Best Safe Weekend Getaway From Mumbai

Taking the kids out in the summer vacation during the pandemic is a tough decision to take. Luckily, there are some resorts and few places around Mumbai coming to the rescue. 

Mumbai, Maharashtra is right now, in the hot zone. With Covid-19 cases surging once more throughout the state, safety has become the concern again. Though the past few months were slightly better and few movements were allowed, even a few small trips. But again, the tensed atmosphere is back, with drama and uncertainty present in the next few months.

Sadly, this is again the time for the little ones' summer vacation, entitling them to a few short vacations, or a long trip to the grandparents. And, the current situation may cancel the long trips for many, although some may still be focusing over the short trips. It in fact is a scenario of dilemma, with safety being the prima facto - both, safety during the travel and safety while at the destination. Thankfully, Mumbai is amidst a number of beautiful hill stations, having fresh clean air and less human activity. Both of these factors create a safer environment. 

Today, I present some aspiring hill stations close to Mumbai and Pune, which are safe weekend getaways. But, they are only safe, as long as you are following the Covid-19 safety precautions yourself. 

Panchgani

Take a 5 hours rocky trip through the western ghats to reach the picturesque place of hills and valleys. Do enjoy the panoramic views of the hill tops and the valleys down below. The most popular spot over here is the table top plateau. 

Lonavala 

 Merely a 2 hour drive from Mumbai, Lonavala town can be a very safe getaway option. It is best to start early in the morning and enjoy the fresh air and avoid traffic. Make sure you visit a few good tourist places like the scorpion's sting and Rajmachi sanctuary. Moreover, carry a picnic basket and enjoy in the Ryewood park. And make sure to return home well in time, safely. 

Khandala 

If you wish to make it a two day holiday, then stay at a nearby resort which is safe and comfortable. Next day, enjoy in Khandala, which has beautiful roads and lovely weather. Duke's nose, a mountain spot, is the most popular spot here. 

Karjat

Karjat is also 2 hours away from the capital of Maharashtra. This place is seriously amazing for history and adventure junkies. With artistic caves and river sports available, a short trip will make your vacation a fun weekend. Regular sanitisation of hands and taking bath towards the end of the day will add to the safety. 

Kamshet

Yet another adventurous place, Kamshet is hardly 3 hours from the capital. If you visit Kamshet, then you must do paragliding, or you will miss out on the extraordinary. And, do try out the other sports on offer. Moreover, if you are on a family trip, there are other places like temples and caves that can be enjoyed safely. 

Silvassa

Apart from several luxurious resorts, the mesmerising road drive and the lion safari are to visit for. Other spots include Diu, Daman, Tribal art museum, Vanganga lake, etc. 

Gholvad

Gholvad is also a 3-4 hour drive from Mumbai. It is the place to explore the sandy beaches during this pandemic, because there are very few people holidaying in this part of the state. There is a beach resort also over here, and you can enjoy a relaxing massage at the spa and the sunset from the private beach. 

Preeti Khator is a bibliophile and a passionate writer with many interests. She likes to explore the boundaries of geography and writing excites her.