7 Ideal Places for an Exotic Getaway near Mumbai

1. Lonavala –

Amongst other places to visit near Mumbai, Lonavala is a perfect blend of historical significance and modernity. It is guarded by Buddhist caves on one side and modernized adventure parks on the other side. The serene atmosphere of this quaint hill station is meant for both young and old heart.

Lonavala is well-known for its chikki production and is one of the significant chikki exporters today. Besides its authentic local chikkis, Lonavala is a base for Indian Navy’s Technical Training Institute – named INS Shivaji. Tiger’s Leap, Lohagad Fort, Lonavala Lake, and Karla Caves are some more in the queue.

Della Adventure Park, Tikona Fort Trek, Bhimashankar Trek, and Ryewood Park are adventurous destinations here.

Distance from Mumbai – 89 kilometres
Type of destination – Hill station
Ideal Weekend Duration – 2 days

2. Kundalika –

For those who are in search of an adventurous weekend escape, Kundalika tour is a perfect choice. As the river itself is surrounded with some lush green cover, the entire region exhibits an enjoyable sightseeing delight. There’s a rafting camp here which gives you a fair opportunity to indulge in heaps of adventurous activities here. The moment you reach here, it is the beauty of the Kundalika which will mesmerize you. There’s a small food point where you can energize yourself with some refreshing tea and quick bites. After you energize yourself for the day, head towards the campsite to indulge in riverside adventures such as jet skiing, kayaking, and archery.

Distance from Mumbai – 125 kilometres
Type of destination – River
Ideal Weekend Duration – 1 day

3. Kamshet –

Kamshet is a village in Pune district of Maharashtra which is usually crowded during weekends. This village still preserves its authentic traditional look which is well evident from the mud and thatched roof terraced houses here. Apart from its beauty, this destination is known for its basic to intermediate level paragliding experience. Well, that’s precisely what makes it a Paragliders Paradise. Apart from this, you have Kondeshwar temple, Bedsa Caves, Karla Caves, BhandarDongar, and Vadivali Lake. Rock climbing, boating, swimming, trekking, hiking, and angling are some things to try here.

Distance from Mumbai – 102 kilometres
Type of destination – A village in Pune and famed for its adventurous activities especially hiking
Ideal Weekend Duration – 1 day

4. Igatpuri –

Igatpuri hill station is located within India’s wine capital and is guarded by the tall Western Ghats. This tiny piece of land is a monsoon paradise when it glows to a different level. Igatpuri is blessed with Dhamma Giri Meditation Centre where you can relax all your excited nerves, a Ghatandevi Temple for your spiritual awakening, and Bhandardara for some lakeside adventures. Trekking, rappelling, camping expeditions, and ziplining are some activities to try here, which will surely make you fall in love with the place.

Distance from Mumbai – 121 kilometres
Type of destination – Hill station
Ideal Weekend Duration – 1 day

5. Kolad –

Kolad is a village in Raigad district situated alongside River Kundalika. Tourists visiting here, crown this place as Maharashtra’s white river water rafting capital. No matter whether you are a solo traveller or someone travelling in a group or with friends, family or relatives; this weekend destination is ideal for all age groups. Kolad railway station itself holds its head high as being the first station along the Konkan Railway Line. White river water rafting, Kayaking, Plus Valley Trek, Jet Skiing, and Riverside Camping are some adventures to try here. TamhiniGhat Waterfall, Sutarwadi Lake, Ghosala Fort, Bhira Dam, and Devkund Waterfalls are amongst the few hotspots here.

Distance from Mumbai – 122 kilometres
Type of destination – A well-known village of Raigad famous for its adventurous sports.
Ideal Weekend Duration – 1 day

6. Mahabaleshwar –

Located amidst Maharashtra’s Western Ghat Ranges, Mahabaleshwar is a misty place with heaps of evergreen forests. Amongst other places to visit near Mumbai, Mahabaleshwar is both a romantic honeymoon destination and a pilgrimage site. What makes it a wonder is that it has got 14 vantage points for the tourists to adore the artistic brilliance of this city. Amongst its key attractions, you have Wilson Point (Sunrise Point), Arthur’s Seat, Mumbai Point (Sunset Point), Mahabaleshwar temple, Kamalgad Fort, Elephant’s head point, and the famous Mahabaleshwar temple. Rock climbing, horse riding, and trekking are the key adventures here.

Distance from Mumbai – 263 kilometres
Type of destination – Family and kids Friendly Hill Station
Ideal Weekend Duration – 2 days

7. Goa –

Goa, formerly known as Land of Portuguese, is a land full of beaches and partying mood. The richness of the Portuguese history is quite reflective from the old churches and forts that make their presence here. Paragliding, Scuba diving, Jet Skiing, are some sports to enjoy here. Apart from this, tourists visiting this region do make it a point to indulge in Dudhsagar trekking adventure for some adrenaline rush. During late evenings, do head towards the café’s that overlook the Goa beaches for some delectable seafood and a sip of coffee. Fort Aguada, Arambol Beach, Candolim Beach, Palolem Beach, The Church of Lady of Immaculate Conception, Spice Plantations are some key attractions of Goa.

Distance from Mumbai – 585 kilometres
Type of destination – A union territory known for beach activities.
Ideal Weekend Duration – 4 days

Shaheryar Ali

Shaheryar Ali is studying to become a professional finance advisor. Though he's excellent with numbers, his passion for producing content has never held him back from achieving his goals. He is also an enthusiastic artist who loves to sketch anything beautiful he sets his eyes on.