Weekend Trips from Mumbai


Weekend Getaways from Mumbai



Mumbai is known as "a city that never sleeps". This financial capital of the country offers so much to explore in terms of the cultural heritage, architectural brilliance, industrial progress, scenic beauty and a true cosmopolitan lifestyle. What's more, there are ample weekend getaways near Mumbai. Some of such places are as follows:

Lonavla

The lush green hills of Lonavla need no introduction. A favourite destination among the Bollywood filmmakers and Mumbaikars, it attracts maximum tourists. The glittering lakes, lush green pastures and shimmering waterfalls offer the visitors a soothing and breathtaking view. The distance between Lonavla and Mumbai is approximately 82 kms and is easily reachable by several modes of transport. The best way to travel to the Lonavla hills is via train which will take approximately 1 hour 8 minutes. One can also make use of the bus service which takes around 2-3 hours to reach the place. Iron fort, Tungaril Lake, Bhaja Caves and Reywood Park are some of the places to visit during the Lonavla tour. October to March is considered as the best month to travel to Lonavla. From budget hotels to resorts, there are plenty of options available for the visitors for accommodation.

Silvassa

The Capital city of Dadra and Nagar Haveli, Silvassa offers a magical treat for backpackers and trekkers. It is also a popular destination for the adventure seekers. The scenic beauty of the trees, cascading waterfalls, and distinguished flora and fauna makes it even more enticing for the visitors. Lion safari, deer sanctuary and Roman Catholic churches are the best places to see in Lonavla which the travellers can explore and enjoy. November-March is considered as the best time to travel here. Silvassa is around 173 kms from Mumbai. There is no airport or railway station in Silvassa, although one can take a train to Bhilad and then take a taxi. However, the best and the most convenient way to reach this place is by road. One can either take a bus or use private vehicle to commute which will take around 3 hours. Many budget, mid range hotels and resorts are located here.

Panchgani

Panchgani, also known as the 'place of five hills' , is another most-visited weekend getaway from Mumbai. It has vibrant hilly terrain on one side and coastal plain on the other. It is known for its clean, unadulterated and pure air. It is well connected to Mumbai through road and is at a distance of approximately 247 kms. It can be easily reached by car, taxi or bus in 3-4 hours. Pune is the nearest airport which is about 98kms away from this destination. It is not difficult to find an accommodation here as many hotels and resorts from budget to luxury ones are available in plenty. A mountain plateau also known as the Table Land is a must visited place. Parsi Point, Devil's Kitchen and Pandvgadh Caves are other important places to see. One can shop for handmade and natural products from Panchgani such as jam, sweets, honey, organic fruits and vegetables.

Alibaug

Alibaug is one of the favourite destinations for the inhabitants of Mumbai. It is surrounded by water from three sides and is often known as the 'Goa of Maharashtra'. The calm beaches, the coconut trees and the mix of Mughal, Portuguese, and Maratha architecture make it a preferred destination for the visitors. Alibaug is nearly 96 kms away from Mumbai and is very easily reachable. Ferries or catamarans available from the Gateway of India take only 2 hours to reach Alibaug. One can also opt for bus or car to reach there which will not take much time and will be an easy journey. There are several beaches in Alibaug which can be visited and enjoyed; Kolaba Fort, Chaul, Vrindavan farms are some other major places to visit. One can rent a room in holiday homes or can also take accommodation in a hotel or a resort.

Shirdi

Located at a distance of approximately 243 kms from Mumbai. Shirdi is one of the most famous pilgrim centres in the country and can be a holy weekend getaway from Mumbai. The place is popular for the Sai Baba Temple which attracts tourists from all over the country. Dwarkamayi, Chavadi and Khandoba Raya temple are some of the other religious places which can be included in the trip. In order to travel from Mumbai, it is advisable to take a bus or hire a cab/taxi. From the weather point of view, the best time to visit Shirdi is from October -March and Thursday. For staying in Shirdi, one can rent a room from Shri Sai Baba Sansthan Trust Reception Centre at the rate ranging from Rs 50 to Rs 1000 daily. Else, one can also take accommodation in private hotels . It is advisable to keep aside more time while visiting the Sai Baba Temple as the waiting time in queues is generally one hour during weekdays and two hours during weekends. One can shop for souvenirs such as statues, books and religious photos and trinklets from Shirdi.

Malshej Ghat

Located in the Sahyadri ranges 127 kms away from Mumbai, Malshej has such beauty and climatic conditions that the visitors can feel the different seasons of the year in just one day. Its charm mainly attracts the backpackers, adventure enthusiasts, trekkers and nature lovers. The placid lakes and the splendid valleys spellbound the tourists. It is not so far from Mumbai as it is approximately the city. By road, it will take around 2.5 hours to reach this beautiful destination. Bikers love to travel on their own vehicle to enjoy the weather and the scenic and picturesque beauty of the place. It offers excellent opportunities to the trekkers and rock climbers. The historic forts, sanctuaries and resorts are some of the places to visit here. For the true nature lovers, it is advisable to tour here during July and September when the flamingos from Europe reach here.

Daman

A small region located between Maharashtra, Gujarat and Arabian Sea, Daman is a culturally rich place. Its history dates back to 2000 years when it was going through surrenders, conquests and turmoil. Daman is connected to Mumbai through air as direct flights are available from the city. Through train, one can reach Vapi and take a bus or taxi to Daman. However, the best way to travel to Daman is through road as it is only about 172 kms away from Mumbai. Attractive beaches, Parikota Fort, St. Thomas Church are the major attractions for tourists. One can stay in a budget or a luxury hotel or resort, as per one's convenience,. The best time to visit here is from October to April.

Karnala

Karnala is a fort city located in the Raigad district and a popular weekend getaway from Mumbai. It is known for its natural beauty and serene environment. A bird sanctuary which offers shelter to many native and migratory birds is the highlight of this place. From Mumbai, it is approximately 80 kms away and therefore can be easily reached by road through bus/car or taxi. Many budget, luxury hotels and resorts are available for the visitors.

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Last Updated on : September 22, 2014