Mumbai, the city of dreams, has a lot to offer to its visitors, from bustling streets to serene beaches, historical landmarks to modern architecture. With May around the corner, the weather is perfect to explore the top 10 best places near Mumbai. In this comprehensive guide, we will cover the must-visit places, how to reach them, what to see, romantic things to do, and some tips to make your trip hassle-free.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Top 10 Best Places Near Mumbai to Visit in May
- Lonavala
- Matheran
- Mahabaleshwar
- Alibaug
- Khandala
- Panchgani
- Lavasa
- Bhandardara
- Igatpuri
- Kashid
- How to Reach
- Places to Visit
- Romantic Things to Do
- Tips
- FAQ
Top 10 Best Places Near Mumbai to Visit in May
- Lonavala: Located around 83 km from Mumbai, Lonavala is a popular hill station that offers breathtaking views of lush green valleys and waterfalls. The cool breeze, misty mornings, and serene atmosphere make it a perfect getaway from the city’s hustle and bustle. The must-visit attractions include the Karla Caves, Bhaja Caves, and the Lonavala Lake.
- Matheran: Matheran, a tranquil hill station located around 80 km from Mumbai, is known for its toy train ride and breathtaking views of the Western Ghats. The place is a perfect retreat from the city’s chaos, and one can explore the scenic beauty of the place by taking a stroll or horse ride. The must-visit attractions include the Panorama Point, Charlotte Lake, and the Louisa Point.
- Mahabaleshwar: Mahabaleshwar, located around 263 km from Mumbai, is a perfect place to visit in May. The place is known for its stunning vistas, beautiful valleys, and majestic peaks. The must-visit attractions include the Venna Lake, Mapro Garden, and the Lingmala Waterfall.
- Alibaug: Alibaug, located around 95 km from Mumbai, is a popular coastal town known for its beautiful beaches and historical forts. The place is a perfect destination for beach lovers, and the must-visit attractions include the Alibaug Beach, Kolaba Fort, and the Kanakeshwar Forest.
- Khandala: Khandala, located around 82 km from Mumbai, is a picturesque hill station that is known for its scenic beauty and stunning waterfalls. The place is perfect for trekking, and the must-visit attractions include the Duke’s Nose, Bhushi Dam, and the Kune Falls.
- Panchgani: Panchgani, located around 244 km from Mumbai, is a beautiful hill station that is known for its lush green forests and scenic beauty. The place is a perfect getaway from the city’s chaos, and the must-visit attractions include the Sydney Point, Table Land, and the Devil’s Kitchen.
- Lavasa: Lavasa, located around 57 km from Pune and 186 km from Mumbai, is a planned city that is known for its stunning lakes and waterfalls. The place is perfect for adventure enthusiasts, and the must-visit attractions include the Temghar Dam, Lavasa Lake, and the Bamboosa.
- Bhandardara: Bhandardara, located around 163 km from Mumbai, is a serene hill station that offers picturesque views of mountains, waterfalls, and lakes. The place is perfect for those seeking peace and tranquility, and the must-visit attractions include the Wilson Dam, Arthur Lake, and the Randha Falls.
- Igatpuri: Igatpuri, located around 121 km from Mumbai, is a small hill station that is known for its scenic beauty and natural surroundings. The place is perfect for trekking and camping, and the must-visit attractions include the Bhatsa River Valley, Tringalwadi Fort, and the Vipassana International Academy.
- Kashid: Kashid, located around 126 km from Mumbai, is a beautiful beach town that is known for its pristine beaches and calm waters. The place is perfect for those seeking solitude and tranquility, and the must-visit attractions include the Kashid Beach, Korlai Fort, and the Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary.
How to Reach
All the above-mentioned places are well-connected to Mumbai, and one can easily reach these destinations via road, train, or flight.
- Lonavala: One can reach Lonavala by road or train. Lonavala has its railway station, and several trains run between Mumbai and Lonavala. One can also take a bus or a taxi from Mumbai to Lonavala.
- Matheran: The best way to reach Matheran is by train. One can take a train from Mumbai to Neral and then take a toy train or a taxi to Matheran.
- Mahabaleshwar: One can reach Mahabaleshwar by road or bus. Several buses run between Mumbai and Mahabaleshwar. One can also take a taxi or a private car.
- Alibaug: One can reach Alibaug by road or ferry. Several buses run between Mumbai and Alibaug, and one can also take a ferry from Mumbai to Alibaug.
- Khandala: One can reach Khandala by road or train. Khandala has its railway station, and several trains run between Mumbai and Khandala. One can also take a bus or a taxi from Mumbai to Khandala.
- Panchgani: One can reach Panchgani by road or bus. Several buses run between Mumbai and Panchgani. One can also take a taxi or a private car.
- Lavasa: One can reach Lavasa by road or bus. Several buses run between Mumbai and Lavasa. One can also take a taxi or a private car.
- Bhandardara: One can reach Bhandardara by road or bus. Several buses run between Mumbai and Bhandardara. One can also take a taxi or a private car.
- Igatpuri: One can reach Igatpuri by road or train. Igatpuri has its railway station, and several trains run between Mumbai and Igatpuri. One can also take a bus or a taxi from Mumbai to Igatpuri.
- Kashid: One can reach Kashid by road or bus. Several buses run between Mumbai and Kashid. One can also take a taxi or a private car.
Places to Visit
Each of these destinations has several attractions that one must visit while exploring the place.
- Lonavala: Karla Caves, Bhaja Caves, Lonavala Lake, Tiger’s Leap, Rajmachi Point, Lohagad Fort, and Bhushi Dam.
- Matheran: Panorama Point, Charlotte Lake, Louisa Point, One Tree Hill Point, Echo Point, and Shivaji’s Ladder.
- Mahabaleshwar: Elephant’s Head Point, Wilson Point, Venna Lake, Lingmala Waterfall, Pratapgad Fort, and Mapro Garden.
- Alibaug: Alibaug Beach, Kolaba Fort, Kihim Beach, Varsoli Beach, Murud-Janjira Fort, and Kanakeshwar Forest.
- Khandala: Rajmachi Fort, Duke’s Nose, Amrutanjan Point, Bhushi Dam, Shingroba Temple, and Kune Falls.
- Panchgani: Table Land, Sydney Point, Parsi Point, Dhom Dam, Kaas Plateau, and Mapro Garden.
- Lavasa: Lakeshore Watersports, Bamboosa, Lavasa Nature Trail, Dasve View Point, and Lavasa International Convention Centre.
- Bhandardara: Wilson Dam, Umbrella Falls, Arthur Lake, Kalsubai Peak, Randha Falls, and Ratangad Fort.
- Igatpuri: Tringalwadi Fort, Bhatsa River Valley, Camel Valley, Vipassana International Academy, and Amruteshwar Temple.
- Kashid: Kashid Beach, Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary, Korlai Fort, and Revdanda Beach Fort.
Romantic Things to Do
If you are planning a romantic getaway with your loved one, then these destinations offer several romantic things to do.
- Lonavala: Enjoy a romantic walk at Lonavala Lake, explore the ancient Karla and Bhaja caves, and take a scenic drive to Tiger’s Leap.
- Matheran: Take a romantic horse ride to Panorama Point, go on a nature walk at Charlotte Lake, and take a toy train ride to Neral.
- Mahabaleshwar: Take a romantic boat ride at Venna Lake, explore the Lingmala waterfall, and enjoy the view of the sunset at Wilson Point.
- Alibaug: Take a romantic stroll at Alibaug Beach, go on a picnic at Kihim Beach, and explore the historic Kolaba Fort.
- Khandala: Take a romantic walk at Duke’s Nose, enjoy the view of Kune Falls, and explore the ancient Rajmachi Fort.
- Panchgani: Take a romantic walk at Table Land, enjoy the view of Sydney Point, and explore the scenic Dhom Dam.
- Lavasa: Enjoy a romantic dinner at Bamboosa, take a romantic walk at Lavasa Nature Trail, and take a boat ride at Lakeshore Watersports.
- Bhandardara: Enjoy a romantic walk at Arthur Lake, explore the Umbrella Falls, and take a scenic drive to Randha Falls.
- Igatpuri: Explore the scenic Bhatsa River Valley, take a walk to the Tringalwadi Fort, and visit the Amruteshwar Temple.
- Kashid: Take a romantic stroll at Kashid Beach, explore the Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary, and visit the historic Korlai Fort.
Tips
- Pack comfortable clothing and footwear as you will be doing a lot of walking and hiking.
- Carry sunscreen and sunglasses to protect yourself from the harsh sun.
- Carry a camera to capture the scenic beauty of these destinations.
- Carry a first aid kit with essential medicines.
- Respect the local culture and traditions.
- Book your accommodation in advance, especially during the peak season.
- Carry cash as ATMs may not be readily available in some places.
FAQs
1. What is the best time to visit these places?
The best time to visit these places is from October to March as the weather is pleasant and perfect for outdoor activities.
2. Are these places safe for solo travelers?
Yes, these places are generally safe for solo travelers, but it is always advisable to take necessary precautions and be aware of your surroundings.
3. How far are these places from Mumbai?
The distance from Mumbai to these places varies. Lonavala is around 83 km from Mumbai, while Mahabaleshwar is around 260 km from Mumbai.
4. How to reach these places?
These places can be reached by road, train, and sometimes by air. Lonavala, Khandala, and Alibaug can be reached by road. Mahabaleshwar, Panchgani, Bhandardara, and Kashid can be reached by road or by train. Lavasa and Igatpuri can be reached by road, and sometimes by air.
5. Is it necessary to book accommodation in advance?
It is advisable to book accommodation in advance, especially during the peak season as these places tend to get crowded during this time.
In conclusion, if you are looking for a perfect getaway near Mumbai in May, these top 10 best places near Mumbai to visit in May offer the perfect escape from the scorching heat of the city. Whether you are looking for adventure, relaxation, or romance, these places have something for everyone. With this comprehensive guide, you can plan your itinerary and make the most of your trip. Just remember to follow the tips and precautions mentioned above and respect the local culture and traditions. Happy travels!