Mumbai is the City of Dreams. Here, all the dreams come true if one has the dedication and spirit to hustle. Many people call the island city their home, and rightly so, as this city houses more than 1.25 Cr population.
The city’s climate is hot and humid throughout the year. Even though a light breeze blows all around the day, it is not enough for people to feel cool and comfortable. The overall saturation of moisture in the air makes a hot day feel even hotter. It is an understatement to say that people need a break from time to time from the heat and hustle-bustle of the megacity.
The best thing to do to escape the heat and humidity for a day or two is to go trekking! The adrenaline rush and the cool mountain air is all you will be needing to get your head clear of the tension of the daily hectic lifestyle.
Mumbai is one of the cities which has both, hi-tech modern lifestyle and a lifestyle more inclined towards nature and greenery within itself. This amazing balance of work and rest makes it an amazing city to live in.
As the saying goes, All work and no play make Jack a dull boy. Following the principle behind the saying, let’s explore all the possible options for you to “play” in and around Mumbai. One of the best activities for de-stressing is trekking. It helps you relax and you can feel nature embrace you.
Here are some of the best trekking places in Mumbai which you can visit to have an amazing weekend family time or to just enjoy with your friends or loved ones.
Best Places for trekking near Mumbai
1. Devkund Waterfalls
Devkund waterfalls is situated in the Bhira village in the Raigad district. The spot marks the confluence of three minor waterfalls to join together and become the major waterfall of Devkund.
The waterfall is said to be the origin of the Kundalika river and has recently gained popularity for its amazing beauty. The waterfall attracts throngs of adrenaline junkies who love to get that rush from the danger that this fall poses. It is located at a distance of about 170 km from Mumbai.
The trek starts from the base camp that is situated at Bhira and it takes three hours to reach the location of the waterfall from the village. The trek is about 6.5 km on one side and takes you through all types of terrains. The variety of terrain offered is semi-dried forests, dense vegetation, and rivers running parallel to the path.
The waterfall itself is so beautiful and picturesque that all the tiring journey that you covered and that awaits will all be worth it.
The waterfall and its surrounding location can be dangerous though during the monsoon season when the paths get slippery and water levels can rise any time. This trek is great for couples and groups of friends who can enjoy one of the best trekking places near Navi Mumbai.
2. Kalavantin Durg
This structure was built to honor Queen Kalavantin. The fort is at the top of a hill. It rises at a majestic height of 2300 ft from sea level. It is one of the best trekking places around Mumbai. The trek to this fort is considered to be one of the most dangerous treks in India.
One has to be very cautious and careful while climbing these steps as they are very steep and to add to this danger, there aren’t any side railings for safety. As one goes up, the trek gets more and more dangerous. A note, if you have vertigo, then it is strictly inadvisable to go here.
About the trek
Kalavantin trek to the top offers some supremely beautiful views and the excursion is very refreshing as well. The trek is infamously called “Trek to Heaven”, because of its natural beauty and the danger the trek poses. The crowd doesn’t dwindle though. Adrenaline junkies love to visit this place as it gives a totally amazing rush when you reach the top.
The trek starts from the base village at Thakurwadi, which is also the base camp for another trekking spot, Prabalgad. It takes about three and a half hours to reach the top. There are zig-zag carvings in the stone that resemble steps. They can use to scale the hill.
There are many snacks and refreshments stalls in the path. The trek consists of two parts. One from the base village to Prabalmachi plateau and the next from the plateau to the top of the Kalavantin Peak.
One can reach Kalavantin Durg by taking a bus or a cab from Panvel Railway station. The distance is about 160 km via the NH79 and then take a rickshaw from Shedung Phata to Thakurwadi. One should pack and kit up appropriately as the trek can be very risky and even a small lax in preparation can prove to be disastrous.
3. Garbett Plateau
Garbett Plateau is one the best Trekking places in Matheran. The view from the top is just totally amazing and mesmerizing. Garbett Plateau is situated southwest of Matheran.
The hill station was discovered way back in the 1850s when the Britishers and covers a total area of 8 sq. km. One can enjoy the lush green and verdant forests on the way on the trek. This is the best location for getting away from the hustle-bustle of the hectic city life.
This plateau gives a 360-degree view of Matheran and is one of the best trekking places around Mumbai. The climate of the hillock is very pleasant throughout the year.
You have to reach Matheran to begin the trek to Garbett Plateau. The trek starts from Bhivpuri village and there are many home-dinings and food stalls in and around the base village.
This is one of the best spots around Mumbai for family trips and you can always enjoy the beauty of Matheran after exploring the wilderness of Garbett Plateau.
4. Irshalgad fort
This place is actually a peak and not a fort, but it’s been called a fort for a long time, so the name stuck. Irshalgad is a place in which history is not known much. The peak was captured by Shivaji Maharaj in the year 1666 along with his conquest of the region ranging from Kalyan and Bhiwandi to the village of Rairi.
Irshalgad has a very unique structure and can be spotted from the Mumbai-Pune highway. Its most noticeable feature is a pin hole-like structure at the pinnacle. This point is also very famous among trekkers and climbers as it gives a certain rush of adrenaline. You shouldn’t try this if you’re amateur climber, as it poses a certain level of danger.
There is also a water tank next to this needle-point-like formation and this water is potable. You can reach the summit in an easy two-hour trek. The starting point of this trek is the Nanivali village. From here, there is a well-paved path that leads to Irshalwadi village. This village is the base point of the Irshalgad trek. One should visit the temple of the local deity as it has a very peaceful and enchanting atmosphere.
The Irshalwadi village is very accessible by private or public transport from Mumbai and Pune and is one of the best trekking places around Mumbai.
Best Trekking Places in Mumbai
1. Jambulmal Trek
Jambulmal is one of the highest points in Mumbai and is one of the best trekking places in Mumbai. The summit is located at an elevation of 1535 ft from sea level and it takes around 2 hours to reach the top.
The top of the summit offers a complete view of Vihar lake, Tulsi lake, and Dahisar. This summit is located in SGNP, thus be assured to enjoy the lush greenery and dense jungles.
The starting point of this trek is in Borivali, at the entrance of the SGNP. The trek is easy and you can complete it within a day. You can also spot a variety of flora and fauna at this location. If you are in Mumbai and have time on your hands, this is the best place to visit with your friends or family for a short, but thoroughly enjoyable trek.
2. Kanheri Caves Trail
This trekking cum jungle walking trail is situated in the Sanjay Gandhi National Park in Borivali. The trail takes you through dense forests and on the way, you also can see amazing stone structures.
The Kanheri Caves hold a historical significance and it is an enriching experience for anyone who visits here. The trail is very easy and isn’t tiring. Just take as many water bottles with you as possible, as the humidity of Mumbai is notoriously known for draining out energy pretty quick.
The start point of this trail is from the SGNP in Borivali. You can enjoy the beautiful dense forests and come back to the same point to end the trek. Since its proximity to the city, you will find a lot of food options before and after you finish the trek.
Best trekking places in Navi Mumba
1. Kharghar Trekking Point
The Kharghar Trek point is a very famous location amongst local trekkers and morning walkers. The hillock is in the middle of a bustling town but offers a moment of calm and peace once you visit there. You can find a variety of flora and fauna at this location. This place is a stone’s throw away from the Kharghar golf course. You can visit this place all around the year due to its pleasant climate.
2. Pandavkada Waterfalls
If you stay in or are visiting Navi Mumbai and are a waterfalls lover then Pandavkada Falls is a must-visit for you. It is located on the edge of Kharghar Forest and is a plunge-type waterfall.
One can enjoy splashing around in the pool that is formed below by the continuous flow of water or one can stand below the waterfall to enjoy the feel of water rushing over you. The falls are risky and one should be careful that fun should not turn into tragedy. The entry cost is 50/- per person.
These are some more places you can visit with your family and friends around Mumbai:
1. Lohgad Fort: This fort is located in the Khandala region and is an amazing place to visit for weekend getaways. The fort offers amazing views and is ideal to visit during the monsoon.
2. Raigad Fort: This fort is situated in the Mahad district and is one of the most famous forts of Maharashtra. This fort is one of the best trekking places near Mumbai during monsoons.
3. Peb Fort: This fort is also known as Vikatgad and is very famous amongst trekkers and fitness enthusiasts. It is a must-visit during monsoons and winters. The view that this place offers is unparalleled.
Final Words
These are some of the many trekking places in and around Mumbai. We have shown you only the best trekking places around Mumbai. Do you know any more of such places that can be visited with friends and family and can be enjoyed as a light excursion and also as a fun activity? Do let us know in the comments section!
