10 Best Road Trips from Mumbai Under 2 Days: Your Ultimate Weekend Escape Guide 2026
Are you tired of the Mumbai hustle and craving a quick escape? You’re in luck! Mumbai’s strategic location offers some of the most spectacular road trips in India, all achievable within 2 days. Whether you’re seeking coastal beauty, mountain tranquility, or historical exploration, these best road trips from Mumbai under 2 days will rejuvenate your soul without burning a hole in your pocket.
Pack your bags, fuel up your car, and get ready to explore these incredible destinations that promise adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable memories!
1. Lonavala & Khandala – The Classic Monsoon Paradise (83 km, 2-3 hours)
Best Time to Visit:
- June to September (monsoon) and October to February
Lonavala and Khandala remain the most popular weekend road trips from Mumbai, and for good reason. These twin hill stations transform into emerald wonderlands during monsoons, with cascading waterfalls and misty valleys.
What to Do:
- Visit the majestic Bhaja Caves (2nd century BC Buddhist rock-cut caves)
- Trek to Tiger’s Leap for breathtaking valley views
- Explore Karla Caves, one of the oldest Buddhist cave shrines
- Don’t miss the famous chikki (traditional sweet) from local shops
- Stop at Pawna Lake for camping and sunset views
Route:
- Mumbai → Expressway → Lonavala (smooth, scenic drive)
Budget:
- ₹3,000-5,000 for 2 days (including fuel, food, and basic accommodation)
2. Alibaug – Beach Bliss & Historical Forts (95 km, 2.5 hours)
Alibaug is the perfect destination for beach lovers seeking a quick coastal escape. This charming beach town offers pristine beaches, historic forts, and delicious coastal cuisine.
What to Do:
- Explore Kolaba Fort during low tide (walk on the seafloor!)
- Relax at Alibaug Beach, Kashid Beach, and Kihim Beach
- Visit Murud-Janjira Fort, an unconquered island fortress
- Indulge in fresh seafood at beach shacks
- Water sports including jet skiing and banana boat rides
Route:
- Mumbai → Mumbai-Goa Highway → Alibaug (alternatively take the ferry from Gateway of India)
Budget:
- ₹4,000-6,000 for 2 days
3. Matheran – Asia’s Only Automobile-Free Hill Station (90 km, 3 hours + toy train)
Matheran offers a unique, pollution-free experience where vehicles aren’t allowed. This eco-sensitive zone is perfect for families and nature enthusiasts.
What to Do:
- Ride the iconic toy train from Neral to Matheran
- Visit Panorama Point for sunrise views
- Explore Charlotte Lake and surrounding forests
- Horse riding through the town
- Visit Echo Point and Louisa Point
Rout:
- Mumbai → Neral (then toy train or horse ride to Matheran)
Budget:
- ₹3,500-5,500 for 2 days
Pro Tip: Book toy train tickets in advance during peak season!
4. Igatpuri – Trekker’s Paradise (120 km, 2.5-3 hours)
Igatpuri is a hidden gem nestled in the Western Ghats, offering stunning landscapes, challenging treks, and peaceful vipassana centers.
What to Do:
- Trek to Kalsubai Peak (highest peak in Maharashtra – 1,646m)
- Visit Vaitarna Dam and Bhatsa River Valley
- Explore Camel Valley and Ghatghar Dam
- Experience meditation at Vipassana International Academy
- Waterfall rappelling during monsoons
Route:
- Mumbai → NH-160 → Igatpuri
Budget:
- ₹3,000-4,500 for 2 days
5. Dapoli – The Konkan Coastline Gem (215 km, 5 hours)
For those willing to drive a bit longer, Dapoli offers pristine beaches, dolphin spotting, and authentic Konkan culture.
What to Do:
- Dolphin watching at Harnai Beach (early morning)
- Visit Keshavraj Temple and Panhalakaji Caves
- Explore Murud Beach, Ladghar Beach, and Karde Beach
- Try fresh Alphonso mangoes (in season)
- Visit Suvarnadurg Fort accessible by boat
Route:
- Mumbai → Mumbai-Goa Highway → Dapoli
Budget:
- ₹5,000-7,000 for 2 days
6. Nashik – Wine Capital & Spiritual Retreat (165 km, 3.5 hours)
Nashik perfectly blends spirituality, history, and India’s emerging wine culture. It’s one of the most diverse 2 day trips from mumbai by car.
What to Do:
- Wine tasting at Sula Vineyards, York Winery, and Soma Vine Village
- Visit Trimbakeshwar Temple (one of the 12 Jyotirlingas)
- Explore Pandav Leni Caves (ancient Buddhist caves)
- Walk along the holy Godavari River at Ram Kund
- Visit Coin Museum and local markets
Route:
- Mumbai → NH-160 → Nashik
Budget:
- ₹4,500-6,500 for 2 days
7. Kolad – Adventure Sports Hub (120 km, 2.5 hours)
Kolad is Maharashtra’s adventure capital, offering white water rafting, camping, and riverside relaxation.
What to Do:
- White water rafting on Kundalika River (Grade 2-3 rapids)
- River kayaking and rappelling
- Camping by the riverside
- Visit Tamhini Ghat for scenic views
- Trek to nearby waterfalls during monsoon
Route:
- Mumbai → NH-66 → Kolad
Budget:
- ₹4,000-6,000 for 2 days (including rafting)
- Best Time: June to September for rafting
8. Mahabaleshwar & Panchgani – Hill Station Royalty (263 km, 5 hours)
Though slightly farther, these iconic hill stations are perfect for a relaxed 2-day road trip with pleasant weather year-round.
What to Do:
- Visit Venna Lake for boating and strawberry farms
- Explore Arthur’s Seat, Wilson Point, and Elephant’s Head Point
- Trek to Pratapgad Fort
- Paragliding in Panchgani
- Try fresh strawberries and strawberry cream
Route:
- Mumbai → NH-48 → Mahabaleshwar
Budget:
- ₹5,000-8,000 for 2 days
9. Bhandardara – Fireflies & Waterfalls Wonderland (165 km, 4 hours)
Bhandardara is a serene lakeside destination famous for its fireflies season and the spectacular Reverse Waterfall.
What to Do:
- Fireflies festival (May-June) – a magical experience
- Visit Randha Falls and Reverse Waterfall
- Boating in Arthur Lake
- Trek to Ratangad Fort
- Camping under the stars
Route:
- Mumbai → Kasara → Ghoti → Bhandardara
Budget:
- ₹3,500-5,000 for 2 days
Must Visit During: Pre-monsoon for fireflies, monsoon for waterfalls
10. Goa (South) – Beach Paradise (465 km, 9-10 hours)
For the ambitious road tripper, South Goa offers a perfect 2-day quick escape with beaches, nightlife, and Portuguese architecture.
What to Do:
- Relax at Palolem Beach, Agonda Beach, and Butterfly Beach
- Explore Old Goa Churches (UNESCO World Heritage Sites)
- Try authentic Goan cuisine
- Visit Dudhsagar Waterfalls (if time permits)
- Experience beach shacks and sunset parties
Route:
- Mumbai → Mumbai-Goa Highway (NH-66)
Budget:
- ₹8,000-12,000 for 2 days
Pro Tip: Leave early Friday evening to maximize time; return Sunday night.
Essential Tips for Your Best Road Trips from Mumbai
1. Best Time for Road Trips
- Monsoon (June-September): Waterfalls, lush greenery, romantic drives (avoid if uncomfortable with heavy rain)
- Winter (October-February): Pleasant weather, perfect for most destinations
- Summer (March-May): Hill stations offer relief from heat
2. Vehicle Preparation
- Get a full service check before long trips
- Check tire pressure and spare tire
- Keep emergency tools, first-aid kit, and jump-start cables
- Download offline maps (Google Maps, Maps.me)
3. Road Safety Tips
- Start early to avoid traffic and reach before dark
- Take breaks every 2 hours
- Avoid driving during heavy monsoon
- Keep emergency contacts handy
- Follow speed limits, especially on ghats
4. Packing Essentials
- Valid driving license and vehicle documents
- Portable phone charger
- Sunglasses, sunscreen, and cap
- Comfortable clothes and walking shoes
- Water bottles and snacks
- Camera or smartphone with good battery
5. Budget Planning
- Fuel: Calculate based on your vehicle’s mileage
- Tolls: ₹200-500 depending on route
- Accommodation: ₹1,500-3,000 per night (budget to mid-range)
- Food: ₹500-1,000 per day per person
- Activities: ₹500-2,000 depending on destination
6. Booking Recommendations
- Book hotels/resorts in advance during weekends and holidays
- Use platforms like MakeMyTrip, Goibibo, Airbnb for best deals
- Check reviews before booking
- Consider homestays for authentic local experiences
Best Road Trip Routes & Highways from Mumbai
Mumbai-Pune Expressway
- One of India’s best highways, offering smooth drives to Lonavala, Khandala, and Pune direction destinations.
Mumbai-Goa Highway (NH-66)
- Scenic coastal route perfect for Alibaug, Dapoli, and Goa trips with Arabian Sea views.
NH-160 (Old Mumbai-Agra Road)
- Connects to Igatpuri, Nashik, and beyond with decent road conditions.
Planning Your Perfect 2-Day Itinerary
Sample Itinerary: Lonavala (2 Days)
Day 1:
7:00 AM: Depart from Mumbai
10:00 AM: Reach Lonavala, check into hotel
11:00 AM: Visit Bhaja Caves
1:00 PM: Lunch at local restaurant
3:00 PM: Explore Tiger’s Leap
6:00 PM: Sunset at Pawna Lake
8:00 PM: Dinner and overnight stay
Day 2:
7:00 AM: Breakfast
8:30 AM: Visit Karla Caves
11:00 AM: Shopping for chikki and local souvenirs
1:00 PM: Lunch
2:30 PM: Depart for Mumbai
6:00 PM: Reach Mumbai
Why Short Road Trips from Mumbai Are Perfect
Mumbai’s unique geographical position offers incredible diversity within short distances. Within just 2-5 hours of driving, you can transition from bustling city life to:
- Serene hill stations with misty weather
- Pristine beaches with golden sands
- Historic forts telling tales of Maratha glory
- Adventure sports for adrenaline junkies
- Spiritual retreats for inner peace
These weekend road trips from Mumbai are perfect for:
- Couples seeking romantic getaways
- Families wanting quality time together
- Friends planning adventure trips
- Solo travelers exploring at their own pace
- Corporate teams for team-building activities
Sustainable Travel Tips
As responsible travelers, let’s preserve these beautiful destinations:
- Avoid single-use plastics – carry reusable water bottles
- Don’t litter – use dustbins or carry trash back
- Respect local culture and traditions
- Support local businesses – buy from local vendors
- Don’t disturb wildlife – observe from distance
- Stay on marked trails during treks
- Use eco-friendly accommodations when possible
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What are the best road trips from Mumbai under 2 days?
The best road trips from Mumbai under 2 days include Lonavala-Khandala (83 km), Alibaug (95 km), Matheran (90 km), Igatpuri (120 km), Nashik (165 km), Kolad (120 km), Dapoli (215 km), Bhandardara (165 km), and Mahabaleshwar (263 km). Each destination offers unique experiences from beaches to hill stations. -
Which is the cheapest road trip from Mumbai for 2 days?
Lonavala-Khandala and Igatpuri are among the cheapest options, with total expenses ranging from ₹3,000-4,500 for 2 days including fuel, food, and basic accommodation. Matheran is also budget-friendly at ₹3,500-5,500 for 2 days. -
What is the best time for road trips from Mumbai?
The monsoon season (June-September) is ideal for waterfall lovers and lush green landscapes, while winter (October-February) offers pleasant weather for most destinations. Summer (March-May) is perfect for hill stations to escape the heat. -
Can I complete a Mumbai to Goa road trip in 2 days?
Yes, a Mumbai to Goa road trip can be completed in 2 days if you focus on South Goa. Leave Friday evening, spend Saturday exploring, and return Sunday evening. However, this requires stamina as the journey is 465 km (9-10 hours) one way. -
Which road trip from Mumbai is best for couples?
Lonavala (romantic monsoon drives), Alibaug (beach sunset views), Matheran (peaceful automobile-free zone), and Mahabaleshwar (strawberry farms and viewpoints) are the best road trips for couples from Mumbai. -
Are road trips from Mumbai safe during monsoon?
Most destinations are safe during monsoon with proper precautions. However, avoid driving during heavy rainfall, check weather forecasts, drive slowly on ghats, and ensure your vehicle is in good condition. Some routes like coastal highways may have flooding, so plan accordingly. -
What is the ideal budget for a 2-day road trip from Mumbai?
Budget varies by destination and travel style. Expect ₹3,000-5,000 for budget trips (Lonavala, Igatpuri), ₹4,000-7,000 for mid-range trips (Alibaug, Nashik, Dapoli), and ₹8,000-12,000 for longer trips (Goa). This includes fuel, tolls, accommodation, food, and activities. -
Which road trip from Mumbai is best for adventure activities?
Kolad is the adventure capital offering white water rafting, kayaking, and camping. Igatpuri offers trekking to Kalsubai Peak. Mahabaleshwar-Panchgani has paragliding. Bhandardara offers trekking and camping during fireflies season. -
Do I need to book hotels in advance for weekend road trips from Mumbai?
Yes, booking in advance is highly recommended, especially for weekends, long weekends, and holiday seasons. Popular destinations like Lonavala, Alibaug, and Mahabaleshwar get fully booked quickly. Weekday trips may offer more flexibility. -
What documents should I carry for road trips from Mumbai?
Essential documents include valid driving license, vehicle registration certificate (RC), vehicle insurance papers, pollution under control (PUC) certificate, personal ID proof (Aadhaar/PAN), and emergency contact numbers. Keep physical and digital copies. -
Which is the most scenic road trip from Mumbai?
The Mumbai-Goa Highway via the coastal route offers stunning Arabian Sea views. The Mumbai-Pune Expressway during monsoon with misty ghats is spectacular. Tamhini Ghat route to Kolad and the road to Bhandardara during fireflies season are also incredibly scenic. -
Can I do these road trips in a sedan or do I need an SUV?
Most destinations are accessible by sedan as roads are well-maintained. However, during heavy monsoon or for remote areas like Bhandardara, an SUV with better ground clearance is recommended. Matheran requires parking at Neral; you can’t drive to the hill station.
Conclusion: Hit the Road & Create Memories!
These best road trips from Mumbai under 2 days prove you don’t need long vacations to escape the city chaos. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, romance, or spiritual rejuvenation, there’s a perfect destination waiting just a few hours away.
The beauty of short road trips from Mumbai lies in their spontaneity. Pack a bag on Friday evening, hit the road Saturday morning, and return Sunday night refreshed and recharged. These weekend getaways offer the perfect work-life balance that every Mumbaikar deserves.
So what are you waiting for? Choose your destination, plan your route, pack your essentials, and embark on an unforgettable road trip adventure. The open road is calling!
Which destination will you explore first? Share your road trip experiences and favorite routes in the comments below!
Additional Resources
Weather Updates: India Meteorological Department
Road Conditions: Check Maharashtra Highway Police updates
Toll Calculator: TollGuru India
Fuel Prices: Check current rates on IOCL or BPCL websites
Emergency Numbers: Highway Helpline 1033, Police 100, Ambulance 108
Happy Road Tripping! 🚗✨