Mumbai is a lively beach city in the state of Maharashtra. Besides being the state's capital and the country's commercial capital, Mumbai is a prominent tourist destination too. The city is home to some of India's most popular tourist attractions, such as the Gateway of India, the Marine Drive, and the Elephanta Caves. Mumbai is also famous for its street food and nightlife.
The vibrant city is well-known for its fast-paced lifestyle and hectic work routines. It is fondly referred to as the City of Dreams. However, if you wish to refresh your mind and body away from the stressful city life, you can visit some of the places near Mumbai for a 1 day trip.
Mumbai is surrounded by several interesting tourist destinations that can be visited for unwinding from the stressful city life. From hill stations to pilgrimages and adventure spots, here are some of the best 1 day tours from Mumbai:
1. Alibaug
Alibaug is a popular weekend destination in Maharashtra. It is only 96 kilometers from Mumbai. You can easily plan a 1 day tour from Mumbai to Alibaug and enjoy a refreshing break. Because of the significant tourist traffic all year, Alibaug has earned the moniker Mini Goa.
Alibaug is a quaint little town steeped in colonial history. It is ideal for a refreshing break from the city bustle. Replete with sandy beaches, clean unpolluted air, and plenty of temples, the small town offers something for every type of traveler. You never run out of activities to enjoy in Alibaug. Adventure lovers can indulge in water sports such as parasailing, banana boating, jet skiing, and speed boating in Alibaug.
2. Igatpuri
Igatpuri is a hill station in Maharashtra's Nashik district. It is located around 130 kilometers from Mumbai on the Mumbai-Agra National Highway. The hill city is well-known for being home to some of the Sahyadri range's tallest peaks. Igatpuri is regarded as a nature lover's paradise.
Igatpuri is also well-known for being the home to Vipassana International Academy based on the Buddhist approach of insight. It is the world's largest Vipassana or insightful meditation institute. The institute is famous for teaching a popular kind of meditation that was preached by Gautam Buddha in the sixth century BC.
Igatpuri is a favorite weekend retreat in Maharashtra during the monsoon season. It is perfect for an engaging 1 day tour from Mumbai. You can visit old forts, enjoy a picnic at the gorgeous waterfalls, and try adventure sports. The steep mountains offer a thrilling landscape for rock climbing and trekking. The cultural and historical significance of the place makes it worth visiting at least once.
3. Bhimashankar
Bhimashankar is located around 223 kilometers from Mumbai. It is a prominent temple town housing one of Lord Shiva's revered twelve Jyotirlinga shrines in India. Bhimashankar is located in the village of Bhorgiri in the Sahyadri ghat region.
Bhimashankar is surrounded by hills and covered in dense green rainforests at a height of roughly 3,250 feet. Because of Jyotirlinga, it is regarded as one of the holiest places in India. Bhimashankar is also a renowned trekking destination. Another reason people come here is to visit the Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary. You can explore the natural diversity of the region at the sanctuary and enjoy wildlife spotting.
Bhimashankar is well connected with Mumbai via the road and is quite easy to reach. As a result, a one-day tour from Mumbai to this location would allow you to connect spiritually and take a much-required break from the conundrum of regular life.
4. Raigad
Raigad district is located in Maharashtra's Konkan area. It is well-known for its historical significance and awe-inspiring beauty. Previously known as Colaba, the town was renamed Raigad due to the increasing prominence of the Raigad Fort.
The district greets you with a unique combination of beaches, temples, and historic forts. Nestled among the magnificent Sahyadri hills, it offers the best views of the region. On your 1 day tour from Mumbai, you can explore the natural grandeur of this lovely Konkani district.
You will be greeted by the magnificent scenery of the Western Ghats and lovely verdant beaches in Raigad. You may unwind amidst the pristine natural surroundings. The city is also known for its unique flora and fauna, which contributes to its attractiveness. Raigad offers everything that makes it Maharashtra's tourist magnet. The city offers something to explore for all types of travelers.
5. Lonavala & Khandala
Lonavala and Khandala are serene hill towns located amidst the Sahyadri ranges. The twin hill stations are suitable for a 1 day tour from Mumbai, offering a refreshing break from the daily grind.
Renowned for their natural beauty, these are the most visited hill stations in Maharashtra. Replete with numerous waterfalls, lakes, and hills, the hill stations offer a wide variety of sightseeing places.
The hill towns are popular among adventure seekers. You can enjoy camping, trekking, and other adventure sports. It is a must-see location if you are a nature lover, as it is surrounded by deep forests, waterfalls, and the overall serenity of nature.
Among the main tourist sites in Lonavala and Khandal are the Bhaja and Karla Caves, Bushi Dam, Rajmachi fort, and Ryewood lake. You can also enjoy the simple and calming Andharban walk to explore the region’s wilderness.
6. Pune
Pune is a bustling Maharashtrian metropolis that is ranked among the most liveable cities in India. Pune is a city that wonderfully balances modernity and history, laced with colonial-era elegance, and it is deserving of the title of Maharashtra's cultural capital. It is an upcoming IT hub and is rapidly emerging into one of the top metropolitan cities in the country while being drenched in the traditions of Maratha culture.
Behind Pune's present commercialized façade lie the roots of ancient Poona, which gave rise to the Maratha Empire and played a pivotal role in India's independence history. The vibrant city is home to several religious and historical sites. Pune also has several renowned educational institutions and is sometimes referred to as the Oxford of the East.
Pune is well-known for the serene Osho Ashram. The mysticism of the Ashram and unique meditation practices draw visitors from all over the world. The city is home to elegant palaces and revered temples. The most notable monuments are Shaniwar Wada Palace, Parvati Hill Temple, Lal Mahal, Pataleshwar Cave Temple, and Aga Khan Palace. The Singhagad fort is a must-see tourist site for anyone interested in Maratha architecture and the spectacular vistas of the Sahyadris.
7. Mahabaleshwar
Mahabaleshwar is a hill station in Maharashtra's Satara district. It is located in the Western Ghats. The idyllic setup makes it a perfect spot for a 1 day tour from Mumbai for both couples and families. Mahabaleshwar is highly known for its various rivers, spectacular cascades, and breathtaking peaks, in addition to the abundant yield of strawberries.
Located around 285 kilometers from Mumbai, Mahabaleshwar is also a Hindu pilgrimage site since the Krishna River originates here. Once a British summer capital, the tranquil hill station is renowned for its historic temples, boarding schools, deep forests, glistening waterfalls, and vibrant valleys. It is frequently used as a base for visiting the spectacular Pratapgad Fort, located an hour away.
8. Malshej Ghat
Malshej Ghat is a mountain pass and prominent hill station in the Western Ghats. It is a renowned destination among hikers, trekkers, and environment enthusiasts due to its numerous lakes, waterfalls, mountains, and greenery. You can explore a wide variety of flora and fauna around the hill station.
Malshej Ghat is a popular weekend getaway, perfect for a 1 day tour from Mumbai. It offers a great escape into the lap of nature, away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Nature lovers visit Malshej Ghat to witness the pink flamingos that migrate here between July and September.
Malshej Ghat is home to enchanting waterfalls, wonderfully crafted dams, and steep, towering forts. Harishchandragad Fort located in the Kalsubai Harishchandragad wildlife sanctuary is a renowned trekking destination in this area. The temples in Malshej Ghat date from the 16th century AD and are architectural marvels. Malshej waterfall, the picturesque Pimpalgaon dam, and Ajoba Hillfort are just a few of the numerous sightseeing spots you must witness in Malshej Ghat.
9. Shirdi
Shirdi, commonly known as Sainagar, is a town in the district of Ahmednagar's Rahata Taluka. Besides being Maharashtra's picturesque city, it is one of the holiest sites to visit on a 1 day tour from Mumbai. Most people associate Shirdi with temples and pilgrimages, but the city has much more to offer visitors.
The heritage city of Shirdi is well-known around the world as the birthplace of the late-nineteenth-century spiritual teacher Sai Baba. The Sai Baba Mandir, dedicated to the saint attracts thousands of tourists each year. The tranquility of the temple provides devotees with calm and solace.
You can also see the saint's final resting place and receive blessings from Sai Baba. Aside from religious sites, the city is home to Sai Heritage Village, which is like going back in time to see Sai Baba's life. The Wet N Joy Water Park may also provide you with a fun time with your family and friends. The magnificent Jangli Maharaj Ashram and Lendi Baug are surrounded by lush nature that will revitalize you with its pristine beauty.
10. Karjat
Karjat is a verdant city in the mountainous and scenic area of Raigad. This city is also a favorite among visitors owing to its serenity. A 1 day tour from Mumbai is enough to enjoy a fun vacation in Karjat.
Karjat is a highland town comprising mesmerizing temples, rich monuments, lush green seraphic valleys, and gorgeous caverns. Without a doubt, this city is one of the most spectacular escapes for adventure enthusiasts. Among the most popular activities are mountain climbing, hiking, trekking, and rappelling.
Trekkers can enjoy the beauty of the area by trekking to its many vantage points. Prominent treks are Kothligad, Bhivgad, and Kothaligad. The easiest trek in the region is to the Peth fort in Peth Village.
Hindu pilgrims visit Karjat to offer prayers at the city’s magnificent temples. Prominent temples in Karjat are Naktich Deul Temple and Mallikarjuna Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Buddhist devotees can visit the ancient Kondana Caves and witness the sculptures, vihara, chaityas, and stupas.
11. Lavasa
Lavasa city is a lovely concept inspired by the Italian town of Portofino. It is a beautiful blend of natural beauty and modern infrastructure. The city is spread across 7 hills and encompasses an area of 25000 acres. The privately developed hill city is a perfect place for a 1 day tour from Mumbai. It is located in Mose Valley and is around 200 kilometers away from Mumbai.
The modern hill station provides an enjoyable retreat for its visitors and has a lot to offer tourists. Ranging from picturesque scenery to an extremely well-developed infrastructure that includes, resorts, institutes, malls, and residential complexes, the city is home to everything you can dream of.
Lavasa is quickly becoming a popular destination for those seeking a respite from the rush and bustle of city life. It is unquestionably a luxurious spot set among lush green hills. The city captivates visitors with the breathtaking views of the Western Ghats.
12. Matheran
Matheran is also known as the cutest hill station in India. It is the finest site to enjoy the sunset and sunrise views in Maharashtra. Renowned for its mind-blowing scenery, the hill town offers you the perfect setup for a 1 day tour from Mumbai.
The amazing hill station is located only 83 kilometers from the capital city. The best tourist attractions in Matheran are Louisa Point, Charlotte Lake, Shivaji's Ladder, Monkey point, Panorama Point, and One Tree Hill Point.
You can soak in the natural beauty of the hill station from popular viewpoints. Nature photographers can capture the scenic beauty of the place. The hill station is unspoiled and unaffected by the city's bustle and pollution. Located amidst the Western Ghats, it is located at an elevation of roughly 800 meters above sea level. The location always offers great weather to enjoy at any time of the year, but its attractiveness is enhanced during the monsoons.
Another advantage of visiting the lovely hill station is that it is environmentally benign, with no traffic jams or buses honking on the road. The Maharashtra government took these measures in order to preserve Matheran. You can witness the magnificence of nature in Matheran and feel relaxed.
13. Kamshet
Kamshet is known as India's paragliding capital, dotted with numerous flying and paragliding schools. It is a popular tourist location situated in the state of Maharashtra. Located 110 kilometers from Mumbai, Kamshet is a fairyland with abundant flora and fauna. You can visit the town for a 1 day tour from Mumbai to experience its surreal beauty.
Surrounded by the Western Ghats and adorned with the splendor of the Sahyadri Ranges, it has a charming atmosphere and a rich cultural legacy. You will be captivated by the bubbling waterfalls, monasteries, gorgeous temples, and majestic hills.
Kamshet has also been named among India's top ten must-see sites for an exciting trip. Shinde Wadi Hills, Tower Hill, Shelar, and Kondeshwar Cliff are among the top paragliding destinations in the area. The ideal weather and geography make it a favorite among flying enthusiasts.
14. Durshet
Durshet is a town located between Mumbai and Pune, nestled among the Sahyadri ranges. It is surrounded by hillocks and plateaus, with rivers and waterfalls adorning it. You can spend time relaxing along the enormous slopes and catch a glimpse of nature's ethereal splendor.
The luxuriant vegetation and natural beauty all around, as well as the hillocks with waterfalls spanning them, have made Durshet a well-known tourist destination. The hill station is also popular among hikers and mountaineers. The area surrounding River Amba is a rich natural reserve for unique species and flowers.
There are various old temple ruins and heritage sites in the vicinity, notably the Siddi Ashtavinayak Temples. These temples have stunning architecture and are visited by devotees seeking the blessings of the almighty. You can also enjoy breathtaking views of surrounding lakes, rivers, and waterfalls. IMAGICA park is a hub for watersports and thrilling activities. You can spend time enjoying the wide variety of rides and swings in the area.
15. Rajamachi
Rajmachi is a small and serene village situated in the state of Maharashtra. It is specifically located in the Konkan area, surrounded by the Sahyadri range. Rajmachi is well-known for its medieval fortification, which includes two fortified peaks. The Shrivardhan and Manaranjan forts are must-visit spots in the region.
The settlement of Udhewadi, another name for Rajmachi, is located at the base of the fort. Rajmachi has been owned by several rulers including Shivaji Maharaj, Emperor Aurangzeb, Shahuji Maharaj, and, finally, the Britishers.
Beyond its rich heritage, Rajmachi Fort is a well-known site among trekkers and people who enjoy adventurous activities. The trek starts from the Kondhane caves and takes up to 3-4 hours of climbing. Located in the Udhewadi village, it is a beautiful location offering stunning panoramic views of the surroundings. The serene environment allows you to unwind in the lap of nature.
