7 weekend destinations around Mumbai you might not have explored!

If you’re living in Mumbai, you know when the weekend getaways become a necessity to take a break from the hustle bustle of the city. For the city which never sleeps, we often feel the need to find something that rejuvenates us. Travelling is the best solution to put your mind off the mundane routine and invest in some me-time.  

If you’re new to Mumbai, you will often find people dragging you to Lonavala, Lavasa and Mahabaleshwar. But beyond Mumbai, there’s much more for one to explore than the usual. Next time you’re planning a getaway, try exploring one of these seven locations.

• Karnala Bird Sanctuary Located in Panvel Taluka of Raigad District, it is a popular destination for bird watchers. The sanctuary is centered on the historic Karnala Fort.
  It houses as many as 150 species of resident birds and 37 types of avian migrants. It is also a very sought after spot for trekkers.
  
  Distance from Mumbai: 60 km
  Mode of transport used: 
  - 2 hour drive via Thane Creek and Panvel;
  - Panvel is 12 km from the sanctuary, from here you can catch autorickshaws, taxis and buses
  
  
• Kamshet Located in the Western Ghats, India’s mecca for paragliding is 16 km from the twin hill stations, Lonavala and Khandala. Kamshet is just the place for an adrenaline junkie. With a picturesque location, this hill station has a beautiful view. It is a popular tourist spot which has it all, adventure spots and both family/romantic getaways.
  
  Distance from Mumbai: 118 km
  Mode of transport used: 2 hour travel by road and train
  
  
• Raigad Fort
  Rich in cultural significance, the Raigad district is the reminiscent of the Maratha period. 2700 feet above the sea level on the Sahyadri Mountains, the Raigad Fort is a popular destination amongst tourists. Then the capital of the Maratha King, Shivaji Maharaj, the fort has a great historical importance. This place is heaven for history buffs and even trekkers. With a comparatively easier trek, Raigad Fort is perfect for beginners.
  
  Distance from Mumbai: 116 km by Road and 20 km by Rail
  Mode of transport used: 23 min by train; 4 hours by road
  
  
• Igatpuri
  
  Amid the Western Ghats, Igatpuri is one of the most romantic getaways for the around Mumbai. It is popular for its trekking trails and the Vipassana meditation centre. People from around the globe visit this place to master the art of meditation.
  
  Distance from Mumbai: 116 km by Road and 83 km by Rail; Aerial distance: 96 km
  Mode of transport used: There is a direct train between Mumbai and Igatpuri called Nandigram Express
  
  
• Kolad
  If you love trekking and camping, this place is one of the most amazing places to visit. If you’re an adrenaline junkie and love some adventure, this place has some thrilling water sports to offer. Adorned with some breathtaking waterfalls, Kolad has one of the most scenic views.
  
  Distance from Mumbai: 120 km by road
  Mode of transport used: 2.5 hours drive; 4 hours by train from Dadar


• Murud-Janjira Situated amid the water, Murud-Janjira Fort is on an island and has an interesting past with amazing stories. As the legend goes, this marine fort couldn’t be conquered in any battle because of its intelligent architecture.
  
  Distance from Mumbai: 140 km by road; 76 km from Murud by train
  Mode of transport used: 3.5 hours by road
  
  
• Jawhar Home to the popular Warli tribes, this place has a strong cultural context. Famous for its unique designs and illustrations, this little town has a picturesque view along with traditional Warli paintings and craft work.
  
  Distance from Mumbai: `120 km by road
  Mode of transport used: 
  - 3 hours by road
  - Jawhar doesn't have a train station; The nearest station is Igatpuri, which is 42 km by road

However, there is no end to exploring for the adventurer in you. There’s much more around the city than the usual. Maharashtra is a haven for the free spirited explorers.