The monsoon season in Mumbai is mark out by the sound of rain hitting rooftops, the smell of wet soil, and slower-than-ever city traffic. It’s lovely in its own right until you’re tired of muddy streets, delayed trains, and rainy weekends.
At such point, a short vacation is important.
To escape city life and enter a world of cloudy hills, beautiful lakes, flowing waterfalls, and clean air that smells like nature just put refresh, sometimes all it takes is a few hours of driving. The monsoon season is the ideal time to get away, whether your plans involve sipping tea on a gloomy balcony, going to a hidden viewpoint, or simply doing nothing while it rains.
So in this blog you will find Best Monsoon Weekend Getaways from Mumbai and tips for monsoon travel that you will never forget before leaving your home.
Why Weekend Monsoon Getaways Are a Great Idea?
It’s a unique experience for getting away from the noise of the city and see the rain falling in an area where nature is the only sound there. Even two days of vacation might feel like a complete reset when the surroundings are quiet and green, and fresh.
Weekend getaways from Mumbai become much more lovely during the rains. In Maharashtra, little villages become comfortable, cloud-wrapped safe houses, waterfalls flow down onto the rocks, and the surrounding mountains shine green. On this type of vacation, it seems like less is more.
What’s the best part? Better hotel rates and less crowds are additional benefits of the monsoon season. Thus, without making reservations weeks in advance, you may enjoy peaceful views, reduced prices, and more space.
These weekend getaways are perfect for any kind of visitor, be it a couple looking a romantic retreat, a group of friends desiring some nature, or a lone traveler wanting peace.
Best places to visit near Mumbai during monsoon
1. Lonavala & Khandala
Lonavala and Khandala always appear at the top of the list for short monsoon getaways from Mumbai, and with a good purpose. These twin hill stations, which are only two to three and a half hours far away by train or car, come life during the rainy season. Imagine gentle clouds drifting through valleys, rolling green hills, and waterfalls everywhere.
These places offer you the monsoon vibes you’ve been longing for all week, whether you’re trekking up to Tiger Point, getting wet (in a good way) at Bushi Dam, or just relaxing with a hot cup of tea at a roadside stand.
What’s the best part? You may schedule it for Friday and go early the next day. That’s how simple it is.
Travel time: 2–2.5 hours by road/train
Best time to visit: June to August
Monsoon tip: To avoid high traffic on the highway, start early on weekends.
Where to Stay in Lonavala during monsoon?
1. Fariyas Resort Lonavala
This is the place to go if you want comfort and a view. Fariyas offers comfortable a place to stay an indoor pool, and balconies facing the rain-soaked surroundings, all set against the mountain. It is good for families or couples.
2. Della Resorts
A more beautiful choice for people who like to combine fun with relaxation. It offers delicious meals, adventurous activities, and accommodations where you can really see the thick clouds pass by your window.
3. The Machan (nearby)
This eco-stay places you in a treehouse-style hut in the forest, around 30 to 40 minutes from Lonavala. You will be totally involved in the beauty of the rain, hear birds, and feel the mist. Perfect for solo travelers or couples looking for peace and quiet.
2. Malshej Ghat
Malshej Ghat does a fantastic job of capturing the “drive through clouds and waterfalls” feel. This mountain route, which is only 3.5 hours from Mumbai, turns into a wonderland during the monsoon season, complete with cloudy lanes, beautiful rocks, and falling water.
The whole trip is like a scene from a slow-motion film. You feel a fog in the air, roll down your windows, and stop at water-streaming locations just across the street. In this location, the trip is equally enjoyable as the final destination.
This place is good because there isn’t a huge list of activities to “do.” Simply pack your favorite travel music, a book, and a rain jacket.
Travel time: 3.5 hours by road
Best time to visit: July to early September
Monsoon Tip: Use careful when facing bends because the fog may be both beautiful and dense.
Where to Stay in Malshej Ghat during Monsoon?
1. MTDC Malshej Ghat Resort
Although it isn’t luxurious, the view is spectacular and it is located directly on the valley’s edge. From your balcony, you can see waterfalls flowing down far-off hills on a clear day (or even one that is cloudy).
2. Saj by the Lake (near Malshej)
Travelers wanting comfort away from the flood will love this quiet resort, which is situated just before Malshej. The monsoon atmosphere is peaceful rather than racing, and the lake views are beautiful.
3. Jandyal Farm Stay
This is a hidden gem if you like easy, natural returns with lots of greenery. Here you may enjoy organic food, village views, and the delightful scent of earth that has been covered by rain.
3. Mahabaleshwar & Panchgani
Do you want to experience walking through clouds? Then Panchgani and Mahabaleshwar are great weekend getaway destinations. During the monsoon, these twin hill stations, which are only five to six hours from Mumbai, become verdant, foggy paradises. The air smells of fresh strawberries and pine, every valley is covered in fog, and there is a surprise waterfall around every corner.
With the same cool temperature and beautiful scenery, Panchgani offers a more peaceful environment than Mahabaleshwar, which is also a little busier. You may take long walks along forest paths, visit lovely spots like Elephant’s Head Point, or just relax and enjoy chai and corn bhutta from a roadside seller while taking in the view.
Travel time: 5–6 hours by road
Best time to visit: July to September
Where to Stay in Mahabaleshwar & Panchgani during Monsoon?
1. Evershine Resort – Mahabaleshwar
This colonial-style home is perfect for its combination of comfort and vintage beauty. After a storm, the garden appears thrilled and families will love the indoor play area.
2. Ravine Hotel – Panchgani
This hotel offers a clear view of the valley because it is built on a rock. It’s calm, a little way off the main road, and what about the view after a rainfall? Really so.
3. Brightland Resort & Spa – Mahabaleshwar
For people who wish to care for themselves, it is excellent. It includes cottages with individual sit-outs, a heated pool, and a spa. Sitting on your balcony, watching the fog move in? Worth it.
4. Igatpuri
Igatpuri, set away in the Western Ghats, is one of those peaceful monsoon destinations that people often skip over, which is exactly why you should visit. During the rainy season, this hill town, which is only 2.5 to 3 hours from Mumbai, is covered in clouds and dotted with waterfalls.
The natural beauty is breathtaking, the trip is pleasant, and the atmosphere? absolute calm. Igatpuri has a way of making you feel as though time has slowed down, and in the greatest manner possible, whether you’re walking through the fog, sipping something warm, or sitting by the window of a hillside resort.
For couples, small groups of friends, or even solo tourists who simply want to escape the city’s nonstop crowds, it’s a fantastic choice.
Travel time: 2.5 to 3 hours by road/train
Best time to visit: Late June to early September
Where to Stay in Igatpuri during Monsoon?
1. Rainforest Resort
This resort offers you views of the natural world from every direction, set with green hills. The cloud of fog that flows straight past your window brightens the mornings, and the rooms are comfortable.
2. Mystic Valley Spa Resort
This resort has an indoor pool, monsoon views, and excellent service if you’re feeling like treating yourself. Perfect for families or couples that want to take their time.
3. Dew Drops Boutique Retreat
If you want to do nothing except enjoy the monsoon coolness, this relaxed stay is ideal. It is peaceful, clean, and emits a relaxed atmosphere that is ideal for the time of year.
5. Bhandardara
Bhandardara is the place to go if you’re dreaming of beautiful lakes, light rain, and total calm. It is located in the Sahyadri mountains, this hidden gem is about 3.5 to 4 hours from Mumbai and turns into pure monsoon glory from July to September.
Consider the sound of far waterfalls sounding across the hills, mild drizzle on your tent or cabin, and clouds floating low over Arthur Lake. In comparison with well-known hill stations, Bhandardara is about nature, peace, and relaxing trips rather than crowds and cafés.
Randha Falls, Kalsubai Peak (if you’re feeling going), or just sitting by the lake doing nothing at all (and loving it) are all choices.
Travel time: 3.5–4 hours by road
Best time to visit: July to mid-September
Where to Stay in Bhandardara during Monsoon?
1. Anandvan Resort
A lovely hillside go with lake views and lots of room to relax. The mornings are like being in the center of a picture, and the cottages are comfortable.
2. MTDC Bhandardara Resort
This government-run resort is simple but ideally placed near the lake, making it an excellent choice for anyone searching affordable comfort in the center of nature.
3. Fireflies Camping
Try camping beside the lake here if you’re looking for something different. It’s simple but unforgettable: tents, parties, and waking up to fog taking over across the sea.
6. Alibaug
Alibaug is the ideal choice if you’re itching for some beach time during the rainy season without having to make a long trip. This seaside town, which is only a one-hour boat ride or three-hour drive from Mumbai, has a peaceful, foggy beauty in the monsoon season.
It’s acceptable if you can’t find perfect, sunny sky. Rather, you will experience deserted beaches, beautiful sky, refreshing sea breezes, and the quiet sound of waves crashing against the coast. You can see historic forts in the rain, walk along damp sand, or simply sip tea under a swinging coconut tree, it’s the ideal place for a quick, peaceful getaway.
Travel time: 1 hour by ferry or 3 hours by road
Best time to visit: Mid-June to early September
Where to Stay in Alibaug during Monsoon?
1. Radisson Blu Resort & Spa Alibaug
This resort, which is among the most well-liked high-end lodging options in the region, gives you comfort, space, and a relaxing environment that is ideal for monsoon weekends.
2. Bohemyan Blue Stay
A little glamping escape featuring vibrant tents, homemade meals, and a warm setting. It is good for singles or couples looking something new.
3. SaffronStays Salt Rim
A lovely coastal villa for social events. You’ll like sitting inside while the monsoon sings outside or looking at the rain from the balcony.
What to Pack for a Monsoon Weekend Trip?
Even though weekend trips are brief, getting ready wisely is important during the monsoon season. Although a large bag is not necessary, you should always be prepared for rain. Roads may get muddy, clothing may take a while to dry, and a sudden rain may cause harm to a phone. Not enjoyable.
Here’s a short advice to help you enjoy the rain while being dry, comfortable, and stress-free.
A Lightweight Raincoat or Poncho
Something that folds up easily and keeps you dry during sudden rains is what you’ll need. Select one with a hood and breathable material, particularly if you’ll be moving through areas like Malshej or Lonavala.
Quick-Dry Shoes or Waterproof Sandals
It’s extremely uncomfortable to walk in damp socks. Bring shoes with strong traction and quick drying times; these are especially helpful for walking or visiting hilly regions.
Dry Bag or Zip-Lock Pouches
There is no warning from rain. Use waterproof pouches to protect your wallet, phone, and power bank. Your devices can be saved by using simple zip-lock bags.
Comfortable, Quick-Dry Clothing
Be careful of jeans and bulky, water-retaining materials. Bring lightweight t-shirts, fast to dry leggings, or travel pants. Just in case, keep an additional pair with you.
Spare Socks & Micro Towel
Whether you are caught in the rain or step in a pool, a microfiber towel and a few extra socks are always helpful.
Mosquito Repellent
More greenery means more mosquitoes. Having a little box of repellent cream or spray will help you avoid itching over your weekend, especially if you’re staying by a lake or in a forest.
Power Bank & Charger
Short power outages occur in several hill stations during times with heavy rainfall. Keep your phone charged, particularly while using maps or making travel reservations.
Tips for Smooth Monsoon Weekend Travel
Monsoon travel has its own rhythm; plans change more quickly and things proceed more slowly. However, that adds to the interest. Your wet weekend getaway may be transformed from “risky” to totally refreshing with a little additional attention.
First of all, if you’re driving, always get started early. Weekend traffic on the roads outside of Mumbai is heavy, and monsoon traffic is no joke. You can get ahead of the crowd and the clouds by starting early.
Read the weather report, but don’t worry too much about it. A few occasional showers won’t ruin your trip; in fact, they frequently improve the view. Just be careful not to go into regions where there is a high risk of rain or where roads are stopped.
Drive cautiously and gently if you’re going to a hill station like Malshej or Mahabaleshwar. Roads can become slippery and vision reduced by fog. Keep offline maps on hand because rocky or forested areas frequently experience network outages.
Last but not least, book a hotel well in advance, particularly if you’re traveling during a long weekend. Due to limited space, many monsoon locations quickly fill up as the clouds move in.
Traveling during the monsoon season isn’t about hurrying or seeing certain attractions. It’s about letting the rain become the background music while you calm down and sip hot chai. You won’t want to go any other way after you’ve done it that way.
Conclusion
The monsoon season is a mood as much as a season. And sometimes all it takes to feel refreshed again is a two-day trip from the city. These weekend escapes from Mumbai are prepared to receive you, rain or shine, regardless of your choice for cloudy cliffs, calm woodlands, lakeside views, or seaside peace.
Don’t overthink it. Choose a location, bring minimal gear, use cautiously, and let the weather to surprise you. Because every journey becomes less about the plan and more about the experience when you appreciate the monsoon rhythm.
Additionally, our comprehensive guide to India’s Best Places to Visit During Monsoon has lots of ideas if you’re ever not clear about where to go next.
FAQs
What’s the best time to plan a monsoon trip?
It’s best from July till early September. The greenery is at its peak, the rain is consistent, and the crowds are still acceptable, particularly if you go early and get back by Sunday night.
Can I go without booking a hotel?
While it is possible, it is not advised to do so during long weekends. In monsoon areas, the majority of resorts quickly fill up. Better accommodations with a view are also available if you book in advance.
Do I need special gear for monsoon travel?
Just what is needed: mosquito repellent, waterproof shoes, a rain jacket or poncho, and a dry bag for devices. Just be ready for the weather; you don’t need to overpack.
