Best places for one day picnic near Mumbai:
Hello All! We have come up with the list of one day picnic spots near Mumbai for those who are short on time, and high on the need for adventure and travel, and mind you each of these listed below are different from the other, offering to take you on a wild ride, keeping your budget in mind. Everyone needs an occasional break from their usual schedule, and as much as Mumbai people absolutely love their busy life, they also love their retreats. So forget about the grind for a while and head out for a one day trip near Mumbai.
1. Feeling awestruck atThe Elephanta Caves
Distance from Mumbai: 25 kms Travel time: 50 minutes to 1 hour
Elephanta Caves (Source)
Elephanta is situated close to the Gateway of India in South Mumbai and it takes only a ferry ride (less than an hour ride) to get to this island that houses marvelous cave temples built between the 5th to 8th century. The island got it’s name from the Portuguuese who found a massive rock cut elephant statue at the entrance of the island. The stone elephant is now placed in the Victoria gardens in Mumbai. There are three rock cut cave temples on the island, the largest being the Shiva temple. It has a large statue of Mehsamurthi, or Lord Shiva with three heads and around the cave you can spot many other statues of Shiva and his incarnations. Similar one day picnic spots near Mumbai: Ajanta and Ellora cave temples
2. Chilling at Manori
Distance from Mumbai: 49 kms Travel time: 1.5 – 2 hours
“Rain is grace; rain is the sky descending to the earth; without rain, there would be no life” – At Manori Creek (Source)
Manori island is situated just near the famous Gorai beach and is known as the less crowded of the two. Although swimming and water sports aren’t a good idea here, it is called mini Goa, and true to the claim, it does have a beautiful, quiet atmosphere, really nice budget resorts and so much place to play, swing on hammocks and enjoy a drink. Manori can be reached from Mumbai within an hour and half by going to Gorai first and taking a ferry from there. Know more aboutManori. Similar one day picnic spots near Mumbai: Gorai beach, Marve beach,Alibag Beach
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3. Wine tasting at the Sula Vineyards
Sula Wines by Ashwin C John (Source)
Drive down to the Sula vineyard and don’t forget to take a detour to the Vaitarna dam. Driving on the expressway is simply blissful and it normally would take 3 hours to reach Sula minus any stops. Wine tasting and grape stomping are both worth travelling the distance fromMumbai. Sula Vineyards also host an annual wine festival called the Sula Fest,making it perfect place for one day picnic spots near Mumbai.
4. Shop hopping in South Mumbai
Bracelets by Marco Zanferrari (Source)
Lanterns by Karan Patil (Source)
There are many street markets to choose from in South Mumbai (also lovingly called SoBo ), and Colaba Causeway. So popular that multi national brands like McDonalds have opened up here, welcoming a steady inflow of foreign customers everyday. Attracted by the colourful jewellery, scarves and all things antique and ‘rare’, there is no doubt that once you enter the pretty lanes of the markets, a good three hours will pass by you. For more expensive and ambient places to shop, Mumbai offers great malls like High street phoenix (Lower Parel)
5. Admiring the haunting beauty of Vasai fort
Distance from Mumbai: 67 kms
Travel time: 1 hour 40 mins to 2 hours
Vasai Fort (Source)
This old Portuguese fort is different than many other you will find dottingMaharashtra, in terms of its architecture and also in terms of the vibe it gives you. A lot of college students love to come here and shoot for short films and also just to chill in the area because of its calm and graceful structure. It can get dangerous at night, so only one day trip from Mumbai is advised. Similar one day picnic spots near Mumbai : Sinhagad fort,Lohagad fort, Murud Janjira
6. Revisiting history at the Naneghat pass
Naneghat pass by Pooja Nair (Source)
A treasure trove of history, the Naneghat pass now lies in ruins and is a popular trekking spot for one day trip nearMumbai. Once a busy trade route, cut through the mountains by theSatavahanas, Naneghat connected Kalyanand Nalasopara to the upcountry. If you trek up to the pass and go through it, climbing down you would actually reachPune. The trek is an interesting one, with rainwater threatening to throw you down during the monsoons. But it is definitely worth the climb, you will enter a cave where locals serve tea, and yes, you will feel it is the bets tea in the world after that climb. Similar Places for one day trip from Mumbai: Malshejghat, Igatpuri, Karjat,Panvel
7. The Karnala Bird Sanctuary: Quaint one day Picnic Spot near Mumbai
Karnala At Dusk by Ashok Prabhakaran(Source)
The Karnala bird sanctuary is a favorite among trekkers as a one day picnic spot near Mumbai and Pune. It is also frequently visited by families looking for a peaceful picnic spot. It is close by toPanvel, the home base for many vacationers. Panvel is within an hour drive from Mumbai or one can reach there by even local trains. The sanctuary is home to more than 150 bird species and it is interesting to sit quietly and spot the different bird calls.
8. Valley crossing at Matheran
Matheran Zip lining by Clyde Medes(Source)
Among the list of one day picnic spots near Mumbai, Matheran takes the cake with a wide variety of attractions and things to do. The best and cheapest way to get to Matheran is by train, which usually takes 1 hour and 55 minutes. Start by visiting the Charlotte lake and walking down to the other attractions from there like echo point and Louisa point. After lunch at M G Road, get on horse back and ride around the 28 lookout points Matheran has to offer. From Honeymoon point, go valley crossing 1000 ft above the valley, for over 900m ft to the opposite mountain. This is not for the weak hearted, you are warned. Know about the adventures Matheran has to offer. Similar one day picnic spots near Mumbai:Lonavala, Khandala
9. White Water Rafting in Kolad
White River Rafting in Kolad (source)
Kolad is around 3 hours drive from Mumbai and a perfect place for a one day picnic. It is most famous for white water rafting on the Kundalika river and other adventure activities like rappelling, wall climbing, kayaking, hiking etc. Lot of adventure camps have sprung up by the rive which provide good rafting packages with camping, food and sightseeing. Apart from rafting you can also explore nearby attractions like Ghosala Fort, Tala Fort, Kuda Mandad Caves, Sutarwadi Lake, Bhira Dam etc.
10. Lavasa: India’s first planned Hill Station
Waterfront Buildings in Lavasa (Source)
Claimed to be India’s first planned hill station, Lavasa is modeled on the Italian town of Portofino. It has extremely well developed infrastructure with beautiful residential and commercial spaces, public amenities and markets. One can spend a day taking in the views, strolling on beautiful promenades or do a little boating in the lake. A peaceful and quiet one day trip from Mumbai to escape it’s hustle and bustle.
11. Exploring the fort at Rajmachi
Rajmachi Fort (Source)
A fort not located very far from Lonavala, Rajmachi is an ideal destination for a one day trip from Mumbai. The beauty of this place is at its peak during the monsoon season, and that makes it the ideal time to visit Rajmachi. Trekking all the way to the fort would be another experience altogether. One can get an amazing view of the Sahyadri mountains and the backwaters of Shirota Dam.
12. River rafting at Savarkut Village
Rafting at Sarvakuta Village (Source)
Located 130 kms from Mumbai in the Sindhudurg district of Maharashtra, is a popular joint for adventurers known asSarvakut Village. There are plenty of things one can indulge in while here, such as rapelling, kayaking, white river rafting, which would be an exciting, adrenaline packed experience for sure. The lush, green scenery and the flowing waters of the Vaitarna river are a sight worth remembering as well.
13. Boating at Pawna Lake
Pawna Lake (Source)
Pawna lake is an artificial lake which came into existence due to the creation of the Pawna dam. It’s slowly emerging as a major picnic spot and becoming a popular destination for one day trips from Mumbai. Nestled in the peaceful confines of the Sahyadri range, the picturesque views of the dam and the lake are a visual treat for the visitors, and even more for nature lovers and enthusiasts. It’s a ideal camping destination and one can also engage in several water sports activities such as para-sailing and boating.
14. Nature trails and Trekking at Durshet
Waterfall at Durshet (source)
Known as a ‘back-to’nature’ destination, Durshet is renowned for it’s raw, untouched beauty and everlasting serenity. Set amidst dark, dense forests and the Sahyadri range, Durshet is anideal one day trip from Mumbai. Apart from taking in the scenic beauty of the place, there are several things one can do here. Go for nature walks observing the flora and fauna of the area, walk along the tranquil Amba river and bask in the spray of the lovely waterfalls. There are also adventure activities such as rock climbing, rappelling and river crossing, for the ones who feel the need to do something daring and exciting.
15. Paragliding at Kamshet
Paragliding at Kamshet (Source)
With a plethora of scenic beauty in and around it, Kamshet, also known as the ‘paragliders’ paradise‘, is a popular one day trip from Mumbai. The tiny, traditionally made huts in the local villages and the natural beauty of the place hold a special spot in the hearts of all the travellers who visit this place. The hills around Kamshet are dotted with numerous age old forgotten forts and caves which are definitely worth exploring. Paragliding is the activity for which is the most famous and adventurers from all over the country and world are attracted to this place for the same reason.
16. Essel World
Essel World, Mumbai (Source)
A favourite among adults and kids alike,Essel World is one of the best places near Mumbai for a one day trip where you can have the ultimate fun experience. Along with Water Kingdom, it’s considered to be India’s Best Amusement and Water Park, and is flocked by thousand’s of people every day. With rides such as roller coasters and themed rides, you’re definitely in for the time of your life! There’s also a skating rink and a bowling alley which has been a huge hit among the visitors.
17. Sinhgad Fort
Sinhagad Fort (Source)
Literally meaning the ‘Lion’s Fort’, Sinhgad fort is a popular one day getaway from Mumbai, located at a distance of about 184 kms from Mumbai. It’s been named so because of Tanaji Malusare, Shivaji’s favourite general, who fought like a true brave lion, and one can also find his samadhi inside the fort. Located at a height of about 700 meters above the surrounding landscape, it’s one of the popular trekking destinations around Mumbai and is visited by many people all over the year.
18. Igatpuri
Igatpuri (Source)
If you want to bask in some peace and quite, far far away from the hustle and bustle of Mumbai, Igatouri is the place for you. It is a small and charming hill station located in the Sahyadri Hills in the Western Ghats. Dense forests and a number of ancient temples characterize the landscape of Igatpuri. So head out and explore those ancient ruins, or trek your way into the wilderness. Your call!
19. Malshej Ghat
Malshej Ghat (Source)
Surrounded by green hills and innumerable waterfalls, Malshej Ghat is a scenic hill station located very close to Mumbai. A nature buff’s paradise, it is an excellent place for a one day trip near Mumbai for outdoor activities liketrekking, hiking, and bird watching. Or you could choose to spend your time relaxing and rejuvenating in a resort.
20. Imagica
Adlabs Imagica (Source)
Located in Khopoli along the Mumbai-Pune expressway, Adlabs Imagica is a recent theme-amusement park which opened up in 2013. It is home to India’s biggest floor-less roller coaster and has several fun, exciting rides for people of all ages. Apart from the usual rides, there are several restaurants and shopping places as well.
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