Weekend Getaways from Mumbai: Short Trips to Refresh and Rejuvenate

Mumbai, with its fast-paced life, can sometimes leave you craving a quick escape. Fortunately, just a few hours away from the bustling city are serene hill stations, charming beach towns, and scenic vineyards, offering a much-needed break. From the misty hills of Lonavala and Mahabaleshwar to the sun-kissed beaches of Alibaug, there’s no shortage of rejuvenating weekend getaways from Mumbai.

In this blog, we’ll explore some of the best destinations for a weekend retreat, including the beautiful Nashik, the adventure-filled Alibaug, and the ever-popular Lonavala.

1. Nashik: The Wine Capital of India

Just 170 km from Mumbai, Nashik is a perfect weekend getaway for those looking to explore India’s growing wine culture. Known for its vineyards, ancient temples, and cool climate, Nashik offers a relaxing blend of nature and culture. Here is a complete itinerary for Nashik. 

What to Do in Nashik:

• Wine Tours: A visit to Sula Vineyards, Soma Vineyards, or York Winery is a must. Enjoy a tour of the vineyards, learn about the wine-making process, and indulge in wine tastings with scenic views of the surrounding hills.
• Trimbakeshwar Temple: Located about 30 km from Nashik, this ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas in India. It is a major pilgrimage site and boasts stunning architecture.
• Panchvati: Rich in history and mythology, Panchvati is believed to be the place where Lord Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana spent part of their exile.

Best Time to Visit:

Nashik is most enjoyable during the cooler months from November to February or monsoon from July to September. 

Accommodations in Nashik

Nashik offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every traveler’s budget and preferences.

• Budget Hotels:
  • Hotel Panchavati: Basic amenities with prices starting at ₹1,000 per night.
  • IBIS Nashik: Affordable and modern, with rates starting around ₹2,500 per night.
• Airbnbs:
  • Vineyard Studio: A cozy, vineyard-facing property, ideal for small groups, priced between ₹2,500 and ₹5,000 per night.
  • Other charming homestays and apartments are available within the same range.
• Luxury Resorts:
  • The Gateway Hotel Ambad: Premium amenities, lush green surroundings, and prices starting from ₹7,000 per night.
  • Beyond by Sula: Offers a luxurious stay with vineyard views, starting at ₹10,000 to ₹15,000 per night.
• Accommodation prices can vary significantly during peak seasons like the grape harvest or festive occasions (Diwali, New Year). It’s advisable to book early for the best rates.

2. Igatpuri: A Peaceful Hill Station

Located about 120 km from Mumbai, Igatpuri is a serene hill station nestled in the Sahyadri mountain range. Known for its scenic beauty, it’s an ideal spot for trekking, meditation, and nature lovers.

What to Do in Igatpuri:

• Vipassana Meditation Center: If you’re seeking peace and mindfulness, the Vipassana International Academy is one of the largest meditation centres in the world and offers courses in the ancient practice of Vipassana.
• Kalsubai Peak: For adventure enthusiasts, a trek to Kalsubai Peak, the highest peak in Maharashtra, offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
• Resorts: Igatpuri is home to several luxurious and serene resorts that offer the perfect escape from city life. Surrounded by the lush greenery of the Sahyadri Mountains, resorts like Tropical Retreat Luxury Resort & Spa, Mystic Valley Spa Resort, and Manas Resort with Petting Zoo provide comfortable stays with modern amenities, stunning views, and options for relaxation, such as spa treatments and infinity pools. These resorts are ideal for both nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful retreat.

Best Time to Visit:

The monsoon months, from June to September, bring out the best in Igatpuri with cascading waterfalls and lush greenery.

Hotels/Resorts to Stay in Igatpuri

Budget Hotels:

• Hotel Ashwin: Offers basic amenities with prices starting around ₹3,628 per night. Tripadvisor

Airbnbs:

• StayVille- Casa Aruba: A cozy villa nestled in a village setting, offering unique stays starting from ₹1,689 per night. Airbnb

Luxury Resorts:

• Tropical Retreat Luxury Resort & Spa: Provides premium amenities and lush surroundings, with rates starting from ₹7,000 per night. Tripadvisor
• Prices can increase during peak seasons like monsoons and festive periods. Booking in advance is recommended to secure the best rates.

3. Lonavala and Khandala: The Classic Hill Stations

Just 80 km from Mumbai, the twin hill stations of Lonavala and Khandala are evergreen favourites for Mumbaikars seeking a weekend retreat. Known for their scenic landscapes, misty mountains, and waterfalls, these destinations are ideal for a quick and refreshing getaway.

What to Do in Lonavala and Khandala:

• Rajmachi Fort: A trek to Rajmachi Fort provides a historical insight into the Maratha Empire, along with breathtaking views of the valley.
• Bhushi Dam: A popular monsoon destination where the overflowing water creates a natural waterfall, perfect for a fun splash.
• Karla and Bhaja Caves: These ancient Buddhist rock-cut caves are worth exploring for their intricate carvings and serene atmosphere.
• Tiger Point in Lonavala is a scenic viewpoint offering breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys, mountains, and waterfalls, especially during sunrise and sunset.

Best Time to Visit:

Lonavala is an all year round place. However, the best time to visit is from October to March, although the monsoon season (June to September) offers beautiful views of waterfalls and mist-covered hills.

Hotels/Resorts in Lonavala/Khandala

Budget Hotels:

• Hotel Gautam: Offers comfortable stays with prices starting around ₹2,500 per night.

Airbnbs:

• 5BHK Pool Villa with Scenic View: A spacious villa ideal for groups, with rates starting from ₹1,689 per night. Airbnb

Luxury Resorts:

• The Dukes Retreat, The Machan, Della Adventures, Upper Deck, Fariyas: They provide premium amenities and stunning views, with prices starting from ₹7,000 per night.

4. Mahabaleshwar: The Land of Strawberries

About 230 km from Mumbai, Mahabaleshwar is a popular hill station known for its cool weather, scenic viewpoints, and strawberry farms. It’s the perfect destination for nature lovers and those looking for a relaxing escape.

What to Do in Mahabaleshwar:

• Strawberry Farms: Mahabaleshwar is famous for its strawberry farms, and you can visit these farms to pick fresh strawberries during the harvest season (December to February).
• Venna Lake: A popular spot for boating, Venna Lake is surrounded by lush greenery and offers a peaceful retreat.
• Pratapgad Fort: A historic fort that offers stunning views of the Sahyadri mountains and is steeped in Maratha history.

Best Time to Visit:

The best time to visit is during the winter months (November to February), when the weather is cool and strawberries are in season.

Hotels/Resorts to Stay in Mahabaleshwar

Budget Hotels:

• Hotel Panorama: Offers basic amenities with prices starting around ₹2,000 per night.

Airbnbs:

• Cozy Cottage in Strawberry Farm: A quaint stay amidst nature, with rates starting from ₹2,500 per night.

Luxury Resorts:

• Le Méridien Mahabaleshwar Resort & Spa: Provides luxurious amenities and serene surroundings, with prices starting from ₹10,000 per night.

5. Panchgani: A Serene Hill Station

Situated just 20 km from Mahabaleshwar, Panchgani is another beautiful hill station, known for its misty weather, green landscapes, and viewpoints that offer breathtaking views of the Krishna Valley.

What to Do in Panchgani:

• Table Land: This is Asia’s second-largest mountain plateau and offers a fantastic panoramic view of the surrounding valleys and hills.
• Sydney Point: A popular spot that provides stunning views of the Krishna Valley and the Dhom Dam.
• Mapro Garden: Famous for fresh strawberries, jams, and syrups, Mapro Garden is a great place to sample local produce and enjoy a relaxed day out.

Best Time to Visit:

The ideal time to visit Panchgani is between September and May when the weather is pleasant.

Hotels/Resorts to Stay in Panchagani

Budget Hotels:

• Hotel Mala’s: Offers comfortable stays with prices starting around ₹2,500 per night.
• Hotel Mount View Executive: Provides basic amenities with rates beginning at ₹1,500 per night.

Airbnbs:

• Valley View Bungalow: A cozy 2-bedroom bungalow with stunning valley views, priced between ₹3,000 and ₹5,000 per night.
• Dadaji Cottage: A charming cottage surrounded by lush greenery, with rates starting from ₹2,500 per night.

Luxury Resorts:

• Ravine Hotel: Offers premium amenities and breathtaking views, with prices starting from ₹7,000 per night.
• Evershine Keys Prima Resort: Provides luxurious accommodations with rates beginning at ₹6,000 per night.

6. Karjat: Adventure and Scenic Views

Located 62 km from Mumbai, Karjat is a quick escape for adventure lovers. This destination is perfect for trekking, river rafting, and exploring historical caves.

What to Do in Karjat:

• Kondana Caves: These ancient Buddhist caves are known for their sculptures and are a popular trekking destination.
• Ulhas Valley: The scenic Ulhas Valley offers great opportunities for camping, hiking, and photography.
• River Rafting: During the monsoon season, river rafting in the Ulhas River is a thrilling experience.

Best Time to Visit:

Karjat is best visited either during the monsoon (June to September) or winter months (November to January) when the landscape is lush and waterfalls are in full flow.

Hotels/Resorts to Stay in Karjat

Homestays, Villas and Airbnbs:

Karjat offers a range of private homestays and AirBnbs that provide a cozy, personalized experience amidst serene natural surroundings. For instance, The Whey Side, a charming farm stay, offers rustic cottages and farm-to-table meals, with rates starting around ₹4,000 per night. SaffronStays Casa Blanca, a luxury villa with a private pool and lush gardens, is ideal for families or groups, with prices beginning at ₹10,000 per night. Another popular choice is Rippling Edge, a riverside homestay that provides a tranquil retreat with spacious rooms and a starting price of ₹3,500 per night.

Luxury Resorts:

• Radisson Blu and The Forest Club Resort: Offer premium amenities and scenic views, with prices starting from ₹7,000 per night.

7. Alibaug: The Beach Paradise

Located just 95 km from Mumbai, Alibaug is a popular beach destination and is often referred to as the Goa of Maharashtra. Known for its sandy shores, heritage forts, and relaxing vibe, Alibaug is an ideal spot for a quick weekend beach retreat.

What to Do in Alibaug:

• Alibaug Beach: This popular beach offers stunning views of the sunset and is perfect for a relaxing evening stroll.
• Murud Janjira Fort: Located just a short distance from Alibaug Beach, this historic sea fort can be accessed on foot during low tide. It offers insights into the Maratha empire and provides panoramic views of the Arabian Sea.
• Kashid Beach: About an hour away from Alibaug, Kashid Beach is a quieter, more serene spot for those looking for fewer crowds and clear waters. It’s great for swimming, picnics, and beach activities.

Best Time to Visit:

The best time to visit Alibaug is between October and March, when the weather is pleasant and perfect for beach activities.

Hotels/Resorts in Alibaug

Budget Hotels:

• Mayekarwadi Home Stay: Offers a family-friendly environment with prices starting from ₹580 per night. MakeMyTrip

Airbnbs:

• Studio Supari: A coastal villa perfect for couples, with rates starting from ₹1,689 per night. Airbnb

Luxury Resorts:

• Casa Verde: A 5 BHK villa spread over 3 acres, offering luxurious stays. Lime Stays and Prakruti Resorts Pvt. Ltd in Kashid is a well known luxurious property with private beach.
  

8. Matheran: Asia’s Only Automobile-Free Hill Station

A unique destination, Matheran is a hill station located about 80 km from Mumbai and is known for being completely automobile-free, making it an eco-friendly retreat.

What to Do in Matheran:

• Toy Train Ride: The toy train from Neral to Matheran is a scenic experience through the Western Ghats.
• Echo Point, Alexander point and Charlotte Lake: These are two of the most scenic spots in Matheran, offering beautiful views and peaceful surroundings. When you are in Matheran, a horse ride is a must.

Best Time to Visit:

The best time to visit is from October to May.

Hotels/Resorts to Stay in Matheran

Budget Hotels:

• Hotel Panorama: Offers basic amenities with prices starting around ₹2,000 per night.
• Hotel Woodlands: Provides comfortable stays with rates beginning at ₹1,500 per night.

Airbnbs:

• Cozy Cottage in Matheran: A quaint stay amidst nature, with rates starting from ₹2,500 per night.
• Heritage Bungalow: A spacious bungalow ideal for families, priced between ₹3,000 and ₹5,000 per night.

Luxury Resorts:

• The Verandah in the Forest: Offers premium amenities and serene surroundings, with prices starting from ₹7,000 per night.
• Dune Barr House: Provides luxurious accommodations with rates beginning at ₹6,500 per night.

Mumbai offers endless opportunities for quick weekend getaways, from the scenic vineyards of Nashik and the adventurous hills of Lonavala to the sun-kissed beaches of Alibaug. Whether you’re looking to relax, explore, or seek adventure, these destinations are perfect for refreshing and rejuvenating yourself over a weekend. So, pack your bags, grab your camera, and escape the city for a well-deserved break!