Vapi - the industrial town in Southern Gujarat

From Mumbai – 193 km

From Surat – 100 km

Overview - 

Vapi is an industrial town in southern Gujarat, approximately 28 km south of district headquarters Valsad. A fast growing city, Vapi is home to large number of industries such as chemicals, dyes, food products, glass, paints, paper, plastics, pharmaceuticals, packaging, rubber, textiles and woods. Set on the banks of Damanganga River, Vapi serves as a base to visit the union territory of Daman. From Vapi, taxis and auto-rickshaws to Daman are available at regular intervals. 

Vapi Beach

Don’t Miss – 

Hardly 13 km from the industrial township of Vapi, the union territory of Daman is a favourite gateway for vacationers. Far from the hustle and bustle of cities, Daman welcomes discerning holidaymakers with soothing winds, clean white sands, tranquil environs, magnificent forts and massive churches.   

Getting There –

Rail – Vapi Railway Station is under the administrative control of Western Railways. Several intercity express trains connect Vapi with Ahmedabad and Mumbai, including the Shatabdi Express.

Road – Vapi is connected by NH 8 with Mumbai, Surat and other important places of Gujarat. 

Vadodara - the City of Culture

From Mumbai – 448 km

From Ahmedabad – 113 km

Overview - 

Earlier known as Baroda, Vadodara is often referred to as the Sayaji Nagari (Sayaji’s City) or Sanskari Nagari (The City of Culture). Situated on the banks of the River Vishwamitri, Vadodara is famous for the picturesque Laxmi Vilas Palace and Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda. A historic city, Vadodara abounds with magnificent buildings, temples and monuments, old museums and well-maintained gardens. Besides a cultural and educational centre of Gujarat, the city is also home to big industries, shopping malls and multiplexes. 

A historical monument in Vadodara

Don’t Miss - 

Built by Maharaja Sayajirao in 1890, Laxmi Vilas Palace is a splendid Indo – Saracenic style building and a must visit place in Vadodara. The royal family’s residence has a well-ornate Darbar Hall and elegant walls with mosaic decorations. Laxmi Vilas Palace complex sprawling over 700 acres, houses several buildings including the Moti Baug Palace and Maharaj Fateh Singh Musuem which has a fine collection of old armoury and bronze sculptures. Other important places to visit in the city are Baroda Museum, Aurobindo Society, Kirti Mandir, Nazarbaug Palace, Makarpura Palace and Sayajibaug. 

Getting There –

Train – Vadodara Railway Station is a major rail head on the Mumbai – Delhi and Mumbai – Ahmedabad routes, served by several superfast and express trains.

Road – Take the NH 8 from Mumbai, passing through Navsari and Bharuch to reach Vadodara. The city is also connected through Indian National Expressway – 1 (97 km) with Ahmedabad.  

Thane - the suburb of Mumbai

From Mumbai – 35 km

Overview – 

Thane, literally meaning ‘station’ in Marathi, is an industrial town situated on Salsette Island, northeast of Mumbai. Set on the banks of Thane creek, the city is flanked by Yeour Hill and Parsik Hill, on the west and east respectively. Due to its strategic location, the city is a major hub of economic activity and is home to several industries. Thane is dotted with around 30 big and small lakes, making a perfect getaway for people living in Mumbai and nearby areas. Visitors throng the city to enjoy a pleasant break from their busy schedules.

Thane, Mumbai

Don’t Miss – 

While in Thane, visit the Masunda Talao, also called Talao Pali. Considered the most beautiful lake in the city, it offers excellent boating and water scooter facilities. Also visit Upavan Lake, another scenic lake in Thane to refresh yourself.  

Getting There –

Train – Thane railway station is an important railhead of the Central Railways and served by almost all trains running on the Konkan Railway route from Mumbai.  

Road – From Mumbai, a regular bus service to Thane is available at frequent intervals. You may also hire a local taxi from Mumbai to reach Thane.

Air – Mumbai airport is approximately 25 km from Thane, which is connected by numerous flights from important cities of the country. From the airport taxis are available to Thane, the journey takes around 30 minutes. 

Mandvi - a port city in Gujarat

Location: Kachchha district of Gujarat

Distance: 450 km from Ahmedabad, 100 km from Mumbai

Popular As: A port city

Mandvi, Gujarat

Getting There –

By Air – Bhuj Airport, at a distance of 55 km is the nearest airport from Mandvi. Jet Airways and Kingfisher operate daily flights between Mumbai and Mandvi. From Bhuj, you have to take the road journey to reach Mandvi, approximately one hour away.

By Rail – The nearest railhead is located at Bhuj (56 km), served by a number of trains from Mumbai and Ahmedabad. Kutch Express, Bandra – Bhuj Express and Pune – Bhuj Express run between Bhuj and Mumbai.

By Road – From Mumbai, take NH 8 to reach Ahmedabad. Then, switch onto NH 8 A to reach Mandvi, via Limbdi, Wankaner, Morbi, Anjar and Mundra. The road journey from Mumbai to Mandvi is quite lengthy, so you can take a day break in Ahmedabad. Better, you travel by train to reach Bhuj, the major railhead close to Mandvi.

Overview –

Mandvi is a port city located in Kachchh district of Gujarat. Once a major port of the region, the city now serves as an excellent weekend break destination. Due to its strategic location close to the Arabian Sea, Mandvi enjoys a pleasant climate round the year. Tourists flock the city in large numbers, to enjoy a relaxed vacation, away from hustle and bustle of the cities. Mandvi also served as the summer retreat of the maharajas (kings) of Kutch. Even today, the remains of the bygone era can be seen across the old city. Mandvi is famous for its 400-year-old ship building industry, you can still see the skilled carpenters building fishing boats by traditional techniques.

Don’t Miss –

Visit the Vijay Vilas Palace, the major attraction at Mandvi. Set amidst the well-laid gardens, the royal palace has a private beach, marble fountains and interesting water channels. Built in 1920, Vijay Vilas Palace is known for its excellent architecture and eco-friendly pristine beauty. Also pay a visit to Mandvi Beach, considered among the most beautiful beaches in Gujarat. Other famous attractions are Wind Farms, Rukmavati Bridge, Topansar Lake, Shyamji Krishna Verma Smarak and Bandhni Bazaar.

Malvan - A picturesque secluded town of Maharashtra

Location: Sindhudurg district of Maharashtra

Distance: 510 km from Mumbai

Popular As: A picturesque secluded town

Malvan Beach

Getting There –

By Train – Kudal railway station is the nearest railhead from Malvan. Jan Shatabadi Express, Konkan Kanya Express and Matshya Gandha Express are some of the important trains connecting Mumbai to Kudal. From the Kudal railway station, you can hire a taxi to reach Malvan. 

By Road – From Mumbai, drive on NH 17 till Kasal. Then, take a right onto the State Highway to reach Malvan. The road journey from Mumbai to Malvan usually takes around 12 hours. Buses of Maharashtra State Transport and private operators ply from Mumbai to Malvan.

Overview – 

Malvan also spelled Malwan, is a port town situated in Sindhudurg district of Maharashtra. Situated along the cool blue Arabian Sea, the town is flanked by three tiny creeks, namely Karli, Kalavali and Kolamb. Far from the busy city life, the picturesque town makes a perfect getaway for discerning travellers. Malvan welcomes visitors with its secluded beaches and tranquil environs, for a laid back vacation. Besides, the historic town is also famous for its rich culture and tradition, signified by peculiar dialect and cuisine.     

Don’t Miss – 

The magnificent Sindhudurg Fort is the main landmark of the town. Visit the popular beaches like Tarkali Beach, Chiwala Beach and Tondavali Beach to rejuvenate your mind and body. When visiting the town, don’t forget to savour the local cuisine, including sweets such as Khaja and Ladoos. Other must visit places include the Rock Garden, Malvan (marine) Wildlife Sanctuary, Barrister Nath Pai Sevangan and Jai Ganesh Mandir. Visit the nearby town Vengurla, home to several interesting temples, forts and beaches.  

Nagpur - the Orange city of India

Location: Maharashtra

Distance: 850 km from Mumbai

Popular As: Orange city

Nagpur

Getting There –

By Air – Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport of Nagpur is connected by a number of flights to Mumbai. Kingfisher, IndiGo, JetLite and Air India operate daily flights between Mumbai and Nagpur. 

By Train – Nagpur railway station is a major railhead of the Central Railways and served by several trains from Mumbai. Nandigram Express, Vidrabha Express, Sewagram Express and Gitanjali Express are some important trains running between Mumbai and Nagpur.   

By Road – From Mumbai, NH 3 takes you to Dhule via Nasik. Then, take a right onto NH 6 to reach Nasik via Jalaon, Akola, Amravati. The journey from Mumbai to Nagpur usually takes around 20 hours, so, avoid the road journey.   

Overview – 

Nagpur, popularly known as the ‘Orange City’, is a major city in the West Indian state of Maharashtra. Also referred to as the ‘second capital of Maharashtra’, Nagpur is an important commercial and political centre of the state. Founded by the Gond Raja Bakht Buland in the 18th century, the city derives its name from the Nag River, flowing through the Old City. Nagpur is home to a number of natural and man-made lakes, which draw visitors in large numbers for a weekend break. Ambazari Lake Gorewada Lake, Futala Lake and Telangkhedi Lake are the natural lakes sprawling across Nagpur. While, the famous man-made lakes in the city are Gandhisagar Lake and Sonegaon Lake. 

Don’t Miss – 

When in Nagpur, visit the Ambazari Lake, the biggest lake in the city. Set on the western outskirts of the city, the lake is flanked by a beautiful garden. Enjoy an exhilarating boat ride on the lake or a pleasant leisurely walk along the garden. Visit the famous Seminary Hill, 6 km from the Old City, to get a breathtaking view of the city and the picturesque surroundings. Seminary Hill is also home to Balaji Temple, dedicated to Shri Balaji. Other must visit places in and around Nagpur include Maharaj Bagh and Zoo, Sitabuldi Fort, Sri Poddareshwar Ram Mandir, Totladoh, Ramtek (50 km) and Pench National Park (85 km). 

Ganpatipule - a weekend getaway from Mumbai

A popular weekend getaway from Mumbai, Ganpatipule is situated on the beautiful Konkan coast in Ratnagiri district of Maharasthra. Named after the Hindu god Ganapati, Ganpatipule abounds with picturesque countryside that draws vacationers including families with kids round the year. While the clean sandy beach, cool blue sea, gentle waves and soothing breeze thrills children and elders a lot, the wonderful sightseeing spots equally amaze all types of travellers. 

Ganpatipule

The unmatched natural beauty of Ganpatipule is complimented by the rich historic past and cultural heritage. Known for its religious as well as architectural significances, Ganpati Temple is thronged by devotees and common travellers in large numbers. Close to Ganpati Temple, ‘Paawas’ is a religious spot and quite popular among visitors to Ganpatipule. Also take short excursions with your kids and cover tourist spots like Bhandarpule, Malgund and Jaygard Fort.

So, don’t wait and plan a trip to Ganpatipule this Dussera vacation with your family members. Once you are in Ganpatipule there is no any limit of fun and enjoyment. Let your children free and allow them to indulge in a wide array of activities along the 12 km sandy stretch of Ganpatipule Beach. Don’t forget to savour delicious fruits plucked directly from the orchards such as mango, jackfruit, betel nut, coconut and banana. Catch a bus or hire a private vehicle to reach Ganpatipule from Mumbai. 

Lonavala - a weekend getaway from Mumbai

Just 95 km away from Mumbai, Lonavala also called Lonavla or Lonavale is a charming hill station located about 620 metres above sea level in the popular Sahyadri ranges. Lonavala along with its nearby hill station of Khandala make an ideal spot to enjoy a weekend break with family members. Discovered by Sir Elphinstone, the then Governor of the Bombay Presidency in 1871, Lonavala is easily accessible from Mumbai through Mumbai-Pune Expressway as well as Konkan Railways. 

Lonavala

Nature has blessed Lonavala with abundant treasures that include lush green countryside, beautiful valleys, shimmering waterfalls, lakes and scenic water bodies. The twin hill stations of Lonavala and Khandala has many places of tourist interest that can be visited with family members including children. Some of the popular attractions in and around Lonavala include Bushy Dam, Lion’s Point, Tungarli Lake and Dam, Shooting Point, I.N.S Shivaji, Karla Caves, Tiger’s Leap, Duke’s Nose, Valvan Dam, Ryewood Park & Shivaji Udyan, Lonavala Lake and Rajmachi Point. 

The sightseeing expeditions in Lonavala – Khandala also offer a wonderful chance to indulge in a variety of leisure activities. You can enjoy a refreshing bath in the waterfalls around Lonavala or enjoy breathtaking views of the city and beautiful surroundings from the view points. Go for shopping with your family and buy special items of the Konkan region to keep as a souvenir of your trip. ‘Chikki’ – a hard candy sweet is a must buy while shopping in the markets of Lonavala.  

Sawantwadi - a picturesque town boasts of natural beauty

Location: Sindhudurg district of Maharashtra

Distance: 540 km from Mumbai, 390 km from Pune, 60 km from Panjim

Popular for: Its lake and natural beauty

Sawantwadi

Getting There –

By Air – The nearest airport is located at Belgaum, about 64 km away. Belgaum airport is linked to Mumbai and Bangalore by a number of flights. Taxis are available at the airport to Sawantwadi.

By Train – Samantha Road railway station is the nearest railhead from Sawantwadi, at a distance of 28 km. The railway station is served by trains of the Konkan railway. From the railway station, hire a taxi to reach Sawantwadi, approximately one hour away. 

By Road – From Mumbai, drive on the Mumbai – Goa (NH 17) Highway to reach Sawantwadi via Nagothane, Khed, Hathkumbe, Kankauli and Kudal. The journey from Mumbai to Sawantwadi should take around 10 hours. Private and state owned bus services are available to Sawantwadi from Mumbai and other cities like Bangalore and Mysore.

Overview – 

Sawantwadi also called ‘Sunderwadi’ is a picturesque town in Sindhudurg district of Maharashtra. Set around a serene lake, ‘Moti Talav’, the town is surrounded on its all sides by mountains, and it is a perfect getaway for the lost souls. Mother Nature has blessed Sawantwadi with abundant jewels like the magnificent hillocks and verdant forests, which house a wide range of wildlife and medicinal plants. Once the capital of the erstwhile ‘Kingdom of Sawantwadi’, the town is famous its massive palace and traditional arts, especially wooden crafts. Even today, traditional art forms like Shilpa Gram, Lacquer ware, Ganjifa cards and Moghal cards flourish in the town. 

Don’t Miss – 

A beautiful lake, Moti Talav is a jewel on the crown of Sawantwadi. Enjoy thrilling water sports activities like boating, swimming and paddling in the lake, against the magnificent backdrop of Narendra Hill. After unwinding yourself at Moti Talav, proceed towards the Sawantwadi Palace, which provides a fine glimpse of the bygone era. The palace has an excellent collection of traditional lacquer ware goods, small dolls, exquisite royal furniture and paintings. Vithal Temple too is a must visit place in the town. Don’t forget to buy wooden toys, including wooden models of fruits and vegetables, to keep them as souvenir of the trip. 

Sasan Gir - home to Asiatic Lions

Location: South-east of Junagadh town in Gujarat

Distance: 385 km from Ahmedabad, 870 km from Mumbai

Popular for: Gir National Park, home to Asiatic lions

Asiatic Lions, Sasangir

Getting There –

By Air – The nearest airport is located at Keshod, 85 km away. Keshod airport is connected to Mumbai by low cost airlines, but daily flights are not available. Air India operates daily flights between Mumbai and Rajkot, located at a distance of 150 km from Sasan Gir.  

By Train – Sasan Gir has a railway station, but the train service to the station is temporarily suspended due to gauge conversion. Junagadh railway station is the major railhead close to Sasan Gir, which is served by several trains from Ahmedabad. 

By Road – From Mumbai, drive on NH 8 till Ahmedabad. Further, NH 8A takes you to Rajkot, then switch on NH 8B to reach Junagadh. From Junagadh, take the state highway to reach Sasan Gir, approximately two hours away. 

Overview – 

Sasan Gir is a small town, located 65 km south-east of Junagadh city in Gujarat. The town is renowned world over for its proximity to Gir National Park, home to Asiatic lions. In fact, outside the African continent, Sasan Gir is the only place in the world, where Asiatic lions can be seen in their natural habitat. However, the Asiatic lions of Sasan Gir are slightly smaller in size than their African counterparts. 

Don’t Miss – 

Asiatic lions are the prime attraction at Gir National Park, which was established in 1965. You can spot lions in the forest, comprises rugged terrain along with steep rocky hills. Permission to visit the Gir forest area is provided by forest department officials at Sasan Gir. Jeeps and minibuses are available in the town to visit Park. In addition to lions, animals like the leopard, chital, chinkara, four-horned antelope and spotted deer, add more excitement to your jungle safari. Also visit Nalsarovar Lake to spot birds like the back-headed cuckoo, paradise flycatcher, partridge, parrot and peacock. The Crocodile Rearing and Research Centre is another attraction of the town, where crocodiles are hatched and then released into their natural habitat. 

Malshej Ghat - A weekend getaway from Mumbai & Pune

Location: Maharasthra

Distance: From Mumbai – 150 km, From Pune – 120 km

Popular As: Hill Station

Getting There –

By Train – Kalyan railway station, at a distance of 60 km, is the nearest railhead from Malshej Ghat. From Kalyan, taxi, bus and auto-rickshaw services are available to Malshej Ghat at regular intervals. 

By Road – From Mumbai, drive on NH 3 close to Bhiwandi. Then, take a right onto State Highway to reach Malshej Ghat via Kalyan, Murbad and Saralgaon. The road trip from Mumbai to Malshej Ghat should take around three hours. 

Overview – Malshej Ghat is a little known hill station of Maharashtra, located close to Mumbai and Pune. Set amidst the lofty rugged hills of the Western Ghat ranges, the hill station greets the visitors with its pristine natural environs, hazy tops and ice cold cascades. Tourists throng the hill station in large number, especially during monsoon (July to September) to enjoy the mesmerising views of the heavy fog, deep valleys, amazing waterfalls and beautiful surroundings. Malshej Ghat is also home to huge varieties of flora and fauna, including the interesting avian population. 

Don’t Miss – Malshej Ghat is a paradise for avid trekkers and hikers. The rolling hills provide some never before experience to adventure enthusiasts. Scale the mystic peaks covered with dense fog or explore the thrilling trek routes leading to the waterfalls and other exciting places in the region. Visit the Shivneri Fort (the birthplace of Shivaji), Harishchandragad and other forts located in the vicinity. Take an excursion to nearby Khireshwar village famous for Siberian Hemingo birds, flock the place every year between July and September.