Remember the phrase, “city of dreams” highlighted in so many movies? Or the “city that never sleeps”? Of course, we are talking about Mumbai. But there are times when the constant race to chase your dreams and the long days that keep you on the edge brings drudgery. And you pine for a break. Thankfully, there are some really astounding locations in the vicinity for you to explore, even on a budget!
No doubt, your holidays from Mumbai would be fun and exciting. But whether you are a Mumbaikar or are visiting the city, before you drive out of town, to take a tour of the Gateway of India, Marine Drive, Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, etc. These destinations are quite close by and don’t require any entry fee either (see, we remember budget!). And if you love to eat, the city has some amazing street foods to satiate your tastebuds. So, now that you have explored the city, let’s head towards some of the magical destinations around the city and let the fun get unleashed!
Lonavala is one of the nearest tourist attractions and hill stations when you drive out of Mumbai – and we must say, a charming one too. The magical spell that this lush green hill station puts on the tourists is undeniable. Apart from the scenic points and exclusively beautiful waterfalls, there are some really fun things to do here like enjoying the games and sports, trekking, drenching in the falls, and devouring the local corn chaat and chikki that are gourmet to the town. Pro Tip – Visit during the monsoons to see the trickling waterfalls against the vivid greens and enjoy a rain dance too!
If you love to indulge in beaching experience without visiting a very plush and expensive location for the same, then you can always head to Alibaug from Mumbai. It’s a fantastic beach island and is surely one of the most marvellous budget getaways from the city. The distance from Mumbai to Alibaug is around 97.5kms – so it would not be a very tiring drive. And the fun that you get here is totally unlimited. Enjoy the most favourable climate in the picturesque backdrop. Apart from beaching, don’t miss the photo opportunities at the beautiful Fort Kolaba.
Enjoy this mystical mountain place nestled in Sahyadri range for its picture-postcard-like beauty that is sure to make you sigh and swoon. The lush greenery, the spectacular view of the Sahyadri, and the trickling waterfalls – all of it would make you feel serene and calm. You won’t believe that you are actually just a few kilometres away from the famous Metropolitan city of Mumbai. The simplicity of life and living and the proximity to nature would surely tug your heart strings. Camping and exploring the natural forests, viewing the camels in the nearby valley, exploring the internationally famed Vipasana centre are some of the checklists that you should tick while you are here.
One of the very famous, favourite, and popular holiday destinations from Mumbai, Matheran, is an automobile free hill station. Yes, we know you are amazed by the concept itself. The astounding natural beauty of this place cannot be described in a few words. The lush waterfalls, the purity in the air, and the green carpet all around are worth experiencing to feel relaxed and serene. Enjoy the panoramic view from the various hill points and also the beauty of the Prabhal Fort.
This is one of the budget getaways from Mumbai that would make you remember the heritage and craftsmanship of India with pride. The Ajanta caves are one of the oldest in the history and provide a captivating view of the most extraordinary carvings and sculptures from the yester years. You will also find religious importance signified to these caves because the carvings here belong to the prominent Hindu Gods.
Approximately 250 kms of drive from Mumbai would take you to the picturesque hill station of Mahabaleshwar where romance is in the air. The cottages and hotels here are available at reasonable rates and the visit to the various spectacular points and Venna Lake is enough to seal your journey with satisfaction. Oh! Visit a strawberry farm and try the famous and scrumptious strawberry with cream while you are here. If you are in a mood, drive a little more to explore the Kaas Plateau of Flowers, which has been declared to be a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Nashik is a small town that plays a very big role in Maharashtra tourism. The religious temples and shrines located in and around Nashik hold a very significant role in the Hindu religion. Get ready to view some of the most ancient and precious architectural offerings in the form of those temples as you visit the city.
If you are crazy about beaches, then do drive towards Kashid at the very first instance. You’ll reach here easily from the city and the secluded coastline and unsung beaches are enough to provide you peace of mind and joy. Also, don’t forget to treat yourself to the yummy seafood served here. Once you are here, don’t miss the Phansad dam and Phansad Wildlife sanctuary. We know, you wouldn’t want to leave the sylvan sand and azure waters of Kashid, but drive a little further to explore the Janjira Fort in Murud – this for on the sea would be a thrilling experience to explore for sure.
They say Lavasa is expensive. But we urge you to not to believe this myth and hit the man-made hill station near Mumbai. It is marvellously made, and you’ll find lots of tourist’s attractions here like water parks, motorboats, rides, etc. In short, a trip to Lavassa is worth every penny and provides guaranteed fun and excitement.
If you are really serious about exploring some more budget holidays from Mumbai, then consider exploring caves and paragliding in Kamshet, river rafting and wildlife watching in Dandeli, beaching diving and hogging on Alphonso in Tarkali and Malvan, visit museums forts and temples in Pune, or revitalise in the idyllic natural backdrop of Mulshi or Mulshej Ghat. If you never tire behind the wheels, you may even drive further along to Goa, Runn of Kutch, or Mount Abu. Just follow your heart and fuel your wanderlust. The only condition to explore all these areas seamlessly is to hire a car in Mumbai from Revv, which makes it easy for you to commute comfortably, safely, and according to your own convenience.
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