Mumbai, the bustling metropolis on the west coast of India, offers a plethora of exciting opportunities for day trips from Mumbai. Whether you are a local resident looking for a quick getaway or a traveler exploring the city, there are numerous destinations within easy reach that promise a memorable experience. From serene beaches to historic forts, lush green hills to vibrant markets, day trips from Mumbai cater to every taste and preference. Join us as we embark on a journey to discover the hidden gems and popular attractions just a short drive away from the vibrant city of Mumbai.
Lonavala
Travel tips
- Distance of Lonavala from Mumbai: 83 miles
- Time to get there: Approximately 2 hours by road
- How to get there from Mumbai: You can reach Lonavala from Mumbai by both bus and train. If you prefer taking a bus, head to Mumbai Central Bus Station and look for buses going to Lonavala. For train travel, catch a train from Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) to Lonavala Railway Station.
- Click for Google maps directions: Lonavala
Exploring Lonavala: Things to do
Lonavala is a popular day trip destination from Mumbai due to its scenic beauty and pleasant weather. One of the must-see places in Lonavala is the iconic Tiger’s Point, offering breathtaking views of the valley below. You can also visit the historic Karla Caves, known for their ancient Buddhist rock-cut architecture.
For nature lovers, a visit to the Rajmachi Wildlife Sanctuary is a must, where you can spot a variety of flora and fauna. Don’t miss out on trying the famous chikki, a sweet snack made of jaggery and nuts, which is a specialty of Lonavala.
Adventure enthusiasts can indulge in activities like trekking to Duke’s Nose or Bhushi Dam, offering thrilling experiences and panoramic views of the surroundings. Exploring the picturesque landscapes and enjoying a leisurely stroll around Lonavala Lake are also popular activities among visitors.
Overall, Lonavala is a perfect getaway for those seeking a refreshing break from the hustle and bustle of city life, with its serene surroundings and diverse range of attractions to explore.
Alibaug
Travel tips
- Distance of Alibaug from Mumbai: Approximately 96 miles
- Time to get there: Around 3-4 hours depending on traffic
- How to get there from Mumbai: You can reach Alibaug by taking a ferry from the Gateway of India to Mandwa Jetty, and then a bus or taxi to Alibaug. Alternatively, you can drive down via the Mumbai-Goa highway.
- Click for Google maps directions: Alibaug
Exploring Alibaug: Things to do
Alibaug, a coastal town in Maharashtra, is a must-see destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Mumbai. Known for its pristine beaches, historic forts, and delectable seafood, Alibaug offers a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration.
One of the top attractions in Alibaug is the historic Kolaba Fort, located in the sea and accessible during low tide. Visitors can explore the fort’s ruins, enjoy panoramic views of the Arabian Sea, and witness stunning sunsets.
For beach lovers, Alibaug offers a range of options such as Alibaug Beach, Kashid Beach, and Nagaon Beach. These beaches are perfect for sunbathing, water sports, and enjoying fresh coconut water while soaking in the coastal vibes.
Nature enthusiasts can visit the Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary, home to diverse flora and fauna including rare bird species. A trek through the sanctuary’s lush greenery provides a peaceful retreat into nature.
Foodies will delight in Alibaug’s culinary offerings, with fresh seafood being a highlight. From beachside shacks to upscale restaurants, the town serves up mouthwatering dishes like fish thali, prawn curry, and bombil fry.
Overall, Alibaug’s serene beaches, rich history, and delectable cuisine make it a must-visit destination for a day trip from Mumbai.
Matheran
Travel tips
- Distance of Matheran from Mumbai: 80 miles
- Time to get there: Approximately 2.5 hours
- How to get there from Mumbai: You can reach Matheran by taking a train from Mumbai to Neral Junction. From Neral Junction, you can either take a toy train or a shared taxi to reach Matheran. Alternatively, you can also drive to Dasturi Naka, the entry point of Matheran, and then take a horse ride or walk up to the main town.
- Click for Google maps directions: Matheran
Exploring Matheran: Things to do
Matheran, a charming hill station near Mumbai, is a must-see destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike. The main attraction of Matheran is its serene environment and breathtaking views of the Western Ghats. One of the top things to do in Matheran is to embark on a trek to various viewpoints such as Panorama Point, Echo Point, and Louisa Point. These viewpoints offer panoramic vistas of the surrounding valleys and lush greenery, making them perfect spots for photography enthusiasts.
Apart from trekking, visitors can also enjoy horse riding through the narrow pathways of Matheran or opt for a leisurely stroll to explore the town’s colonial-era architecture. The peaceful ambiance of Matheran makes it an ideal place for a relaxing getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life. Don’t miss the sunset views from Sunset Point, where the sky transforms into a canvas of vibrant colors, creating a mesmerizing sight.
For those seeking adventure, Matheran offers opportunities for rock climbing and rappelling, adding an adrenaline rush to your trip. The cool climate and fresh mountain air make outdoor activities even more enjoyable. Additionally, you can indulge in local cuisine at the various eateries in Matheran, savoring delicious Maharashtrian dishes and street food specialties.
In conclusion, Matheran’s natural beauty, tranquil atmosphere, and array of activities make it a perfect destination for a day trip from Mumbai. Whether you are a nature enthusiast, adventure seeker, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, Matheran has something to offer for everyone.
Elephanta Caves
Travel tips
- Distance from Mumbai: Approximately 9 miles
- Time to get there: Around 1 hour by ferry
- How to get there: Take a ferry from Gateway of India to Elephanta Island. The nearest train station to Gateway of India is Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus.
- Click for Google maps directions: Elephanta Caves
Exploring Elephanta Caves: Things to do
Elephanta Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-see destination near Mumbai for history and art enthusiasts. These ancient rock-cut caves date back to the 5th to 8th centuries and showcase remarkable Hindu and Buddhist sculptures and artwork.
Upon arrival, visitors are greeted by the awe-inspiring Trimurti sculpture, depicting the three faces of Lord Shiva. The intricate carvings and statues within the caves offer a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of India.
Exploring the various caves, visitors can marvel at the detailed reliefs depicting mythological stories and deities. The main cave, also known as the Shiva Cave, is the largest and most elaborate, featuring impressive pillars and sculptures.
Don’t miss the exquisite Sadashiva sculpture, a significant representation of Lord Shiva in his various forms. The peaceful ambiance of the caves, coupled with the stunning views of the Arabian Sea, makes it a serene retreat from the bustling city life of Mumbai.
Visitors can also enjoy a leisurely stroll around the island, taking in the natural beauty and tranquility that surrounds the caves. The cool sea breeze and panoramic vistas make Elephanta Caves a perfect spot for a day trip from Mumbai.
Overall, Elephanta Caves offers a fascinating journey through India’s ancient past and is a must-visit destination for those seeking a blend of history, art, and natural beauty.
Karjat
Travel tips
- Distance of Karjat from Mumbai: 63 miles
- Time to get there: Approximately 2 hours
- How to get there from Mumbai: You can reach Karjat from Mumbai by both bus and train. The nearest bus station is Mumbai Central Bus Stand, and the nearest train station is Mumbai CST. Karjat
Exploring Karjat: Things to do
Karjat is a charming town located just a short drive away from the bustling city of Mumbai. Known for its scenic beauty and tranquil atmosphere, Karjat is a must-see place for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike.
One of the top things to do in Karjat is to explore its lush green landscapes by going on a trekking adventure. The town is surrounded by the Sahyadri mountain range, offering numerous trekking trails that cater to both beginners and experienced trekkers. Kondana Caves and Peth Fort are popular trekking destinations that provide stunning views of the surrounding valleys.
For those interested in history and culture, a visit to Ulhas Valley is a must. This picturesque valley is home to ancient rock-cut caves and temples that date back to the Buddhist era. Exploring these historical sites offers a glimpse into the rich heritage of the region.
Adventure seekers can indulge in activities like river rafting in the Ulhas River or camping under the starlit sky. Karjat also boasts of beautiful waterfalls like Kondana Waterfall and Bhivpuri Waterfall, where visitors can relax and rejuvenate amidst nature’s beauty.
Overall, Karjat is a perfect getaway destination for a day trip from Mumbai, offering a blend of natural beauty, adventure, and cultural experiences that make it a memorable destination for all types of travelers.
Kashid Beach
Travel tips
- Distance from Mumbai: Approximately 124 miles
- Time to get there: Around 3-4 hours by road
- How to get there: You can reach Kashid Beach from Mumbai by taking a bus from Mumbai Central ST Depot to Alibaug and then a local bus or taxi to Kashid Beach. Alternatively, you can take a train from Mumbai CST to Panvel and then a bus or taxi to Kashid Beach.
- Click for Google maps directions: Kashid Beach
Exploring Kashid Beach: Things to do
Kashid Beach, with its pristine shoreline and clear blue waters, is a must-see destination for beach lovers seeking a peaceful retreat from the bustling city life of Mumbai. The beach offers a serene ambiance perfect for relaxation and unwinding. Visitors can indulge in various activities such as swimming, sunbathing, and beach volleyball. The gentle waves make it an ideal spot for water sports enthusiasts to try their hand at activities like jet skiing and banana boat rides.
Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the scenic beauty of Kashid Beach, with its lush green surroundings and stunning sunset views. Bird watching is also a popular activity here, with a variety of bird species to be spotted along the coastline. For those looking to explore beyond the beach, nearby attractions include the historic Korlai Fort and Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary.
Whether you’re looking for a quiet day by the sea or an adventure-filled outing, Kashid Beach offers something for everyone. So pack your sunscreen, grab your camera, and head to this charming beach destination for a memorable day trip from Mumbai.
Mahabaleshwar
Travel tips
- Distance from Mumbai: 156 miles
- Time to get there: Approximately 5 hours
- How to get there: You can reach Mahabaleshwar from Mumbai by taking a bus from Mumbai Central Bus Station or by train from Mumbai CST to Satara Railway Station. From Satara, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to Mahabaleshwar.
- Click for Google maps directions: Mahabaleshwar
Exploring Mahabaleshwar: Things to do
Mahabaleshwar, a charming hill station in Maharashtra, is a must-see destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike. The town is renowned for its breathtaking viewpoints, lush greenery, and pleasant climate, making it an ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
One of the top activities in Mahabaleshwar is visiting the famous viewpoints such as Arthur’s Seat, Kate’s Point, and Wilson Point. These vantage points offer panoramic views of the surrounding valleys, hills, and waterfalls, providing a perfect backdrop for nature photography and relaxation.
For those seeking adventure, Mahabaleshwar offers trekking opportunities in the scenic Sahyadri mountain ranges. The trek to Pratapgarh Fort is a popular choice, allowing trekkers to explore historical ruins while enjoying stunning views of the landscape.
Additionally, Mahabaleshwar is known for its strawberry farms, where visitors can indulge in freshly picked strawberries and various strawberry-based products like jams and preserves. A visit to one of these farms offers a unique agricultural experience and a chance to savor the local produce.
In conclusion, Mahabaleshwar’s natural beauty, diverse attractions, and pleasant weather make it a must-visit destination for a day trip from Mumbai. Whether you are a nature enthusiast, adventure seeker, or food lover, Mahabaleshwar has something to offer for everyone.
