Top five weekend getaways around Mumbai

After a long week at work, all one wants is a short break where you can do something fulfilling. And what better than travelling? Travelling is the best thing ever which not only rejevnates you but also allows you to explore different places. In case, you are living in Mumbai, then you many options when it comes to weekend getaways. Why not make maximum use of the two day break and visit one a popular destination which is exotic and not far away. We are here to tell you the top five weekend getaways around the financial capital of India. Before you pack your bags, we would like to give you essential information about these famous places.

Lonavala is one of the popular hill stations around Mumbai and in case, you want to get closer to nature, then Lonavala may turn out to be best option. The hill station has its own railway station and hence is easily accessible from Mumbai or any other nearby region. Several government and private buses also operate on a daily basis. You can manage with a budget of 3K and have a memorable trip in Lonavala. Distance from Mumbai- 85 km Travel time- around 1.5-2 hours Accommodation- Several hotels are available starting from Rs. 700. The tariff increases depending on the quality of rooms and rating of hotels. Tip- The best time to visit is July to September Places to visit- Karla/Bhaja Caves, Bhushi Dam, Tiger's point, Lohagarh Fort and German Bakery.

For all those who want to witness nature at its best, then visiting Mahabaleshwar should be on the top of their list. You will fall in love with the hill station when you will see the magnificent strawberry fields. The old world charm of the Mahabaleshwar will definitely take your heart away. Not many know that the place served as the capital of Bombay province during the British rule. Distance from Mumbai- 260 km Travel time- around 5-6 hours Accommodation- Hotel rooms start from Rs 1200 and rates go up depending on the facilities Tip- The best time to visit is March-June. You can get good hotel deals if you visit during October-November. Places to visit- Mapro Garden, Moneky Point, Venna Lake, Elephant point, Pratapgarh

In case, you are bored of the hills and want to spend your weekend somewhere else then you need to visit Alibag. The beautiful beach won't disappoint you. For those who love outdoor activities, you need to head straight towards Gateway of India and take a ferry to reach the beach. You can reach Alibag from Mumbai by road as well. Bollywood star Shah Rukh Khan celebrated his 52nd birthday in Alibag. Distance from Mumbai- 95 km Travel time- around 2 hours Accommodation- Tariff starts from 1500 Tip- Best time to visit would be July to October Places to visit- Varsoli Beach, Alibag Fort, Kihim Beach, Vikram Vinayak Temple, Hirakot Fort, Akshi Beach, Kolaba Fort, Korlai Fort, Murud Janjira, Nagaon Beach, Underi

Panchgani is one of the most beautiful hill stations in the state of Maharashtra. Situated between five hills of the Western Ghats, the hill station is adored for its pleasant weather. One can spend some quality time with their loved ones in Panchgani. The place located far away from the hustle and bustle of Mumbai is known for its picturesque beauty. Distance from Mumbai- 244 km Travel time- around 4.5-5 hours Accommodation- Tariff starts from 1000 Tip- Best time to visit would be May to October Places to visit- River Krishna, Table Land, Dhom Dam Devil’s Kitchen caves.