaon Dam, Musical Fountain, Laser Animation

Activities: Walk in the natural trails, Jet Skiing, Kayaking, Boating, Adventure activities like Rock Climbing, Rappelling and Trekking

Type of Destination: Trekking, family, and kid-friendly.

Ideal Weekend Duration: 2 Days

Where to stay: 15 Best Lavasa Resorts

Explore: Lavasa City One Day Trips

Daman is famous for a weekend getaway from Mumbai. It is a city in the Union territory of Daman and Diu. The city is divided into two parts by the Daman Ganga River. The two halves of the city are called the Nanidaman and Motidaman. Nanidaman is the larger of the two towns and has most of the important hospitals, supermarkets, and major residential areas and it is one of the beautiful tourist places near Mumbai.

Motidaman is the older town and is inhabited mostly by fishermen and government officers. Both the towns were earlier connected by two bridges, one meant for light vehicles and the other meant for heavy vehicles. The smaller of the two bridges collapsed in 2004 and efforts were repeatedly made to make the structure stronger. However, now the bridge has been closed to the public. A new bridge called the Rajiv Gandhi Setu has been built to connect both the towns.

Daman is situated at a distance of 171 kilometers from Mumbai and forms an important manufacturing hub along with Vapi, Silvassa, Billimora and Bhilad Sarigam. The history of Daman is quite interesting. Portuguese explorer Diogo de Melo arrived at this place by chance in 1523.

The city became a Portuguese colony for almost 400 years. In the 16th century, a large fort was built in Motidaman to protect the colony from the Mughals. The fort still stands in Daman today and most of the government offices have been established inside the fort.

The local population of Daman consists mainly of fishermen called Tandels. The demography is a mix of Hindus, Muslims, and Christians. This picturesque land attracts a large number of people from the neighboring states of Gujarat and Maharashtra.

Apart from its scenic beauty, one major reason for the high inflow of tourists is the freedom to drink liquor. As alcohol is prohibited in the neighboring state of Gujarat, Daman finds great popularity among tourists. There are two beaches in Daman which are great tourist spots namely The Devka beach in Nanidaman and the Jampore Beach in Moti Daman.

Distance from Mumbai: 171 kms

Best Time to Visit: October-April

Attractions: Jampore Beach, Bom Jesus Church, Jetty Garden, Moti Daman Fort, Dominican Monastry

Activities: Parasailing, Water Skiing, Adventure Cycling

Type of Destination: Kid Friendly, Family & Adventure

Ideal Weekend Duration: 2 Days

Where to stay: 12 Best Resorts in Daman

Suggested reads: 25 Best One Day Picnic Resorts near Mumbai

Wai is a small hamlet known for its temples. Wai is the place alluded to as Charanpur in the hit Shah Rukh flick 'Swades'. Menavali ghat is the most prominent touring goal in Wai separated from the backwaters of Dhom Dam and the well known "Dholya" Ganpati temple situated close by the Krishna River and it is one of the amazing holiday places near Mumbai.

Known for its seven ghats namely Gangapuri, Madhi Aali, Ganapati Aali, Dharmapuri, Brahmanshahi, Ramdoh and Bhimkund attract a lot of tourists here. 

Numerous temples are situated around these Ghats. Bandhavgarh Fort is another nearby attraction here which is known for trekking. Situated graciously on the banks of the Krishna River, the city of Wai was also known as 'ViratNagari' during ancient times.

Distance from Mumbai: 232 kms

Best Time to Visit: October to February

Attractions: Various Temples in Wai

Activities: Camping, Adventure Activities, Raft Building, River Crossing, and Trekking, Stargazing, ATV Rides and Kayaking

Type of Destination: Trekking, pilgrimage and adventure activities.

Ideal Weekend Duration: 2 Days

You may also like: 35 Best Family Resorts near Mumbai

The surrounding hills and gorgeous landscapes make it easy to understand why this beautiful hill station was once the summer capital and retirement home of British officers. This is the perfect holiday destination for those looking to spend some leisurely time away from their busy lives.

Panchgani city attracts a number of tourists every year as it is a popular destination for film shoots. It will not be unnatural if you run into your favorite actors while on holiday. This is also the ideal place for mythology buffs with legends connected to the Pandavas’ exile and Lord Kartikeya waiting to be explored.

Distance from Mumbai: 244 kms

Best Time to Visit: September to February

Attractions: Sydney Point, Lingmala Falls, Kamalgarh Fort, Rajpuri Cave, Kaas Plateau, Wai, Devil’s Kitchen

Activities: Boating at Dhom Dam and Venna Lake, Trek at Pratapgarh Fort, Sherbaug theme park, Paragliding

Type of destination: Hill station

Ideal Weekend Duration: 2 Days

You may also like: 20 Best Resorts in Panchgani

Saputara is situated in the Dang district of Gujrat state. Blessed with natural beauty and scenic splendour makes it a popular weekend getaways near Mumbai. It is a very popular hill station and is situated on a plateau in the Sahayadri range. With an altitude of about 1000 meters, this idyllic place experiences salubrious weather and the temperatures rarely exceed 28 degrees.

The name of the hill station means ‘Abode of the Serpents’. There is an image of a snake along the banks of the River Sarpagana and it is worshipped by adivasis of the region on Holi. Saputara is situated at a distance of about 250 km from Mumbai and 172 km from Surat. The hill station has been well planned and has all necessary amenities such as a museum, ropeways, boat clubs, swimming pools, parks and hotels to entertain tourists.

There are a number of places for sightseeing in and around this place in Mumbai. The Artist Village is a major attraction. Tribal artefacts, Warli paintings and tribal craft objects are put up on display at the artist village. Tourists can also buy curios and knickknacks from the village. The artist village is one of the best places to learn about the culture and traditions of the natives of the region. For wildlife lovers, trips are arranged to the Vansada National Park. 

The reserve is much smaller as compared to other national parks in the country. Spread over an area of 24 square kilometers, the Vansada National Park is home to four-horned antelopes, giant squirrels, pythons, rusty-spotted cats, pangolins, leopards and tigers. The Purna Sanctuary is another tourist attraction of the region. Spread over an area of 160 square kilometers, the sanctuary is a part of the moist deciduous forests in the Western Ghats. Trekking is possible in the sanctuary but prior permission is required for entry. Head out to explore this beautiful tourist places near Mumbai.

Distance from Mumbai: 248 kms

Best Time to Visit: October to February

Attractions: Sunrise Point, Sunset Point, Ropeway, Gira Falls, the Rose and Step Gardens.

Activities: Paragliding, Boating, Trekking, Sightseeing

Type of Destination: Family, Kid Friendly

Ideal Weekend Duration: 2 Days

Where to Stay: 10 Best Resorts in Saputara

Another adventure place which is a must-visit for you when you are traveling to Mumbai is Jaigad. Nothing can be a better option for you than exploring the age-old fort here. The meeting point of the rivers Shashtri and the Arabian Sea is called the creek of Jaigad. Forts were constructed for the protection of the creek, one is Vijaygad in the north direction and the other is Jaigad at the south. It is a profound pit (Khandak) around the stronghold on east and north heading.

On the correct side of the bastion close to the fundamental entryway, there is a way to go into the profound pit. After entering through this door, steps are there to reach to the strongholds of the fortress. The strongholds are still in solid and sound condition.  Although the fort is much smaller in size as compared to other forts the stronghold is critical in the historical backdrop of Marathas for its area. Other than the fortress, the port of Jaigad is more established than the stronghold and used to be considered as one of the main ports in the Western Coast of India.

Distance from Mumbai: 310 kms

Best Time to Visit: All year round

Attractions: Jaigad Fort

Activities: Sightseeing, trekking, Hiking, Paragliding

Type of Destination: Trekking, adventure activities, and family outing

Ideal Weekend Duration: 2 Days

Suggested reads: 20 Popular Luxury Resorts near Mumbai

Ellora, also known as Elapura and Ellooru, is one is an archaeological site and is situated near Aurangabad in Maharashtra. It was built by the kings of the Rashtrakuta dynasty and is well known for its monumental caves.

The site has been declared as a World Heritage Site and is considered to be the epitome of Indian rock cut architecture. The location has 34 caves, which are really structures that have been dug out of the face of the Charanandri Hills. It has a number of Buddhist, Hindu and Jain rock cut temples and several viharas and mathas, which are believed to have been built between the 5th and 10th centuries.

There are as many 12 Buddhist caves, 17 Hindu caves and 5 Jain caves, which are evidence to the religious tolerance existing in the region at that time. It was initially thought that the Buddhist caves were the earliest structures at the site. However, later it was discovered that specific Hindu caves have been existence even before the Buddhist ones. Some of the Buddhist caves have shrines that bear carvings of Gautama Buddha, saints and bodhisattvas.

Interestingly, in certain places, the artists have tried to make the stone structures look like as if they were made of wood. Among all the Buddhist caves, the most interesting one is the Vishwakarma cave, also called the Carpenter’s Cave.  It has a multi-storey entrance and a cathedral like stupa called the Chaitya. In the centre, there is a 15 foot statue of Buddha sitting in a preaching position. The ceiling has been beautifully carved in a manner to make it look like it is made of wooden beams.

Among the Hindu caves, the most notable is the Kailasanatha. It is based on the mythological Mount Kailasa, the abode of Lord Shiva. Carved out of one single stone, the monument covers an area double the size of the Parthenon in Athens. Earlier, the temple was covered in white plaster to make it resemble the Mount Kailasa.

Distance from Mumbai: 350 kms

Best Time to Visit: June-March

Attractions: Ellora Caves

Activities: Cave Exploration

Type of Destination: Family, Historic & Kid Friendly

Ideal Weekend Duration: 1 Day

Check out: Top Cruises from Mumbai

Dajipur’s Bison Sanctuary lies at the southern edge of the Sahyadris and has a large population of the Indian bison staying in it. One can come across other animals too when visiting this tourist place

Distance from Mumbai: 494 kms

Best time to Visit: September to March

Attractions: Radhanagari Wildlife Sanctuary, Shivgad Fort

Activities: Camping, trekking, jungle safaris and bird watching within the sanctuary are popular among the adventure tourists.

Type of Destination: Trekking, family, and kid-friendly

Ideal Weekend Duration: 2 Days

Check out: 10 Best Jungle Resorts near Mumbai

Some believe that the place was named after Dandelappa, a local deity, while others believe that a king called Dandanayaka named the place while passing through. Whichever legend you believe, Dandeli remains popular when looking for places to visit near Mumbai.

Attracting adventure lovers all year round, this is possibly the only place where you will trek down towards the center of the earth rather than trekking up to view points. And the surrounding Western Ghats makes sure that you have the most memorable holiday of your life.

Distance from Mumbai: 583 kms

Best Time to Visit: October to February

Attractions: Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary, Kavala Caves, Syntheri Rock, Shiroli Peak, Dandelappa Temple, Molangi Falls, Shivaji Fort

Activities: Water Sports at River Kali & Sykes Point, Trekking at Kavala Caves, Wildlife Safari at Anshi National Park, Camping at Kulgi Nature Camp

Type of Destination: Trekking and National Reserve

Ideal Weekend Duration: 2 Days

Where to Stay: 21 Best Places to Stay in Dandeli

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Another weekend getaway from Mumbai which is a must-try for you Gokarna. Gokarna, a little pilgrimage town in Karnataka has developed into travelers destinations throughout the years, on because of delightful, sandy shorelines. With the coming of foreigners thronging it this quaint little temple town is becoming a lot popular lately. One can also find a lot of restaurants and hotels which provide a comfortable stay.

The temple town is now an emerging beach destination that offers something to different types of tourists with its natural beauty. Head out to the beach and spend some time enjoy the scenic views. And for the beach lovers, you can also indulge in some beach activities like rafting. Gokarna is known as one of the seven essential Hindu pilgrimages. One can find the unspoiled beach of the river Aghanashini just here.

As of late, because of the convergence of vacationers, the character of the town has transformed and has become popular among the people as a tourist hot spot. But one can also see a large number of devotees visit to offer prayers and worship to Lord Shiva. Because of its laid-back, untainted and provincial nature, numerous foreigners started visiting Gokarna about 10 years prior. The shorelines around Gokarna were not basically utilized by local people until the point the western tourists started coming.

Distance from Mumbai: 705 kms

Best Time to Visit: During the month of October until March

Attractions: Om Beach, Mahabaleshwar Temple, Kudle Beach, Half Moon Beach, Paradise Beach, Gokarna Beach, Mirjan Fort, Moti Tirtha, Maha Ganpati Temple

Activities: It is one of the famous places for river rafting near Mumbai, trekking, hiking etc.

Type of Destination: Trekking, pilgrimage and adventure activities.

Ideal Weekend Duration: 3 Days

Where to stay: Best Resorts in Gokarna