7 places near Mumbai and Pune to visit this long weekend

Families, friends and most people with a day job will know that the time has come to plan that last-minute mini-break. The long weekend, thanks to Ganesh Chaturthi, is that holiday that begs you to do one thing: Get. Off. The. Couch.

But planning for barely three days OOO can be a buzzkill. We all know picking a spot everybody’s agreed on and coordinating multiple calendars can be a task. So we did half the planning for you: our shortlist features seven easy-to-reach destinations, all in Maharashtra, that don’t require check-in queues, long layovers, and lost baggage. While Alibaug or Lonavala may be obvious choices, we’ve also found properties in Karjat and beyond, that may sound like a plan. Lounge around in your pyjamas all day long as you enjoy your coffee without 43645 tasks on your to-conquer list.

Close enough to make “are we there yet?” redundant, far enough to assure you that you’ve clocked out, literally and figuratively, from your city life, here are seven spots you can visit near Mumbai and Pune this weekend:

Mulshi

If Delhi folks have Manali, Mumbai can bank on Mulshi. Nestled in the lush Sahyadris, Mulshi is a quieter alternative to Lonavala. If you’re an outdoorsy person, a 45-minute trek to Tung Fort can be the perfect activity, while birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts can head to the Tamhini Wildlife Sanctuary. Make the most of your time at Mulshi Lake with some kayaking or boating.

How to get there: Mulshi is a 3.5-hour drive from Mumbai and a short 1.5-hour drive from Pune.

Stay: The Malharmachi Mountain Resort is situated in the midst of the Sahyadris. The resort also has southeast Asia’s second-longest zip-line, so spectacular views are guaranteed. Book here.

Karjat

Karjat is a no-brainer destination for last-minute weekend plans from Mumbai. Situated in the Western Ghats, it is home to a number of waterfalls and caves, perfect for travellers who enjoy nature-led experiences. Take a morning trek to Kondana caves to see some of the oldest Buddhist rock-cut temples and statues or try river rafting on the Ulhas river if you’re adventure driven. A fan of panoramic views? A trek up Kothaligad Fort offers some stunning views of the Sahyadri range, especially during the monsoons.

How to get there: Karjat is a short 1.5- to 2-hour drive from Mumbai as well as Pune.

Stay: The Bridge House by Eka is the space for those who want to unwind in every sense of the term. A private farmstead, the property is perched on a natural gorge. The living area is shaped around a vertical oculus, allowing natural air and light to circulate. It’s the perfect space to bring out your favourite mystery novel. Book here. 

Lonavala

You can never go wrong with Lonavala—the picturesque hill station where you’ll probably see half of Mumbai holidaying but feels like an escape nevertheless. This time when you visit Lonavala, try and switch up your itinerary a bit. Conquer Lohagad and Tikona forts by day and spend your evenings exploring local art and ceramic studios. Sattva Cafe is a must-visit if you want to continue your mid-year resolution of healthy eating through the holidays.

How to get there: Lonavala is a 2-hour drive from Mumbai, and a little over an hour from Pune.

Stay: Om Anantha overlooks the Sahyadris and offers views of Pawna Lake. The property in itself feels like a getaway. High ceilings and rustic interiors will make you want to room-rot and just stare out of the window, while the open-air bathrooms call for a day full of self-care. You can also enjoy cosy monsoon evenings with a toasty bonfire and a karaoke session. Book here.

Shillim

Shillim is your spot if you lean into all things wellness and healing. Think morning yoga sessions, soft, warm sunlight peeking through the expanse of greenery, and nutritious food that supports overall wellbeing. Basically, this is where you trade noise and chaos for a weekend full of tranquility and peace.

How to get there: Shillim is a 3-hour drive from Mumbai, and 2-hour drive from Pune.

Stay: Dharana Retreat, a luxury retreat in the Sahyadris, offers both long- and short-term programmes curated by in-house doctors that lean into the idea of rejuvenation and draw from Ayurveda. Spread across 2,500 acres, programmes include Panchkarma, Rest and Rejuvenation, and Yogic Healing, among others. This is your sign to choose health over hangovers. Book here.

Alibaug

Coming to Alibaug means putting your work calls on DND and forgetting that a screen exists. If you enjoy watersports, head to Nagaon or Mandwa beach. A pit stop at Kolaba Fort, the 300-year-old fortified maritime base, offers stunning views of the Arabian Sea. Seafood lovers can drop by Kasturi for a fish thali, whereas if you’re looking for something boujee Boardwalk by Flamboyanté should be on your list. If your only agenda this weekend is to bed rot, that is acceptable too, and we have the right place to do it.

How to get there: The passenger ferry from Gateway of India to Mandwa jetty takes about 1.15 hours, and a 3-hour drive from Pune.

Stay: Greystone Manor by Lohono Stays is the perfect Alibaug-esque place. Vintage-style interiors housed in glass walls instantly transport you to a period drama. Spend the days lazing in the pool, while evenings call for some table tennis, a game of pool, and foosball. Book here.

Tipeshwar

If pug marks and bird calls excite you, head to Tipeshwar Wildlife Sanctuary to spot the royal Bengal tiger. Nestled between Maharashtra and Telangana, it falls within the larger Tadoba Tiger biosphere. Four rivers—Purna, Krishna, Bhima, and Tapti—meander through the region, making it apt for picnics. Ideal for all age groups, the sanctuary makes for a good spot for family getaways.

How to get there: Fly to Nagpur, then drive 4 hours through the jungle to Tipai.

Stay at: Tipai by Wildlife Luxuries offers bespoke stays in the lap of the wilderness; you can choose from pool residences and forest villas. While there, feast at chef Amninder Sandhu’s open-to-sky restaurant Palaash. Book here.

Male

Male is a quiet town in Raigad district. This agricultural belt is home to a number of trek-friendly spots. Kohoj hill is a popular trekking destination, which leads you to an ancient fort with rock formations. Going up Kaldurg Fort will give you lush views of Palghar district. There are also numerous spots offering local Maharashtrian delicacies.

How to get there: Male is a 4-hour drive from Mumbai, and about a 6-hour drive from Pune. 

Stay: Make The Saga Farmhouse your home this weekend. Lush greenery, earthy interiors, and nooks filled with artefacts make this a warm and inviting stay. The pool table and outdoor pool make it ideal for large groups of friends and family. The best news: they’re pet-friendly. Book here.