With monsoon just around the corner, we recognise the itch one gets to pull away from the city. The call of the green hills and pristine beaches is enticing and well, we love to capitalise on the feeling! To make sure you find some peace, we have therefore curated a list of the best places to visit near Mumbai for a weekend getaway just in time for the monsoon. So grab your weekend bag and get going as the hills are calling!
1. Lonavla & Khandala
Nestled in the Shaydri range, Lonavla and its sister hill Khandala, are by far the most visited hill stations by Mumbaikars. An ideal spot among nature, it is filled with waterfalls, hills, and lakes making it the perfect place for camping and trekking. Turning exceptionally charming during June, the luscious greenery and glistening lakes are nothing short of a postcard come to life! Pro Tip: Try Lonavla’s famous Chikki (Indian sweet made from nuts and sugar/jaggery) and you’ll soon be packing a bunch to take it back home with you.
🛣️Distance from Mumbai: 84 km
2. Mahabaleshwar & Panchgani
Located in the Satara district of Maharashtra, this town is positioned to showcase the gorgeous view of the Konkan Plain. With an abundance of lush green forests, waterfalls, and valleys, Mahabaleshwar comes up to be the perfect getaway. Make sure you try the sweeter-than-honey strawberries grown here and trust us, you won’t stop at one!
Further, a half-hour drive from the town resides Panchgani. Named so as it is the meeting point of five hills, the beautiful hill station overlooks the gorgeous Dhom Dam lake. Filled with various sunrise and sunset points, be sure to take the serene car ride from Mahabaleshwar to Panchgani for a weekend getaway to remember.
🛣️Distance from Mumbai: 261 km
3. Alibag
A quaint little town off the shores of Mumbai, Alibag is home to beautiful sandy beaches and forests. The beaches offer spectacular views of sunrises and sunsets so be sure to take those long walks here with your friends or family. A quick ferry ride from Mumbai, Alibag can be an ideal choice for those spontaneous plans over Friday nights!
🛣️Distance from Mumbai: A 45-minute ferry ride from Mumbai
4. Nashik
Nashika is a fusion of religious spots, forts, waterfalls, and vineyards! Attracting pilgrims and wine lovers alike, Nashik is probably one of the most interesting places to book your next trip. Situated on the banks of river Godavari, it is lined with various ghats and temples. It is also home to the famous Sula vineyards which is open for a tour to all. Also, try the Sadhana Chulivarchi Misal here for a taste of delicious and authentic Indian flavours.
🛣️Distance from Mumbai: 170 km
5. Daman
A popular destination found within the coasts of Maharashtra and Gujrat, Daman is famous for its golden beaches and heritage buildings. Ideal for a quick getaway, the city is also known for its availability of cheap liquor! If you plan on whiling away by the beach with ice-cold beers and a calm atmosphere, we recommend a peaceful getaway here.
🛣️Distance from Mumbai: 170 km
6. Rajmachi
We highly recommend visiting its beautiful green valleys and mountains in June. The town also hosts Maharashtra’s famous Firefly Festival during this month giving you a perfect opportunity to not only camp beneath the stars but also among them! Famous among trekkers and campers, the trek to its two forts- Shrivardhan and Manaranjan- offers stunning views of the valleys.
🛣️Distance from Mumbai: 100 km
7. Matheran
Located in the Raigad district of Maharashtra, Matheran is a beautiful hill station that offers breathtaking views. One of the few places in the world gone completely vehicle-free– stepping into this town will transport you back to the old era of pollution-free views of lush green hills and narrow roads. With simple trek trails, Matheran has amazing viewpoints best explored on foot!
🛣️Distance from Mumbai: 83 km
8. Igatpuri
A lush paradise during monsoon, Igatpuri is perfect for a weekend getaway if you want to wake up in a fairytale. Experience the majestic rainfall in Vaitrana Dam and explore the gorgeous sights and scenery with hills and valleys turning a brighter shade of green!
🛣️Distance from Mumbai: 120 km
9. Malshej Ghat
Explore the beautiful clusters of waterfalls, massive stretches of green hills, and scenic roads among the clouds. A perfect weekend getaway this June, Malshej Ghat is swept by cool winds and gorgeous sights. If you are visiting this month, make sure you experience its seasonal wonder of reverse waterfall! Water from deep down the valleys is carried by strong winds giving the illusion of reverse rainfall and to explain the enigma in one word, is simply stunning!
🛣️Distance from Mumbai: 127 km
10. Kolad
If you love adventure sports, you will love Kolad. With campsites overlooking waterfalls, picturesque lakes, and gorgeous surroundings, a trip here would be one to remember. Book a river rafting adventure, treks, and even rappelling! Though it is famous for its adventure sports you can also enjoy your weekend getaway in Kolad by visiting Tala Fort, Ghosala Fort, Dholwal dams, and Kansai waterfalls.
🛣️Distance from Mumbai: 122 km