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Monsoon is upon us now and it is only a matter of time before the scorching heat makes way for some pleasant climate. And while many of us living in Mumbai dread the rains — the train delays, the traffic snarls, the muck and the dirt, ugh — the truth is we also actually love it. Especially when we dont have to travel to work and get ourselves drenched along with thousands of others in overcrowded local trains. Think of monsoon drives and were sure almost everyones heart skips a beat out of excitement! The hills and valleys around Mumbai come alive in all hues of green and suddenly all those villages that are just dots on the maps become much sought-after destinations. (ALSO SEE 7 best places to visit near Pune in monsoon) With the busy lives we lead in the city, it only seemed fair that we draw up a list of getaways that could be covered in a single day. Ready?
Image source – Wikimedia commons
Historic forts, majestic mountains, rock-cut cave temples, Karjat has it all. The suburb of Mumbai also has a host of farmstays and homestays that offer accommodation for all budgets. What makes Karjat even more enticing is the fact that it is a mere 68 km from the city and is well connected by the suburban railway system
The beach at Kashid is one of the most popular beaches of the state. Located just 30 km from Alibaug along the road to Murud, Kashid is known as much for its white sand as it is for its clear waters.
CHECK OUT 8 best monsoon treks in Maharashtra
Dahanu, like Karjat, is a prominent railway station along Mumbais suburban railway line. Even though it is just a stones throw away from Mumbais suburbs, Dahanu boasts of a quiet beach that isnt very crowded and one that is surrounded by coconut groves and chikoo farms. Perfect for a days picnic!
Traveling to Matheran has become easier over the years. What once required considerable waiting for the local train and a bus from Neral railway station along the Mumbai CST-Karjat line is now a breeze thanks to the increased frequency of the trains over the last decade or so. Matheran is probably the smallest hill station in the country, does not allow motorized vehicles and offers breathtaking views of the sunrise and the sunset. What more can you ask for eh?
Image source – Wikimedia commons
The twin hill stations of Khandala and Lonavala are located just under 100 km from Mumbai and are perfect for a quick getaway from the citys madness. Yet again, quite like Matheran, accessing Lonavala and Khandala has become a lot simpler over the years thanks to the newly-constructed Mumbai-Pune Expressway. We could tell you just why you should be heading to Khandala (or Lonavala really) but if youve lived in Mumbai, chances are you know the answer to that really!
DO READ 10 best monsoon destinations in Maharashtra
Yet another favorite monsoon getaway is Igatpuri. Lush green vistas, beautiful waterfalls, forts and pleasant climate, Igatpuri has it all. If its peace youre looking for, check into Vipassana International Academy or simply check into one of the many farmstays that opens its doors for day picnickers.
Where are you heading this monsoon? Tell us! Were dying to know!
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