A typical tourist’s day in Mumbai consists of hopping between Gateway of India, Marine Drive, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, and other major landmarks in the city. That’s how most tourists get introduced to Mumbai. But there’s a lot more if you’re willing to ditch this tourist-y trail. For adventurous souls who are willing to go the extra mile to experience thrill, here is a list of offbeat things to do in Mumbai.
Break the Routine, Try Something Different
For these offbeat activities, you might have to travel a little more, and maybe even be ready to break a sweat. But the experiences are rewarding, the kind that will leave you refreshed. The best part is that these offbeat activities can even be tried on a solo trip to Mumbai. The next time you’re running out of ideas to something fun, try one of these offbeat activities near Mumbai:
1) Go for A Trek
When it comes to nature, Maharashtra is blessed. Thanks to the majestic mountains of the Western Ghats, there are a number of scenic trekking places near Mumbai. Lonavala and Khandala are popular tourist getaways with some of the best resorts near Mumbai, but if you want some real trekking experience, you need to skip these hill stations. Instead, head to Rajmachi, Karnala, Harishchandragadh, Lohagadh Fort, and Kalavantin Durg.
Trekking at these places will test your stamina, endurance, and even patience. But at the end of the trail, you’ll be rewarded with a breath-taking view and a sense of accomplishment. Visit these trekking spots in monsoon and you’ll be bowled over by the lush green mountains.
2) Try Out Some Water Sports
Mumbai’s Juhu and Chowpatty beaches are great for those who want to try different kinds of food, but there is hardly anything for a water sports enthusiast. For scuba diving, snorkelling, parasailing, kayaking, and jet skiing, you’ll need to drive a bit further away from Mumbai.
Tarkarli Beach in Malvan district of Maharashtra is a hot favourite for water sports. You can take a peek into the fascinating world of marine creatures through a scuba diving experience or tackle bumpy waves on a banana boat or a jet ski.
If that’s out of your comfort zone, you could step away from water and enjoy its beauty from afar through a parasailing experience. All too tame for you? Try tackling the mammoth waves of Kolad River and paddling your way through it. This river-rafting experience will satiate the adrenaline junkie in you.
3) Camping
Living in Mumbai can make you forget what a sky full of stars looks like. Ditch the city’s chaos and pollution and spend a weekend away at a serene camping spot near Mumbai.
You can huddle up with your friends over a bonfire and barbecue or spend some time stargazing with your significant other there. Either way, it’s an offbeat experience that will leave you re-energized.
The best camping spots near Mumbai are Uttan, Bhandardara, Pawna Lake, and Karnala. If you’re new to camping and not sure how to go about it, you can also join professionals.
Almost every month, several tour operators in Mumbai plan camping weekends for Mumbaikars looking to get away from city life. But a lot of people who want a more solitary experience, try to avoid these professional tour agents. Instead, pack their tent and head straight to these camping spots.
Once in a while, you need to break away from the grind and do something offbeat. If you’re in Mumbai, you already know some of the best offbeat activities that you can go for. So, what are you waiting for? Huddle up your friends or take off on your own to get closer to nature with these offbeat activities.
