Go green this monsoon: 7 magical destinations near Mumbai to explore this monsoon

There’s monsoon, and then there’s Mumbai’s monsoon. What do you do when incessant rains are all you get in a concrete jungle? The soul longs for a magical getaway, away from the dreary rain-soaked and probably flooded roads, to some place where there’s refreshing greenery. Here are some quick road trips from Mumbai that one can take with friends and family, for that much-needed break.

The classic of course! Located just 83 km from Mumbai, Lonavala, the beloved hill station, is a quick fix. Never out of style, never a dull moment here, Lonavala is the go-to hill station for many. Located in the Sahyadri Ranges, Lonavala becomes a monsoon paradise with mist-shrouded hills, gushing waterfalls, and verdant greenery. They say the trek to Rajmachi Fort is a must-do, but take it easy if extreme monsoon adventure isn’t something you are up for. There’s always a next (and a safer) time.

Want to go car-free? Try Matheran. Once you reach Matheran, you will need to leave your personal vehicle behind, and come to the world of toy trains, horses, and buggies. Matheran is located just 80 km from Mumbai. This is a vehicle-free hill station, and boasts a peaceful environment surrounded by mist-covered valleys and cascading waterfalls. The toy train from Neral to Matheran is something one must try at least once.

If waterfalls are your thing, Mahabaleshwar needs to be on your travel wishlist this monsoon. Located 263 km from Mumbai, Magabaleshwar is a somewhat long drive, but trust us, it’s worth it. Mahabaleshwar’s Chinaman’s Waterfall and Dhobi Waterfall are a big hit among travellers and locals alike. Take out time for Lingmala Falls as well. The nearby Kaas Plateau, a UNESCO biodiversity hotspot, will be all ready for you with its colourful wildflowers.

Located just 120 km from Mumbai, Igatpuri, tucked in the Western Ghats, is a monsoon gem where there are rolling hills as far as the eyes can see. Igatpuri is home to the Kalsubai Peak, Maharashtra’s highest, but if trekking is not on your bucket-list this monsoon, you can take it easy. Just enjoy the majestic view.

Did you know that Tapola is also known as Mini Kashmir of Maharashtra? This little hamlet of a place is located 280 km from Mumbai, and makes for a pleasant drive. Why Tapola, you ask? Well, Tapola, located near Mahabaleshwar, is home to strawberry fields and seasonal waterfalls, and most important of all–it is a lesser-known spot that offers a peaceful escape.

Malshej Ghat is an unmissable monsoon destination. Located just 130 km from Mumbai, this serene destination is home to countless stunning waterfalls. For those who love a misty day, Malshej Ghat is going to be an unforgettable escape. The reverse waterfall at Naneghat is a stunner.

Located just 120 km from Mumbai, Kolad, on the Mumbai-Goa Highway, comes alive during the monsoon with the Kundalika River swelling for thrilling white-water rafting. Dense forests, misty hills, and seasonal waterfalls create a dramatic backdrop for adventure seekers. This is a small village, and is not usually crowded by tourists, so if you are someone looking for a quiet getaway, consider Kolad.