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With getaways at a stone’s throw away, a short vacation is always on the cards for Mumbaikars. A few hours of driving away from the pandemonium metropolis will bring you a world of verdant hills, misty valleys, pristine beaches, and historical landmarks. From elaborate and peaceful getaways to spontaneous weekend journeys, we bring you our round-up of Mumbai’s top 5 road trips.
1. Lonavala and Khandala
Nestled in the Sahyadris, this classic duo needs no introduction when it comes to gorgeous romantic staycations. With the routes riddled with waterfalls, old cave rocks, and dense greenery, a road trip here with your friends, family, or partner is well worth the drive. The hill towns are known for their breathtaking nature trails, mouth-watering food (think chikki candy heaven), and opportunities to indulge in adventurous sports like paragliding. You can also try sightseeing visits to the Karla, the Bhaja, and the Bedsa Buddhist caves, and fort hiking to the twin fortresses of Lohagad and Visapur.
🚗2h 40 min (85 km from Mumbai)
🛣️ Take the Mumbai–Pune Highway
2. Alibaug
Are you a passionate surfer? Then, Alibaug is your lobster. With some of the best beaches in India, it provides ample opportunities for sunbathing, and relishing in fresh seafood. The way to Alibaug makes for one of the best road trips near Mumbai. The eye-candy drive includes the picturesque countryside and rural settlements. Don’t forget to stop at the Kolaba Fort, a 17th-century beauty, on the way.
🚗3h (92 km from Mumbai)
🛣️ Take the Mumbai Highway
3. Igatpuri
Need a deep soul cleansing? Igatpuri, nestled in the Western Ghats, offers one of the most beautiful road trips in India. The quaint hill station is known for its natural beauty, spiritual retreats, and adventurous sports. Think rock climbing, trekking, and rappelling! Along your journey here you will find ruins of forts and rain-drenched valleys, all out of a fairytale! Hike your way to the 11th-century Amruteshwar Temple, the Tringalwadi Fort, or the Ratangad Fort when in town. We also recommended a visit to the spiritual reserve- Vipassana International Academy.
🚗3h 30 min (110 km from Mumbai)
🛣️ Take the NH-160
4. Matheran
Because the hill station is an eco-sensitive, automobile-free region, vehicles are prohibited here. Walking, toy trains and horse carts, and trekking are the only ways to go about. Start your road trip by boarding an old-school toy train from Neral. After you reach, hike to scenic valleys or echo points like Alexander Point and Garbett Point. Enjoy waterfalls that elegantly cascade down green slopes and the dam at Lake Charlotte. Even better, engage in some soulful fort hiking to the Prabalgad, Pebkill, and Vikatgad forts.
🚗2h (83 km from Mumbai)
🛣️Take the Mumbai–Pune Highway and park your car at the Dasturi Naka as cars are not allowed from this point forward
5. Malshej Ghat
Gear up for an extravagant weekend getaway at Malshej Ghat. The drive offers panoramic views of the Western Ghats, colourful strawberry fields, and lush forests. Plan a trip during the monsoon months to see the migrating pink flamingos! Travel on horseback to enjoy historical sites like the Harishchandragad Fort and clusters of temples dating back to the 16th century.
🚗4h (120 km from Mumbai)
🛣️Take the NH-61