The Indian states of Rajasthan, Gujarat, Goa, and Maharashtra fall in the west zone. This is a highly industrialized zone and also among the most populous regions of India. Still, there are many destinations for holidays and weekend getaways during the monsoon season. Here’s a list of monsoon getaways in west near Mumbai, which you would not want to miss this season.
Lonavala – Maharashtra
The youths of Mumbai tend to travel to Lavasa or Mahabaleshwar skipping Lonavala. But, Lonavala is in fact, the best monsoon getaway in Maharashtra. It is because Lonavala is easily approachable via train or road. You can indulge in horse riding, camping, or trekking in Lonavala.
Main attractions of Lonavala especially for monsoon are-
- Karla Caves
- Tiger Point
- Bushi Dam
How to reach Lonavala?
Lonavala is about 84 kilometers from Mumbai and 67 kilometers from Pune. Within 2 hours you can reach Lonavala from Mumbai or Pune.
Book an intercity cab from Mumbai to Lonavala.
If you prefer traveling by train, you’ll find frequent trains as well.
Other places to visit in monsoon in Maharashtra include – Mahabaleshwar, Panchgani, Amby Valley city, to name some.
Karwar – Goa
Karwar is a port city in the Karnataka state of India. It is closer to Goa, but, unlike Goa, its beaches are often secluded. You’ll be amazed to see a natural harbor, which is being created naturally for protection against monsoon. People also call this city the “Kashmir of Karnataka” because of the pleasant climate and natural beauty. The Kurumgad island is a must visit in Karwar.
How to reach Karwar?
Goa’s Dabolim airport is nearest to Karwar, which lies at a distance of about 97 kilometers. You can reach Goa airport and hire a rental cab to reach Karwar.
Check intercity cab fares from Goa to Karwar.
Otherwise, Karwar has its railway station, which is also an easier route. Many trains en route Karnataka halts here. You can also travel by bus or cabs from Madgaon, Gokarna and other nearby places. No doubt, Karwar is one of the best monsoon getaways in west near Mumbai.
Pushkar – Rajasthan
Pushkar lies on one of the driest Indian terrains, hence monsoon is a great opportunity to explore this sandy city while escaping the sun. If you’re looking for the best place to visit in August in India for 4 days, then Pushkar is your destination!
Monsoon attractions of Pushkar include-
- Camel safari
- Hot air ballooning
- Jeep safari
How to reach Pushkar?
If you want to travel by train, you’ll have to arrive at Ajmer railway station, which is about 30 kilometers from Pushkar.
Check taxi fares from Ajmer to Pushkar.
Or you can land at Jaipur airport and book an intercity cab from Jaipur airport to Pushkar.
Kutch – Gujarat
At Kutch, you’ll find ample white sand and salty land. Monsoon clouds over Dhinodhar hill in Kutch is spectacular and beyond description. It also gets partially submerged during monsoon, which is yet again a rare sight.
How to reach Kutch?
There are limited trains and flights towards Kutch. Best is to reach Ahmedabad by train or flight and then travel to Kutch via intercity cabs.