Birthdays, anniversaries, crazy time with your pals, the weekend is just around the corner and you're wondering where to go? Pack your bags and head to some of the coolest destinations around Mumbai that will not only give you awesome memories, but will also save you from burning a hole in a pocket. Travel around Mumbai the Holidaymine way!

Malshej Ghat

The Malshej Ghat, nestled in the rugged hills of the Western Ghats is a place where you can click millions of selfies, get drenched in the rain or simply admire the mesmerizing scenery.  It is located in Pune, near the Thane and Ahmednagar district borders. The place is so scenic that it seems as though nature has decided to make a pact with it and bestow its wonders on this stunning Ghat.

Fun Factor

Team Holidaymine had visited the Malshej Ghat in monsoon this year and we can vouch that you will enjoy as much as we did. Easily accessible it takes around 3-4 hours to reach the Ghat from Mumbai. Stop for hot ‘buttas’ in the cool climate and pose for some quick selfies in its scenic landscapes. Gorge on a hot meal in one of the MTDC restaurant located along the way. One of the most beautiful attractions of the Malshej Ghat is its gorgeous waterfalls where your car will naturally get washed as it passes under these heavenly falls. Malshej Ghat is also a paradise for trekkers and adventure lovers, and the Shivneri Fort is not very far from this scenic paradise. Don’t think, pack your bags and head towards this ideal weekend getaway!

Photo Credit: Team Holidaymine

Bhandardara

A blend of natural beauty, mountains, tranquility and greenery Bhandardara is that peaceful weekend getaway you were always craving for. It is tucked in the Western Ghats and is located about 185kms from Mumbai. It is said that Shri Agasti Risi meditated here for a year surviving only on water and air.

Fun Factor

Bhandardara is a stark contrast from Mumbai’s polluted roads clogged with traffic jams. The spectacular sights and fluorescent paddy fields under the clear blue skies will refresh your mind and make you instantly fall in love with it. The stunning Arthur Lake and Wilson Dam are some of the major attractions of this magical place. If you are planning to spend the night at Bhandardara the Anandvan and Yash Resorts are ideal for a stay at the majestic Bhandardara.

Silvassa

Stroll along the timeless roads of Silvassa, a former Portuguese colony and the capital of the Union Territory Dadra and Nagar Haveli. Silvassa is located between Gujarat and Maharashtra and its beauty alone is sufficient to satisfy any photographer’s soul. Roman churches and intricately carved stone walls are an evidence of the Portuguese rule here which adds a mystic charm to this weekend hub.

Fun Factor

Silvassa is located 171km from Mumbai, a perfect destination to enjoy with your family and friends. Zoom away on the speed boats in its clear waters, or paddle in a cute little boat, as Silvassa is a hub for water sport activities. If you aren’t really the adventure types, take a stroll along the Portuguese lanes and get a taste of its timeless culture. Silvassa seems to be Nature’s favorite and nature has blessed this place with abundance of flora and fauna. Spot shy deers at the Khanvel Deer Park which is another major attraction close to this place. Shopaholics must look out for warli paintings, carved wooden smoking pipes, Bamboo crafts, and palm-leaf mats which are some of the famous items worth buying. The Tribal Culture museum, Vanganaga Lake, Hirva Van garden is a must visit in this astounding place. Stay at the Ras and Khanvel Resort to enjoy a pleasurable weekend in this enchanting place.   

Photo Credit: Njanasundaran P T 

Morachi Chincholi

The town of Dancing Peacocks will welcome you as soon as you enter Morachi Chincholi, a place you should definitely add to your list of weekend getaways. The name itself suggests that you will be greeted by the stunning sight of dancing peacocks all around you. This dazzling town of peacocks is located near the Ahmednagar-Pune Highway about 55kms from Pune.

Fun Factor

Wake up to the sight of the enchanting peacocks that add to the aura of this village. Peacocks can be spotted when the first light of dawn appears in the velvet sky. Imagine yourself opening your eyes to the sight of these alluring creatures as the light of the dawn caresses your face. The village is at its best during June to December when the peacocks decide to open up their feathers and dance to the tunes of the pleasant weather. Morachi Chincholi is carpeted with abundant tamarind trees planted during the Peshwa Dynasty. Get into the ‘desi’ mode, dance with the peacocks, relish the tamarinds, or go for a tractor ride in this spectacular village.

Photo Credit: nainagosavi

Harihareshwar

Invigorating air, gentle winds, pleasant weather and soft sands are the adjectives used to describe the town of Harihareshwar, situated in the Raigad district of Maharashtra. Famous for its artistic temples and pristine beaches the town of Harihareshwar is ideal if you want to spend a peaceful weekend.

Fun Factor

Harihareshwar is located 210km from Mumbai, and comprises of two pristine beaches. Relish the enticing sea-food that will seduce your taste buds, another specialty of this amazing beach town. Adventure junkies can take an exhilarating boat ride to the North side of the bay and explore the land where the Peshwas of the Maratha Kingdom originally resided. You can also find solace in the tranquil temple of Lord Harihareshwar another major attraction in this scenic paradise. 

Ganapatiphule

The beach of Ganapatiphule seems like Lord Ganesha himself has bestowed a gift to mankind on the Konkan coastline. It is an idyllic getaway that attracts peace-seekers, beach lovers, and pilgrims alike. The Swayambhu Ganpati Temple, on the Ganapatipule beach itself is the primary attraction in Ganapatipule that draws thousands of pilgrims every year to this village.

Fun Factor

Ganapatipule with a series of pristine beaches apart from the Ganapatipule beach itself makes Ganapatipule an ideal holiday destination for a beach lover. If you want to experience a great weekend sharing the beach with the affable god Ganapati, take up on the divine invitation to enjoy a weekend in this land of good times – Ganapatipule.