Mumbai is the financial capital of India that brings about both business and pleasure. You wish to take a break from your hectic schedule. Why not take a getaway trip from Bombay and indulge in some serious quality time with your loved ones? It is the place to be whether sights, smells, views, and things to do are gazillion in Mumbai. There is no end to enjoy when you are around places like the Gateway of India, The Taj Mahal Hotel, and The Marine Drive. Although, there is much more to spending one complete getaway trip discovering Bombay amidst all these places. Therefore, TravLiv360 presents THE BEST GETAWAYS FROM BOMBAY which will not disappoint your taste buds and allow you to relax in nature with some animals hanging around.
ALIBAUG
Alibaug is one of the best getaways from Bombay, only 90 km away from the city. Being the popular weekend getaway offers you plenty of attractions for the entire family. Most people visit Alibaug for its relaxed atmosphere which offers them a peaceful break. Moreover, it is easy to plan as it is easily accessible by train, boat and speedboat. Alibaug is a quiet, scenic village in the Raigad district of Maharashtra. It has pristine beaches, creeks, and an estuary, making it the perfect weekend destination. The golden beach of Alibaug is comparable with either Goa or other India’s famous beaches due to its serene beauty and scenic landscapes. The worth visiting places near Alibaug are Harihareshwar, Kolaba, Nagaon, and Sagargad.
ELEPHANTA CAVES
The Elephanta Caves are the best getaway, only 20 km away from Bombay. These caves, which are on an island off the coast of Mumbai, are home to some of the best architecture of India, ancient sculptures and a few Hinduism shrines. The Elephanta Caves (also known as Gharapuri Caves) are one of the most popular tourist spots in Mumbai. A ferry service runs every hour from the Gateway of India to a jetty near the caves, allowing visitors to reach the island. It is one of India’s most important historical sites and the best getaways from Bombay. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site being the enormous cave temple complex in India and featuring a wide range of stone carvings.
KAMSHET
Kamshet is a beautiful hill station situated in the Pune district. The best time to visit here is during summer when it receives maximum rainfall and the ambience of the whole destination changes and refreshes you. Kamshet has two lakes that are popular among picnickers. Moreover, it is popular among trekkers and hikers who come to enjoy the region’s natural beauty. Its proximity to Pune makes it popular with excursionists who arrive by train and leave after sunset. Kamshet is one of India’s top spots to experience paragliding in its entirety. Kamshet offers stunning sights like Pawna Lake, Bedsa Caves, Bhairi Caves, and many more.
KARJAT
Karjat is a hill station near Mumbai and is famous for its health resorts & the largest chain of farmhouses in India. Many hotels & resorts make it a favourite holiday destination for the Mumbaikars. It is one of the best getaways from Bombay during the Monsoons when the city gets hot and humid. The places such as Bhor Ghat, Bahiri Cave, Blackwaters of Pali Bhutivali Dam, and Bhivpuri Waterfall offer you the best time to enjoy Karjat. During this time of the year, you can also visit local farms to buy fresh vegetables and fruits. The best way to get to Karjat is by road or air and easily accessible to Mumbai & Pune.
KHANDALA
Khandala is a small hill station in the Western ghats around 90 km from Mumbai. The beautiful waterfalls, the lush greenery and breathtaking views make Khandala the best getaway from Bombay. The best time to visit Khandala is November- February as it attracts maximum tourists. In my opinion, the best day to travel here is on weekends rather than on weekdays due to rush hours. While surrounded by modern towns & factories, there is no denying the old-world charm of Khandala. Khandala is an ideal retreat from reality, being away from the chaos of the city.
LONAVALA
Lonavla is the most happening place for either Mumbai or Pune people looking for a sabbatical. It is one of my favourite weekend getaways from Bombay, only a two-hour drive to reach there. Several boarding and lodging facilities are available at Lonavala for a stay. However, the best option is to stay at any resort closer to the bus stand. Moreover, it should be easily accessible to all places in Lonavala. The Jain temple in Lonavala is the main attraction of Lonavala and is rewarded multiple awards for being the most beautiful temple in Maharashtra. Other tourist attractions are Bhaja caves, Valvan Dam, Tiger’s Leap, Lohagad Fort and many more.
MALSHEJ GHAT
The Malshej Ghat road is a winding, scenic mountain passage in the western ghats running from Mumbai to Pune while offering you stunning views of the western ghats on the way. It is extremely picturesque and home to many small villages with unique architecture. Its weather here remains pleasant almost throughout the year, which means you can plan a visit any time. Therefore, it is one of the best suitable for a long drive with your special ones.
MATHERAN
Matheran is a hill station in the Raigad district only 90 km from Bombay. This quaint little town nestles on a plateau 2,200 feet above sea level and offers breathtaking views of the Sahyadri mountain range. Matheran is mainly known for its calm climate and spectacular sunrise & sunset. Being the Queen of Hills in Maharasthra offers you beautiful spots such as the Panorama Point, Louisa Point, Toy Train, Louisa Point, Echo Point, Charlotte Lake, Irshalgad Fort, One Tree Hill, Shivaji’s Ladder, and many more places. Matheran is easily accessible by either train or road but in my opinion, travelling by road ensures you a glimpse of the magnificent sight of various scenic places on the way.
NASHIK
Nashik is one of the best getaways from Bombay, only just 150 km away. It is one of the holiest cities of Hindus and is also famous for its temples. Most people visit the ancient Trimbakeshwar temple in Nashik as a spiritual pilgrimage. The temple of God Vithal (Vishnu) is the oldest in Nashik while having an interesting mythological legend story associated. The Nashik caves, carved out of rocks by Buddhist monks thousands of years ago, are a fantastic sight to behold. The best time to visit Nashik is between October & March. You will get a chance to observe the city’s various attractions and get a taste of what Hindu culture is all about. Moreover, it is renowned for its lovely grapes and seedless table grapes exported to many countries.
VASAI
You can visit Vasai-Virar if you want to get away from the hustle-bustle and experience some natural, rustic living. You will find that the people of this area are amicable and welcoming while having little to no commercial activity in the area. Vasai is a great place to go for a relaxing getaway trip from Bombay. Vasai offers you beautiful beaches, theme parks and gardens where you can spend your day with your friends & family. If you are fond of wildlife, Vasai never disappoints you while having a home to wildlife sanctuaries and biodiversities. Moreover, there are also many picnic spots in the area where you can relax under the shade of trees.
GETAWAYS FROM THE BUSTLING BOMBAY
If you live in Mumbai and want to explore Maharashtra thoroughly, these getaways are a must-visit for you. They will entertain you and make you visit again and again. These places have something for everyone. Do not forget to tell your friends about these best getaways from Bombay. It will make their trips more special and memorable.
Thanks for Reading!!!
If you like our travel story, keep checking out and sharing the life-related & travel blogs at TravLiv360. Kindly show your love and support in the comment section.
Story By: Jatin Pandey