Mumbai is the most fast paced city of India. With people running day and night to make their future in this majestic city, once in a fortnight every Jack needs a break. Mumbai has so much to offer in terms of tourism that you may never want to move out of the city, yet places to be seen in Mumbai will never exhaust. However, to get a break from the hustle bustle of the crazy busy life of the city, look at the places around Mumbai and discover an altogether different experience.
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Alibaug
Alibaug is a coastal town situated 92 kms from Mumbai. Alibaug is one of the most sought after town for Mumbaikars to enjoy less crowded beaches and lush green plantations of mango, chickoo and paddy. When in Alibaug, do not forget to visit Nagaon and Akshi beach and enjoy some thrilling water sports. You can also visit the Hanuman Temple, Brahma Kund and the Kanakeshwar Forests if you are not the beach types.
Source: Flickr
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Murud Janjira
Murud Janjira is a fort situated on an island named Murud. One has to take a ferry in order to reach this fort. It is one of the strongest forts of India which is located completely on water. Once you reach the Murud Beach, take a dip in the blue waters and enjoy the view of tall coconut trees, take a ferry and visit this fort which is very well maintained and a treat to the traveller’s eye. If you like going back in the history, this fort will welcome you with great stories of Shivaji Maharaj, an experience which is sure to stay with you for long.
Source: Flickr
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Mahad
Located at a distance of 163 kms, this city boasts of enticing its visitors with everything that one can think of. Be it the beautiful Harihareshwar Temple situated at the seashore or the historic Raigarh Fort which was the headquarters of Shivaji when he was crowned as the king of the Manata Kingdom, one can never get full of its scenic views. With its excellent road connectivity, one must visit this town also to visit the Buddhist Gandhar Pale Caves.
Source: Flickr
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Nashik – Sula Vineyard
Nashik is the 3rd most well known city of Maharashtra after Mumbai and Pune. This city is famous for its rich agriculture producing soil giving India the maximum number of vineyards situated at a single location. It is one of the holy places chosen for conducting the Kumbh Mela once in every 12 years. Sita Gufa (caves), Panchvati and Trimbakeshwar are a must watch. Around half an hour away lies the famous sula vineyard. With wine tasting tours, some amazing restaurants, beautiful resort and an active amphitheatre conducting music fests round the year have made it a hot spot among the youth.
Source: Flickr
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Igatpuri
Igatpuri can be called the meditation centre of India. Located 121 kms from Mumbai, Igatpuri is famous for the Dhammagiri center of Vipassana, a 2500 years old buddhist meditation technique started by Mr. S.N.Goenka. Foreigners as well as people from various parts of the country come in large numbers to visit this center and take advantage of the serene meditation center which is an amazing scenic view in itself. Located in the western ghats, Igatpuri has various beautiful natural spots which may help you find deep inner peace.
Source: Flickr
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Silvassa
Located at a distance of 184 kms from Mumbai, Silvassa is the capital of Union Territory Dadra Nagar Haveli in Gujarat. Once ruled by Portuguese invaders, Silvassa is famous for its lavish Portuguese architecture, lush green views, exotic resorts and tax-free low cost alcohol. You can enjoy various watersports, visit the Church of Lady Piety and definitely visit the Lion Safari Wildlife Park.
Source: Flickr
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Bhandardara
Situated 164 kms away from Mumbai, Bhandardara is a beautiful village situated in Mount Kalsubai, the highest peak of Maharashtra. This picturesque destination is filled with many waterfalls which draws numerous visitors to its Umbrella falls, Randha falls. These falls can be enjoyed mainly in the monsoon season. For the rest of the year, this place is famous for its trekking routes where adventurous trekkers climb up till the Ratangarh Fort, Harishchandragad and Konkanwada.
Source: Flickr
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Daman
Daman is a union territory located in Gujarat. With portuguese building its colony in the Daman area, Jeronimo Fort built to protect from the Mughal invasion was built by them. This fort stands tall with most of its original form intact. Daman flaunts a series of beautiful beaches making it one of the favorite weekend spots among Mumbaikars.
Source: Flickr
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Kolad
If you are an adventurer then Kolad has to be amongst your favorite weekend spots. Located in the Sahyadri hills, Kolad is known for its picturesque waterfalls and breathtaking backdrops. The majestic valley lets you explore the crusader in you with various mountain climbing, rappelling and whitewater rafting experiences it offers.
Source: Flickr
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Diveagar
Diveagar located in, Raigad district is about 187 kms from Mumbai. It is a scarcely populated beach town, clean, tidy and very peaceful. It is flanked by two lesser known beaches namely Velas to the north and Aaravi to the south. Velas is famous for its turtle festival. Diveagar has restaurants offering a variety of cuisines. Yet homemade food served in lunch homes in the main streets is possibly the best option for both vegetarians as well as non vegetarian konkani delicacies. Harihareshwar beach and the Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary are well known places near Diveagar.
Source: Flickr
You may be in love with adventure, history, calm beaches or nature walks. All you have to do is pack your bags and set free, you will definitely reach a destination of your choice in any direction you go. Such is the Beauty of Maharashtra!