Mumbai, the city of dreams never disappoints anyone, be it an aspiring actor, a potential business tycoon, a common man making an honest living, or even a vivid traveler. After a grueling week of work, the city offers several picturesque weekend getaway locations to unwind and recharge yourself before the workaholic in you takes over. The rising pollution levels along with the frequent downpours make matters worse and increase the stress levels. Fortunately, several places around Mumbai make for a perfect weekend getaway. With a long weekend around the corner, here is a list of top 5 weekend getaways from Mumbai.
Lonavala
A popular hill station close to Mumbai and Pune, Lonavala is a perfect weekend getaway destination during Monsoons. Not just the destination, with its green cover and abundant waterfalls, the journey itself is a fantastic experience. Historically, Lonavala has been of strategic importance and has changed hands from the Yadavas to the Marathas to the Mughals before being captured by British. There are a few forts such as Lohagad Fort, Rajmachi Fort, and Tunga Fort that take you back to the glorious past. During monsoons, you can witness the picturesque Kune waterfalls, Pawna Lake, and renowned Bhushi dam. This is the best time of year to take a taxi from Mumbai to Lonavala. The sheer beauty of the nature in Lonavala is bound to satiate your soul and free you of your stress.
Alibaug
Alibaug or Alibag as it is sometimes referred to by non-Mumbaikars is a Goa next door. Beautiful beaches, Coconut trees, water sports, forts, and beachside cottages will leave you with memories to cherish. Alibaug is barely an hour and a half away from Mumbai via a boat ride from Gate Way of India or by road via Pen. Alibaug and Khimin beaches are frequented by tourists, whereas you can visit the Nagaon beach which is a few km away. Since Alibag is very close to the city, you can easily get a car rental in Mumbai to get there. It is quite secluded giving you the perfect opportunity to enjoy the waves and the wind without the usual touristy crowd. The Kolaba fort is also worth a visit for the fort enthusiasts.
Kashid
For those of you who feel that Alibaug is commercialized, Kashid is the perfect place for you. The small town situated about 35 km from Alibaug is famous for its beaches, blue seas, mountains, and rivulets. Kashid beach is considered as one of the best beaches in Maharashtra to unwind yourself on a weekend getaway. The Murud Janjira fort is also a major attraction near Kashid. This unconquered fortress located in the middle of the sea is an engineering marvel. Korlai Fort and Phansad Bird Sanctuary are also recommended.
Shirdi
For those of you who intend to do some soul-searching on your weekend getaways, Shirdi is the perfect destination for you. It is a significant pilgrimage site renowned across the country. Pilgrims visit Shirdi from various parts of the country in search of harmony and inner-peace. The place is about 240 Km from Mumbai with the availability of multiple travel options such as government and private buses and direct trains. If you’re planning on visiting Shirdi with your family, we recommend using a Mumbai to Shirdi taxi service. Besides the Sai Baba Mandir, visiting the Shingnapur Temple, Samadhi Mandir, Dixit Wada Museum, and Adul Baba Cottage is highly recommended.
Lavasa
In the past couple of years, Lavasa has emerged as one of the top weekend getaway destination near Mumbai and Pune. If you’re heading to Pune for the weekend, we recommend making a pit stop at Lavasa to explore this man-made hill station. You’ll easily be able to stop here according to your schedule when you book Mumbai to Pune cabs. It is one of a kind project where a hill city is being developed privately on the lines of the Italian town of Portofino. Situated in the Sahyadri ranges, Lavasa is built about 20 km from the Warasgaon Lake. From adventure sports to a relaxing nature walk, Lavasa offers something for everyone. Indulging in indoor golf, visiting Bamboosa, and catching a street play cannot be missed. Lavasa gets crowded on long-weekends and during monsoons, so plan your trip to beat the last-minute rush.