10 Road Trips from Mumbai You Can Take in 2023

Mumbai has countless sights and activities, but there are also many beautiful spots nearby that you can explore on the weekend. Road trips from Mumbai will surely take you to exciting locations full of surprises. Explore and cross each of these driving getaways from Mumbai off your to-do list. Within a few hours' drive of Mumbai, there is something for everyone, from the gorgeous hill villages of Lonavala and Mahabaleshwar to the calm beaches of Alibaug and Kashid. Whether you're looking for adventure, leisure, or a cultural experience, these road trips are the ideal way to escape city life's hustle and bustle. So pack your belongings, fill up your gasoline tank, and prepare to go on beautiful trips in 2023.

Here is our selection of the best road trips from Mumbai by car or bike:

1. Lonavala

2. Akibag

3. Matheran

4. Karjat

5. Kamshet

6. Malshej Ghat

7. Mulshi

8. Mahabaleshwar

9. Kass Plateau

10. Ganpatipule 

1. Lonavala

With its woods, waterfalls, lakes, and hills, Lonavala is a must-see location in the Western Ghats. It is not far from the city and is a popular destination for Mumbai residents to relax and unwind. Consider trekking, hiking, camping, and other activities if you want something more adventurous. Lonavala has a variety of outdoor activities for adrenaline seekers and nature lovers alike. The stunning scenery and agreeable weather make it a great location for these activities, allowing tourists to really immerse themselves in the Western Ghats' splendor.

• Distance from Mumbai: 83 km

• Estimated Driving Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

• Best Time to Visit: December to February

• Tourist attractions: Sunil’s Celebrity Wax Museum, Lonavala Lake, Ryewood Park, Lion Point

2. Alibag

Alibag, also known as Alibaug, is a seaside hamlet in the Konkan area that is a popular day trip from Mumbai. The beautiful sandy beaches, pure air, and exciting water sports have earned this town the moniker "Mini Goa." However, Alibag is more than simply a natural wonder.  It is rich in colonial history, as shown by a multitude of forts and shrines. The Kolaba Fort, erected by Shivaji Maharaj in the 17th century, is one of Alibag's most prominent attractions.

This fort offers breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea and is a must-see for history buffs. Furthermore, Alibag is well-known for its bustling local markets, where tourists may engage in traditional shopping handicrafts and delicious local cuisine.

• Distance from Mumbai: 95 km

• Estimated Driving Time: 2 hours 15 minutes

• Best Time to Visit: November to March

• Tourist Attractions: Alibag Beach, Varsoli Beach, Kulaba Fort, Alibag Magnetic Observatory

3. Matheran

Matheran is a lovely hill town around 800 meters above sea level that is a popular driving getaway from Mumbai. Many overlooks in this environmentally sensitive region provide spectacular 360-degree views of the Sahyadri Range. Visitors may relax among the wonderful scenery. In the meanwhile, thrill seekers may try their hand at waterfall rappelling, trekking, and rock climbing. Matheran is also known for its toy railway, which is a popular form of transportation for visitors visiting the hill station to appreciate its picturesque beauty. Furthermore, the town is littered with several vistas that offer spectacular dawn and sunset views, making it an ideal location for nature enthusiasts and photographers.

• Distance from Mumbai: 83 km

• Estimated Driving Time: 2 hours

• Best Time to Visit: October to May

• Tourist Attractions: Alexander Point, Louisa Point, Charlotte Lake, Echo Point, Sunset Point

4. Karjat

If you're considering a road trip during the monsoon season, make your way to Karjat. This village in the Raigad area is noted for its lush green canopy and hilly environment. Trekking, mountain climbing, and hiking are ideal in the densely wooded highlands. The route will take you past beautiful ghats and valleys, making it one of the top road excursions from Mumbai. Karjat is also home to numerous lovely waterfalls, including Kondana Waterfall and Bhivpuri Waterfall, which are especially attractive during the monsoon season. Karjat is also recognized for its stunning vistas and tranquil ambiance, making it an ideal vacation from the rush and bustle of city life.

• Distance from Mumbai: 63 km

• Estimated Driving Time: 1 hour 25 minutes

• Best Time to Visit: July to September

• Tourist Attractions: Kondana Caves, Kothaligad Fort, Jain Temple, Ulhas Valley, ND Studio, Pali Bhutivali Dam

5. Kamshet

Make a trip to Kamshet, which is a paragliding paradise, if you appreciate adventurous sports. Taking off from one of the hilltops and gliding amid the lush vegetation is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. This hill station is located in the Western Ghats and is one of the greatest road trips from Mumbai due to its lush foliage, pure air, and untamed natural beauty. Kamshet is also well-known for having a plethora of paragliding schools and instructors, making it a great location for both novice and expert paragliders. The breathtaking vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys add to the allure of this action-packed retreat.

• Distance from Mumbai: 101 km

• Estimated Driving Time: 1 hour 55 minutes

• Best Time to Visit: October to May

• Tourist Attractions: Pawna Lake, Bedsa Caves

Also Read: 10 Spiritual Places in North India that you Must Visit

6. Malshej Ghat

Malshej Ghat is unquestionably one of the nicest spots to visit from Mumbai. This well-known mountain pass has long been a favorite of thrill-seeking Mumbai residents. Driving on near-perfect roads with breathtaking vistas of the Western Ghats is an unforgettable experience. The area is filled with waterfalls, forts, and breathtaking vistas.  The greatest time to visit Malshej Ghat is during the monsoon season, when the waterfalls are in full flow and the lush foliage is at its height. A variety of migrating species that flock to this region during this time of year can also be seen by bird watchers.

• Distance from Mumbai: 127 km

• Estimated Driving Time: 2 hours 55 minutes

• Best Time to Visit: October to March

• Tourist Attractions: Malshej Falls, Pimpalgaon Joga Dam, Ajoba Hill Fort, Harishchandragad Fort 

7. Mulshi

Mulshi's lovely surroundings make it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts. The dam and lake generated in its catchment region, which is nestled amidst the densely wooded Sahyadri Hills, are the main attractions here. The fresh air, peaceful ambiance, and natural beauty are ideal for a soothing road trip. Adventurers may enjoy boating, hiking, and camping. Mulshi also has a number of walking paths that allow tourists to experience the region's spectacular scenery and fauna. The community is also recognized for its eco-friendly resorts and homestays, which allow travelers to immerse themselves in local culture while relaxing in the middle of nature.

• Distance from Mumbai: 169 km

• Estimated Driving Time: 3 hours 30 minutes

• Best Time to Visit: October to March

• Tourist Attractions: Mulshi Dam, Tamhini Ghat, Mulshi Lake, Fort Kailasgad

8. Mahabaleshwar

Mahabaleshwar is a picturesque hill town in Maharashtra's Satara district famed for its strawberry farming. The breathtaking views provided by several locations such as Arthur's Seat make this one of the top road drives from Mumbai. Apart from its natural beauty, Mahabaleshwar is also known for its historic temples, including the Mahabaleshwar Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The town is also a popular location for adventure seekers, with activities such as trekking and boating on Venna Lake available.

• Distance from Mumbai: 222 km

• Estimated Driving Time: 5 hours 25 minutes

• Best Time to Visit: March to June and December to February

• Tourist Attractions: Venna Lake, Elphinstone Point, Mapro Garden, Lodwick Point, Wilson Point of Sunrise, Arthur Seat, Lingmala Waterfall

9. Kaas Plateau

The Kaas Plateau is a breathtaking area filled with lakes, flowers, and butterflies. This biodiversity hotspot is located 1200 meters above sea level. Several indigenous butterflies and flowers can be found here. This 1000-hectare region is home to over 850 different varieties of wildflowers. This is one of the greatest road excursions from Mumbai if you enjoy wild nature in full bloom. The Kaas Plateau is located in Maharashtra's Sahyadri range, making it conveniently accessible from Mumbai. The monsoon season is the finest time to visit since the plateau turns into a carpet of vivid hues with flowering flowers as far as the eye can reach.

• Distance from Mumbai: 289 km

• Estimated Driving Time: 5 hours 35 minutes

• Best Time to Visit: September to October

• Tourist Attractions: Wajrai Waterfall, Kaas Lake, Vajrai Waterfall, Kas Pathar

10. Ganpatipule

Ganpatipule is a town in the Konkan district of Ratnagiri, famed for its clean beaches and lush flora. It is a beautiful location and one of the greatest road trips from Mumbai. The 400-year-old Ganesha Temple is a naturally formed monolith, making this a popular pilgrimage destination as well. The river merging with the beach against the backdrop of a hill fashioned like Ganpati is a breathtaking picture. The town is also well-known for its superb seafood and water sports activities, which draw visitors from all over the country. Ganpatipule's quiet and serene ambiance makes it an ideal retreat for anyone seeking peace and tranquillity in the middle of nature.

• Distance from Mumbai: 329 km

• Estimated Driving Time: 9 hours 30 minutes

• Best Time to Visit: October to March

• Tourist Attractions: Ganpatipule Beach, Prachin Konkan, Magic Garden, Ganpatipule Mandir

Also Read: 15 Road Trips from Bengaluru You Can Take in 2023

Mumbai is an excellent starting place for some incredible driving excursions, and the ten sites listed above are among the best. Prepare your vehicle and bike for a road vacation and head out to any of these destinations. Whether you're looking for a relaxing beach drive or an exciting alpine journey, these places provide something for everyone. Immerse yourself in the stunning scenery and the rich culture and history that each place has to offer.