With its hectic pace, life in Mumbai may be difficult and time-consuming at times. Despite our best efforts, there never seems to be enough time to do all we want to, and this adds unnecessary pressure as we try to fulfil our aspirations. You’ll be happy you found this list of places to visit if you’re among the many Mumbai residents who’ve been pining for a quick getaway from the city. Feel free to escape the pressures of everyday life, even only for a day.
Manori
Manori and Gorai beaches are becoming more popular with backpackers and city dwellers seeking a taste of rustic life.
It is ideal for more than simply a day trip to the beach. Manori’s two-kilometre beach is the closest you can get to the action of the city of dreams without really being there.
Manori is populated by fishermen and has a lifestyle reminiscent of Goa; the beach is lined with coconut and cashew trees that provide abundant shade, and even hammocks are strung between some trees. The two Nath Sampradaya Ashrams, the Samudreshwar temple, and the Global Vipassana Pagoda are just a few of the spiritual destinations that make Manori a worthwhile destination outside the realm of the picnickers.
Elephanta Islands
When thinking about day trips from Mumbai, Elephanta Island is the first spot that springs to mind. A ferry will transport you from the Gateway (which is a great way to start the trip). Half a day will be spent exploring the island’s cave system. In the caverns, you may witness stunning sculptures of Indian deities and Buddha, fascinating carvings and striking rock formations. The three-headed Mehsamurthi figure carved from a single granite block is a must-see. Spend some time in Apollo Bunder’s enviable streets once you return to the Gateway.
Lonavala
Lonavala, the most popular hill station in Maharashtra, is located in the Sahyadri range of the Western Ghats between Pune and Mumbai. The abundance of nearby natural features, such as waterfalls, lakes, and hills, make it a popular location for outdoor enthusiasts.
If you like nature, you should check out this area, surrounded by trees, waterfalls, and a dam next to lakes. Lonavala is one of the twin hill stations, together with Khandala, located 624 metres above sea level (these two can be easily visited together). Attractions in Lonavala include the Bhaja caverns, Bushi dam, Karla caves, Rajmachi fort, and Ryewood lake. Many hikers visit Lonavala to go on routes like the Andharban Trail, which travels from Pimpri to Bhira.
Hard candy chikki, a sweet edible prepared from various nuts blended with jaggery, is a speciality of Lonavala. Moreover, it is a significant terminal on the train route between Mumbai and Pune.
Nashik
Nashik is only a few hours drive to the northeast of Mumbai, and it’s a great option for a day trip. The landscape here consists of gentle hills and verdant valleys. In addition, and maybe more importantly, Nashik is India’s most important wine area.
When travelling to India, many people may not be looking for high-quality wine, but in Nashik, they will be pleasantly pleased. Although making wine in Nashik is a relatively young art form, local producers can now compete with the best worldwide. Sula Winery, the biggest and best-known domestic wine producer, is one of several wineries to visit. Stop by for a tour of the vineyard and some complimentary sampling.
Harnai-Anjarle
Enjoy the scenic beauty of Harnai-Anjarle for a day trip from Mumbai. The trip here is spectacular, especially in the monsoon, when the Sahyadri mountain range is bathed in mist, and the colours of the landscape come alive. Harnai-Anjarle is a wonderful escape from the bustle of the city, thanks to its abundance of natural beauty and peace. In this area, you may go hiking in the verdant highlands or stroll along the calm shores. The nearby temples and forts are also well worth a look. Harnai-Anjarle, located not far from Mumbai, is a great spot for a day trip with friends or family.
This city of dreams, Mumbai, has everything for everyone who lives here: Bollywood, film stars, the Gate of India, the Hotel Taj, corporates, dabbawalas, vada pav, fast individuals and local trains, heavy traffic on the roads, stress from daily life, hidden competition among people working together, and too many other things to count. Neither time nor labour in Mumbai stops between Monday and Friday. Therefore, weekends are ideal for spending time with loved ones and caring for oneself. Amidst the mayhem of the city, every person’s thoughts are focused on the weekend, when they may rest and recharge in preparation for the following week. Lastly, read more about travel around the city here.
