This winter, skip the crowds at Alibaugh, Lonavala, Matheranm, Mahabaleshwar for these quaint, lesser-known getaways replete with waterfalls, green valleys, beaches and historic forts.
If Mumbai has winters, then the Antarctic has never seen snow. Though Mumbai winter is usually the butt of memes, it never deters Mumbaikars from bringing out their rarely used leather boots and snazzy jackets out. The slight drop in mercury is the best time for a short getaway. Thankfully Mumbai is surrounded by beautiful locations that truly come alive during the winters. Here are a few place to enjoy the onset of winters near Mumbai.
Ganpatiphule
If you love the ocean then forget Alibaug and head to this small village dotted with some of the most beautiful white sand beaches. The drive itself is stunning as you cruise narrow winding roads fringed with red roofed houses and rows and rows of mango, banana and jackfruit trees. The 400 year old Swayambhu Ganesh temple here is a must visit as also the Jaigad Fort a 16th century fort nestled on a cliff. Do climb the stairways for a spectacular view of the creek from the upper fortress. Feast on local fish delicacies along with sol kadhi (a spicy, tangy coconut milk drink) and the sweet dumpling modak. The MTDC resort here is right on the beach, if you’re looking to spend the weekend lazing on the sand.
Best time to visit: October to February.
Distance: Approx. 345 km, 8 hours drive from Mumbai.
Igatpuri
This small town perched in the Sahayadri hills makes for a perfect mini vacation from Mumbai as well as Pune. Head to Camel valley to witness five gorgeous waterfalls that meet at the same spot! Everything is carpeted in lush green and the weather is beautiful. If you are looking to amp up the experience, skip the hotel and go for riverside camping. Igatpuri has plenty of options for both camping and glamping. Those looking for a spot of adventure can scale the mysterious Tringalwadi fort at a height of 3000 feet. The reward? Stronger calves and the most mesmerising view of Kalsubai, Dhakoba and Naneghat peaks. Or go river rafting in Vaitarna river. End the day with some wine tasting and Vallonne Vineyards.
Best time to visit: October to March
Distance: 120kms, 3.5 hours drive from Mumbai.
Panhala
History buffs will love this historic yet quaint hill station in Kolhapur. This is where Chattrapati Shivaji spent a significant amount of time during his battles against the Mughals. Perched at a height of 3,177 feet, Panhala (meaning home of serpents) commands a breath taking view of the valley coupled with a refreshingly cool weather. What can you do here? Lots! Start with a vist to the imposing Panhala Fort and then to Ambarkhana a well-preserved 11th-century granary, which is still functional. Sajja Kothi is where people were punished during wars. Then there are Nagzari and Parasher Caves. As the day comes to an eventful end, head to the sunset point to witness the most mesmerising sunset in the company of swallows and hawks.
Note: Go armed with good walking shoes and brace yourself for steep climbs.
Best time to visit: November to January.
Distance: 415 km from Mumbai.
Vengurla
Beach bums looking for a quick getaway should bookmark this small town on the Konkan coast. The isolated Sagareshwar Beach here is one of the cleanest beaches in the state. But there is more to Vengurla besides chilling on its white powdery beach and waiting for the dolphins to show up. A stone’s throw away from the beach is the Sagareshwar Temple – the oldest temple of Lord Shiva in the entire region. In the evening head to the bustling jetty to watch fishermen anchor their boats while the fisherwomen busy themselves with the fresh catch of the day. It’s a show you don’t want to miss! Vengurla is a birder’s paradise with unique feathered species like bridled tern and Indian swiftlet. But the best thing to do in Vengurla is watch the starry show that the sky puts up each night.
Best time to visit: November to February
Distance: 522 km, 11 hours drive from Mumbai.
Vasind
This lesser known but picturesque village on the banks of the meandering Bhatsa river is filled with lush greenery, beautiful waterfalls and gorgeous hills. Mahuli Fort here is popular with trekkers and adventure enthusiasts. Located at an altitude of 2,815 feet above sea level, it comes with fabulous views of Mahuli forest and the Sahyadri mountains surrounding it. Vasind Caves, an ancient Buddhist cave complex dating back to the 2nd century BCE is another local attraction. These caves are known for their intricate carvings, rock-cut architecture and ancient inscriptions. Looking to take it easy? You can go kayaking in the Bhatsa river or simply embark on a leisurely walk along the riverbanks.
Best time to visit: October to February.
Distance: 80 km, about two hours drive from Mumbai.
Jawhar
Only around two and a half hours away from Mumbai is this little hill station-ish village Jawhar, home to a slew of waterfalls and a picturesque lake. The gushing Dabdaba Falls is the most popular attraction here. But if you want to steer clear of the crowds then head to Jai Vilas Palace built in 1938 and located within a serene cashew nut plantation. The palace is built using syenite rock from a quarry in Kalidhond, five km from the location. According to village legend the quarry was destroyed once the palace was built. The palace is in good condition with oil paintings, old world furniture and stuffed animals in the corridor. Jawhar is famous for its warli paintings so reserve some time to visit the village and take a few back as a souvenir. End the day at the sunset spot for a gorgeous view of the setting sun.
Best time to visit: October to February
Distance: 180 kms, 2.5 to 3 hours drive from Mumbai
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