The Perfect Long Weekend Trips from Mumbai

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Discover the best of India with these perfect long weekend trips from Mumbai! Take a quick getaway from the city to one of these top destinations. Make your weekend trip memorable by visiting these exciting places, doing these activities, and staying at these top hotels.

1. Mumbai to Panchgani

Mumbai to Panchgani is an amazing road trip journey that most tourists opt to take when they are in need of a break. The route, which stretches for about 260 km, is full of winding roads, scenic spots, and plenty of amazing stops to make. Panchgani is one of the most popular hill stations in the Western Ghats and is known for its mesmerizing landscapes, lush green landscapes, caves, waterfalls, and temples. The hill station is also famous for its peaceful, calm atmosphere, and is a favorite spot for many tourists.

A long weekend trip from Mumbai to Panchgani would be truly enjoyable. While the majority of tourists prefer to take a train from Mumbai to Panchgani, self-driving can offer a much more exciting journey. The route takes you through highways and country roads, which are surrounded by lush green fields and mountains. As you drive, you will be able to take in the beauty of the serene landscape.

One of the main attractions of this trip is the winding roads that pass through the hills and mountains. These roads provide a great opportunity to take a break and soak in the beautiful environment. If you are fond of nature, then this is the perfect place to stop and take a few pictures. If you are lucky, you might even spot a few wild animals.

The rest stops along the way during the trip offer plenty of refreshments and snack options. The vast array of traditional Indian and Gujarati cuisine makes the journey even more delightful. Some tourists may also choose to stay at one of the popular resorts in Panchgani for the night. These resorts offer rooms with incredible views, as well as amenities such as pools, spas, and other recreational activities.

Your long weekend trip from Mumbai to Panchgani would be incomplete without visiting the fantastic attraction in the area. Panchgani is home to many temples, hills, and waterfalls that can be explored easily within a few hours. Another great activity is to explore the caves of Panchgani. The caves are millions of years old, and they offer a unique experience and some stunning views of the surrounding hills.

Your long weekend trip from Mumbai to Panchgani is filled with a plethora of fantastic sights to see and exciting activities to do. From the winding roads of the hills and mountains to the jaw-dropping views of the caves, this journey will ensure that you have a memorable vacation. So, be sure to make the most of your time and explore the wonders that this amazing place has to offer!

2. Mumbai to Lonavala

Mumbai to Lonavala is one of the most popular weekend escapes from the city. The journey is just over 100 km long, which most travelers like to cover over two days. This provides the perfect opportunity to explore the charming attractions of the area and make the most of their weekend escape.

The drive to Lonavala is a beautiful one, with lush vegetation, mountains, and gushing rivers dotted throughout the route. The highway is well-maintained so the journey is usually smooth and pleasant. Travelers usually start from Mumbai late on Friday evening to ensure they do not miss out on anything. En route, the best sightseeing spots to add to your itinerary include the Bhaja Caves, a 2000-year-old set of Buddhist caves renowned for its sculptures and frescoes. For the lovers of nature, there is the Khandala Sunset Point, which is a popular spot for incredible sunset views.

Once you arrive in Lonavala, the first stop should be the Karla Caves, which are a set of ancient Buddhist and Hindu rock-cut temple caves. You could spend time exploring the intricately carved inscriptions and sculptures. The Bhushi Dam, set amidst a beautiful landscape of rolling hills, is also a great spot to photograph and take a leisurely stroll in the outdoors.

The weekend would be incomplete without visiting the famous Lonavala Lake. Boating, kayaking, and swimming are great ways to spend time here. The lake is surrounded by a variety of other attractions like a market, an old fort, and a temple in the vicinity.

At the end of the day, travelers usually like to unwind in one of the many resorts and hotels surrounding the lake. Refreshments, modern amenities, and excellent hospitality, such luxury stays here provide just the perfect setting for a great weekend. The local cuisine like the delectable chikki, varyacha kadab, and warm chai, definitely should not be missed.

For a great weekend getaway, Mumbai to Lonavala is an ideal place as it offers an array of attractions both natural and cultural. The journey is not long, and by the end of it, one can be sure of having had a revitalizing and enjoyable break.

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3. Mumbai to Pune

It is no secret that weekend trips from Mumbai to Pune are among the most popular outing options for the city dwellers of India’s commercial hub. Located only a three-hour drive away, Pune becomes a haven of refreshing air amidst the hustle and bustle of the city life. During long weekends, it is not uncommon to find Mumbai’s population rushing to take in the sights and sounds of Pune.

The first thing to do on a long weekend trip to Pune is to embark on a sightseeing tour of the city’s top attractions. As with all major cities, the number of tourists visiting Pune increases on its long weekend, making these tourist spots packed with activity. Some of the must-see locations include the Aga Khan Palace, the Shaniwar Wada, and Shinde Chhatri.

The first is a historic building built in 1892, built by the Sultan of Aga Khan III. It is also the area where Mahatma Gandhi, his wife Kasturba, and several other freedom fighters were kept under house arrest. The second is a palace built in 1732, and is considered the most impressive structure built during the Peshwa Rule. The last is a memorial set up to honour the noble Maratha leader, Mahadji Shinde, who died in 1794.

For people who prefer more nature-focused activities, visiting the sprawling Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park, located at Katraj, is a must. This zoo is spread across 330 hectares of hilly terrain and is home to over 500 animals that include tigers, lions, monkeys, and a variety of birds. The 1300-year-old Buddhist monument, the Pataleshwar Cave Temple, is also one of the most popular attractions in the city.

Those interested in exploring Pune’s rich culinary culture should head to the city’s famous Laxmi Road. Ask any local, and they could probably talk of the delicious treats that this street offers. One must-try is the chai and bhajji, a popular tea-time snack oozing with fragrant spices.

A long weekend in Pune is incomplete until one takes an extended trip to the hill station of Lonavala, a mere 60 kilometres from the city. Lonavala boasts of a number of scenic attractions, such as the Karla Caves, Bhaja Caves, Lohagad Fort, and Tiger’s Leap, to name a few. The trip usually culminates with a visit to the popular Wax Museum, dedicated to the rich history and culture of India.

No matter what a person’s interest is, a long weekend trip to Pune can be extremely rewarding and enjoyable. There is something for everyone, ranging from the thrilling and the cultural, to the peaceful and the delicious.

4. Mumbai to Nashik

Mumbai to Nashik may only be a few hours away but what it offers makes it a great place for a weekend getaway. The city of Nashik is located at the western edge of Maharashtra and offers many opportunities for sightseeing, as well as a pleasant atmosphere. Its close proximity to Mumbai makes it a favorite destination for weekend travelers looking to get away and explore the region.

The first thing on the agenda will likely be getting to Nashik. Most travelers will take the express train from Mumbai to Nashik, with the journey taking just over 2 hours. After the short ride, holidaymakers can begin to explore the city at their leisure. From the ancient Hindu temple of Trimbakeshwar to the lush evergreen cover of the Satpuras, Nashik is a great place for sightseeing. With its many cultural attractions and historical sights, such as the highly revered Kalaram Temple, there are plenty of beautiful sights to see.

To make the most of a long weekend in Nashik, there is no better way to relax and unwind than by staying at one of the city’s many hotels. Whether it is the luxurious 5-star resorts or the more affordable budget accommodations, there is something to suit every budget. Those travelling to Nashik will also find a wide variety of restaurants and cafes to choose from, serving up all kinds of delicious local and international cuisine.

For those looking to explore beyond the city, Nashik makes for an ideal base. From here, it is possible to make day trips to visit the various nearby attractions. The Pandavleni Caves and Kalsubai peak are both ideal places to explore and offer breathtaking views. Additionally, the bustling city of Pune is just a two-hour drive away and makes for a great daytrip. From historical monuments to spiritual centers, there is plenty to do and see.

In the evening, visitors should head to the banks of the river Godavari to take in the stunning sunsets. With its tranquil atmosphere and beautiful landscapes, Nashik is an ideal place to rest and unwind over the weekend. There are plenty of activities to keep visitors busy, from exploring the nearby hills and gorges, to enjoying the city’s vibrant nightlife and the tasty street food.

A long weekend trip from Mumbai to Nashik is both exciting and enjoyable. With its pleasant climate and peaceful atmosphere, Nashik is the perfect place for a relaxed and memorable weekend getaway. Whether one is looking to explore the city’s culture and temples, or simply want to relax, Nashik has something to offer every kind of traveler.

Image Credit: Chandan Shastri/Unsplash

5. Mumbai to Igatpuri

When thinking of long weekend trips in India, Igatpuri in Maharashtra is one of the first places that come to mind. Igatpuri is approximately three hundred kilometers away from Mumbai and one of the most scenic destinations in the state. It is situated right in the heart of the Western Ghats and boasts majestic hills, dense forests, and crystal clear streams.

The best way to embark on a long weekend trip to Igatpuri is by driving. There are several roads connecting Mumbai to Igatpuri that pass through the scenic landscape of the Western Ghats. The roads are in relatively good condition and the drive should take around 6-7 hours. While on the way, travelers can enjoy the views of lush green hills and valleys and stop for some snacks and tea at the local roadside eateries. After the long journey, travelers arrive at the picturesque destination of Igatpuri.

Once in Igatpuri, there are so many things to do. For the adventure seeker, there are camping and trekking options and travelers can also trek to the Tringalwadi Fort, located nearby. For those looking to just relax, the Vaitarna Dam and nearby waterfalls are perfect for some nature therapy. Besides these activities, there are also plenty of temples to explore, such as the famous Trimbakeshwar Shiva Temple, which is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas in India, and several ancient caves.

The nightlife in Igatpuri is mostly centered around bonfires and music. At the resorts and cottages in the area, travelers can enjoy a delicious barbecue and folk singing, which truly sets the mood for a perfect weekend trip.

All in all, Igatpuri is one of the best places to spend a long weekend, with something new to explore every day. A long weekend trip to Igatpuri is an excellent way to experience the tranquil beauty of the Western Ghats and relax away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Image Credit: Chandan Shastri/Unsplash

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