Mumbai — The City of Dreams

Mumbai (formerly called Bombay) is a densely populated city on India’s west coast. A financial center, it’s India’s largest city. On the Mumbai Harbour waterfront stands the iconic Gateway of India stone arch, built by the British Raj in 1924. Offshore, nearby Elephanta Island holds ancient cave temples dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva. The city’s also famous as the heart of the Bollywood film industry.

Beaches: Refreshing Wild Waters

Manori: Distance from Mumbai: 36 kms, Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year, Major attractions: Thrilling ferry ride to Malad Marve.

Vasai: Distance from Mumbai: 68 kms, Major attractions: Vasai Fort, Remedy Church, Hedavde Mahalaxmi Temple, and vintage Portugese houses of Vasai.

Alibaug: Distance from Mumbai: 92 kms, Best Time to Visit: November to March, Major attractions: Ferry ride to Kulaba Fort, kite surfing, paragliding, and kayaking.

Kelva: Distance from Mumbai: 103 kms, Major attractions: Exploring the Kelva Fort camel ride, and horse ride on the beach.

Mandwa: Distance from Mumbai: 105 kms, Best Time to Visit: October to March, Major attractions: Bumper rides, Exploring the Buddhist caves, and church at Chaul.

Hill Stations: Enjoy the scenic beauty

Lonavala: How to reach: 95 km from Mumbai, Lonavala railway station have the trains from Mumbai (110 km), Best time to visit: October to June, Ideal Duration to stay: 1 day, Attractions: Scenic Beauty, Buddhist Caves, Nature Walks, Trekking, Pleasant Weather, Waterfalls, Forts. Places to Stay: Lonavala Holiday Homes, Meritas Adore Resort, Elite 2 BHK Home, Raheja Hill Resort.

Matheran: How to reach: 110 km from Mumbai. Nearest railway station is Neral at the distance of 21-km. Best time to visit: November to June, but the place is worth a visit anytime. Ideal Duration to stay: one day trip. Attractions: Scenic Beauty, Horse Riding, Nature Walks, Pleasant Weather. Places to Stay: Lucky Cottage, Misty Matheran Resorts, Alexander Heritage and Rainforest Resort, Hotel Ayaan Valley.

Panchgani: How to reach: 250 km from Mumbai (via Expressway). Best time to visit: September to May, weather is pleasant throughout the year. Ideal Duration to stay: 2 days trip. Attractions: Table Top Hill, Nature Walks, Pleasant Weather. Places to Stay: SANIYAVILLA, Panchgani villa no 2, Ayesha Villa, Haveli, SHIRIN VILLA.

Mahabaleshwar: How to reach: 270 km from Mumbai (via Expressway). For Mahabaleshwar, the nearest railhead is Wathar (62 km) but Pune (120 km) is the convenient railhead. Best time to visit: October to June. Ideal Duration to stay: 2 days trip. Attractions: Scenic Beauty, Nature Walks, Pleasant Weather, Boating, Waterfalls, Connaught peak, Kate’s point, Wilson point, Venna lake, Elephant’s point. Places to Stay: Hotel Forest View, FabExpress Sagar villa, Mango Hotels Valley View, Aditya Hill View Inn, Treebo Trend JP Cottage.

Lavasa: How to reach: 185 km from Mumbai, Mumbai to Pune by train (119 km); Pune to Lavasa by taxi(37 km). Best time to visit: Throughout the year. Ideal Duration to stay: A weekend destination. Attractions: Scenic Beauty, Pleasant Weather, Adventure and Water Sports, Varasgaon Dam, A musical fountain and laser animation show. Places to Stay: Lavasa Luxury Deck Apartment, Luxury 3 BHK Villa, Alliance Villa, Leke view farm house.

Theme Parks: Thrills That gives you chills

Great Escape Water Park: Timings: Open from Monday to Saturday from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM and on Sunday from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Entry Fees: INR 899 for adults, INR 749 for kids, and senior citizens (food included in the ticket). Location: Parol — Bhiwandi Road, Bombay-Ahmedabad Highway, Thane, Maharashtra.

Sargam Water Park: Timings: Open on all the days from 09:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Entry Fees: INR 500 per person. Location: Survey №52, Chinchoti, Village Nagale, Vasai East, Thane, Maharashtra.

Shangri La Resorts and Water Park: Timings: Open on all the days from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Shangrila Resort entry fees 2019: INR 650 for adults and INR 600 for kids. Location: Mumbai-Nashik Highway, Bhiwandi, Thane, Maharashtra.

Adlabs Imagica Water Park: Timings: Open on all the days from 10:30 AM to 7:00 PM. Entry Fees: INR 599 onwards. Location: 30/31, Khopoli-Pali Road, SH 92, District Raigad, Sangadewadi, Maharashtra.

Tikuji-ni-wadi: Timings: Open on all the days from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Tikuji ni wadi entry fees: INR 600 to 700 per person. Location: Ghodbunder Road, Manpada, Opp Tata Power House, Thane, Maharashtra.

Waterfalls: Feel the flow of nature

Bhivpuri Waterfalls: Distance from Mumbai: 65 kms. Time taken by road: 2 hours. Best time to visit: June to September.

Randha Falls: Distance from Mumbai: 165 kms. Time taken by road: 3.5 hours. Best time to visit: August and September.

Pandavkada Falls: Distance from Mumbai: 30 kms. Time taken by road: 1 hour. Best time to visit: January to March.

Malshej Falls: Distance from Mumbai: 140 kms. Time taken by road: 3. 5 hours. Best time to visit: October to March.

Bhagirath Falls: Distance from Mumbai: 63 kms. Time taken by road: 2 hours. Best time to visit: January to March.

Within City: Quick Refreshment

Gateway of India: Location: Apollo Bandar, Colaba, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400001, India. Opening hours: 24 hours open. Entrance charge: Entry free.

Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus: Location: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, Fort, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400001. Opening hours: 24 hours. Entrance charge: No entry free.

Elephanta Caves: Location: Gharapuri, Maharashtra 400094, India. Opening hours: 9:30 am to 5: 30 pm. The first ferry leaves at 9 am and the last one leaves at 2 pm. charge: INR 10/person.

Juhu Chowpatty: Location: Juhu Tara Rd, JVPD Scheme, Juhu, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400047. Opening hours: 24 hours. Entrance charge: Entry free.

Marine Drive: Location: Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Road, South Mumbai. Opening hours: 24 hours. Entrance charge: Entry free.

Museums: Experience a touch of history and culture

Chhatrapathi Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya: Location: 159–161 Mahatma Gandhi Road, Kala Ghoda, Fort, Mumbai, MH 400023. Specalities: Families, Students and Adult Learning Programs, Prints Gallery, Venue Hire, Numismatics, Education, Digital Collections, Chinese and Japanese Antiquities, Jahangir Nicholson Collection, Miniature and European Paintings, Decorative Art, Museum, Natural History, Tourists Programs & Textiles. Price: Indian Adult (Above 12 years) for ₹100, Foreign Adult (Above 12 Years) for ₹650, Children’s (5 to 12 Years of age) for ₹30, Student (through School up-to std 10th) for ₹30. Timings: Mon — Sun 10:15 am — 6:00 pm.

Nehru Science Centre: Dr. E. Moses Road, Worli, Mumbai, MH 400018. Speciality: Mobile Science Exhibition, Activities, Gallery, Auditorium, Computer Laboratory, Library, Drama Festival, Satellite Units, Training, Seminar, National Career Service, Events, Young Entrepreneurs and Educational Programs & Convention Facility. Price: General Visitors ₹70, Group of Visitors (25 or More) ₹50, Students in Organised Group with Authority Letter ₹20, Students from Govt./Municipal Schools with Authority Letter ₹10, BPL Card Holders on Producing the Card. Timings: Mon — Sun 9:30 am — 6:00 pm.

Mani Bhavan Gandhi Sangrahalaya: 19 Laburnum Road, Gamdevi, Mumbai, MH 400007, Speciality: Historical Things, Ashram Prayers, Gandhi’s Political Activities, Sculptures, Library, Paintings, Letters, Books Stores, Events, Photos, Khadi and Khilafat Movements, Photo Gallery, Display, Educational Resources & Statue. Timings: Mon — Sun 10:00 am — 5:30 pm.

National Parks: Wild Splendour:

Sanjay Gandhi National Park: The only national park in Mumbai, the Sanjay Gandhi National Park is frequented by locals who come to enjoy the clean air and greenery. At this national park, there is a trekking trail (Shilonda Trail). There are nature walks and workshops held here as well. Those interested in Indian architecture can visit the Kanheri Caves, located inside the park. Location: Borivali East. Timing: 7.30 am to 6 pm.

Chandoli National Park: A popular national park in West Maharashtra, the Chandoli National Park is adored by wildlife enthusiasts who visit Maharashtra for its scenic settings and calm surroundings. In this national park you will find about 250 species of mammals, a variety of plants and many birds. You can either book a safari or a go on a bird watching tour at the park. Those interested in exploring the park by foot can take a 2–3 hour trek around the premises for a good bit of exercise and fun. Location: Sangli. Distance from Mumbai: 360 kilometers. Timing: Sunrise to sunset.

Sahyadri Tiger Reserve: The Sahyadri Tiger Reserve is the first tiger reserve in Maharashtra. It is located inside the Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary. Go here to check out different species of tigers, including the Bengal Tiger. Plant lovers will be thrilled with the variety of giant trees such as harpullia arborea, scolopia crenata and turpinia malabarica; while nature lovers will enjoy the stunning scenic settings in the park. Location: Koyna. Distance from Mumbai: 300 kilometers. Timing: 7 am to 6 pm.

Wildlife Sanctuaries: Experience the Wilderness of nature

Karnala Bird Sanctuary: One of the most important bird sanctuaries near Mumbai, Karnala Bird Sanctuary has over 300 species of birds. The best time to visit the Karnala Bird Sanctuary is between the months of June and July, when the monsoon begins. If you want to catch the migratory birds, we suggest that you pay a visit in October or in March. Apart from bird watching, at this sanctuary you can also go on nature trails and explore the Karnala Fort. Carrying your camera to the Karnala Bird Sanctuary? Be prepared to shell out Rs. 100. Location: Panvel. Distance from Mumbai: 50 kilometers. Timing: Sunrise to sunset

Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary: The Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary offers tourists plenty of option to explore nature. At this park, you can go on a nature trail through lush green forest areas or choose to click pictures of species such as the Indian Giant Squirrel and the various birds. Those who are not keen on walking can take the safari tour that goes around the entire park. Apart from trees and animals, you will find the famous Bhimashankar Temple here. It is believed to be one of the twelve Jyotirlingas (naturally created Shiva temples). Location: Bhimashankar. Distance from Mumbai: 94 kilometers. Timing: Sunrise to Sunset.

Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary: The Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary is a coastal woodland ecosystem that is located in Raigad. It is one of the few sanctuaries that is more popular for its birds than its animals. The park is also noted for being one of the only places where over 90 species of butterflies reside. The Indian Giant Squirrel can also be found inside this park. It is very difficult to catch a glimpse of this gorgeous creature as they are swift and shy, so be alert and always be on the lookout and you may get lucky. Location: Roha. Distance from Mumbai: 146 kilometers. Timing: 8 am to 8 pm.

Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary: Located in the heart of the Satara district, the Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary is a must-visit if you love nature and exploring the wild. From sitting by the lake to going on a safari tour to catch glimpses of Sambar Deer and Bengal Tigers, you can do it all at this wildlife park. The peak tourist season at the Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary begins in October and goes on up to January. If you don’t mind the showers, visiting the park during the months of June to September provides you with splendid views of the forest. There are a few home stays and accommodations available near the wildlife park, in case you want to spend a night in Koyna. Location: Koyna. Distance from Mumbai: 290 kilometers. Timing: 9.30 am to 8 pm.

Great Indian Busted Sanctuary: This park is famous for housing the Great Indian Bustard, an endangered bird species. Spread over an acre of land, the park was primarily created to preserve the bird species. Today, it has been turned into a sanctuary where various tours are often conducted. Apart from the Great Indian Bustard, the park is also home to birds such as the Eurasian Collared Dove and the Indian Bushlark. There are a few local animal breeds that can be spotted at the sanctuary too. Some of them are jackal, blackbuck, wolves and a few reptiles. Location: Nannaj. Distance from Mumbai: 397 kilometers. Timing: Sunrise to sunset.

Monuments: A dive into Tradition and culture

Haji Ali Dargah: Location: Dargah Rd, Haji Ali, Mumbai, Maharashtra. Timings: 6 am to 10 pm. Entry Fee: Free of cost.

Gateway of India: Location: Apollo Bandar, Colaba, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400001, India. Opening hours: 24 hours open. Entrance charge: Entry free.

Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus: Location:Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, Fort, Mumbai, Maharashtra. Timings: 24X7. Entry Fee: Nil.

Siddhivinayak Temple: Location: S.K.Bole Marg, Prabhadevi, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400028. Timings: 5:30 AM -10:00 PM. Entry Fee: Nil.

Kanheri Caves: Location: Sanjay Gandhi National Park, Borivali East, Mumbai, Maharashtra. Timings: 7:30 AM — 5 PM. Entry Fee: INR 5 (for Indian nationals) | INR 100 (for foreign nationals).

Honeymoon Places: World of love and care

Karnala: Distance from Mumbai: 54 kilometers by road. Romantic Experiences: Trekking to Karnala Fort, bird watching, and hiking at the Karnala Bird Sanctuary, boating at Karnal Lake, and more. How To Reach: You can either board a state-run bus or hire a taxi from Mumbai and reach Karnala within 2 hours.

Karjat: Distance from Mumbai: 65 kilometers by road. Romantic Experiences: Visit the Bhivpuri waterfalls, trekking to Kothaligad, go on a romantic bike ride by the countryside, and more. How To Reach: You can either board a state-run bus or hire a taxi which charge about INR 9 to INR 13 per kilometer from Mumbai and reach Karjat within 2 hours.

Matheran — Panoramic Landscapes: Distance from Mumbai: 80 kilometers by road. Romantic Experiences: Relish the grand views from Chanderi caves, enjoy trekking to the Kalavantin Pinnacle, enjoy horse riding, and more. How To Reach: You can reach the nearest railhead of Neral which is about 21 kilometers away from Matheran. Post which, you can take a cab to Matheran and reach in about 30 minutes.

Lonavala: Distance from Mumbai: 83 kilometers by road. Romantic Experiences: Witness scenic views of Matheran from Korigad Fort, explore a different world at Karla Caves, kayaking at Lonavala Lake, and more. How To Reach: Lohegaon airport in Pune is the nearest to Lonavala located at a distance of about 70 kilometers. From there, one can hire a cab to reach Lonavala in about 2 hours max. By train, travelers can de-board at Lonavala station itself.

Alibaug: Distance from Mumbai: 98 kilometers by road. Romantic Experiences: Camp at Revdanda beach, have fun with watersports at Nagaon beach, walk along the nature trail at Akshi beach, and more. How To Reach: The nearest airport to Alibaug is that of Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport located at a distance of 140 kilometers. You can also reach Alibaug within 2 hours by boarding the state-run buses that depart from Mumbai.

Religious places: Experience subtlety

Mumbadevi Temple: Location: Mumba Devi Marg, Zaveri Bazar, Mumbai. Timings: Tuesday to Sunday — 6 AM to 12 Noon, and 4 PM to 9 PM.

Mahalakshmi Temple: Location: Bhulabhai Desai Road, Mahalaxmi, Mumbai. Timings: All Days — 6.30 AM to 10 PM.

Babulnath Temple: Location: Charni Road, Near Chowpatty, Mumbai. Timings: 5 AM to 7 PM.

ISKCON Temple: Location: Hare Krishna Land, Juhu, Mumbai. Timings: All Days — 4.30 AM to 1 PM, and 4.30 PM to 9 PM.

Siddhivinayak Temple: Location: S K Bole Marg, Prabhadevi, Mumbai. Timings: Wednesday to Monday — 5.30 AM to 10 PM; Tuesdays — 3:15 AM to 10 PM.

Adventure Sports: Enjoy the adrenaline search

Scuba Diving, Bungee Jumping, Flying Fox, ATV Riding, Powered Paragliding.

Nearby: Short time retreats

Kamshet: Distance from Mumbai: 105 KM. Weekend Holiday Package Price: INR 6,000. Best Time to visit for a weekend trip: October-May. Ideal Weekend Duration: 1 Day. Places to Visit: Kondeshwar temple, Karla Caves, Bedsa Caves, Bhairi cave, Bhandar dongar, Vadivali Lake, Uksan Dam, Raikar Farm. Activities for Weekend Holiday: Paragliding, Rock Climbing, Trekking, Boating, Swimming, Angling.

Karjat: Distance from Mumbai: 62 KM. Weekend Holiday Package Price: INR 6,000 — INR 8,000. Best Time to visit for a weekend trip: July and September. Ideal Weekend Duration: 1 Day. Places to Visit: Ulhas Valley, Bhor Ghat, Kondana Caves and Peth Fort. Activities for Weekend Holiday: Rock Climbing, Trekking, White water Rafting, Waterfall Climbing, Rappelling, Boating, Picnics.

Nashik: Distance from Mumbai: 167 KM. Weekend Holiday Package Price: INR 10,000. Best Time to visit for a weekend trip: October-March. Ideal Weekend Duration: 2 Days. Places to Visit: Sula Vineyards, York Winery & Tasting Room, Soma Vineyards, Pandavleni Caves, Muktidham, Trimbakeshwar, Mhasoba Temple, Activities for Weekend Holiday: Wine Tasting, Vineyard tours, Religious visits, Sightseeing.

Murud-Janjira: Distance from Mumbai: 148 KM. Weekend Holiday Package Price: INR 9,000. Best Time to visit for a weekend trip: October to March. Ideal Weekend Duration: 1 Day. Places to Visit: Murud-Janjira Fort, Beach. Activities for Weekend Holiday: Sightseeing, Fort Exploring, Horse Riding.

Kolad: Distance from Mumbai: 126 KM. Weekend Holiday Package Price: INR 8,000. Best Time to visit for a weekend trip: June to February. Ideal Weekend Duration: 2 Days. Places to Visit: Kundalika River, Kuda Caves, Tala, Tamhini Falls, Kansai Falls. Activities for Weekend Holiday: Rafting, Kayaking, Boating, Rappelling, Paragliding, Hiking.

Medical Emergencies:

Global Hospitals, Wockhardt Hospitals, Zen Multi Speciality Hospital, Jaslok Hospital and Research Centre.