Known as the city of dreams, Mumbai is a paradise for people who like the hustle and the busy lifestyle, but ask any Mumbaikar, and they’ll tell you a different story. The horrific and never ending traffic snarls, the torrential rainfall, and the pollution all around is enough to make anyone want to take a break.
There are many picturesque and scenic places around Mumbai that are bound to rejuvenate a tired mind and soul, and refresh them, so they can start the hustle again.
Mumbaikars are blessed, as there are beaches, mountains, national parks, and waterfronts at a stone’s throw, and at a driving distance from the city.
If you are looking to get away from the city that never sleeps, and actually get some sound sleep yourself, these 5 scenic road trips are exactly what you need. Read ahead to find out more!
- Lonavala/Khandala
One of the most visited places from Mumbai, the twin cities of Lonavala and Khandala is only 85 km away, and can be reached in under 2 hours. The beauty of this trip starts from the Mumbai-Pune Expressway, and ends at the beautiful hill stations of the two cities. Lonavala and Khandala are 5 km from each other, and are often touted as the “common man’s Swiss Alps.” For all Bollywood lovers, Khandala holds a special place, and “aati kya Khandala” has made the place even more famous. There are spectacular views of the Western Ghats, quaint restaurants and cafes, and never ending, winding mountain roads, that are bound to excite your romantic side.
For adrenaline junkies, there are many activities like camping and trekking.
Tip: for all bikers, the Mumbai-Pune Expressway does not allow two wheelers, and they will have to take the Old Mumbai Pune Highway.
Distance from Mumbai: 85 km
Time taken: Approximately around 2 hours
Things to do: Trekking, waterfall rappelling, Tiger’s Leap, Duke’s Nose, Korigad Fort
- Sula Vineyards
It’s always better to wine, and not whine, and the Sula Vineyards provide the best opportunity to do exactly that. The drive to Sula Vineyards in Nasik is simply spectacular, and the Trimbakeshwar route is the best for the same. The road goes via small hills, and there is a water dam too, making for excellent photo ops!
The drive inside the vineyard is exciting too, and it is great to see the grapevines as you make your way inside the property. Sprawled over 30 acres, the atmosphere of the vineyard is almost Utopian, and the entire place is covered with grapevines, and lush green shrubs.
Tip: There are many guest houses in the vineyard, and it is definitely advised to stay the night, go to sleep under the crystal clear stars, and wake up feeling refreshed, if not hungover!
Distance from Mumbai: 230 km
Time taken: 4 hours approximately
Things to do: Stomp some grapes, wine tasting, wine pairing
- Alibaug
Nicknamed “Mini Goa”, Alibaug is one of the most visited places from Mumbai.There are beautiful sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, fresh, unpolluted air, and a plethora of adventure sports to choose from. The drive from Mumbai to Alibaug is breathtaking, and offers stunning views of the Arabian Sea, as you drive along the Mumbai-Goa Highway. Alibaug has a rich colonial history, and has a number of forts and shrines that bear testimony. The Colaba Fort can be seen from Alibaug, and it is a short boat ride to the fort, to enjoy the scenic views of the sea.
Also, the walk through the amazing coconut groves is refreshing and rejuvenating.
Tip: Enjoy a long walk on the Alibaug Beach – the terrain is flat, and the sand is clean. There is just something wonderful about feeling the sand between your toes.
Distance from Mumbai: 95 km
Time taken: 2.5 hours approximately
Things to do: Varsoli Beach, Colaba Fort, The Alibag Magnetic Observatory
- Matheran
Matheran is a quaint little hill station that is nestled amidst the spectacular Sahyadri Range. Located at about 800 metres above sea level, Matheran literally means forest on the forehead, and is Asia’s only automobile free hill station. Since cars are not allowed, the best way to enjoy the unadulterated beauty all around is by horse rides, or trekking. The views are spectacular, the weather is perfect, and the food is scrumptious.
Adrenaline junkies can try their hand at waterfall rappelling, rock climbing, and good old trekking.
Tip: Wear comfortable sports shoes as there are small pebbles on the pathways, and it is best to be safe.
Distance from Mumbai: 85 km
Time taken: 2 hours 30 minutes approximately
Places to visit: Echo Point, Monkey Point, Alexander Point, Charlotte Lake
- Malshej Ghat
Malshej Ghat is a very popular mountain pass that is frequented by Mumbaikars. The drive down to the Malshej Ghat is spectacular, as the roads are almost perfect, and the views of the Western Ghats are incredible. Malshej Ghat has many waterfalls, stunning viewpoints, and forts. The Ghats are home to many unique species of flora and fauna, and cuckoos, flamingos, and quails are found here.
No words can do justice to the beauty of the Malshej Ghat, and it is something that you must experience for yourself.
Tip: Drive down to Malshej from Mumbai via Kalyan. Carry umbrellas, windcheaters, and stay away from the craggy mountain edges.
Distance from Mumbai: 125 km
Time taken: 3 hours approximately
Places to visit: Malshej Falls, Ajoba Hill Fort, Pimpalgaon Joga Dam
If reading the above has stimulated the need to travel, and get away from the daily life to just get in the groove, what are you waiting for?! Pack your bags, and embark on one of these 5 scenic road trips from Mumbai that promise to be nothing short of epic.
