Mumbai is often touted as the city of dreams but it is also a very stressful city to live in. While the city is packed with wonderful attractions and amazing 5-star hotels, the fast-paced life, the rush-hour traffic, long working hours and a still longer commute often take a toll on our zeal. Take a break from the busy life and all the famous things in Mumbai, and embark on a road trip. The city is in close proximity to such spectacular weekend getaways that can make all the stress vanish in no time. Whether you’re looking for something adventurous, more culturally oriented or a pilgrimage of sorts, Mumbai has it all in close proximity. These road trips from Mumbai should definitely be on your weekend getaway list for this year. Check them out!
What to look forward to:
- Before you head out of Mumbai, take some time to explore Chhota Kashmir, a lush garden filled with varieties of flowers.
- Fans of Bollywood movies should take some time out to visit Mumbai Film City, which was the filming site for the country's first feature film, Raja Harishchandra.
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1. Matheran
The first automobile-free hill station of India, Matheran has impeccably good weather, spectacular views, and great roads. One of the top weekend trips from Mumbai, Matheran is known for its viewpoints, especially Sunset point, One Tree Hill Point, Panorama Point, and Prabhal Fort from Louisa Point. It is also very popular for boating, horseriding, and trekking. The most stunning trek starts from Neral. The three-four hour trek, with walking trails that offer splendid views of farms, streams, railway tracks, is sure to leave you enthralled.
Matheran
Travel Time: 4 hours 30 mins (by train)
Distance: 80 km (27 mi)
2. Mahabaleshwar
This ride may be long but it’s truly going to be worth it. A trip to the highest hill station in the Western Ghats- Mahabaleshwar, is one of the most scenic getaways from Mumbai. The roads are mostly a smooth drive and interestingly the route also incorporates the Golden Quadrilateral road. The last 50 odd kilometres (30 miles) are an uphill climb though. As you near Mahabaleshwar, you’ll drive past pretty strawberry fields and their beauty truly is hard to miss especially from February to April when they are in full bloom. The Wilson Sunrise Point, boating in Venna Lake and the extensive strawberry and mulberry markets are unmissable when in Mahabaleshwar. You could also extend this trip and head over to Panchgani only 18 kilometres (11 miles) away to try some paragliding. Also nearby, is the Kaas Plateau of Flowers, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Mahabaleshwar
Travel Time: 5 hours (by car)
Distance: 260 km (160 mi)
Tip from Content Creator
Make sure to visit Arthur’s Seat in Mahabaleshwar. The place is famous for the phenomenon of the floating of light objects. This means that if you throw light things such as a bottle cap into the valley, they float back up due to air pressure. It is said that Arthur Malet, whose wife and daughter drowned in the Savitri River, used to sit at this point and stare at the river below.
Reaching the viewpoint requires a 20-minute hike from the parking lot.
3. Alibaug
Located on the Mumbai-Goa highway, this port city is crowded throughout the year and is one of the most popular weekend drives from Mumbai for couples who want to spend some time on the beach. Also, if you’re planning a trip with your dog, the Alibaug trip is the one for you for he/she will enjoy the beach just as much as you will. The extending shores, gorgeous sands and the beauty of the Kolaba Fort will charm you. On your way there, make sure you check out Sanman restaurant, it’s the most popular seafood eatery frequented by tourists. The best time to visit Alibaug is between November and June.
Alibaug
Travel Time: 3 hours (by car)
Distance: 96 km (60 mi)
Tip from Trip101 local expert
Alibaug is another coastal destination around 2 hours and 30 minutes from Mumbai by road. However, you can make this journey exciting and reach within 60 minutes by booking a spot on the RoRo ferry. There are three different classes depending on the luxury offered, and the ticket costs between 420 to 1550 INR (5.06 to 18.67 USD) for a single passenger with a four-wheeler. Moreover, food and beverages are available here, and you can bring your pets on board. You can plan a family day out at Alibaug Beach where you can try water sports or local food!
4. Lonavala
Living in Mumbai and not having visited Lonavala/Khandala is almost sin. The beautiful twin cities are famous for the adventure activities and lots more. Take a bike ride from Mumbai to Lonavala and enjoy trekking, camping, waterfall rappelling, and more. Make a short trip to the Korigad Fort, the Karla and Bhaja caves, the Lonavala Wax Museum and the Duke’s Nose.
Not only that, the Mumbai-Pune Expressway route in itself is an amazing experience and you’re bound to feel rejuvenated even before you touch down at Lonavala. Also, you should definitely consider stopping over at Bushy Dam, Tiger Point, Rajmachi Point and Lonavala Lake en route.
Lonavala (by car)
Travel Time: 2 hours
Distance: 82 km (52 mi)
Tip from Trip101 local expert
Lonavala is the perfect weekend getaway to take a break from the hustle and bustle of city life. You can take the Eastern Freeway or the Eastern Express Highway via BKC, depending on if you're in south or north Mumbai. However, the real fun is the 6-lane Mumbai - Pune Expressway. Known for its steep ghats and sharp turns, this expressway treats you with tunnels and mind-blowing views of the villages and towns. Be sure to stop at Food Mall and fill yourself with mouth-watering vada pav, a spicy potato dumpling served in a bun. Note that two-wheelers are not permitted on the expressway. Plus, you'll have to pay a toll of approximately 310 INR (3.74 USD) for this route.
This hill station offers several activities for adventure enthusiasts, such as the Lohagad Fort Trek or paragliding at Kamshet. Apart from that, there's so much to do with your family, such as visiting Mr. Been Trampoline Park, Mapro Garden, or spending a day at Wet N Joy Waterpark & Amusement Park.
Mumbai Tour Guide
Sukanya Roy Choudhury
I am a licensed guide by Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation. I am also a visiting faculty member teaching travel and tourism at the University of Mumbai and Patkar Varde College. I have a lot of fun facts and stories about the city, which I would be happy to share.
Tours by Sukanya
5. Kamshet
If you want to take a long drive near Mumbai, then embark on this 100 odd kilometer (62.14 miles) road trip to Kamshet. It takes you to a little town known as the paradise for paragliders. The natural beauty of this town would surely make you want to extend your trip just a little longer, not wanting to get back to busy city life. The paddy fields, the sunflower fields and the stunning hills that greet you on the drive to Kamshet will win your heart. On the way, you should consider stopping over at Karla Caves, Bedsa Caves, Bhaja caves, Pawna Lake and Kondeshwar Temple to experience the best of what Kamshet has to offer.
Kamshet
Travel Time: 2 hours 30 mins (by car)
Distance: 100 km (62 mi)
6. Aurangabad
A city that owes its architectural heritage to the Mughal period, this getaway boasts of a number of forts, museums, temples and mosques. It is also very popular to buy precious jewellery in precious and semi-precious stones. Unmissable on a trip to Aurangabad are- the Tomb of Aurangzeb, Daulatabad Fort, Bibi ka Maqbara, Shivaji Museum and Sunehri Mahal.
Aurangabad
Travel Time: 7 hours 15 mins (by car)
Distance: 350 km (220 mi)
Tip from Trip101 local expert
If you plan to stop at Aurangabad for a while, you can book a stay at Lemon Tree Hotel; it surely won't disappoint you! When I stayed there, check-in was after 2pm, and we were also upgraded to a balcony room upon request. So, do ask for an upgrade, as the staff will help you if rooms are available. Also, there are three on-site restaurants, but due to COVID-19 restrictions, some were closed, along with the pool, gym, and spa facilities. The accommodation also has two bicycles, should you wish to ride, and a pool table. The rooms were very comfortable and toiletries were available as well.
7. Dandeli
A slightly longer trip when compared to those previously mentioned, Dandeli is a 10-hour road journey from Mumbai. It sits in the picturesque location of North Karnataka and is quite famous as the top white river rafting spot in Southern India. It is also famous for the cava limestone caves, the wildlife sanctuaries, and jungle safaris, and the camping experience it has to offer. You could also check out the bird watching trail at the Old Magazine House and nearby attractions such as Syntheri Caves, the monastery at Little Tibet and Dudhsagar Waterfalls.
Dandeli
Travel Time: 10 hours (by car)
Distance: 585 km (363 mi)
8. Tarkarli
While the route is lined by a number of waterfalls and scenic viewpoints, pristine beaches and clear skies greet you at the end of this drive. Tarkali is among the most popular road trip from Mumbai and is a 10-hour journey by road and is among the slightly longer road trips from Mumbai. This is a must-visit place ideal for stargazing, scuba diving, snorkelling, rafting, dolphin-spotting, and boating.
Tarkarli
Travel Time: 10 hours 30 mins (by car)
Distance: 530 km (330 mi)
9. Pune
Take a one-day road trip from Mumbai and visit the nearby city of Pune. The Mumbai-Pune Expressway takes you along a gorgeous ride embellished by the distinguished beauty of the Western Ghats and the thrilling long runnels. The three-hour ride from Mumbai takes you to Pune, a thorough metropolis in itself. You could spend the day taking in city life in a different location or could spend it exploring the more touristy spots of Pune with the Shaniwar Wada, Aga Khan Palace, MG Road, Katraj Snake Park, and the likes.
Pune
Travel Time: 2 hours and 52 minutes (by car)
Distance: 147.7 km (91.77 mi)
10. Goa
The most famous road trip from Mumbai and continually glorified by Bollywood is undoubtedly the Goa trip. An unmissable road trip from Mumbai, the drive and the destination are both sure to leave you wanting for more. The drive, spanning 12 hours, takes you through winding roads along the Western Ghats, paddy fields, Coconut fields and endless stretches overlooking the sea and the destination rewards you with its unending beaches, beautiful churches, and amazing party vibe.
Goa
Travel Time: 11 hours (by car)
Distance: 590 km (367 mi)
11. Kashid
Just a little further from Alibaug is the quiet beach town of Kashid. About a three hours’ drive from Mumbai will take you to this beautiful town on the Arabian Sea coast. It is home to the famous Kashid Beach that is fringed with swaying palm trees and has soft white sand and turquoise waters. Visitors can relax on the clean beach, enjoy a picnic or take a dip in the sea. And located closeby is the historic Murud-Janjira Fort, Phansad Bird Sanctuary and Revdanda Beach.
Kashid
Travel time: 3 hours (by car)
Distance: 126 km (78 mi)
12. Pelhar Dam
Located very close to the city limits of Mumbai is the majestic Pelhar Dam. A short bike ride or car drive of about one and a half hours will take you to this dam in the Vasai-Virar area. Located on the periphery of Tungareshwar National Park, the dam is built over Pelhar Lake and is a hidden gem for city dwellers. The lake is pristine and home to much flora and fauna. The area surrounding the lake and the dam is quite clean and perfect for those looking for a quiet spot away from the city noise. Visit during the monsoon season when the dam water flows in full force.
Pelhar Dam
Travel time: 1.5 hours (by car)
Distance: 59 km (37 mi)
13. Rajmachi
A little over five hours’ drive from Mumbai, Rajmachi is a great weekend road trip destination. Famous for being home to Rajmachi Fort in the lush Sahyadri Hills, Rajmachi is a popular destination for hikers and trekkers. Spend your weekend hiking to the top of the twin fortresses and you will be rewarded with a stunning view of the surrounding hills and valleys. A trip in the rainy season is highly recommended since the entire area is covered in beautiful mist and the waterfalls are in full force at that time, giving you ample photo opportunities. The village at the base of the hills is also great for sampling local food.
Rajmachi
Travel time: 5 hours (by car)
Distance: 313 km (194 mi)
Tip from Trip101 local expert
Another beautiful waterfall is the Devkund Waterfall, a top-rated monsoon trek near Mumbai. During that time, close to 10,000 people trek daily, and it is barely standing room at the falls. We were lucky to have trekked in the off-season and were the only people at the falls. An utterly private experience! This 12 km trek took us around 5.5 hours to complete. This clear pool at the bottom of the fall is filled with ice-cold water and relief after hours of walking. This place is considered a holy spot, and even though I am not religious, I can still feel peace. And that is why this place and photo is special.
14. Kolad
Under a three hour drive away from Mumbai is the village of Kolad. An erstwhile sleepy village in the Maharashtra countryside, it has become a popular day-trip destination in recent years. Kolad offers visitors the chance to go river rafting on Kundalika River that is both thrilling and exhilarating. Suitable for novices as well as experienced rafters, the rafting experience at Kolad is very safe and suitable for almost everyone. Besides rafting, visitors can also enjoy admiring the lush green beauty of the surrounding hills and valleys.
Kolad
Travel time: 3 hours (by car)
Distance: 122 km (76 mi)
20. Karnala Bird Sanctuary
A peaceful picnic spot close to Mumbai about one hour drive from the city and is home to lot of bird species and is a paradise for bird watchers and nature lovers. There is also a Nature Interpretation Center and a trek to the Karnala fort that lies amidst the sanctuary. Lot of wildlife is seen in the sanctuary along with birds and this is definitely a naturalist paradise providing rock cut steps to the fort and naturalist inspiration. One can trek in the forest, watch birds, read the inscriptions in the fort or just eat in a corrugated roof shelter like a local.
Karnala Bird Sanctuary
Address: Panvel Taluka, Raigad district, Maharashtra
Website: Karnala Bird Sanctuary
21. Harishchandragad
Mumbai does not have many hills and if you want to hike in a hilly landscape close to the city, head off to Harishchandragad, a three hour drive from Mumbai city. This is a nature destination compared to the concrete in Mumbai and there are also spicy tea drinks available in stalls here to charge oneself up for the hike along the hills. There is also a temple of Lord Shiva located within few caves that gives a spiritual aspect to the hiking endeavor. There are hiking guides available and the town can be reached on the way to the popular Malshej Ghat nature area.
Harishchandragad
Address: Ahmednagar district, Maharashtra
Website: Harishchandragad
22. Sula Vineyards
If you want to experience European style vineyard in India, where else to go but the Sula Vineyards a three hour drive from Mumbai city. The vineyards offer lot of open space and there are some great package tours of the vineyards besides the wine tasting and stomping on grapes. There is also the Gangapur dam in the area that lies in the backwaters and offers a scenic spot for peaceful meditation. The Sula Vineyards group also hosts a three day annual music festival and the Sula Fest, an annual wine festival. There is also Kashyapi Dam nearby and the place ranks as a picnic day trip destination from Mumbai.
Sula Vineyards
Address: Gat 36/2, Govardhan Village, Off Gangapur-Savargaon Road, Nashik, Maharashtra 422222
Website: Sula Wines
23. Naneghat Pass
Trekking destination close to Mumbai that is in ruins and offers a haunted trekking experience like a creepy B grade Bollywood film. The trekking route is cut through the mountains and one can even reach the town of Pune by the trek that lies down the mountains. Local tea or chai is definitely appreciated after some heavy duty trek and the tea is also served in a cave in the hills. One should be careful of the trek during monsoons as rain water can create slippery surface but if you are up for mountain climbing close to Mumbai city, you should definitely try this destination as a day trip.
Naneghat Pass
Address: Western Ghats, Junnar, Pune district, Maharashtra
Website: Naneghat Pass
24. Sinhagad Fort
Literally meaning the fort of lion, this place can be reached easily from Mumbai in a day trip and lies very close to Pune. The fort is associated with Maratha leader Shivaji and his exploits in the area. The surrounding landscape of the fort is also ideal for trekking and this is a great outdoor destination with scenic green hills, black rocks and yellow hay grasslands. Lying more than 4,000 feet above sea level, the fort is definitely in a nature paradise that gets waterfalls after the monsoons and thick foliage. The area lies in the Sahyadri mountains and there is also a tranquil lake with a dam.
Sinhagad Fort
Address: Sinhagad Ghat Road, Pune, Maharashtra 411025
Website: Sinhagad
25. Igatpuri
Igatpuri is famous for the Vipassana meditation center and is a fascinating day trip from Mumbai city. The landscape is dotted with dense forests, ancient temples, ruins and one can even trek away in the wilderness in the hills of the Sahyadri mountains. There are also pretty resorts in the area along with the ruins of forts and for relaxation, there are some soothing spas and holistic treatment centers
Igatpuri
Address: Nashik district, Maharashtra
Website: Igatpuri
26. Malshej Ghat
This is a popular hill station close to Mumbai and a perfect day trip for relaxing and rejuvenating in the scenery of green hills and many waterfalls. Perfect for the nature enthusiast, the place offers trekking, hiking and bird watching and there are also resorts there that cater to these.
Malshej Ghat
Address: Kalyan Ahmednagar Highway, Near Khubi Village, Kalyan, Maharashtra 421401
Website: Malshej Ghat
Must-do tours in Mumbai
If you’d rather just stay in the city and take a break over chancing a road trip, check out the tours below for fun options!
29. Full-day city tour of Mumbai
This full-day city tour features refreshments, lunch and pick-up service at the hotel in a private air-conditioned vehicle. The trip begins at 10:30 am in the morning with an English-speaking guide who will take you to some of the best landmarks of Mumbai, including the Gateway of India. At each stop, you will spend around 20 minutes getting fascinating insights of the landmark from your informative guide. Spend your day learning about the relevance of these great landmarks as you wait for your drop off at 5 pm.
Book Tours : Private Mumbai City Tour with Transport
30. Authentic Bollywood experience
The Bollywood life is indeed a must-experience tour if you are in Mumbai. Join this seven-hour tour that will take you to the interesting world of Indian film and also give you a glance at what happens behind the scenes in Bollywood. The tour includes a bus tour Mumbai of Film City, a visit to a film studio and a private tour of the homes of Bollywood stars. If you are lucky enough then you might get a chance to meet Bollywood stars and the crew in action! Book this tour to enjoy an amazing mix of art and culture.
Book Tours : Mumbai Film City and Bollywood Tour with Meal
31. Half-day tour of the Dharavi slum
There is a place in Mumbai which is called the slum area where the people are constantly struggling to live. Explore this side of Mumbai in the Dharavi slum with this half-day tour. Your tour will start with a pick up from where you stay by a private car to the entrance of the slum where you will start your walking tour of the area. You will learn about working conditions which include leather tanning and pottery, pass through many small places and also learn about the community that exists among the residents. This is definitely not a tour to miss if you are in Mumbai.
32. Full-day food tour of Mumbai with spice bazaar visit
India is famous for its use of spices in their everyday meals. If you want to experience the local culture through its markets and restaurants this is the tour for you. Your guide will take you through the Dhobi Ghat, Mumbai’s largest open-air laundry, to the spice market where you will shop alongside locals. Your tour will lead to several discoveries and new experiences such as meeting the Dabbawallas, munching on syrupy Indian sweets and also tasting street snacks. You will be provided with lunch, hot chai and bottled water. Be sure to enjoy!
Book Tours : Full-Day Food Tour of Mumbai with Spice Bazaar Visit
33. Mumbai onshore tour for cruise travellers
This is a five-hour tour for cruise travellers that have docked into this metropolis city. The tour includes a pick-up from the Mumbai port terminal in an air-conditioned vehicle by a well-informed guide. The guide will take you to the city’s interesting landmarks including Gateway of India, the Taj Mahal Palace, the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus train station, the Dhobi Ghaat, Mani Bhavan and the Kamla Nehru Park. Immerse yourself in exploring the city’s life and culture as you learn about the city’s history and also taste the Indian delicacies. Your tour will end with a drop off to the port so you can get back to your cruise.
Book Tours : Mumbai Onshore Tour for Cruise Travelers
34. Private sightseeing tour of Mumbai highlights
Imagine signing up for a tour in which you have chosen the places to visit? This tour allows you to choose between multiple standout attractions in Mumbai from the cultural markets to the plus estates. It is a personalized six-hour tour of Mumbai in a private air-conditioned vehicle. The tour begins with a front-door pick-up, then a drive to the attractions of your choice and a drop off at your hotel. Book this tour and get first-class treatment. Snacks and drinks are available.
35. Elephanta Caves and Island guided private tour
Elephanta Caves is a cave temple complex near Mumbai on an island reached by ferry within an hour from the city. There are temples for Lord Shiva as the destroyer, creator and preserver of the universe and one can even spot Hindu monks that show style like Bollywood stars. The Ajanta and Ellora caves are similar cave temple destinations near Mumbai, but Elephanta is especially popular for its closeness to Mumbai. The rock cut temples and shrines give a spiritual twist to Mumbai city aside from the regular Bollywood fare. The island derives its name from a rock-cut elephant statue that was said to have been found in the island.
Elephanta Caves
Address: Gharapuri Island, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400094
Website: Elephanta Caves
Book Tours : Elephanta Caves & Island Guided Private Tour
36. Private tour of the Kanheri Caves
Those interested in the history and art-forms of ancient India must include the Kanheri Caves in their itineraries. Located on Salsette Island, off the shores of Mumbai, these caves are accessible through rock-cut steps. Depart from your hotel with your informative guide who will take you to the Kanheri Caves which feature 109 caves carved from basalt rock. Discover the Buddhist sculptures, carvings, paintings and inscriptions as you also learn of the interesting history of the caves from your guide. Your tour also features a drop-off.
Book Tours : Private Half-Day Kanheri Caves Excursion from Mumbai
37. Private half-day Bollywood tour
No trip to Mumbai is complete without a tour of the Bollywood, India’s gift to the world cinema. Book this half-day Bollywood tour and get a front-seat view of legendary movie studios, magical working sets, special effects and a dance show! The tour begins with a pickup at your hotel. Thereafter, you will be taken to a live movie set, a live studio and then to a dance show where you will see local dancers in action. If you are lucky, you may get a chance to take a selfie with a popular Bollywood star! Your tour will include a lunch meal.
Book Tours : Private Bollywood Tour withTransport.
38. Full-day tour with ferry ride
This full-day tour includes a pick up from the hotel, a tour of the famous sites like the Prince of Wales Museum and Hanging Gardens, a drive along the marine drive, a ferry ride with views of the city’s skyline and a drop off at the end of the tour. Book this tour in order to experience Mumbai and its charm!
The highway beckons!
The best part is that no matter what the weather is, there are always ample road trip opportunities around Mumbai. There are so many places to visit and biryani spots to try. So what are you waiting for, plan your next weekend trip now!
Frequently asked questions about Road Trips From Mumbai, India
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