Mumbai is the financial capital of India. Also known as the “City of Dreams,” it is also a major travel destination. There are lots of things to see in Mumbai, but there are also quite a few incredible destinations around the city that you can explore on weekend road trips from Mumbai.
Of course one of the most popular getaways from Mumbai are at Goa and Mahabaleshwar, but there are lots of other places to see. With relaxing getaways and lush hill stations, here are five destinations you can drive down to with your family or friends on weekend road trips from Mumbai.
Also read: 11 offbeat places to check out in Mumbai
1Pelhar Dam
Pelhar Dam is located 58 km from Mumbai which makes it an excellent destination for a one-day trip from Mumbai. The dam is surrounded by the Tungareshwar Mountain range that houses the Tungareshwar temple. Popular tourist attractions here are the Pelhar Dam and its adjoining lakes and waterfalls, along with the Tungareshwar temple. There is also the Tungareshwar Wildlife Sanctuary where you can see foxes, hares, leopards, and boars.
Distance from Mumbai: 58 km
2Karjat
Located in the mountainous district of Raigad, the scenic natural vistas of Karjat make it a popular destination for road trips from Mumbai. The thickly forested hills are perfect for trekking, hiking and mountain climbing, with trails varying from moderate to extremely difficult. The area also has a host of forts and ancient rock-cut cave temples you can explore.
Distance from Mumbai: 62 km
3Matheran
Matheran is an automobile-free hill station located about 81 km from Mumbai. It is well connected to Mumbai by both rail and road. It takes about 2 hours to reach this popular destination. There are lots of tourist attractions in Matheran. Among these are Prabhal Fort, Porcupine Point, One Tree Hill Point, Panorama Point, and Hart Point.
Distance from Mumbai: 80 km
4Lonavala
Lonavala is located about 82 km from Mumbai and can be accessed via Mumbai-Pune Highway. It is two hours away from Mumbai and is best seen during the monsoon. Lonavala offers several activities to engage in, like trekking, camping, and water sports. You can also explore ancient ruins at the Karla Caves, Bhaja Caves, Bedsa Caves, and the nearby fortresses of Lohagad and Visapur. You can also visit Khandala, another hill station and just 5 km from Lonavala.
Distance from Mumbai: 82 km
5Rajmachi
This small village in the Sahyadri Hills is known for the splendid Rajmachi Fort. The fort is actually made up of two fortifications – Shrivardhan and Manaranjan Forts – that overlook Bor Ghat. It is a popular trekking destination, though you can also drive up to the village and make the short climb to the fort. There are also many ancient temples and caves scattered around the fort.
Distance from Mumbai: 94 km
6Alibaug
Located about 95 km from Mumbai, Alibaug is filled with incredible tourist attractions. It can be reached via the NH66 and is just 3 hours away. Among the many things to see, are the Alibaug Fort, Kolaba Fort, as well as the Khanderi and Underi Islands, and the Magen Avot Synagogue. You can also visit one of the many relaxing beaches, such as Akshi Beach, Nagaon Beach, and Varsoli Beach. If you still have time, be sure to check out the Magnetic Observatory, and Karnala Bird sanctuary.
Distance from Mumbai: 95 km
7Kamshet
A picturesque hill station in the Western Ghats, Kamshet is the perfect destination for adventure sports and paragliding activities. Visitors take off from a height of 2,200 feet from the Kondeshwara Cliff and soar above the breath-taking landscape. Don’t forget to visit the Kondeshwar Temple and the famous Karla and Bhaja Caves.
Distance from Mumbai: 100 km
8Igatpuri
Located in the Western Ghats, Igatpuri is one of the top getaways on road trips from Mumbai. The hill station has many hiking trails for the adventure enthusiast, as well as being home to the famous Vipassana Meditation Centre. People from all over the country come here to distress and learn about meditation.
Distance from Mumbai: 120 km
9Kashid
This beautiful beach town is located about 125 km from Mumbai and can also be reached by the NH66. There are many things to see in Kashid. Kashid Beach, Korlai Fort, Phansad Bird Sanctuary, Revdanda Beach and Fort and Datta Mandir are just a few. Kashid Beach also offers a variety of water sports activities for adventure junkies.
Distance from Mumbai: 125 km
10Kolad
Kolad is said to be one of the best white water rafting spots in Maharashtra. Set on the Kundalika River, this village also has a range of water sports to enjoy. The rugged terrain also makes it a popular hotspot for trekking and camping. There are also numerous hotels, resorts, farmhouses and home-stays tucked away in the hills for those who just want a quiet getaway from the busy city. You can also visit the Tahmini Ghat Waterfalls, as well as the Ghosala and Tala Forts.
Distance from Mumbai: 126 km
If you had to take a vacay from the hustle and bustle of the happening city of Mumbai, which of these destinations would you choose? If you know about other amazing getaways and road trips from Mumbai, let us know in the comments below.