Mumbai

The best places for couples to explore together are a late night coffee at Marine Drive.

• A serene walk on the Worli Sea link with your special someone to enjoy the rising or setting sun.
• Madh Island is an ideal getaway near Mumbai for couples with its placid waters and mangrove trees.
• Bandra Fort is another popular place for spending some quality time together.
• To share a memorable day with your partner a late night drive at the Palm beach road, Navi Mumbai exquisite.
• The terraced Hanging Gardens are a perfect place to spend some cozy time together.
• Chotta Kashmir, in Goregaon East with its lake and lush green gardens and paddle boating is one of the most romantic spots in the city.
• Carter Road is another hangout spot for couples alongside Bandstand Promenade for couples.

These restaurants have a perfect ambiance with candle lights, view of the sea and excellently cooked food.

• ‘The Sassy Spoon’ in Nariman Point is one of the prettiest restaurants with a décor of fairy lights and gauzy curtains. The cuisine is European.
• ‘Dome’ perched on the rooftop of Intercontinental is famous for its all white décor and a spectacular view of the marine drive.
• ‘Aer’ on the 34th floor offers the most breathtaking views of the city and it is quite romantic to sip cocktails on the top of the world.
• ‘The Pali Village Café’ provides romantic two-seater tables on the mezzanine balcony with sumptuous meals.

Mumbai has many interesting places to visit with your family. Families can visit the famous sightseeing places like Gate way of India, Haji Ali, Victoria Terminal, Chhatrapati Shivaji Vastu Sanghralaya and Rajabai Tower. A trip to Elephanta caves is interesting for kids as well as adults. The Chowpatty Beach and Juhu are perfect for a quick snack with your family.

A picnic to Borivali National Park and a visit to Kanheri caves is an interesting day out option. Many amusement parks like Adlabs Imagica, Essel World, Smaaash and Snow World are ideal places to go for a family outing.

There are many places and experiences for kids in Mumbai.

• Ovalekar Wadi Butterfly garden is an exciting spot for children to observe more than 130 species of colorful and vibrant butterflies.
• The RBI Monetary Museum will take your child on a historical tour through the evolution of money.
• A trip to Kanheri caves through Borivali National park is exciting for kids with small Rivulets and waterfalls.
• Essel World and Adlabs Imagica with its many rides and amusement games is an all-time favorite spot for kids.

The best resorts near Mumbai to soothe your frazzled nerves are:

• Della Resorts and Villas are known for their luxurious apartments and adventure sports like bungee jumping and sweep swing.
• Khopoli resort with a water park is a perfect place to unwind and shake a leg at rain dance sessions.
• Upper Deck in Lonavala is perched at the highest point with amazing views of hills and has a beautiful infinity pool.
• Prakruti Resort in Kashid village is a beautiful picnic with the view of the sea and the mountains. It is an eco-friendly resort with lush gardens and antique sit outs overlooking the mountains.
• Machan is another a luxury eco-resort with unique tree houses that rise 30 to 45 feet above the forest.

• Hilton Shillim Estate Retreat & Spa in Village Shillim in Pawna Nagar is an all-villa property but only one of the few resorts in India with private pools. Forest and valley view enthrall you and their butler service pamper you silly. Outdoor showers and private spa sessions in your own villa are other luxuries you can enjoy.
• Alibaug is a Mumbaikar’s favourite beach destination and U Tropicana is the most sought after resort in this area. Taking a ferry from the Gateway of India is also an option. Beautifully landscaped and soothing to the weary eye, the resort is one of the most popular weekend getaways near Mumbai for family and couples alike.
• Della Resorts & Villas is located in Lonavala and spread over 43 acres. The designer resort houses three categories of five star resorts all under one roof. There is the regular resort adventure sports resort and the tents to choose from. Adventure sports, you can’t afford to miss this one.
• Away from the maddening crowd, perched atop Lonavala’s highest point level on Tungarli Hills, Upper Deck is one of the best resorts near Mumbai – a haven for the routine-weary. It has a spectacular view of the Valvan Dam and the hills all around, especially in the monsoons.
• For those who prefer verdant surroundings, The Machan is the place to head for. Located in Jambulne, one of 25 biological hotspots of the world, this eco-resort is one of its kind consisting exclusively of tree houses at heights of around 30 to 45 ft. above the forest. A resort with a eco-driven heart, it is the perfect getaway to spend quality time with our loved ones in the purest of surroundings.

The best resorts for an adventurous getaway near Mumbai are:

• Kundalika Rafting Camp with white water rafting, river crossing, and nature trails.
• Mira Bhayandar is known for rifle shooting, sumo wrestling, and tree top adventure activities.
• Empower Camp in Kolad has unique activities like raft building and rafting.
• The resort at Sajan offers a chance to like a farmer by enjoying a tractor ride while plowing the fields, planting paddy in knee deep waters and adventure activities like rappelling and Burma bridge in picturesque surroundings.
• Khopoli resort with a mini waterpark and wave pool is a good place to unwind and relax in the water.

These resorts are perfect for a team outing providing perfect settings for team building and bonding.

• Beach resort in Gorai with its pristine beaches and calm surroundings has a perfect ambience for bonding with your colleagues by going for swims, playing beach volleyballs and dancing to the DJ.
• Empower Camp in Kolad will improve team bonding by group activities like raft building, river crossing, and white water rafting.
• Durshet Forest Lodge in Raigad is an excellent retreat for Corporates who want to spend one night out.Experience a joyous and activity filled day outing with your colleagues near Raigad where several ice breaking games are organized for corporate teams.

The best nature resorts in Mumbai to spend quality time with your significant other, away from the maddening crowd are:

• Machan Resort with 35-40 feet tree houses are picturesque and serene.
• Duke’s Retreat in Khandala will give you some alone time and enjoy simple joys of sipping coffee together in Panoramic Terrace Coffee house with the best view of the valley.
• Cloud Hills Resort will treat you to calm, serene stillness of nature in lush green surroundings.
• Hidden Village Resort offers one of its kind swimming in the pond experience and is secluded making it perfect for couples to cuddle and spend some together time.

There are several weekend getaways near Mumbai. Hill stations like Lonavala, Khandala, and Matheran offer beautiful picnic spots, trekking and camping opportunities.

They are a perfect place to rejuvenate in the lap of beautiful Sahyadri ranges. Several one day trekking tours like Rajmachi Trek, Prabalgad Trek, and Kulang Fort Trek offer a short break from the city life. Alibag, which is 97 Km from Mumbai is known for its sandy beaches and tranquil surroundings.

These are some of the hidden amazing bike routes from Mumbai:

• Kilad forest campsite near Saputara is a cool, unexplored getaway less than 300 km from Mumbai. The ride to Saputara via Igatpuri along lush green fields and a view of the hills is marvelous. The last stretch leading to Kilad is adventurous with rocky, uneven roads.
• A 200km bike ride through a route full of twists and turns will take you to the Murud beach. You can chill out while gazing at the star-lit night sky amidst a sexy, cool breeze.
• Take a trip to the coastal town of Udvada which also contains the Zoroastrian Atash Behram – the oldest place of worship of its kind which has established Udvada as a popular pilgrim center. The highway is in extremely good shape and will let you cruise along at whatever speed you prefer.
• Pelhar dam is extremely close to Mumbai and is ideal for a one-day ride A waterfall is located near the Dam and is mostly visited by tourists during the monsoon season.

Mahabaleshwar is the oldest hill station in the region. It is 262 Km from Mumbai and it takes 6.5 hrs to reach by road.

Mahabaleshwar has pleasant weather throughout the year and anytime from November to June is a good time to visit. The monsoon months July to October are not suitable for outdoor activities but the hills look beautiful.

 Rappelling is the ultimate adventure activity for a thrill seeking soul. Some rappelling tours in Mumbai are:-

• Waterfall rappelling at Bekare Shivpuri waterfalls
• Dodhani waterfall in Matheran,
• Vihigaon waterfalls near Kasara
• Dudhiware Waterfalls
• Waterfalls in Kondana Caves in Lonavala is a thrilling experience and you would want to do it again and again.

• Jungle Adventures in Thane has a 20000 sq ft of paintball arena having natural Sniper towers and Tiki huts, natural trench, and sand bunkers. The park has premier Tippmann 98mm custom guns which have high-performance paintball markers and accessories for players.
• Headrush at Hiranandani Gardens is India’s most unique adventure sports and outdoors brand. Headrush creates experiential, thrilling and memorable moments through the medium of adventure sports and outdoor activities.

The famous places for treks around Mumbai are:

• Lohagad Fort stays covered with mist and clouds and becomes particularly wet with growing moss. It is an easy one-day trekking tour.
• Mahuli fort is situated on a solitary hill on its western face of Sahyadri

   Range. This makes for a secluded yet one of the most majestic trekking spots.

• Prabalgad Fort is 50 km from Mumbai. It is located on a plateau close to Matheran.
• Raigad fort is one of the best treks near Mumbai, with a chance to trek in the night. It’s scary but safe.

Caving or Spelunking is not for the faint hearted as it is dark and murky world inside the caves with rocks and mud.

• The Elephanta Caves in Elephanta island boast of the most intricate architecture of Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain monks.
• Kanheri Caves are located in the Borivali National Park and the carvings show the development of Buddhism in India.

There are several serene places tucked in the Sahyadri Mountains close to

Mumbai, which is perfect for a camping trip.

• Pavana Lake Camp is one of the least explored artificial lakes and is a perfect spot for camping, picnics, and sightseeing.          
• Camping in Karnala Bird Sanctuary in Panvel is an enthralling experience with swaying palm trees forests and untouched splendor.
• Camping in Badlapur is an enjoyable experience with sounds of chirping birds and the music of flowing river.

Lonavala is beautiful hill station approx 96 km from Mumbai. It has a lot of adventurous activities like  trekking, water sports, para gliding and rock climbing. A beautiful and peaceful Narayani Dham temple with beautiful fountains is a place to visit.

The view from Lion’s Point with floating clouds and green valleys is a feast for the eyes. Karla Caves and Bhaja Caves are two Buddhist caves carved into the rocky mountain site and have unique Buddhist depictions. Wet n Joy water park is an amusement park nestled in Lonavala hills.

• Alibaug is a beautiful beach destination with pristine sandy beaches and tranquil surroundings. Other than lazing around on the beach you must visit the Kolaba Fort built by Shivaji and Kanakeshwar Forest for its abundant varied flora and fauna. A visit to Vrindavan Farms to enjoy a walk through Custard Apple, Mango, Guava orchards.

• Alibag is very famous for white onions popularly known as “Khandale Kande”. The onions are believed to have medicinal properties. If you are a non-vegetarian, then Alibag is the best place to purchase fresh catch from the fish.
• Janjira fort and Raigad fort are also destinations to be visited in Alibaug.

• The Borivali National Park or Sanjay Gandhi National Park is located in the suburbs of the city and is home to varied species of plants, migratory birds, Spotted Deers, Langurs, Indian Hare, and Leopards.
• Tadoba Andheri Tiger Reserve is home to more than 80 tigers other than Neelgai, sloth bear, leopards and crocodiles. This is the best reserve in Maharashtra to go for a wildlife safari.
• Cosseted by the fascinating Western Ghats and adorned by evergreen thickets all around, Jungle Resort Amba makes it for a salubrious getaway amidst the nature! While visiting this astounding holiday home, one can easily delve deep into the lush forests with a safari and stay at Jungle Resort Amba.
• If you love the outdoors and enjoy scouring the depths of the jungle then it is time for you to head for an exciting jungle adventure in Dandeli with your family and friends! The exotic jungle area of this place offers a wide array of activities for the adrenaline junkie who loves nature photography as well as exploring the different mysteries of the thick greens that surrounds the place!

• At a height of 170 feet into a beautiful gorge. Considered as one of the prominent waterfalls in India, the jaw-dropping Randha Falls is a must visit place during monsoon and also one of the popular places to visit in Bhandardara.
• At a distance of 500 m from Bhandardara Bus Stop, Umbrella Falls is a beautiful seasonal waterfalls situated at the Bhandardara Dam in Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra. It is one of the top places to visit in Bhandardara and also one of the best waterfalls in Maharashtra.
• At a distance of 26 km from Satara, 73 km from Panchgani, 77 km from Mahabaleshwar, 141 km from Pune & 294 km from Mumbai, Thoseghar Falls is a popular waterfalls located at Thoseghar village in Satara district of Maharashtra. It is one of the top waterfalls in Maharashtra and also one of the highest waterfalls in India.
• Dudhsagar Waterfalls, popularly known as Someshwar Waterfalls, is one of the most favorite hangout places of Nasik. This small and beautiful waterfall is formed over the holy River Godavari. The height of the waterfall is 10 m and the place turns very picturesque during the monsoon as there is a huge water flow and also a lot more greenery around.

Cycling tours start early in the morning as the streets are less crowded. Safety is the number one priority on this trip so Bicycle helmets are a must. The highlights of this tour are Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, known for its architecture, Crawford Market which is the city’s largest wholesale fruit market.

Mumbadevi Temple, a historical Hindu temple that Mumbai was named after! We'll take a break from our bikes and have a look inside. The market of flowers, the flower Galli. The scenic Marine Drive along the Arabian Sea and Sassoon Dock, the main fish loading and trading center for all of South Mumbai. 

Kundalika River in Kolad is the fastest flowing river in the Southern part of the  country, making it exciting for a white water rafting experience near Mumbai. The activity is usually organised in the little village of Kolad on the Kundalika River.

It originates in the hills of the Sahyadri Range and flows west towards the Arabian Sea. When the dam built across it releases excess water from its reservoir, the increased volume results in strong currents, and they are capitalised to host rafting. The activity is ideal for a weekend plan as Kolad is only about 122 km from Mumbai

Monsoons are definitely the best time to visit for rafting in Kolad as the water levels are high and with strong currents which make the rafting experience more thrilling and enjoyable.

The entire Sahyadri range comes is full of waterfalls and one can enjoy trekking through the waterfalls and lush greenery.

Sula Vineyards and Soma Vineyard Resort in Nashik provide wine tasting session with ample information on the techniques of proper wine tasting.

 A tour of the vineyard estate will show you the grapes from which wine is made and wine factory for the techniques involved in winemaking.

• Ardor Racing in Andheri and Head Rush Urbane Extreme in will give you a chance to feel like an F1 racing car driver.
• Smaaash, has India’s first multi-level go karting arena and will provide adrenaline rush to the adventure junkies.
• Hakone in Hiranandani complex has an amazing go karting experience which is great for both families as well as couples.The tracks are fast and winding providing a thrilling experience.

There are several beautiful hill stations located close to Mumbai.

• Khandala is about 82 km and it takes approximately 1 hour by road to get there. Lonavala is 84 km and is a famous camping site.
• Mahabaleshwar is 262 Km and it will take about 6.5 hours to get there by bus. Matheran is an unspoiled, smallest hill station about 84 km from Mumbai.
• Lonavala is the favourite destination for Mumbai   It lies at a distance of 82 kms from Mumbai and has lovely pleasant climate throughout the year.
• Matheran means ‘Forest on Top’ and is located in the range of Western Ghats at a height of 2,625 feet above sea level. It is approximately 90 kms from Mumbai.This one is the smallest hill station in India which is located in Karjat district and is a great picnic spot if you’re looking for some relaxation.
• Nestled amidst the enchanting hills of the Western Ghats in the Thane district of Maharashtra, Malshej Ghat which is 126 kms from Mumbai is yet another one of the picturesque hill stations near Mumbai.Known for breathtaking sceneries and a myriad range of exotic flora and fauna, it is one of the favourite homes of migratory birds coming from Siberia. If you are planning to visit Malshej Ghat during the months of July and September, you can witness the joyous mating dance of the pink-legged Flamingos.

Mumbai is located on the Arabian Sea and has many beach destinations for weekend getaways.

• Alibaug is still the most popular beach destination bustling with tourists. Kashid Village is known for its serene and secluded beaches. It is known for a fort in Murud which is located in the sea.
• Dahanu is known for its idyllic beaches and earthy Maharashtrian culture. Daman and Diu are about 470 Kms from Mumbai and are known for their untouched pristine beaches and Portuguese food. Goa, the ultimate beach destination is not far and you can reach by an overnight train.

Mumbai is a shopper’s paradise for frugal and is known for its street shopping.

• The best shopping destinations are Linking Road Bandra for latest clothes, bags, footwear a throwaway prices.
• Hill road and Zaveri Bazaar is known for antique pieces of junk jewelry and trinkets.
• Fashion street is the place where you get fake Guccis and Prada at cheap prices. Do look for manufacturing defects.
• Colaba causeway is a fashion lover’s delight with everything from clothes to accessories.
• Hindmata Market is known for its designer sarees, lehengas, and sherwanis.
• Do visit Chor Bazaar the oldest markets of the city and get good deals on gadgets.

Mumbai cuisine is known for its native, borrowed, refurbished and reinterpreted food. The trademark Vada Pao, Pao Bhaji, Sev Puri, Bhel are a gastronomic delight for all. The Juhu Beach and Chowpatty are the best places to get these authentic chaats.

• The Konkan food in Mutton Masala and Tisriya is known for delicious fish curries and sol curry.
• Try traditional simple yet delectable Maharashtrian meal consisting of Varat Bhat, Usat, thali Peeth and Kharwas in small restaurants in lanes of Dadar.
• The Udipi restaurants are known for their South Indian food and have outlets in all parts of the city.
• The Muhammad Ali road for its delectable kebabs and biryanis.
• ‘Britannia’ ‘Jimmy Boy’ are some of oldest Irani cafes in the old town area.

It is known as the city that never sleeps and Mumbai nightlife is an experience in itself. Nariman Point on Marine drive is a place to hang out and admire the city lights during wee hours. Juhu Chowpatty is open throughout the night and Bademiya in Colaba is best for late night munching.

The city is known for its dazzling night clubs from elite Taproom, Olive, Social, Hoppipola to local bars like Gokul and Sunlight for travelers on a budget. The late-night movie shows at famous Regal and Metro cinemas for movies buff at pocket-friendly rates are quite an experience.

• Q Tube Café in Bandra is one of the unique Cafes in the city with comfortable set up with books and board games. It is an art incubation center with several live musics, dance, theater, and live workshops planned by the patrons.

• Blue Tokai Coffee Roasters on Moses Road for ardent coffee lovers and you can see the coffee beans being roasted and ground twice a week.
• Di Bella Coffee for flat white coffee, which is an Australian specialty.
• Birdsong café for organic lovers for 100% organic coffee in a small charming café.

• Koffee Works for Filter coffee serves the super fine filter coffee from South India with its rich aroma and robust flavor.

• The Pantry in Fort Area for cold brewed coffee which is less bitter and acidic and more flavorful.

Mumbai cuisine is known for its native, borrowed, refurbished and reinterpreted food.   

The trademark Vada Pao, Pao Bhaji, Sev Puri, Bhel are a gastronomic delight for all.

The Juhu Beach and Chowpatty are the best places to get these authentic chaats. For non-vegetarians try the food in Haji Ali, the delectable kebabs and biryanis are famous throughout the city.A few places are as under:-

• Gulshan-e-Iran at Crawford Market. Known best for its extremely delicious Mughlai specialities at maddeningly low prices, the best food items to try at Gulshan e Iran range from their Kheema pav, to the chicken tikka masala, Garlic Naan , Rabdi Kulfi and Firni for dessert.
• White Biryani at Noor Mehmoodi in Bhendi bazar
• Bun Maska and Mava samosa of Mervyn's, Grant road.
• Samosa with Chola at Guru Kripa , Sion
• Non veg street food at Jai Jawan, Linking Road, Bandra

Mumbai is at a confluence of Western Ghats and the Arabian Sea and has many scenic roads around the city. A drive to Lonavala, Khandala, and Matheran will take you through meandering roads of western ghats, which are covered in emerald green forests.

The drives are particularly beautiful during monsoons, when the region comes alive with many waterfalls. A drive through Malshej Ghat will take you amongst the misty clouds with lush greenery all around. Kashid Village is another scenic drive with the view of both mountains and the sea.

The nightlife in Mumbai is an experience in itself. The city boasts of some of the most happening pubs in the country.

• Toto’s Garage is a neon-lit bunker with DJ playing in a Maruti Van.
• Aer is one of the plushest bars on the 34th floor with a spectacular view and interesting cocktails.
• Janata Lunch Home is a fuss free bar which serves beer up to 3 am.
• Blue Frog is a high end pub with egg shaped seating and live music performances.
• Hype in South Mumbai is one of the most exclusive pubs created by famous DJ Aqeel Ali, the place is known for playing peppy Bollywood numbers.
• Amadeus is a Spanish Nightclub famous for its Sangrias and plays western music.
• Olive, with its white décor and cobbled pathways, is known for its Mediterranean cuisine and beautiful ambiance.
• Alibi, in Colaba, is an interesting pub with décor based on 7 heavenly sins and hosts most glamorous and exclusive parties in the city.

Mumbai has long been a center of arts and has a rich history dating from the time of Marathas.

• Chhatrapati Shivaji Vastu Sanghralaya is one of the finest museums in the country. It is devoted to the art and crafts through various periods of Indian history.
• The city’s folk and decorative traditions are on display at the recently restored Dr. Bhau Daji Lad Mumbai City Museum.
• Mani Bhavan is a memoir of Mahatma Gandhi and it was here that many important foundations of Indian Independence movement like Satyagraha, Swadeshi and Non-cooperation movement were laid.
• Bombay Natural History Society is known for displaying rare specimens from history.
• The RBI Monetary Museum will take through the evolution of money and monetary heritage of India.
• Nehru Planetarium in Worli is for astronomic lovers and has astronomic displays, presentations, and documentaries.

The best amusement parks in Mumbai are:

• ADLABS IMAGICA, India’s biggest theme park, which has earned the nickname “India’s Disney world”. The park has six different entertainment zones and has rides, exotic restaurants, and shopping arcades.
• Essel World is one of the oldest amusement parks and is a must visit for all age groups. Smaaash offers a blend of thrilling sports, music, and fine dining to tourists.
• The Snow World offers snow sledding, skiing and snow war game options making tourists go bonkers in the snow.

Mumbai is home to thousands of temples and each of these temples has diverse architectural style, tradition, and religious legacy. Some of them are iconic and are a must visit to experience the spiritual grandeur.

• Mumbadevi Temple, is the oldest temple in which the city is named. It is dedicated to patron Goddess Mumbadevi of local fishermen community.
• Lord Ganesha Siddhivinayak Temple is one of the most important landmarks of the city. It is visited by thousands of pilgrims from all over the world as it is known to fulfill wishes and prayers of devotees. It is the city’s richest temple and many Bollywood actors visit this temple.
• The spiritual aura and serenity of Iskcon Temple in Juhu beach will take you to a meditative state. It is known for its beautiful marble carvings and architecture.
• Lord Shiva’s Babulnath Temple is another iconic temple with intricate interiors.
• Mahalakshmi Temple, which overlooks the sea is a heritage site and is flocked by devotees all the time.