With Independence Day falling on Friday, August 15, 2025, Mumbai gets a much-needed breather with a long weekend stretching to Sunday, August 17, 2025. For Mumbaikars bogged down by daily traffic, endless monsoon puddles, and relentless work-life hustle, this is the perfect opportunity to escape the city’s clamour and breathe in fresh air – whether it’s in the Sahyadris, by the beach, or at a breezy hilltop retreat. 🏞️
The best part? Thanks to Mumbai’s prime coastal location and solid bus connectivity, you’re never more than a few hours away from lush green hills, quiet beaches, or colonial towns. Whether you’re craving misty treks, fresh strawberries, wine trails, or just some well-earned hammock time by the sea, this 15–17 August weekend is your golden ticket.
Let’s dive into the top getaways from Mumbai that promise nature, nostalgia, and a well-deserved break. And yes, you can book both buses and hotels seamlessly on Paytm – quick, secure, and always with exciting discounts!
Top Getaways from Mumbai for the Independence Day Weekend
1. Lonavala & Khandala -Misty Valleys & Waterfalls 🤩
Just a couple of hours from Mumbai, Lonavala and Khandala transform into green havens during the monsoons. Picture lush hills draped in mist, gushing waterfalls, roadside chikki shops, and cosy hillside cafés. Whether you’re trekking to Rajmachi Fort or sipping chai with a valley view, this twin hill station offers the perfect short escape.
Top things to do:
- Visit Bhushi Dam & Tiger’s Leap
- Trek to Rajmachi Fort or Duke’s Nose
- Try the famous Lonavala chikki.
- Enjoy scenic drives through foggy ghats.
- Cafe-hop in the cool mountain weather
How to Reach by Bus from Mumbai:
Lonavala is just 85 km away, and multiple buses ply daily.
- Travel Time: 2.5-3 hours
- Boarding Points: Dadar, Chembur, Vashi, Borivali
- Tip: Opt for early morning buses on August 15th to make the most of the day.
2. Alibaug – Beachside Bliss & Boutique Escapes 🏖️
If you want to swap traffic for coconut trees, Alibaug is your go-to. A coastal town just across the bay from Mumbai, Alibaug offers pristine beaches, seaside forts, boutique homestays, and seafood that’s to die for. It’s perfect for couples, friend groups, or solo trips just to unwind.
Top things to do:
- Sunset at Alibaug Beach
- Visit Kolaba Fort during low tide.
- Lounge at boutique beach villas
- Try seafood at local shacks.
- Water sports at Nagaon Beach
How to Reach by Bus/Ferry from Mumbai:
- Via Road: ~100 km, 3-4 hours by bus or car.
- Via Ferry: Ferries from the Gateway of India to Mandwa Jetty + shared bus/taxi to Alibaug
- Boarding Points: Dadar, Panvel, Gateway of India (for ferry)
Check out top stays in Alibaug
3. Mahabaleshwar – Strawberries, Scenic Points & Cosy Weather 🍓
If you’re dreaming of rolling hills, misty mornings, and scenic viewpoints, Mahabaleshwar won’t disappoint. While it’s known for its strawberries (summer season), its real charm lies in the panoramic valleys, colonial-era cottages, and crisp mountain air, perfect for a peaceful, extended weekend.
Top things to do:
- Boating at Venna Lake
- Visit Arthur’s Seat, Elephant’s Head, and Wilson Point
- Try fresh corn and hot Maggi on the roadside.
- Shop for local honey, jams, and jellies
How to Reach by Bus from Mumbai:
Mahabaleshwar is around 260 km from Mumbai.
- Travel Time: 6–7 hours (overnight or early morning buses recommended)
- Boarding Points: Dadar, Borivali, Chembur, Vashi
- Bus Types: AC Sleeper, Volvo, Semi-Sleeper — available on Paytm
Check out stays in Mahabaleshwar
4. Matheran – A Car-Free Hill Station with Old-School Charm 🚂
Maharashtra’s only vehicle-free hill station, Matheran, is a nostalgic retreat wrapped in red soil paths, colonial homes, and toy trains. It’s ideal if you want a completely noise-free environment. The joy of walking or riding a horse through forested trails is unmatched.
Top things to do:
- Ride the heritage Matheran Toy Train (check for seasonal operation)
- Hike to Panorama Point, Echo Point, and Charlotte Lake
- Enjoy horse rides through forest paths.
- Sip chai with views at a heritage British bungalow
How to Reach Matheran by Bus from Mumbai:
Bus to Neral (90 km) → Local taxi to Dasturi Naka → Walk or horse ride to Matheran
- Travel Time: ~3–4 hours total
- Boarding Points: Dadar, Kurla, Panvel
Check out heritage stays in Matheran
5. Nashik – Wine Trails, Spiritual Vibes & Riverside Views 🌅
For those who want to combine luxury with culture, Nashik is a fantastic option. Famous for its vineyards and temples, the city sits on the banks of the Godavari and offers a mix of spiritual and indulgent experiences. Ideal for couples, wine lovers, and history buffs.
Top things to do:
- Wine tasting at Sula Vineyards
- Visit the ancient Kalaram Temple & Trimbakeshwar.
- Explore Pandav Leni Caves
- Stroll along the Godavari ghats.
How to Reach Nashik by Bus from Mumbai:
Nashik is about 170 km from Mumbai with excellent road connectivity.
- Travel Time: 4–5 hours
- Boarding Points: Thane, Borivali, Dadar, Panvel
- Bus Options: AC, Sleeper, Volvo – available on Paytm
Ready to Go? Book Your Hotel Stay on Paytm Today!
Planning your 15–17 August long weekend getaway from Mumbai is now easier than ever. Whether you’re heading to the mountains, beaches, or vineyards:
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👉 Don’t miss out! Long weekends get booked out fast. Reserve your ideal stay on Paytm now and make your escape smooth, scenic, and oh-so-serene.
Conclusion
The Independence Day weekend is more than just time off – it’s a chance to reconnect with nature, indulge in local culture, and create memories that last beyond the holiday. Whether it’s misty hikes in Matheran, beachside brunches in Alibaug, or sipping wine under Nashik’s open skies, there’s a perfect escape waiting just a few hours away.
So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags, plan your journey, and book your hotel on Paytm. Because freedom feels even better when it comes with a view.
Book now and turn your weekend into a well-deserved escape!
Book hotels on Paytm now!
