Picnic Spots Near Mumbai – Mumbai is often called as the “City that never sleeps” as life is really fast here. People commute regularly by trains to work everyday and there is hardly any time left for solace or leisure.
However picnics or get-togethers once in a while with your family members or close friends or even colleagues is not a bad option. Mumbai has a number of beautiful places in the vicinity which are very good picnic spots.
You can find beaches, fort treks, historical places or just nature spots in and around the city where you can spend a memorable day with your close ones away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Here are 10 picnic spots near Mumbai-
#1 Kolad
Kolad is a place for adventure and water sports enthusiasts. You can opt for water rafting, rappelling, kayaking and rock climbing.
The Kundalika river flows through this region and has a mix of easy and challenging rapids making it a great white water rafting destination. The waters of this river flow really fast and the rafting here is a memorable experience with sights of forests and waterfalls by the sides of this river.
Kolad river rafting can be done here throughout the year. However, monsoon is the best time to witness the place in its full glory and many people rush to this place for rafting during this time. It is situated 121 kilometres from Mumbai and is surrounded by the Sahyadri Hills.
#2 Lonavala
Lonavala is a popular weekend getaway and draws huge crowds during monsoons when the place turns verdant with the onset of rains.
Lonavala is a perfect to relax and indulge with many activities. You can go for treks, enjoy the panoramic views of the Western Ghat ranges, visit the Bhushi Dam and explore the forests and waterfalls.
Pawna Lake in Lonavala is a beautiful place for camping and enjoying a quality time with your close ones. You can drive by the lakeside, set up your tents by the side of the lake, cook some food, sit by the bonfire and gaze at the stars above. The list of things to do here are numerous.
#3 Igatpuri
Igatpuri is a hill station located near Mumbai and is surrounded by some of the highest peaks of the Sahyadri range. It is home to a number of thrilling hikes and treks.
There are also a number of waterfalls like the Girisagar Waterfalls. It is surrounded by dense forests and fort ruins. It is just 130 kilometers away from Mumbai and can be easily accessible by road or railways.
#4 Malshej Ghat
Malshej Ghat is home to a number of rare flora and fauna. In fact a huge variety of birds can be seen here regularly. It is around 155 kilometers away from Mumbai and is a stretch dotted with forests, waterfalls and stunning views.
A number of fort treks like Harishchandragad can be done from this place. Monsoons are the best times to visit this place.
#5 Karjat
Karjat is the base point of many thrilling and scenic treks that can be done from Mumbai over a weekend. Such examples of trekking trails include Chanderi Fort, Peth fort and many more.
Not only trekking trails, there are also Buddhist caves that were built by monks years ago.The Ulhas river flows through this region. Karjat is a great place for adventure junkies.
Activities like white river rafting, rock climbing and rappelling are regularly done here.The Morbe dam is a great place for picnics and the lake here has boating facilities.
#6 Karnala Fort
This fort is located just 10 kilometers from the Panvel city which is located in Navi Mumbai and lies within the borders of the Karnala Bird Sanctuary.
This fort was once of strategic importance and served as an important trading post during the Peshwa rule. Today the fort lies mostly in ruins and is a popular easy trek.
Other forts like Chanderi, Matheran can be clearly seen from the summit. A temple dedicated to Goddess Bhavani is located at the top of this fort. It provides stunning panoramic views of the Bhor Ghat and the entire landscape.
#7 Sanjay Gandhi National Park
The Sanjay Gandhi National Park is located within the borders of Mumbai and is one of the most visited National parks in the world. This place is home of flora and fauna.
Vihar and Tulsi, two of the lakes that are located inside this National park are the water sources for the entire city. The 2400 years old Kanheri caves are also located here and was an important center of learning and pilgrimage for Buddhists.
It is home to a number of nature trails and treks which can be done while on a visit here. Monsoons are the best time to visit this place.
#8 Elephanta Caves, Mumbai
Elephanta caves is a great place for history lovers. It can be reached via ferry from the Gateway of India jetty. It is a UNESCO world heritage site and is located on the Elephanta island which is just 10 kilometers away from Mumbai.
There are a few Buddhist stupas and a few caves dedicated to Lord Shiva depicting the amalgamation of Hindu and Buddhist ideas. The sculptures have been cut from basalt rocks.
#9 Bhandardara Camping
Bhandardara is a paradise for camping lovers and is located in the Igatpuri district. Camping in tents by the lake here is a highly recommended activity.
There are lush green forests, waterfalls and scenic mountains all around to mesmerism you. Mount Kalsubai which is the highest peak in Maharashtra is also located here and a trek to this place is an extremely thrilling activity. Bhandardara will soothe your mind as well as the soul.
#10 Alibaug Beach
Alibaug is the perfect place to unwind and relax. It is located very close to Mumbai and has a number of beaches, ancient forts and treks in the vicinity.
The Alibaug beach is the most popular beach here and draws huge crowds almost every day. The Colaba Fort located nearby is the best place to witness the sun going down the horizon.
Other beaches located nearby are Kihim Beach, Kashid Beach, Nagaon Beach and Mandwa Beach. There are a number of beautiful resorts situated here where you can spend a rather memorable vacation.
You can also indulge in water sports and activities here. The Murud Janjira fort which has a lot of historic relevance and stories centered around it can also be visited from here.
Conclusion
It is surely necessary to take breaks once in a while and spend quality time with your close ones. One can therefore surely take off on short trips or visits to these places in and around Mumbai for leisure. There are a variety of options from which you can choose from suiting everyone’s tastes. Plan your next picnic with friends and family members surely in one of the places mentioned above.
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