This Diwali, escape the city hustle and immerse yourself in nature, adventure, and tranquility with some perfect weekend getaways near Mumbai. Whether you’re seeking thrilling paragliding in Kamshet, misty mountain views at Malshej Ghat, or the vehicle-free serene hills of Matheran, these destinations offer a refreshing break to recharge your spirit. For those who crave spiritual calm and scenic trekking, Igatpuri provides an ideal retreat, while Harihareshwar’s peaceful beaches and ancient temples invite you to relax and reflect. All within a comfortable 200 km radius of Mumbai, these spots are perfect for a festive weekend filled with new experiences and rejuvenation. So pack your bags, gather your loved ones, and celebrate Diwali with memorable escapes that blend nature’s beauty and cultural charm.
Malshej Ghat is a stunning mountain pass renowned for its mist-shrouded hills, cascading waterfalls, and vibrant birdlife, including migratory flamingos. Especially enchanting during the monsoon season, this serene spot offers a mystical atmosphere with lush greenery and cool, fresh air. Visitors can explore numerous waterfalls, enjoy peaceful trekking routes through the Western Ghats, and indulge in bird watching in the wetlands. Camping under the stars here is a magical experience that connects you deeply with nature. Malshej Ghat stands out as a quiet, relatively untouched destination that’s perfect for anyone wanting to escape the crowds and immerse themselves in nature’s beauty.
USP: A misty mountain pass filled with waterfalls, birdlife (flamingos and migratory birds), and serene hiking trails — very peaceful and relatively unexplored compared to Lonavala.
Distance from Mumbai: ~130 km
Harihareshwar is a serene coastal town that perfectly combines spiritual heritage with unspoiled beaches. It is home to the ancient Harihareshwar Shiva temple, which sits right on the shore, attracting pilgrims and history enthusiasts alike. The beaches here are quiet and pristine, providing an ideal spot for relaxation, swimming, and long walks away from the usual tourist bustle. Nearby, you can explore the historic Raigad Fort for a mix of trekking and history. The town also offers fresh seafood in small, family-run eateries that add to its local charm. Harihareshwar’s peaceful coastal vibe paired with spiritual significance makes it a distinctive getaway.
USP: A quiet coastal town with a historic temple and pristine beaches, perfect if you want a tranquil beach vibe without the usual crowds.
Distance from Mumbai: ~170 km
Igatpuri is a serene hill station nestled amidst the Sahyadri ranges, known not only for its beautiful landscapes but also as a center for spiritual retreats and wellness. It features lush valleys like the Bhatsa River Valley, ideal for quiet picnics and photography. Adventure enthusiasts can embark on trekking routes leading to Maharashtra’s highest peak, Kalsubai, or explore nearby waterfalls like Vihigaon and Umbrella Falls. Alongside its natural beauty, Igatpuri is a hub for meditation and yoga retreats, offering a peaceful environment to rejuvenate both body and mind. This blend of adventure and spirituality gives Igatpuri a unique, calming charm
USP: A quieter hill station ideal for trekking, meditation, and exploring scenic spots like Bhatsa River Valley and Vihigaon Falls.
Distance from Mumbai: ~120 km
Matheran is a charming hill station perched about 800 meters above sea level, famous for its colonial-era ambiance and a strict ban on motor vehicles. This policy creates an incredibly clean and peaceful environment, allowing visitors to explore the town on foot, horseback, or hand-pulled rickshaws. The town is dotted with numerous scenic viewpoints such as Panorama Point and Echo Point, offering sweeping vistas of the Western Ghats and the surrounding plains. Nature lovers will appreciate the shaded forest trails and the calm, refreshing air that makes Matheran a perfect escape from the city hustle. Its uniqueness comes from the blend of tranquility, vintage charm, and vehicle-free serenity. Hop aboard the charming Neral–Matheran Toy Train, also known as the Matheran Hill Railway, for a scenic ride through the Western Ghats. The heritage train travels along a picturesque route of approximately 20 kilometres to Matheran. The iconic railway line is among the oldest railways in India. It was constructed by the father-son duo Sir Adamjee Peerbhoy and Abdul Hussein Adamjee Peerbhoy between 1901 and 1906 and officially opened for travel in 1907.
USP: A charming hill station with no vehicles allowed inside, known for its old-world colonial vibe, cool climate, and stunning viewpoints like Panorama Point.
Distance from Mumbai: ~80 km
Kamshet is a tranquil village tucked into the Western Ghats, widely celebrated as one of India’s top paragliding spots. This place beautifully combines adrenaline-pumping adventure with serene natural landscapes. Visitors can soar over rolling hills and shimmering lakes, taking in panoramic views that are especially breathtaking at sunrise and sunset. Beyond paragliding, Kamshet offers peaceful trekking trails leading to historic forts like Visapur and Lohagad, as well as calm spots by Pawna and Kundalika lakes where you can unwind and soak in the scenery. Its unique appeal lies in offering thrilling experiences so close to Mumbai while maintaining a rustic village charm.
USP: Popular for paragliding, surrounded by hills and lakes. Great if you want some adventure mixed with nature.
Distance from Mumbai: ~110 km
What is the best time to visit Kamshet for paragliding?
The ideal time for paragliding in Kamshet is from October to May when the weather is clear and winds are favourable. The monsoon season (June to September) is generally avoided due to heavy rains.
How do I reach Malshej Ghat from Mumbai?
Malshej Ghat can be reached by road via the NH61 or NH160, with buses and private vehicles available. The drive takes around 3-4 hours depending on traffic.
Are vehicles allowed inside Matheran?
No, Matheran enforces a strict ban on motor vehicles to preserve its environment, so visitors explore the hill station on foot, by horseback, or via hand-pulled rickshaws.
What trekking options are available in Igatpuri?
Igatpuri offers several trekking routes, with the most popular being the climb to Kalsubai Peak. There are also trails leading to waterfalls and nearby forts like Tringalwadi.
Is Harihareshwar suitable for a beach holiday?
Yes, Harihareshwar has clean, quiet beaches that are ideal for relaxing and swimming, making it a great destination for a peaceful beach holiday away from crowded spots.
Can I visit these places on a day trip from Mumbai?
Some destinations like Matheran and Kamshet can be visited as day trips, but to fully enjoy spots like Malshej Ghat, Igatpuri, and Harihareshwar, an overnight stay or a weekend trip is recommended.