Places to Visit for Weekend Trips around Mumbai
The demands of modern life are such that the 9 to 5 work schedule drains the energy out of people. The extra hours spent on commute only makes things worse. To add to it, many people work in rotational shifts or have other things to cater to beside their work. All of this takes a toll on their physical and mental health. Most metropolitan cities do not have several options concerning places to unwind. At the most, there will be malls, supermarkets or gaming zones with absolutely no traces of serenity or nature itself. Mumbai is no exception to this.
However, this does not mean that you should give up and scumble to mundane city life. You can always head off to nearby places for the weekends. Here are 12 such weekend getaway ideas for those based out of Mumbai.
1. Amboli
This beautiful hill station is a preferred location for weekend getaways, particularly those in the warm summer months. Less frequented by tourists, there is some tranquility associated with the place. Amboli is particularly ideal for couples as the serenity of the hills coupled by the mischievous waterfalls gives the place a romantic appeal.
Attractions here include Hiran Yakeshi Temple, Kawaleshlet Valley, Mahadevgarh Fort, Parikshit Point, and Nagatta Falls among others. Amboli is about 300km from Mumbai and can be visited by road.
2. Matheran
Located at 80km from Mumbai, the place is a well-known tourist destination. You can either take the train or go by road. The most famous spot here is the Prabal Fort. The scenic beauty of the place and its varied landscapes can be best observed from there.
Other than that, the One Tree Hill Point, Shivaji’s Ladder and Charlotte Lake are also major attractions of this town.
3. Nashik
The place holds a significant spot in terms of religious tourism due to its connection with the Ramayana. Thousands of people visit the place during the Kumbh Mela. Major attractions here include that of Dudhsagar falls, Pandav Leni Caves, Naroshankara Temple, and Jain Mandir. The place is 167km away from Mumbai and the excellent road conditions make it ideal for a drive.
The Sula Vineyards make the place a perfect holiday spot for millennials.
4. Kolhapur
Whether you want to give your taste buds a treat or get yourself some intricate designed local footwear, Kohlapur is a place where you must pay a visit. The city has a vibrant culture to its name and the temples and museums here speak of its rich heritage. The place is 376 km from Mumbai.
The Mahalakshmi Mandir, Temlabai mandir, Jyotiba mandir, Shri Chhatrapati Shahu Museum, and Rankala Lake are the town’s pride.
5. Alibaug
If you cannot make your pick on whether to visit temples, forts or beaches, then you should head to Alibaug. Situated at less than 100km from Mumbai, the small town has all three of it.
The Kolaba Fort, Alibag beach and Kanakeshwar Devastan Temple all gather a good number of visitors every year. Due to this, there are a good number of homestay options available here. The sight of these pretty cottages with well-maintained lawns is enough to take away the stress of modern life.
6. Kamshet
If you are interested in adventure sports, then Kamshet is the place for you to be in. Paragliding and swimming in the reservoirs amid nature attract thousands of Mumbaikers here. The Kondeshwar temple, Bhairi caves and Bhandar Dongar are some of the other places here that you can drop in while you are here to satisfy your quest for thrill and adventure.
Kamshet is at a distance of about 100km from Mumbai.
7. Durshet
If you have been looking to go on a safari for a long time, then you should head to Durshet as soon as possible. The place also attracts a lot of trekkers who have the option of picking between Sarasgad and Sudhagad. Kundalike River has ample opportunities for water sports as well. The Ganapati Temple that is surrounded by beautiful water body is a favorite among the older lot. While visiting Durshet, one must make sure that they do not leave out a visit to the Uddhar hot spring.
The best part about visiting Durshet is that it is just a couple of hours of drive (76km) and the road conditions are fantastic. What this means is that you will enjoy the drive as much as the destination.
8. Harihareshwar
If you are planning for a weekend getaway with your family, Harihareshwar is the place to be. While the older members will find serenity in the Kalbhairav temple, Sonia Devi Temple or the Ganesh Gully, the younger lot can enjoy themselves in the Diveagar Beach and the Harihareshwar beach.
This exotic destination is just 193km away from Mumbai.
9. Aurangabad
This is an ideal destination for people who are interested in history. The city is named after the last Mughal emperor and its cultural heritage is a testimony to the last glorious days of the Mughal Empire in India. Bibi ka Maqbara, Sunheri Mahal and Baradai Iwaz Khan aqueduct are all examples of the same.
The place is 335 km from the metro. The Ajanta and Ellora caves on either side of the Kham river are also sites that you must not miss out on.
10. Khuldabad
If you have not had enough of the Mughal era in Aurangabad (or if you would prefer a place that is quieter and less frequented by tourists), then Khuldabad is where you should head to. The place is at 333km from Mumbai and is well known for its scenic beauty.
The Alamgir Dargah holds religious significance and is a testimony to the bygone Mughal era.
With a host of travel options within a 350 km radius of Mumbai, you will realize that it is not difficult to pull off that long-awaited weekend trip. Such a trip will not just help to rejuvenate the work-stressed you but will also give you a fresh perspective on life. So, go ahead and make your pick from the list and have a wonderful holiday.
