Offbeat Weekend Getaways Near Mumbai: Top 8 Places to Explore

If you’ve been living in Mumbai for a while, chances are the idea of a quick weekend escape has crossed your mind more than once. The city, for all its energy and excitement, can sometimes feel overwhelming. And while the usual suspects like Lonavala, Matheran, and Alibaug offer easy access, they’re often crowded, predictable, and a little too familiar. That’s why we’re going off script.

This curated guide brings you eight offbeat weekend getaways near Mumbai. Think misty hill villages with tribal art, silent beaches where turtles hatch under moonlight, and quiet valleys that flicker with fireflies. These places are within 200 to 300 kilometres of the city and offer something truly different, whether you're seeking adventure, culture, or simply peace.

The best part? Many of these escapes are just a short drive away from a comfortable Club Mahindra resort, where you can wind down, recharge, and make your trip truly complete.

In this blog:

• Why Choose Offbeat Travel Near Mumbai?
• Top 8 Offbeat Places Near Mumbai To Explore
• Travel Tips for Offbeat Road Trips from Mumbai
• Club Mahindra: Stay, Explore, Return Comfortably

Why Choose Offbeat Travel Near Mumbai?

In a state as vast and varied as Maharashtra, there is so much more to explore than the usual hill stations and beach towns. Choosing offbeat weekend getaways near Mumbai means stepping into places where time moves slower and nature still takes the lead. These are destinations where waterfalls roar uninterrupted, fireflies dance after sunset, and village traditions carry on quietly without tourist fuss.

What makes these hidden gems even more appealing is the authentic experience they offer. You might find yourself learning Warli art from a tribal elder in Jawhar, or sharing a home-cooked millet meal with a farming family in Dehna. These are not packaged holidays. They’re stories waiting to happen.

Offbeat travel is also a gentler way to explore. These places are less crowded, more sustainable, and often community-run. You support local economies while discovering beauty in its rawest, most welcoming form.

Top 8 Offbeat Places Near Mumbai To Explore

1. Jawhar

Distance from Mumbai: 152 km

Jawhar is one of the quiet hill stations in the Palghar district. Fortunately, it hasn’t yet made it to every travel influencer’s map and that’s exactly why it’s worth your time. The drive to Jawhar, especially post-monsoon, is lush and peaceful, winding through forest patches, small tribal hamlets, and wide-open landscapes. The town itself sits amid the Sahyadris and offers cool air, undisturbed views, and a sense of calm that’s hard to come by elsewhere. 

Things to do in Jawhar:

• Visit Jai Vilas Palace: A regal structure with arched windows and vintage charm, perfect for those who enjoy history with a view.
• Explore Warli Art: Meet local artisans, watch them paint traditional motifs, or even try your hand at a Warli painting workshop.
• Dhabosa Waterfall: A scenic cascade surrounded by forested cliffs. Best visited in the monsoon or just after, when the flow is strong and the greenery vibrant.
• Sunset Point: Ideal for a quiet evening with panoramic views of hills dipped in golden light.

Best time to visit: September to March for pleasant weather and green surroundings.

2. Bhandardara

Distance from Mumbai: 187 km

Bhandardara is a scenic lakeside village in the Ahmednagar district, along the foothills of the Western Ghats. With misty mornings, glistening waters, and quiet forest trails surrounded by greenery , it’s one of the most serene and less-crowded hill getaways near Mumbai. The drive itself is calming, especially after monsoon, with winding roads bordered by paddy fields and distant hills. Bhandardara is the kind of place where doing nothing feels like doing something meaningful.

Things to do in Bhandardara:

• Arthur Lake: A tranquil lake ideal for boating, photography, or simply sitting by the banks and soaking in the stillness.
• Randha Falls: A powerful waterfall cascading into a deep gorge, especially dramatic during the monsoon.
• Kalsubai Trek: For trekking enthusiasts, this is the highest peak in Maharashtra and offers breathtaking sunrise views.
• Agasti Rishi Ashram: A lesser-known spiritual site believed to be connected to the Ramayana.

Best time to visit: June to February for full waterfalls, misty views, and comfortable weather.

3. Purushwadi

Distance from Mumbai: 208 km

Purushwadi is a small tribal village located between Igatpuri and Bhandardara, known for a magical natural phenomenon that appears just once a year. Come late May and early June, the landscape here lights up with the glow of thousands of fireflies blinking in perfect synchrony. Purushwadi is a peaceful rural escape surrounded by terraced fields, forest trails, and fresh mountain air.

Things to do in Purushwadi:

• Firefly Festival: Witness countless fireflies lighting up the trees at night. It’s a quiet, enchanting spectacle that draws nature lovers and photographers alike.
• Village Walks: Explore the simple, slow life of the local farming community. Interact with villagers and learn about their customs and crops.
• Local Meals: Enjoy home-cooked, seasonal meals made from locally grown millets, rice, and pulses.
• Stargazing: With no light pollution, the night skies here are ideal for spotting constellations and even the Milky Way.

Best time to visit: Late May to early June, just before the monsoon sets in.

4. Velas

Distance from Mumbai: 191 km

Velas is a quiet coastal village in the Ratnagiri district, known for its clean beach, swaying coconut groves, and a heartwarming connection with nature. What makes it truly special is the seasonal arrival of Olive Ridley turtles that come here to nest. The drive to Velas, especially from Mumbai via the Konkan coast, is scenic and peaceful with glimpses of rural life and forested hills.

Things to do in Velas:

• Turtle Festival: Organised between February and April, this conservation-driven event allows visitors to witness turtle hatchlings being released into the sea under guided supervision.
• Beach Walks: Velas Beach is untouched and ideal for quiet walks, birdwatching, and collecting seashells.
• Bankot Fort: Just a short hike from the village, this fort offers panoramic views of the coast and the confluence of river and sea.
• Local Stays and Meals: Experience homestays with Konkani meals made from fresh seafood, rice, and kokum.

Best time to visit: February to early April during the turtle nesting and hatching season.

5. Kamshet

Distance from Mumbai: 106 km

Kamshet is a breath of fresh air for those looking to combine adventure with calm countryside views. This little town, nestled between Lonavala and Pune, is surrounded by sunflower fields, placid lakes, and rolling green hills. Kamshet is one of the top flying destinations in India, best known for paragliding, and attracts thrill-seekers from around the country.

Things to do in Kamshet:

• Paragliding: Tandem flights with certified pilots are available, offering bird’s-eye views of the Western Ghats.
• Pavana Lake: A peaceful spot for lakeside picnics, photography, or camping.
• Bhairi Caves and Kondeshwar Temple: Ideal for a short trek or spiritual stop during your visit.
• Village Cycling: Ride through small farms and sleepy lanes with hills rising in the distance.

Best time to visit: October to February, when the skies are clear and the winds are perfect for paragliding.

6. Kolad

Distance from Mumbai: 106 km

Kolad, located along the banks of the Kundalika River, is a dream destination for those who enjoy adrenaline-pumping adventure in the lap of nature. Just over three hours from Mumbai, this sleepy village transforms into an action-packed getaway thanks to its river rafting experiences and green surroundings. The journey to Kolad is scenic, especially during the monsoon when the entire stretch from Khopoli or Roha bursts into shades of green with waterfalls appearing along the way.

Things to do in Kolad:

• White Water Rafting: The main draw here, rafting on the dam-fed Kundalika River offers consistent rapids and excitement even in summer.
• Kayaking and Ziplining: Several adventure camps offer a range of outdoor activities in addition to rafting.
• Tamhini Ghat Drive: Take a detour through Tamhini Ghat for breathtaking views, especially during the rains.
• Nature Walks and Camping: Forested trails and riverside campsites make it ideal for group getaways or solo escapes.

Best time to visit: June to February for rafting, though the monsoon months (July–September) are particularly beautiful.

7. Durshet

Distance from Mumbai: 83 km

Durshet is one of the lesser-known destinations nestled between the Khopoli and Pali regions. Its peaceful forested area is a haven for nature lovers. The Amba River flows quietly alongside, fireflies light up the trees in early summer, and the monsoon turns every trail into a lush, green escape. It’s a short drive from Mumbai and is one of the most peaceful and quiet hill offbeat getaways near Mumbai.

Things to do in Durshet:

• Firefly Watching: Visit in May or early June to witness thousands of fireflies sparkling across tree canopies.
• Riverside Walks: Stroll along the banks of the Amba River, especially at sunrise for a truly calming experience.
• Trekking: Short hikes to nearby forts like Sarasgad and Sudhagad are ideal for beginners.
• Forest Picnics: Durshet’s low-traffic trails and shaded clearings are perfect for slow afternoons with nature.

Best time to visit: May–June for fireflies, June–September for monsoon greenery, and October–February for cool, pleasant weather.

8. Dehna

Distance from Mumbai: 131 km

Dehna is a small agrarian village in the Sahyadri foothills of Thane district. The landscape here is a soothing mix of forest edges, paddy fields, and mountain shadows. What makes Dehna special is not just the setting, but the people who welcome visitors with warmth and simplicity. The drive here winds through quiet countryside roads and brings you face to face with a side of Maharashtra that still moves to the rhythm of seasons.

Things to do in Dehna:

• Farm Walks and Hands-On Experiences: Learn how to sow rice, pluck vegetables, or grind grains with local families.
• Tribal Meals and Cooking Sessions: Share a traditional meal of bhakri, thecha, and seasonal vegetables made over a wood fire.
• Nature Trails and Hill Views: Take easy walks through forests and get sweeping views of the Sahyadris in the distance.
• Cultural Immersion: Spend time with the community, understand their customs, and witness their folk traditions.

Best time to visit: June to February, especially during and after the monsoon when the fields are green and the weather is cool.

Travel Tips for Offbeat Road Trips from Mumbai

• Carry comfortable walking shoes or trekking sandals for rough paths.
• Pack a raincoat or umbrella if you're travelling during the monsoon.
• Bring insect repellent and a small first-aid kit.
• Download offline maps or carry printed directions for remote areas.
• Carry reusable water bottles, snacks, and a flashlight for night walks or village stays.
• Avoid littering and carry back all your waste.
• Dress modestly in rural areas and always ask before clicking photos of locals.
• Choose eco-stays and support local guides or community-run tours.
• Keep noise levels low in natural or quiet places.

Club Mahindra: Stay, Explore, Return Comfortably

One of the best ways to experience offbeat weekend getaways near Mumbai is to combine raw adventure with the comfort of a well-appointed stay. While exploring quiet hill stations, hidden beaches, and tribal villages, having a dependable and relaxing base can truly elevate the journey. This is where Club Mahindra resorts come in.

Strategically located within easy reach of many offbeat destinations, Club Mahindra Tungi Lonavla, Club Mahindra Khopoli, Club Mahindra Alibaug, Club Mahindra Sherwood (Mahabaleshwar), and Club Mahindra Hatgad offer the perfect mix of warmth, convenience, and thoughtful amenities. Whether it’s a spa session after a trek, regional dishes after a day in the hills, or child-friendly activities to balance out long drives, these resorts ensure you return to comfort.

You can also plan your journey around these resorts in Maharashtra, like pairing Kolad with Alibaug, or Dehna with Lonavala, to explore more places in a single trip while keeping your travel days stress-free.

Conclusion

The charm of travelling to offbeat places near Mumbai lies in their quiet beauty, slower pace, and unforgettable experiences. Whether it's watching turtles take their first steps into the sea at Velas, trekking to the top of Kalsubai, or sharing a simple meal in a tribal village, each destination offers something raw, real, and refreshing.

For those who crave peaceful escapes without going too far, these hidden gems are ideal. And with Club Mahindra resorts located close to many of these spots, your journey can be both adventurous and deeply comfortable. All you have to do is pick a direction, pack light, and let the lesser-known roads guide your next great weekend escape.

Monsoon Travel Advisory

Many offbeat places near Mumbai come alive during the monsoon, but the season also brings challenges. Roads to hill stations like Bhandardara, Jawhar, and Kolad can become slippery or waterlogged. In Velas beaches can be rough and best avoided in heavy rain. Sudden weather changes are common, and landslides or local flooding may disrupt access. Always check the forecast, carry proper rain gear, drive cautiously, and confirm route conditions before setting out, especially when travelling through ghat sections or forest areas.