Weekend Getaways Near Mumbai and Pune (Travel Guide)

Mumbai and Pune offer many nearby spots perfect for weekend trips and picnics. These getaways let you relax in nature, enjoy adventure activities, or simply take a break from daily routines.

From Lonavla to Dapoli, you can explore each spot according to your holidays and the location you choose to spend time with families or friends.

This guide will help you find 20 weekend spots, some of which are located in Igatpuri and near Nashik. Read further to select the best place to visit.

15+ Weekend Spots Near Mumbai and Pune

Various weekend spots, such as Lonavla, Alibaug, Igatpuri, Mahabaleshwar, and many more, are near Mumbai and Pune.

If you plan to visit Igatpuri, there are various Rental Villas and Homestays you can choose to stay in. Take a glance at 20 weekend getaways.

All these spots are accessible to everyone, from children to adults. However, in a few places, especially when visiting hidden waterfalls in Igatpuri, it can be slippery during the monsoon, so stay cautious and safe.

1. Lonavala

A popular hill station in the Western Ghats, Lonavala has something for everyone. With ancient Buddhist caves and modern adventure parks, this hill station balances history and fun activities.

Remember to try the famous chikki (hard candy), available in many flavors. Lonavala makes a perfect weekend trip from Mumbai and Pune. There are various waterfalls around Lonavla, like the hidden waterfalls of Igatpuri.

2. Alibaug

Alibaug is popular among city-dwellers for a short break. This coastal town has beautiful beaches lined with coconut trees. You can enjoy water sports like kayaking, jet skiing, and banana boat rides.

The town also has historical sites like Kolaba Fort and Murud-Janjira Fort. With good holiday resorts, it’s ideal for spending a couple of days by the Arabian Sea.

3. Matheran

Matheran is a celebrated hill station and Asia’s only automobile-free hill station. It is located in the Western Ghats and offers amazing viewpoints, such as Panorama Point, which offers a 360-degree view.

Louisa Point offers stunning views of Prabal Fort. Since private vehicles are not allowed, the main ways to get around are horses and hand-pulled rickshaws.

4. Igatpuri

A hill town at 2,000 feet in the Western Ghats, Igatpuri offers a heavenly escape into the mountains. Its pleasant climate and green landscapes attract many visitors seeking a break from city life.

There are multiple places to visit in Igatpuri that you will love to visit and experience. Sites like Kalsubai Peak, Tringalwadi Fort, Ratangad Fort, and Amruteshwar Temple are popular with sightseers. Adventure lovers can enjoy trekking, rock climbing, and rappelling.

5. Pawna Lake

A major hub for adventure experiences, Pawna Lake is an artificial lake surrounded by natural beauty. It is popular as a campsite, attracting people from both Pune and Mumbai.

Activities include paragliding, ridge dancing, trekking, and advanced kiting. The backdrop of hills against the blue lake waters makes for stunning views and photos.

6. Mahabaleshwar

Once a summer capital during the British era, Mahabaleshwar is located at 1,353 meters in the Western Ghats Ranges. It is actually in the Satara district, where you can worship the Lord Shiva temple.

It’s the source of the River Krishna and has many viewpoints, including Wilson Point, where you can see both sunrise and sunset, and Arthur’s Seat. The town is famous for its strawberries and makes a great family destination.

7. Kolad

Kolad is situated on the banks of the Kundalika River. It is known as Maharashtra’s white-water rafting capital. This tiny village is perfect for solo travelers or groups looking for adventure.

In addition to rafting, you can enjoy kayaking, jet skiing, and camping by the riverside. The first station on the Konkan Railway line adds to its charm.

8. Lavasa

The planned city of Lavasa is hidden in the Western Ghats near the Varasgaon Dam. The winding roads leading there are popular with long-distance bikers.

The mountains are covered in thick vegetation and offer pleasant weather year-round. Activities include walks on natural trails, water sports like jet skiing and kayaking, and adventure activities like rock climbing and rappelling.

9. Karjat

Karjat spans Bhorghat, Sahayadri, and the Western Ghats at the end of the Konkan coastal plains. On the banks of the River Ulhas, the average elevation is 636 feet.

It attracts tourists for adventure sports like river rafting, trekking, hiking, and mountain climbing. Many people from nearby cities have summer homes here to celebrate festivals and holidays.

10. Panchgani

The hills and beautiful landscapes show why this hill station was once the British officers’ summer capital and retirement home.

Panchgani is a popular film shooting location, so you might see your favorite actors while visiting. For mythology fans, the area has legends connected to the Pandavas’ exile and Lord Kartikeya.

11. Bhandardara

Located 165 km from Mumbai, Bhandardara is a holiday resort village along the River Pravara. It offers natural wonders like green forests, waterfalls, mountains, and peaceful surroundings.

The popular spots include Bhandardara Lake and Randha Falls. Mount Kalsubai, the highest peak in Maharashtra at 5,400 feet, is nearby and is an ideal trekking destination.

12. Malshej Ghat

Malshej Ghat is a mountain pass in the Western Ghats known for its natural beauty. It’s home to various birds, including cuckoos, flamingos, crakes, rails, and quails.

Between July and September, the area attracts many migratory birds from Siberia, with the mating dance of flamingos being a special attraction.

13. Daman

The Daman Ganga River divides Daman into two parts: Nanidaman (larger, with important facilities) and Motidaman (older, mostly inhabited by fishermen and government officers).

A Portuguese colony for nearly 400 years, Nanidaman has a large fort built in the 16th century to protect against the Mughals. The area is popular with tourists from neighboring Gujarat since alcohol is permitted here, unlike in Gujarat.

14. Kamshet

Kamshet in Pune district is known as the ‘Paraglider’s Paradise.’ The natural beauty and charming villages with mud and thatched roof houses attract visitors.

Paragliding spots include Shelar, perfect for thermal paragliding, and Kondeshwara Cliff for experienced paragliders with a 2200-foot takeoff height. Other attractions include ancient cave temples like Karla Caves, Bedsa Caves, and the Bhaja Caves.

15. Nashik

Nashik is the largest city in Northern Maharashtra and the third largest district in the state. It’s situated on the banks of the River Godavari and is famous for its onion and grape production.

The area of Panchavati is religiously important, with the Kalaram Temple hosting the Kumbh Mela every 12 years. Nashik is also known as the ‘Wine Capital of India.’ Its flourishing wine industry makes it a great spot for vineyard tours.

16. Rajmachi

Rajmachi Fort is known for its architecture and comprises two forts, Manaranjan and Shrivardhan. Surrounded by a plateau, it overlooks the Bor Ghat, an important trade route between Mumbai and Pune in the past.

The fort complex includes ramparts, walls, gateways, residential units, water reservoirs, and secret exit gates. Between the two forts is the temple of Kal Bhairava, the local deity.

17. Silvassa

During Portuguese rule, Silvassa, the capital of Dadra and Nagar Haveli Union Territory, was known as Vila de Paco d’Arcos. It is a hub of plastic products where you will find budget-friendly and qualitative products.

It gained importance in 1885 when the Portuguese transferred the administration of Nagar Haveli here. Once a small village, it developed rapidly after becoming the seat of power. Today, it has many factories and industries that help maintain low taxation levels.

18. Kashid

Kashid offers clear white sand and blue water beaches that rival international destinations. It’s popular for the Murud Janjira Fort and attracts tourists interested in adventure water sports.

Nearby Phansad Sanctuary lets you see rare bird species, while Korlai Fort showcases local history. Enjoy walks on sandy beaches, watch stunning sunsets, and shop for souvenirs made from seashells and coconut shells.

19. Ganpatipule

Ganpatipule is one of the most rewarding places to visit near Mumbai. Away from urban noise, a weekend here offers fresh air and spectacular sights like Ganpatipule Beach’s golden sands.

Sightseers can explore ancient Hindu temples like Swayambhu Temple and historic forts like Jaigad Fort. The Jaigad Lighthouse offers panoramic views of the surrounding peaceful scenery.

20. Dapoli

Dapoli is extremely popular for its beautiful beaches. The weather is hot and humid during the day and slightly cooler at night. It offers a mix of natural beauty, adventure activities, and relaxation.

The peaceful environment of Dapoli helps calm the mind and provides a perfect setting for relaxation. Water sports enthusiasts will find plenty of activities to enjoy at this Konkan coastal town.

Best Time For Weekend Getaways Near Mumbai and Pune

Planning a weekend escape from Mumbai or Pune requires considering the best seasons for each destination. The weather affects your experience at these beautiful locations.

Best times to visit popular weekend getaways:

• Hill Stations (Lonavala, Matheran, Mahabaleshwar): October to February for pleasant weather; June to September for lush greenery and waterfalls.
• Beaches (Alibaug, Kashid, Ganapatipule): November to February for comfortable temperatures and clear skies.
• Adventure Spots (Kolad, Pawna Lake): For outdoor activities from October to March, avoid peak monsoon months for rafting safety.
• Wildlife Areas (Bhandardara, Malshej Ghat): July to September for bird watching, especially flamingos at Malshej Ghat.
• Wine Country (Nashik): This is for vineyard tours and wine tasting events from December to February.

For an exceptional weekend experience, visit Igatpuri Villas where you can enjoy luxurious accommodations surrounded by the stunning Western Ghats.

Conclusion: Explore 20 Paces For the Weekend Near Mumbai and Pune

The areas around Mumbai and Pune offer amazing weekend getaways for every type of traveler. These destinations provide the perfect break from city life, from peaceful beaches to exciting mountain adventures.

Each place has its charm and activities, making them ideal for short trips. Pack your bags, grab your friends or family, and head out to explore these wonderful spots near Mumbai and Pune.

Make your Weekend Getaway memorable this year.

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