There’s nothing more exciting than to plan a weekend retreat away from the hustle and bustle of Mumbai city life. Take a break from the chaos and everyday grind, and plan a weekend escapade to these exotic destinations near Mumbai.

Pack your bags and embark on a fun road trip with your friends to these scenic destinations near Mumbai. Here are some choicest destinations for an idyllic and relaxing weekend getaway near Mumbai:

1. Explore water sports, boating, and fishing in Mahabaleswar

For a tranquil retreat, go exploring the hill station of Mahabaleswar near Mumbai dotted with evergreen trees and serene surroundings. This quaint hill town that once served as the summer capital during the British Raj, makes for a fun weekend getaway for the Mumbaikars and tourists. Book a room in budget hotels in Mumbai, if you are visiting Mahabaleshwar from another city.

Distance from Mumbai city: 263 KM

Best time to travel to Mahabaleshwar: January-December

Activities to enjoy: Boating, Fishing, Water Sports, Mapro Garden, Venna Lake, Horse Riding, Trekking, Shopping, Mountain Biking

2. Go paragliding & trekking in Panchgani

This picturesque hill station of Panchgani is nestled between five hills of the Western Ghats. Go for an evening stroll while enjoying the pleasant weather amidst tranquil surroundings. Wondering where to find a safe and sanitized room in budget hotels in Mumbai? For a hassle-free stay at sanitized properties adhering to WHO guidelines, book Oyo hotels near Mumbai.

Distance from Mumbai: 244 KM

Best time to travel to Panchgani: October to May

Activities to enjoy: Dhom Dam, Table Land, Trekking, Walking, Paragliding

3. A tranquil escapade to Lonavala

Plan for an exciting road trip to Lonavala near Mumbai on your next long weekend. Go trekking to the famous Lohagad Fort and plan a picnic by the Pawna Lake. Treat your eyes to the panoramic views from Tiger’s Leap in Lonavala. For an adventurous experience, camp overnight by Pawna Lake under the starry skies.

Distance Mumbai: 93 KM

Best time to travel to Lonavala: October-May

Major tourist spots: Tiger’s Leap, Lohagad, Karla & Bhaja Caves, Bhushi Dam, Bedsa Caves, Pawna Lake, etc.

4. Go birdwatching & sightseeing at Alibaug

The serene beach of Alibaug makes for an adventurous weekend getaway near Mumbai. Take a direct ferry from the beach near the Gateway of India to reach Alibaug in a few hours. When in Alibaug, explore adventure water sports like kite surfing and parasailing. Later, go bird watching in the Phansad Sanctuary to watch the migratory birds flock in the bird sanctuary. Take a stroll at the Varsoli beach while watching stunning sunset views.

Distance from Mumbai: 95 KM

Best time to travel to Alibaug: October-July

Major tourist attractions: Varsoli Beach, Hirakot Fort, Akshi Beach, Kolaba Fort, Korlai Fort, Nagaon Beach.

5. Bask in the solitude in Lavasa

A trip to Lavasa is the perfect way to unwind and relax in the lap of natural surroundings and a lake. Capture some Instagram-worthy photographs by the colourful buildings lining the waterfront in Lavasa. Take your car and explore the sightseeing spots and stop at local eateries to savour some local delicacies.

Distance from Mumbai: 191 km

Best time to travel to Lavasa: January- December

Best tourist attractions: Bamboosa, Lakeside Promenade, Temghar Dam

6. Go trekking & rock climbing at Kamshet 

To satisfy your adventure-seeking soul, plan a trip to Kamshet on your next weekend. Go paragliding while enjoying the panoramic views and basking in the serenity of the surroundings. Pack some healthy energy bars and go trekking and rock climbing in Kamshet. After some adrenaline rush, head to the Vadivali Lake to enjoy boating while soaking in the surrounding natural beauty.

Distance from Mumbai: 105 KM

Best time to travel to Kamshet: October-May

Major tourist attractions: Vadivali Lake, Uksan Dam, Raikar Farm

7. Go for a Toy train ride across scenic trails in Matheran

Nestled at an altitude of 2516 feet above sea level, Matheran is a picturesque hill station that makes for an idyllic retreat near Mumbai. To get a better view of the surrounding nature, take a ride on the Neral-Matheran toy train meandering across scenic trails. Go hiking or trekking to Lords Point to enjoy breathtaking views from the top.

Distance from Mumbai: 83 KM

Best time to travel to Matheran: October and May

Top tourist spots: Lords Point, One Tree Hill, Panorama Point, Heart Point, Malang Point, Charlotte Lake.

8. Experience the bliss in Daman

As a former Portuguese colony, Daman exudes an old-world charm, a rich cultural heritage, and fascinating natural beauty. Take a walk across the sandy shoreline as the cool water washes by your feet. For some adrenaline rush, try out adventure sports like paragliding and jetskiing on the beaches in Daman.

Distance from Mumbai city: 171 KM

Best Time to travel to Daman: October to April

Top places to visit: Jampore Beach, Devka Beach, Moti Daman, Church of Bom Jesus, Nani Daman

9. Explore Turtle nesting site in Velas 

The quaint village of Velas nestled in the Konkan coastline of Maharashtra makes for a scenic getaway near Mumbai. Check out the turtle nesting sites on the Velas beach that attracts conservationists and marine biologists from all around the world. The turtle nesting is a treasured event in Velas, that is why they host a turtle festival during the season of turtle breeding season. The tiny turtles hatching making their way through the sand and heading to the sea is a memorable thing to watch.

Distance from Mumbai city: 223 km

Best time to travel to Velas: March to April

Top tourist attractions: Velas Beach, Velas Village

10. Overnight camping & kayaking at Maval

Ever imagined lying on a bed of soft grass while looking at the starry skies? A better idea is to plan a relaxing weekend getaway to Maval near Mumbai. Enjoy a captivating camping experience under a starlit sky, sitting by the bonfire while roasting some marshmallows. Along with camping, explore adventure water sports like river rafting. For a more relaxed experience, go kayaking in the placid waters of Takve Lake amidst breathtaking surroundings.

Distance from Mumbai city: 73 km

Best time to travel to Maval: October to May

Best tourist attractions: Anjanvel Agro, Takve Lake

Some other nearby destinations to explore near Mumbai for a memorable weekend getaway are Silvassa, Raigad, Igatpuri, Karnala, etc. Pack your backpack, book the hotels, and visit these destinations near Mumbai for a relaxing weekend retreat.

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