7 best places for trekking in Mumbai
Sure, Mumbai is one of the most exciting cities to live in. Thanks to its vibrant and fast-paced life. But here’s the thing, it’s also quite crowded and loud. Maybe not as loud as your mum when she’s telling you to wake up from the other end of the house. But loud enough to make you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. So thank god, there are plenty of trekking destinations near Mumbai. Ones that are great for both one day trips and long weekend getaways.
So without further ado, let’s take a look at the seven best treks near Mumbai. So you can ditch those suede office shoes for a pair of rough-and-tough hiking boots after a hectic week.
Lohagad Fort
History and trekking combine to create an unforgettable trip if you head out to Lohagad Fort near Malavali. Located only 96 kilometres away from Mumbai, this is a UNESCO world heritage site as well as a relic from the time of Shivaji, the great icon of Maharashtra. The fort itself is an architectural marvel, but the trek there can be equally remarkable. But don’t worry even if you’re a beginner, this is an easy trek that can be completed in just an hour’s time.
Also, there are multiple trails that you can follow, but beginners should opt for the one starting from Lohagadwadi, which is the simplest route. Coz when it comes to treks, the road less travelled is the one you should avoid. Got it?
Best time to visit: The monsoon season of July and August are definitely the most scenic as you’ll be able to see the fort along with verdant greenery and lush wildlife. Just remember to wear sturdy shoes and water-resistant clothes to beat the infamous Mumbai rains.
Mahuli Fort
The Western Ghats are some of the most prominent peaks of West India and their proximity to the city makes them a great trekking place near Mumbai. Mahuli Fort is one such place, located on the western end of the Sahyadris. Considered the highest point of Thane, it is located at a height of 2815 feet above mean sea level. The area has three connected forts, located at the summit of Mahuli hill and can take a whole day to explore. This is a great trekking spot for those who are into photography and scenic vistas as you’ll be able to see the forests and the clouds on your way up the hill. This is not the easiest place to trek so it’s better for those who have some experience and can handle a steep incline. In short, even if you’re one of those folks who run on Juhu beach everyday, it still might not be a piece of cake for you.
Best time to visit: This is a great year-round attraction but should be avoided during the rainy months as the waterfalls can make the area slippery. But visit just after the peak monsoon and you’ll be able to catch a glimpse of entire hills covered in wildflowers for your efforts.
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Rajmachi Fort
If you’re looking for trekking near Mumbai, you can’t go wrong with the iconic Rajmachi Fort. Located amidst the Sahyadris, it was originally built to defend the Borghat trade route but later captured by Shivaji. It has a complex history and has been under the control of the Mughals as well as the British. For trekkers of different levels, there are two routes to access this huge fort. The trek from Lonavala is easy, but can take quite a bit of time, up to 6 hours. So experienced trekkers looking for a challenge can opt for the route from Karjat instead. Also, the site offers camping facilities to trekkers as well. So along with the much-needed calm you’ll come here to experience, you also get the bonfires where you might make new friends. And of course, with the song ‘Sham’ from Ayesha being played at least once lol.
Best time to visit: October to April is a good time to make the most of this trek as the summer months can get quite hot here.
Sudhagad Fort
If you’re looking for easy treks near Mumbai, then Sudhagad fort should be at the top of your list. It’s located about a hundred kilometres from the city. And it’s a hotspot for weekend getaways. If you visit during the monsoons, you’re bound to see a lush green hillside during the trek. Beginning from the village of Thakurwadi, you can complete this journey in two hours even as a beginner. The fort also has two ponds in which you can take a dip. Now, after that dip, if you decide to quit your swanky corporate job and start travelling full-time, don’t blame us.
Best time to visit: Make sure to visit between July and September when you can make the most of the effects of the monsoon season and the luxurious green scenes.
Prabalgad Fort
If you’re an experienced trekker who is tired of the usual weekend getaways to Matheran or Panvel, check out this lesser known spot that’s located between the two. Prabalgad fort is a huge monument that you can actually see right from the Mumbai-Pune Expressway. Like we said, this one is not for the faint of heart. The trail that begins at the base of the Shedung village is six kilometres long. You’ll have to cross several steep rock-cut steps so make sure you’re well prepared and careful about it. And maybe slightly less jumpy than Ranveer Singh was in Man Vs Wild. Since you won’t have Bear Grylls as backup.
Best time to visit: This trek is best completed between November and March as the area can be prone to minor landslides during the warmer months. Make sure you hire a guide for the journey!
Kalsubai Peak
For the monsoon trekkers who want to make the most of the glorious rains of Maharashtra, Kalsubai Peak is the perfect destination for a trek. It’s situated within a wildlife sanctuary so you have plenty to look forward to. There are many well-designed trekking routes to this destination, including one through Indore. This is a relatively easy trek with a mix of rocky outcrop and iron ladders to get you uphill. The journey can take up to four hours so make sure you stay hydrated. Long story short, this is the kinda trek where your smartwatch will have to work overtime.
Best time to visit: Since this place comes alive with greenery and wildlife during the monsoon season, it’s best to visit between July and September.
Garbett Point
If you want to try trekking near Mumbai in a place that isn’t too crowded with tourists and adventure, then check out Garbett Point near Matheran. It has a great view of the deccan plateau with a dedicated viewpoint for sunrise and sunset. The climb is a little steep but it can be completed in around 5 hours of time. The kind of 5 hours that’ll make you forget about your 45+ hour work week.
Best time to visit: Make sure that you check out this hidden gem between June to August as it is most beautiful during the monsoon.
So that’s about it. These are the seven best places for trekking in Mumbai that you should certainly check out.
