Not only is Mumbai the capital of the state of Maharashtra, but also the financial capital of India. There are a lot of things to visit and experience in and around the city.
But what many tourists may not know is that there are road trips you can take from Mumbai to some towns and hill stations nearby that have the most authentic beauty in the region. A lot of residents of the city take a ride out of the city now and then to refresh and be in touch with nature. Read this article to pick some of the most fascinating road trips from Mumbai.
Karjat
Karjat is situated in the Raigad district, around 63 km from the city of Mumbai. It is known for its green canopy and mountainous landscape. The main attractions here for tourists are Kondana Caves, Kothaligad Fort, Jain Temple, Ulhas Valley, ND Studio, and the Pali Bhutivali Dam.
The best time to visit Karjat is during the monsoon, that is, July to September. It takes about 1 hour 25 minutes to drive from Mumbai via some scenic routes, making it one of the best road trips from Mumbai. The thick forested hills are worth stopping for a trek, a hike, and a mountain climb.
Igatpuri
Igatpuri is a tiny hill station in Nashik district, surrounded by the highest peaks of the Sahyadri Ranges. It is at a distance of 121 km from Mumbai. Driving en route from Mumbai boasts of scenic views of the picture-perfect roads and patches of forests of the Western Ghats.
The best time to visit Igatpuri is anytime from June to September and from November to December. It takes about 2 hours 25 minutes to drive from Mumbai, making it one of the best weekend road trips from Mumbai. At Igatpuri, you can recuperate and find peace in the meditation center and the temples. You can also participate in fun activities, such as trekking, camping expeditions, and zip-lining.
Pune
Known as “The Oxford of the East”, Pune is the largest city in Maharashtra after Mumbai. You can travel the 150 km from Mumbai to Pune on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway and feast your eyes on the most fantastic and wonderful views of the Western Ghats.
The best time to take this road trip is between August and March. The entire journey takes close to 3 hours. It is one of the most fascinating weekend road trips from Mumbai.
Lavasa
Located some 186 km from Mumbai, Lavasa was planned and built based on the Italian town of Portofino. Portofino is known for its unique and beautiful combination of Mediterranean countryside with the picturesque landscape of the Italian coast. You can experience this beauty right here in India by visiting Lavasa! Here, you can pamper yourself with gourmet meals, spa sessions, and enjoy watching the picturesque mountains in the hilly ridges of the place.
The best time to go on this road trip is during monsoons, that is, July to September. The entire journey takes about 3 hours by the Mumbai-Pune Expressway. It is one of the most astounding road trips from Mumbai.
Aurangabad
Located close to 340 km from Mumbai, visiting Aurangabad is a must, if you already haven’t. It is known for being built during the Mughal era. You can view the beautiful mosques, temples, as well as forts and tombs—they have a deep connection to the history of the country—making it one of the best road trips from Mumbai.
The entire road trip takes about 6 hours and 30 minutes via National Highway 3 and Nagpur. A little ahead of Aurangabad, you also can visit the Ajanta Caves (32 km) – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – and the Ellora Caves (108 km).
Lonavala
Driving on the Old Mumbai-Pune Highway, you will arrive at Lonavala, about 82 km from Mumbai.
The best time to visit Lonavala is during the monsoon season, that is July to September. The entire road trip may take about 2 hours. There are a number of activities here for the visitors, such as traveling, setting up camp, and water sports. You can check out the antiquated ruins at the Karla Caverns, Bhaja Caverns, Bedsa Caverns, and the forts of Lohagad and Visapur in the vicinity. The journey to Lonavala is one of the best weekend road trips from Mumbai.
Have you been to any other road trips from Mumbai that haven’t made the list? Do comment below to let us know.
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