Leisurely escapes across Mumbai's surrounding areas
Mumbai, the bustling city that never sleeps, offers a stark contrast to the tranquil weekend getaways that lie within its vicinity. While Lonavala and Khandala are popular choices for many, there are several alternative destinations that cater to diverse preferences, from nature lovers to adventure seekers, culture enthusiasts, and beachgoers.
Jawhar, a tribal hill station nestled within 200 km of Mumbai, presents a scenic escape with misty villages, traditional art, and peaceful nature experiences. Known for its rich cultural heritage, Jawhar boasts the majestic Jai Vilas Palace and cascading waterfalls, especially during the monsoon. The town is also a hub of traditional Warli art, a centuries-old tribal painting style.
Kolad, approximately 120 km from Mumbai, is renowned for adventure sports such as river rafting and natural beauty.
Kamshet, offbeat and less crowded, offers an exhilarating paragliding experience along with scenic hills.
Durshet is a quiet nature destination with forest resorts and hiking trails within driving distance.
Dehna is another offbeat nature spot ideal for tranquil stays away from tourist crowds.
Bhandardara is a serene monsoon retreat about 180 km from Mumbai, famous for its green valleys, waterfalls like Umbrella Falls, and a large lake (Arthur Lake).
Guhagar, a quiet coastal town, offers a less commercialized Konkan beach experience with clean beaches, historic temples, and an authentic Konkan experience.
Harihareshwar is a coastal getaway with twin beaches, temples, and turtle nesting sites, perfect for a spiritual and nature-filled experience near Mumbai.
These destinations offer diverse experiences—hill stations, adventure sports, spiritual sites, beaches, and tribal culture—all within roughly 100 to 200 km of Mumbai, providing peaceful or adventurous alternatives to the often crowded Lonavala and Khandala. Many also have resorts or eco-cottages to enhance the comfort of your stay.
For instance, Bhandardara is particularly recommended for monsoon visits with seasonal waterfalls and quiet surroundings, whereas Guhagar offers a less explored Konkan beach experience. Harihareshwar combines beach relaxation with religious tourism and nature.
Karjat, located approximately 70 km from Mumbai, is nestled in the lush Western Ghats and offers a peaceful and refreshing weekend getaway with scenic landscapes, misty hills, and flowing rivers, as well as trekking and relaxation opportunities.
Alibaug, approximately 95 km from Mumbai, is a coastal town known for its clean beaches, colonial forts, and peaceful vibe. Alibaug's beaches and Kolaba Fort are popular tourist attractions. The town can be reached by road or by taking a ferry ride from Gateway of India to Mandwa Jetty, providing an alternative transportation option that allows bringing a car without driving.
Matheran, located in the western ghats of Maharashtra, is an eco-sensitive hill station where vehicles are banned, making it ideal for nature lovers.
Mahabaleshwar, approximately 260 km from Mumbai, offers a refreshing break with strawberry farms, stunning viewpoints like the Echo Garden, and pleasant climate. The town is also home to several tourist attractions such as Pratapgad Fort, Cheese Factory, and the Mapro Garden. Mahabaleshwar promotes eco-tourism and conservation through community-led efforts and provides opportunities for nature walks, exploring nearby forts and temples.
Velas Beach, located in Maharashtra's Ratnagiri district, is best known for the Velas Turtle Festival held between February and April, where visitors can witness the release of Olive Ridley turtle hatchlings into the sea. The beach promotes eco-tourism and conservation.
Lavasa is a planned hill city, modeled after the Italian town of Portofino, located approximately 187 km from Mumbai. It offers a vibrant blend of modern design and natural beauty, ideal for outdoor activities like cycling, jet skiing, kayaking, and boating on the tranquil Warasgaon Lake. The city features colorful architecture and a scenic lakeside promenade, offering a calm, European-style atmosphere.
Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, culture, or a coastal escape, these hidden gems provide excellent weekend getaways near Mumbai beyond Lonavala and Khandala, offering a refreshing change from the city's hustle and bustle.
- Jawhar, with its cultural heritage, traditional art, and tranquil nature scenes, offers a distinctive contrast to the bustling city, making it a great choice for culture enthusiasts seeking a change of lifestyle.
- For those looking for adventure opportunities, Kolad, with its river rafting and natural beauty, or Kamshet, known for paragliding, provide less crowded alternatives compared to popular choices like Lonavala and Khandala.
- Travelers seeking home-and-garden experiences may find delight in visiting Mahabaleshwar, which boasts strawberry farms, vibrant architecture, and eco-tourism initiatives, including the Mapro Garden.
