Top 10 Offbeat Weekend Destinations from Mumbai

This little village, located on the banks of the Kundalika River in Maharashtra's famed Raigad district, is a paradise for adventurers. The village is around 110 kilometres from Mumbai. This little, lush village is surrounded by dense evergreen forest and hills, providing peace and tranquility. The main draws to this location are river rafting and soaking in the breathtaking views of the Tamhini Ghat. The Bhira Dam is a popular destination for those who want to spend a fun-filled morning picnicking while admiring the huge Devkund Waterfalls. The location appeals to all adventurers who enjoy hiking and discovering new places. Apart from river rafting and trekking, visitors enjoy stargazing while camping, bird watching, or simply taking a walk in the woods. The place has numerous forts and caves, which makes it an inviting and mystic place.

The place experiences a tropical climate, which makes it pleasant all throughout the year. However, one must enjoy the monsoon weather in Kolad to experience the natural blooms.

Jawhar, a small hill area in Thane district, is one of Mumbai's undiscovered and undiscovered eccentric locations. The location is rich in fauna and has a comfortable climate throughout the year, making it one of the best places to rejuvenate. Jawhar is a place where nature is at its best, with unusual kinds of wildlife being one of the main reasons that it attracts visitors from all over the world. With the Rocky Mountains on one side and a lush green forest and a huge waterfall on the other, the scene seems dreamlike. The historical stories of the Jawhar tribes also pique the interest of visitors. Aside from its natural beauty, the location also honours man-made architectural excellence. Jai Vilas Palace and Shirpamal are two such places.

The place is a perfect getaway for couples and vacation seekers, with a luring natural backdrop that will invite you to visit the place again and again.

This little town in the Raigad area is another prominent tourist destination that enjoys the serene ambiance away from the mundane lifestyle of Mumbai. This charming village, located 70 kilometres from Mumbai, has a lot to offer and to enjoy. The area is rich in natural experiences, with lush greenery in every direction, making it romantic. The location is historically significant since it marks the beginning of the Ulhas River. Visitors find the area ideal for hiking and trekking, and the monsoon season is the best time to enjoy nature and see rivers and waterfalls at their full potential. The Blackwater of the Pali Bhutivali Dam, Ulhas Valley, Bhivpuri waterfalls, Bahiri Caves, and Kothaligad fort, among others, are must-see destinations.

The place is a perfect spot for honeymoon lovers as it provides tranquillity and pleasant weather.

If you want to go on a beach-holiday without travelling far from Mumbai, Manori is the place to go. This location, also known as Mumbai Surban's fishing village, is only 50 kilometres from the metropolis. Due to its vast stretch of land and clusters of gorgeous churches, the area is known as "Mini-Goa," providing a convenient version of Goa. The most fascinating aspect of the location is that it is home to a diverse range of religions, further enhancing its cultural diversity. Nonetheless, visitors will notice cashew trees among the thick vegetation, creating a dreamy atmosphere.

At night, the town comes alive with vendors selling locally cooked, mouthwatering fish, and guests may relax on the beach in one of the many hammocks set up for them. The place befits the visitor who wants to have a relaxing weekend enjoying the calmness of nature.

Another favourite weekend destination is Bhandardara, a lovely hill station near Igatpuri. The location, nestled in the Sahyadri Mountains and overlooking the River Pravara, is ideal for a weekend getaway from Mumbai. The place is known as the Queen of the Sahyadri Range because of its captivating natural attractions. This location is ideal for individuals who enjoy the raw and untouched beauty of nature.

The area offers several hiking and trekking opportunities, making it a great location for any adventure lover. The location has historical value in addition to its natural richness. Some of the prominent attractions include Ratangad and Harishchandragad Fort. Picnic areas abound in the area, making it an ideal entry point as well. Wilson Dam, Umbrella Falls, and Arthur Lake are just a few examples. The place experiences a soothing temperature all year round, and visitors can drop in anytime to relax and enjoy the panoramic brilliance of nature.

This is one of Ratnagiri's most well-known beaches, as it is home to a large number of Olive Ridley Turtles. The Velas Turtle Festival, a well-attended eco-festival, is well-known in the area. The beach is often regarded as one of the widest in the Konkan region. It is one of Maharashtra's most fascinating sites, located between the Savitri and Bharaja rivers. If anyone wishes to go to Velas, they should go between February and April to see the natural breeding process where the festival is held. The festival is primarily intended to raise awareness about endangered species conservation. During this period, people and volunteers all across the world work to safeguard turtle eggs from poaching and illegal killing. From March until the second week of April, either from 7 am to 7:30 am or 6 pm to 6:30 pm, is the most appropriate time to watch the hatch.

If the dates do not match with your calendar, you can visit Velas at any time to enjoy the other parts of the place. The place is dotted with age-old temples devoted to Shri Bhairi Rameshwar, where people from across the country visit to pay homage. You can also embark on a trip through the Bankot Fort, which is noted for its historical significance and beautiful views. The place also celebrates mouth-watering authentic Konkan dishes. To experience the tranquility of country living, one should choose a homestay rather than a luxury hotel.

The place, which is located on India's western coast in the Ratnagiri District, offers a combination of hill and beach experiences. The beach, which is one of the widest in the Konkan region, is known for its pristine stretch of white sand. The rich vegetation, palm and coconut trees that blanket the coastal terrain near the Jog River create an intriguing setting. The Sahaydri Mountains and the Arabian Sea's blue water add even more to the exotic features. The location is undeveloped and uncommercialized, making it a perfect location for those seeking tranquillity. The traditional Konkani cuisine should be tasted, as it will entice you to revisit again

The hill station is known for its natural beauty, which is surrounded by thick vegetation. The hill station is located in the Western Ghats, in Gujarat's Dang district, and has excellent weather all year. The great expanse of lush forest of Dang and the mighty Sarpaganga River, which add to the grandeur of the location, are the main attractions. Visitors mainly enjoy the long hours of boating and trekking in and around the Hatgadh Fort. Aside from that, visitors may be seen paying tribute to the famous Nageshwar Mahadev Temple or immersing themselves in the culture and history of the Saputara tribals.

The location, named after the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb, is located in the highland region on the Kaum River. The site has been recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A historical landmark that mimics the Taj Mahal, Bibi ka Maqbara, is a popular tourist attraction. The site also honours the architectural splendour of Ajanta and Ellora Caves, where people from all over the world marvel at the incredible craftsmanship. Due to its popularity, a variety of accommodations within one's budget are available. The optimum time to go would be between January and the first week of April.

Kamshet, Maharashtra's paragliding capital, is located roughly 110 kilometres from Mumbai. The place is a visual treat, with the Sahyadri Mountains, lush flora, and the majesty of the Western Ghats. There are numerous tourist attractions in the area. Kamshet is the culmination of both nature's beauty and a rich cultural past. From cherishing the beauty of nature with waterfalls to stunning temples and monasteries on the other hand. Paragliding schools can be located in the Shinde Wadi Hills, Tower Hill, Shelar, and Kondeshwar Cliff, to name a few. The location is suitable for paragliding due to its favourable weather and geographical features. Many Buddhist caves dot the landscape, creating a tranquil ambiance. Trekking at Visapur Fort, zip-lining at Pawna Lake, as well as lake camping, are all options. Kamshet is one of the best places to visit for an offbeat weekend getaway that combines culture and adventure.