Mumbai (formerly called Bombay) is a densely populated city on India’s west coast. A financial center, it’s India’s largest city. On the Mumbai Harbour waterfront stands the iconic Gateway of India stone arch, built by the British Raj in 1924. Offshore, nearby Elephanta Island holds ancient cave temples dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva. The city is also famous as the heart of the Bollywood film industry.
The seven islands that constitute Mumbai were earlier home to communities of Marathi Language speaking Koli People For centuries, the seven islands of Mumbai were under the control of successive indigenous rulers before being ceded to the Portuguese Empire, and subsequently to the East India Company. in 1661, through the dowry of Catherine Braganza when she was married off to Charles II of England Beginning in 1782, Mumbai was reshaped by the Hornby Vellard project, which undertook reclamation of the area between the seven islands from the sea. Along with the construction of major roads and Railways, the reclamation project, completed in 1845, transformed Mumbai into a major seaport on the Arabian Sea. Mumbai in the 19th century was characterized by economic and educational development. During the early 20th century it became a strong base for the Indian Independence Movement. Upon India’s independence in 1947, the city was incorporated into Bombay State. In 1960, following the Samyu Maharashtra Movement, a new state of Maharashtra was created with Mumbai as the capital.
TOURIST PLACES TO VISIT NEAR MUMBAI
1. Karjat
Best destination for trekkers who are looking for some awesome places to visit near Mumbai, Karjat gives tourists an exceptional experience of enjoying the raw and rustic beauty of nature.
The rock-cut cave temples and forts are a must-visit here. Karjat is also blessed with an incredible landscape with rich greenery and is surrounded by lofty mountains that will make you fall in love with the place at first sight! Ideal for a visit during the monsoon season, Karjat is also one of the best places to visit near Mumbai in the monsoon.
2. Daman
Another famous tourist spot near Mumbai, Daman is nestled cosily amid Maharashtra, Gujarat and the Arabian Sea. An ideal destination for a short break from the busy city life, Daman entices you with its exceptionally mesmerizing beaches and historic attractions.
Daman was ruled by a wide number of rulers and the architectural attractions here are evident of such diversity.
3. Tarkarli
The beauty of a setup comprising the fort and the sea is the highlight of this region, whereas the tranquillity is the additional benefit of visiting this little hamlet of a town. The romanticism of this place is further enhanced by the architectural quotient of the place.
To top it all off, the easy accessibility of the water sports like snorkeling and scuba diving make this place a must-visit.
4. Kolhapur
Kolhapur is a city that boasts an exceptionally rich heritage and a vibrant display of culture. Famous for its local cuisine and its exceptional collection of footwear, Kolhapur proves to be a delight in more than one way.
The temples and the museums in Kolhapur further enhance the tinge of wonder of the place, making it a must-visit for all.
5. Mahad
Another one of the amazing options for spending a weekend away from the maddening crowd of Mumbai is Mahad. Located at a convenient distance of 163 km from the city, this little heaven is blessed with several distinguished sightseeing spots.
The basic allure of the place is owed to the commendable amalgamation of the historic forts and temples among the lush green spaces.
6. Pune
A convenient drive from the crazy hustle-bustle of Mumbai, Pune is comparatively less crowded, although it is transforming at par with other major cities in India. This amazing city is built on the convergence of two water bodies – Mula and Mutha rivers which lend it an amiable ambience throughout the year.
In addition to the weather, the historic monuments and magnificent temples make this place an amazing destination to visit with family, friends or even solo. Pune undoubtedly can be listed among the best places to visit near Mumbai.
7. Aurangabad
The place that derives its name from the great Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb ought to be known for its rich cultural heritage.
Other than the vivid cultural display, the place is blessed with a set of the River Kham on one side and the astounding Ajanta and Ellora caves on the other side. A must-visit; this place is among the top places to visit near Mumbai.
8. Shirdi
One of the major pilgrimage destinations of India, Shirdi is associated with a 19th-century saint ‘Sai Baba’.
The devotees of this holy saint horde the place in gigantic numbers each year. Quite a site of faith and devotion, Shirdi is a must-visit place for the average traveler too. Witness the magnificent display of faith by the devotees of Sai Baba when you visit the place for yourself.
9. Ratnagiri
A small port city of Maharashtra, Ratnagiri promises the tourists a calm atmosphere, splendid spectacles of the sea and a history rich with legends of the Pandavas. Water springs, waterfalls, monuments, beaches, and hills the place has it all. Owing to its distinguished assets the place is among the best tourist spots to visit near Mumbai
10. Ganapatipule
If clean beaches and solitude are what you want from your vacation, Ganapatipule is your best bet to visit near Mumbai. Ganapatipule is also famous for The Swayambhu Ganesh Temple. The highlight of the place is the temple that was built around the idol of Lord Ganesh was found by a passing villager about 400 years ago.
Other than the religious attribute of the place, this place can entice tourists due to its lack of commercialization. This little hamlet works best to rejuvenate the people for the busy commercialized life of the people of Mumbai.
11. Durshet
A comfortable two-hour drive from the busy city of Mumbai leads you to the tranquil and gorgeous Durshet. It is famous for both natural and man-made attractions that add charm and allure to this place.
Durshet is also famous for jungle safaris. Prepossessing temples which are accompanied by astounding water bodies by their sides awe the tourists who visit this place.
12. Khuldabad
Relive the Sufi style of the Mughal period and witness the magic of architectural excellence in this small town of Khuldabad. Also known for its religious significance, this little place is nothing short of amazing when talking of scenic beauty and therefore is an amazing choice for de-stressing and energizing the travelers. Listed among the top places to visit near Mumbai, Khuldabad is an ideal choice for a quick weekend getaway.
13. Lavasa
The hidden gem of Western Ghats, Lavasa is blessed with thick vegetation and spectacular weather throughout the year, making it one of the most sought-after places to visit near Mumbai. The place works magic in rejuvenating its tourists from the stress and the pollution of metropolitan city life.
Working well in coordination with nature, the adventure sports activities in the region make for an exceptional chance to relax and distress.
14. Chiplun
Owing to the commendable surroundings of this little town of Chiplun, sightseeing is the main attraction of the region. Temples, museums and forts all occupy your weekend well to ensure that there is enough for you to explore as you take a vacation from the unending cacophony of city life. Quite a place, Chiplun undeniably falls under the famous tourist spots near Mumbai.
15. Harihareshwar
One of the best weekend getaways from the metropolitan city of Mumbai, Harihareshwar is known for its exotic beaches and divine temples. Simplicity and devotion are personified at this little heaven which lies just 193 km from Mumbai.
If not the temples, the architectural styling of the place is sure to win the hearts of all who visit.
16. Harnai
Spectacularly beautiful, the city of Harnai promises to be the ideal getaway for Mumbaikars. Located at a convenient distance and yet untouched by the metropolitan culture, this little place has earned quite a ranking among the places to visit near Mumbai owing to its beaches and adventurous activities.
The forts dotting this city also add to the exceptional allure of the Harnai, making it one of the most popular destinations to visit near Mumbai.
17. Neral
Neral is another natural gem hidden very close to Mumbai. The different assets of the place like the waterfalls, and forts along with a host of adventure activities it offers to the travellers make it a perfect must-visit place and also an antidote to the piling stress. In addition to this, the amazing camping facility provided here adds to the charm of Neral and makes it completely irresistible to visit.
18. Kolad
If water sports is your rebound recipe for stress, then Kolad is your haven, Housing several water sports facilities, Kolad is an ideal choice for adventure seekers.
Be it trekking, cycling, hiking, kayaking or rafting, the place has facilities to accommodate it all. In addition to this, the extensive flora of the region makes it a sight to behold too.
19. Khodala
Wishing to cut yourself off the clamor of a busy city like Mumbai, head out to Khodala. Other than being a host of views that blow your mind, this little place has adventure activities that make sure you return all refreshed and rejuvenated. From young adventurists to people seeking tranquillity, the place serves all.
20. Latur
Latur is a famous, beautiful city in Maharashtra with a strong history and a several interesting places to visit from the bygone era. For a history buff or a travel photographer, Latur is a visual treat as it houses numerous historical temples and forts that are more than a hundred years old. It also offers ample capture-worthy moments in the number of beautiful parks and gardens that are present here. A perfect long drive and weekend getaway from Mumbai, Latur is a great choice to escape the hustle of the city
