Places to visit near Mumbai in monsoon
Mumbai monsoon is famous for being filmy and romantic, just like scenes straight out of a Bollywood movie. There are many places you can visit in Mumbai to enjoy the famous Mumbai monsoon, such as Marine Drive, the Gateway of India, Juhu Beach, and more. However, if you are willing to travel a few hours away from the city, you can explore mesmerizing hill stations and waterfalls that are unparalleled in nature’s beauty. So, if you’re searching for places to visit near Mumbai in monsoon for an upcoming long weekend, here are the ones that have stolen my heart.
7 Places to visit near Mumbai in monsoon
1. Igatpuri
Igatpuri tops my list as the best monsoon destination in Maharashtra. I have visited this place on several occasions, during different seasons, but the monsoons here are my favorite. The lush greenery of the Western Ghats and the beautiful waterfalls make it an ideal destination to be explored during the rainy season. Located just about 120 kilometers away from Mumbai, it’s a quick monsoon getaway from the city life. There are lakes, waterfalls, and misty valleys to explore during the monsoon, providing you with countless picturesque spots.
Jaylos Lake Resort in Igatpuri offers a perfect choice for a memorable staycation. As soon as you step into the resort, you are greeted by lush greens.
2. Matheran
If there’s one place where you can truly experience the magic of the monsoon, it’s in Matheran. This quaint hill station offers mesmerizing views of waterfalls, forests, and scenic hills. It is Asia’s only automobile-free hill station and hence my favorite place to visit, especially in monsoons. Every corner of this hill station paints a surreal picture, as if it’s straight out of a Bollywood movie. Every time I visit Matheran, I fall in love with the foggy climate, which is at its peak during the monsoon in August. For a peaceful and soul-soothing trip, Matheran is the best hill station to visit during the rainy season. To plan your travel itinerary, you can check this blog.
3. Karjat
Karjat, located in the Raigad district of Maharashtra, is next on my list. It is the perfect weekend getaway from Mumbai and Pune, and the monsoon season is the best time to experience the magic of nature in this charming town surrounded by hills and waterfalls. For trekking enthusiasts, there are several places to explore, and along any trail, you’ll come across numerous waterfalls. We booked our stay at the Whey Side resort, and the view from our room was simply surreal. The hills and waterfalls created the most beautiful canvas. Karjat farmhouse stay
4. Mahabaleshwar
Mahabaleshwar offers an unmatched charm in all seasons, but the monsoons here are particularly enjoyable. Known as the Queen of Hill Stations, this place is located close to Mumbai and Pune and is the perfect destination to visit during the rainy season. While you may not be able to enjoy strawberry picking during this time, there are plenty of other treats that make up for it. The mesmerizing greenery and waterfalls will tempt you to trek to beautiful spots.
I have visited Mahabaleshwar multiple times during the rainy season, and it has always been an absolute delight. The weather is cold, reminiscent of Nainital. The streets are enveloped in fog, and the gentle rain adds to the joy of indulging in hot monsoon delicacies. For more information on the best resort to stay in Mahabaleshwar and the places to explore, you can check out this blog.
5. Lonavala
Lonavala is a must-visit place in the monsoon for many Mumbaikars, and I also enjoy a quick visit to this nearest hill station to Mumbai. However, I do have reservations about planning a trip here due to the extreme crowds during the rainy season. Nevertheless, the beauty of this charming hill station is best experienced in the monsoon. There are several spots that offer breathtaking views of the lush green mountains, and there are also numerous trekking destinations for enthusiasts. If you’re short on time but still want a quick monsoon escapade, I recommend heading to Lonavala. It’s just an hour away from Navi Mumbai, making it a perfect spot to visit during the rainy season. Club Mahindra Lonavala is my absolute favorite resort, and I have visited it many times.
6. Karnala
Karnala Bird Sanctuary, located near Panvel, is our go-to spot every monsoon. As soon as the rains begin, it’s the first destination we head to. It is a paradise for nature lovers seeking a peaceful time surrounded by nature’s beauty. Here, you can explore the bird sanctuary and trek up to the Karnala fort. The charm of this place during the monsoon season is simply irresistible. The presence of small waterfalls, dense greenery, and diverse wildlife make you pause and immerse yourself in the beauty of Mother Nature. If you’re lucky, you may even spot peacocks dancing, which is a mesmerizing sight. I was awed by this vision as it was the only place where I have witnessed such a dance. Before planning your one-day trip to Karnala, I recommend checking out this blog post for more information.
7. Alibaug
Approximately 100 kilometers away from Mumbai is the popular beach destination where you can experience the best of the monsoon near Mumbai. Alibaug, nestled amidst lush greenery, offers breathtaking beauty when the rain starts to pour. While some beaches in Alibaug are crowded and not very clean, there are still a few beaches where you can enjoy a memorable and peaceful time. While you’re there, don’t forget to indulge in the delicious modaks available at most restaurants.
Final words
Weekend getaways from Mumbai can be incredibly relaxing, especially for those who appreciate the unparalleled beauty of nature that emerges during the rainy season. The list of places to visit near Mumbai in monsoon is exhaustive. Whether you’re seeking a one-day trip near Mumbai or planning a relaxing long weekend stay, it’s worth exploring places that offer a soul-soothing experience in this season. This list should help you plan your next monsoon travel and make the most of the serene ambiance and natural wonders that the rainy season brings.
