Road Trip Locations in Mumbai

Mumbai is called a dream city, and this is not only about life there. We can also find a few excellent dreamy destinations around Mumbai. If you are in Mumbai and looking to explore the city for an exciting array of places to visit around, we are here with the best choices for a perfect Road Trip in Mumbai. 

To make it easier to plan, we’ve sorted them into five categories: Hill Stations, Beachside, Forts & Historical, Offbeat, and Adventure.

Hill Station Road Trip Places from Mumbai

Lonavala and Khandala

Located along the Sahyadri range, these two are twin hill stations known for their misty valleys. Best meant for weekend Hill Station Road Trip in Mumbai. 

• Best time to visit: July to February

• Route & time: Mumbai to Lonavala via Mumbai-Pune Expressway (~2 hrs)

• Popular attractions: Tiger Point, Bhushi Dam, Rajmachi Fort

• Nearby locations: Karla Caves, Kune Falls

Matheran

It is the automotive-free hill station in India. You can explore exquisite mud paths, colonial charm, and serene viewpoints. It should be a peaceful retreat and an enjoyable and best long road trip from Mumbai. 

• Best time: October to May

• Route & time: Mumbai to Dasturi Point (~2.5 hrs), then walk or ride

• Popular attractions: Panorama Point, Charlotte Lake, Echo Point

• Nearby locations: Neral, Dodhani Waterfalls

Mahabaleshwar

It is a classic hill station with panoramic views. Check out strawberry plants and breezy mountains. The pleasant climate makes it the best Road Trip Location in Mumbai. 

• Best time: November to June

• Route & time: Mumbai to Mahabaleshwar (~5 hrs via NH66)

• Popular attractions: Venna Lake, Arthur's Seat, Mapro Garden

• Nearby locations: Panchgani, Pratapgad Fort

Panchgani

It is a plateau surrounded by five mountains on your trip towards Mahabaleshwar. Known for boarding schools and pleasant climate. Offers scenic views, colonial buildings, and sunset points here.

• Best time: September to May

• Route & time: Mumbai to Panchgani (~4.5 hrs via NH66)

• Popular attractions: Table Land, Parsi Point, Devrai Art Village

• Nearby locations: Wai, Dhom Dam

Igatpuri

A rapidly growing but lesser-known destination, it offers a peaceful ambiance and a Vipassana meditation center. It is the Best place for road trip from Mumbai for nature lovers. 

• Best time: June to December

• Route & time: Mumbai to Igatpuri via NH160 (~3 hrs)

• Popular attractions: Bhatsa River Valley, Camel Valley, Tringalwadi Fort

• Nearby locations: Bhandardara, Kasara

Jawhar

A hidden gem, it is known for its tribal heritage. The best choice for a cultural road trip in Mumbai. Enjoy the smooth drive and pleasant climate here. 

• Best time: October to March

• Route & time: Mumbai to Jawhar via NH848 (~3.5 hrs)

• Popular attractions: Jai Vilas Palace, Dabhosa Waterfall, Sunset Point

• Nearby locations: Palghar, Vikramgad

Bhandardara

It is a picturesque village on the banks of the Pravara River with waterfalls, lush landscapes, and peaceful sites. Best for couples and nature lovers. 

• Best time: August to February

• Route & time: Mumbai to Bhandardara (~4 hrs via NH160)

• Popular attractions: Arthur Lake, Randha Falls, Kalsubai Peak

• Nearby locations: Igatpuri, Wilson Dam

Tamhini Ghat

It is a monsoon paradise with dense forests that offer foggy trails and waterfalls dotting the drive. Journey and the destination – should both be quite rewarding. 

• Best time: June to September

• Route & time: Mumbai to Tamhini via Khopoli-Pali (~3.5 hrs)

• Popular attractions: Mulshi Lake, Plus Valley Trek, Tamhini Waterfalls

• Nearby locations: Lonavala, Kolad

Looking for a refreshing getaway to the hills? With IndusGo’s self-drive car rental in Mumbai, you can explore these hill retreats at your own pace, worry-free.

Beachside Road Trip in Mumbai

Alibaug

An excellent weekend getaway, Alibaug offers the best bike ride destination near Mumbai. It can also be a great destination for couples looking for a romantic getaway. 

• Best Time: November to February.

• Route & Duration: Mumbai > Alibaug (95 km, 3 hrs via NH 66 or ferry).

• Top Attractions: Alibaug Beach, Kolaba Fort, Varsoli Beach.

• Nearby locations: Kashid, Nagaon.

 Kashid

Looking for a secluded beach near Mumbai? Kashid is the perfect choice for you. It is a serene beach with white sand and clear waters.

• Best Time: November to March.

• Route & Duration: Mumbai > Kashid (125 km, 3.5 hrs via NH 66).

• Top Attractions: Kashid Beach, Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary.

• Nearby locations: Murud, Revdanda.

 Harihareshwar

Known as Dakshin Kashi, it is a sacred and scenic getaway for Devotional Road Trip from Mumbai. The drive itself is very scenic and peaceful. 

• Best Time: October to March.

• Route & Duration: Mumbai to Harihareshwar via NH66 — approx. 200 km, around 5 hours

• Top Attractions: Harihareshwar Temple, beach promenade, Kalbhairav Temple, and the cliff-side pradakshina path.

• Nearby locations: Shrivardhan Beach, Diveagar, Velas Turtle Beach, Bankot Fort.

 Velas

It is a quaint village in Maharashtra. The region is known for the annual Olive Ridley Turtle Festival. You will love the rural charm and eco-tourism that you can witness here. 

• Best Time: February–April (turtle season).

• Route & Duration: ~210 km via NH 66, ~6 hrs.

• Attractions: Turtle hatching festival, conservation talks.

• Nearby locations: Harihareshwar, Bankot Fort.

 Dapoli

Dapoli is a serene coastal village in Ratnagiri district. It is also called Mini Mahabaleshwar. It offers a mix of scenic beaches, ancient temples, hot springs, and lush farmlands.

• Best Time: October–March.

• Route & Duration: ~215 km via NH 66, ~6 hrs.

• Attractions: Karde Beach, Harnai Port, St. Anne's Beach, Lighthouse

• Nearby locations: Anjarle, Murud.

Murud-Janjira

The region is a seaside town that offers you a unique look. It is an excellent choice for a blend of history, architecture, and coastal beauty. 

• Best Time: November–February.

• Route & Duration: ~150 km via NH 66, ~4 hrs.

• Attractions: Janjira Fort boat tour, Murud Beach.

• Nearby locations: Kashid, Alibaug.

Sun, sand and a stunning coastline await. Whether it's a solo bike trip or a family road trip, IndusGo in Mumbai helps you enjoy these beach destinations with reliable and clean rental cars.

Historical Road Trip in Mumbai

 Raigad Fort 

It is the historic fort of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. The fort is a symbol of Maratha pride. It offers sweeping views, ropeway access, and a deep dive into Maharashtra’s royal past.

• Best Time: October–March.

• Route & Duration: ~170 km via NH 66, ~4½ hrs; ropeway option available.

• Attractions: Fort Palace ruins, ropeway, Shivaji's samadhi.

• Nearby locations: Mahad, Mangaon.

 Murud - Janjira fort

Well, we have already discussed the fort and the region in the above section. 

 Sinhagad Fort

Perched atop the Sahyadri ranges, Sinhagad Fort is one of the most iconic forts near Pune. It is known for the battle fought by Tanaji Mhalusare. The fort offers not just historical significance but also a thrilling drive and rewarding views from the top.

• Best Time: August–February.

• Route & Duration: ~180 km via NH 48 to Pune, then ~1 hr drive (~4½ hrs).

• Attractions: Fort remains, Khadakwasla dam views, local kanda bhaji chilies.

• Nearby locations: Pune city, Panshet lake.

Take a ride into Maharashtra’s glorious past. With IndusGo Car Rental in Mumbai, drive comfortably to these timeless forts and historical marvels while avoiding the hassle of public transport.

Offbeat Road Trip in Mumbai

 Sula Vineyards (Nashik)

The city is known as the Napa Valley of India. It is a winery set against the backdrop of gentle hills. It is perfect for both connoisseurs and first-timers.

• Best Time: November–March.

• Route & Duration: ~165 km via NH 160, ~3½ hrs.

• Attractions: Vineyard tours, wine tasting, music festivals.

• Nearby locations: Trimbak, Pandavleni Caves, Ramkund.

 Lavasa

Lavasa is the first planned city in India. It is tucked between lush hills and a serene lake. You can witness a blend of modern infrastructure and natural beauty here. 

• Best Time: September–February.

• Route & Duration: ~190 km via NH 48, ~4½ hrs.

• Attractions: Lakeside promenade, boating, cafes.

• Nearby locations: Tamhini Ghat, Pune outskirts.

 Karjat

Karjat is a scenic village nestled in the Western Ghats. A favorite among trekkers, nature lovers, and those seeking a peaceful getaway close to Mumbai and, an excellent pick for Adventure Road Trip from Mumbai. 

• Best Time: July–February.

• Route & Duration: ~63 km via NH 48, ~2 hrs.

• Attractions: ND Studios, Peth Fort, waterfall treks, white-water rafting.

• Nearby locations: Matheran, Bhivpuri Falls.

Want to beat the crowd? Choose these offbeat destinations for peace and exploration. IndusGo in Mumbai offers flexible rentals for road explorers who like going off the map.

Devotional Road Trip Places from Mumbai

 Shirdi

Shirdi does not need an introduction. It is the most visited pilgrimage center in India. It is a deeply moving experience with its peaceful ambiance, holy shrines, and stories of miracles.

• Best Time: October–March.

• Route & Duration: ~245 km via NH 160, ~5 hrs.

• Attractions: Sai Baba Samadhi Mandir, evening aarti.

• Nearby locations: Shani Shingnapur (Shiva temple), Nashik.

Trimbakeshwar Temple

 One of the 12 jyotirlingas, it is quite popular among Shiva devotees. A sacred destination for the Hindus. 

• Best Time: August–February.

• Route & Duration: ~180 km via NH 160, ~4 hrs.

• Attractions: Trimbakeshwar Temple, Kushavarta Kund, serene forest atmosphere.

• Nearby locations: Nashik.

Ganpatipule

A popular destination for Ganesh Bhakts. Blue sea backdrop is a huge attraction. 

• Best Time: November–March.

• Route & Duration: ~340 km via NH 66, ~7 hrs.

• Attractions: Ganesha Temple, Ganesh Gully, clean beach.

• Nearby locations: Ratnagiri, Jaigad Fort.

Ashtavinayak Temple Circuit

Popular among anyone visiting Mumbai or Pune. It is 700 km route of 8 Ganesh temples. 

• Best Time: Year‑round, best April–June for fewer crowds.

• Route & Duration: ~700 km loop, usually 3–4 days.

• Attractions: Major temples at Ozar, Siddhatek, Morgaon, etc.

• Nearby locations: Pune, Ahmednagar, Lenyadri caves.

Bhimashankar

This is another popular Jyotirlinga. You will find it in the dense wildlife sanctuary and hill range.

• Best Time: October–March.

• Route & Duration: ~220 km via NH 60, ~5 hrs.

• Attractions: Bhimashankar Temple, trek within the sanctuary.

• Nearby locations: Malshej Ghat, Neral.

Adventure Road Trip Places from Mumbai

Kolad

An excellent place on the bank of Kundalika River. Best suited for white water rafting.

• Best Time: June–October (rarefied rapids post-monsoon).

• Route & Duration: ~122 km via NH 66, ~2 ½–3 hrs.

• Attractions: River rafting, camp stay, waterfall treks.

• Nearby: Kordala, Harnai.

Pawna Lake

Love lakeside camping? It offers an excellent panoramic valley escapes and bonfires.

• Best Time: October–February.

• Route & Duration: ~110 km via Lonavala, ~2½ hrs.

• Attractions: Camping, stargazing, nearby Tikona Fort trek.

• Nearby locations: Lonavala, Khandala.

Sandhan Valley

 It is known as the Valley of Shadows. Enjoy rappelling and cliff-hanging treks here. 

• Best Time: October–February.

• Route & Duration: ~210 km via NH 48–Malshej, ~5 hrs.

• Attractions: Trek/ramble down the valley, natural rock walls for training/climbing.

• Nearby locations: Alewadi, Malshej Ghat.

Malshej Ghat

It is a misty mountain pass worth visiting. It is known for waterfalls, laminar plains, and winter flamingoes.

• Best Time: July–September for monsoon waterfalls; November–February for birds.

• Route & Duration: ~130 km via NH 66, ~3 hrs.

• Attractions: Trek routes, Tikona & Lohagad forts views, water cascades.

• Nearby locations: Alewadi, Sandhan Valley.

Devkund Waterfall

Want a natural plunge waterfall? It is perfect for monsoon hikes and pool dips.

• Best Time: July–October

• Route & Duration: ~135 km via NH 66, ~3½ hrs; trek starts from Bhira dam.

• Attractions: Trek through the forest, waterfall soak, Bhira dam shoreline.

• Nearby locations: Kundalika rafting site, Bhira Dam.

Seeking spiritual solace? These sacred destinations offer peace and divine experiences. IndusGo Car Rental in Mumbai ensures your devotional journeys are comfortable, safe, and convenient.

Whether you’re planning a 1-day road trip from Mumbai, a 3-day road trip from Mumbai, or a spontaneous weekend drive, IndusGo offers safe, sanitized, and budget-friendly self-drive car rentals. 

So, ready to hit the road? Choose IndusGo Car Rentals - the smarter, simpler, and safer way to travel.