13 Best Trekking Spots Near Mumbai To Explore Nature Up Close & Personal

Karnala Fort is a testament to the region’s rich historical and natural heritage. The fort is nestled in Karnala Bird Sanctuary, so you can expect to see some colourful and chirpy avians along the way. It dates back to the 12th century, adding to its historical charm, and making it a perfect outing choice for people new to trekking. Moreover, it's a refreshing experience for nature enthusiasts, as you get to see the greenery, do some birdwatching, and soak in the fresh pristine air on your trek.

Tip: Carry water, snacks, and a raincoat on your way up the trek.

Difficulty: Easy

Distance from Mumbai: Approximately 47 km

Duration: 2 hours ascend, 90 minutes descend

Best season: Winter

Base Village: Shirdhon

Your journey to Peb Vikatgad will commence from the town of Neral, leading you through a lush green and rocky terrain. Hikers will encounter the beauty of the Western Ghats, and as the trek ascends, you will be rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and hills. Peb Vikatgad is renowned for its ancient fort ruins, which you will only find at the summit. It’s a short trek that can be completed within a day, making it ideal for a weekend outing.

Tip: You will meet a lot of monkeys on your way and at the peak of your trek, be careful with your belongings. 

Difficulty: Moderate

Distance from Mumbai: Approximately 52.9

Duration: 2:30 hours ascend, 2 hours descend

Best season: Monsoon

Base Village: Aanandwadi

Tungareshwar is a well-known trekking destination in Vasai, and the trek lies in the Tungareshwar Wildlife Sanctuary. You must visit this place during monsoons as it is adorned with waterfalls, ravines, and misty valleys with clouds. You can reach the summit from two ways, one lies in Vasai Road West, starting from the main gate itself, and the other is in the Parol and Vajreshwari region.

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Distance from Mumbai: Approximately 60 km

Duration: 4 hours ascend, 2 hours descend

Best season: Monsoon

Base Camp: Bapa Sitaram Mandir

Asawa Fort, the pride of Palghar is a historical monument that was built to protect the trade routes between Dahanu and Tarapur ports. The 1080-foot large fort will take you about two hours to complete if you start from the base village. You’ll love the thick and enormous forest patches here, and at the summit, you’ll come across two water tanks along with some fortified reminders.

Tip: Keep your sunscreen, sun cap and rainwear handy.

Difficulty: Moderate

Distance from Mumbai: Approximately 109 km

Duration: 2 hours ascend, 1.5 hours descend

Best season: Monsoon

Base Village: Palghar

Rajmachi Fort lies between Lonavala and Karjat, and throughout the trek, you can explore two beautiful forts, known as the Manaranjan and Shrivardhan. You can either opt to go from Lonavala, with a 15 km flat walk, and it would take you around 5 hours to reach Udhewadi. Now, if you’re looking for some thrill, the Karjat route is a steep 5 km climb through the jungle, and it starts at the Kondane caves and waterfalls. The area has a diverse flora and fauna, and the fort itself dates back to the 17th century.

Tip: Do not forget to carry a torch, a power bank, and enough water to last through the trek.

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Distance from Mumbai: Approximately 95 km

Duration: 5 hours ascend, 3 hours descend

Best season: Monsoon

Base Village: Udhewadi

Irshalgad is a known fortress in the Raigad and is a part of the Sahyadri range in the Western Ghats. It’s close to the Prabalgad Fort and at an elevation of about 3,700 feet above sea level. As the trek is moderately challenging, it will take you a few hours to reach the summit. The route to Irshalgad is full of steep climbs, rock patches, and lush greenery, so you have ensured a diverse and enjoyable trekking experience. Once you reach the top, you will also have a view of the surrounding forts in Matheran, Chanderi, and Malanggad.

Difficulty: Moderate

Distance from Mumbai: Approximately 56 km

Duration: 2 hours ascend, 2 hours descend

Best season: Monsoon

Base Village: Irshalwadi

Kalavantin Durg, near Panvel, is also adjacent to Prabalgad Fort and is accessible from the base village of Thakurwadi. The rock-cut steps, steep ascents, and a ladder carved into the rock face make it difficult for trekkers to get across but the adventure is worth it! The famous 'climb to heaven' section here is particularly steep, and something that one should be careful of. Post-monsoon is objectively the best time to visit Kalavantin Durg, as the weather is pleasant and the surroundings are green.

Tip: Carry an additional set of clothes and quick-dry T-shirts are recommended, especially in the monsoon season.

Difficulty: Difficult

Distance from Mumbai: Approximately 50 km

Duration: 4 hours ascend, 2 hours descend

Best season: Monsoon & Winter

Base Village: Thakurwadi

Garbett Point is a scenic vantage point that is also a popular trekking spot near Matheran. Once you are through the gradual ascent in the forest trail, you will have a comfortable trekking experience here. The trek starts from Diksal village and takes you to the dense forests, but you will also come across open meadows with amazing viewpoints. Make sure you start the trek early and check the weather conditions before to avoid heavy rainfall.

Tip: We recommend you take a guide if you are new to the route and terrain.

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Distance from Mumbai: Approximately 80 km

Duration: 3 hours ascend, 1.5 hours descend

Best season: Monsoon

Base Village: Diksal

Matheran is a renowned hill station where Mumbaikars often go for a long weekend, as the serene ambience here is a nice getaway from the city’s chaos. Once you are here, you will find several trekking trails that lead to different summits. The traditional trekking route starts from Neral and is a popular option that takes around 2 to 3 hours. Another trek in Matheran is the One Tree Hill Point, where you will have astounding views of all the hills that surround the place.

Tip: Don’t forget to watch the sunset from Matheran, we promise it will be one of the most magical moments of your life. 

Difficulty: Easy

Distance from Mumbai: Approximately 85 km

Duration: 3 hours ascend, 2 hours descend

Best season: Winter

Base Village: Dodhani

Lohagad Fort is situated near Malavali and was conquered by several dynasties over centuries, including the Marathas and the Mughals. The trek to the fort goes through valleys, hills, and views of Pawna Lake, making it a scenic delight. Before your trek, you can also visit the Bhaja Caves and after it ends, you can visit the Bhushi Dam nearby to relax and unwind. The latter is a popular spot, especially during monsoons when the dam overflows and creates picturesque waterfalls.

Tip: Respect nature, and do not throw packed snack wrappers and empty plastic bottles on your way to the peak.

Difficulty: Moderate 

Distance from Mumbai: Approximately 95 km

Duration: 1.5 hours ascend, 45 minutes descend

Best season: Monsoon

Base Village: Lohagad Wadi

Rock climbing, lush green forests, and meadows around, Mahuli Trek is an ideal example of adventurous bliss amidst nature. Nestled at 2815 feet in the Thane district, you get to see a gorgeous bird's eye view of the landscape below. Begin your trek at the Mahuli Fort base after seeking blessings at the temple located there. We recommend that you plan this trek during monsoons to enjoy the soothing breeze and diverse flora. 

Tip: No water sources on the way, make sure you carry 2-3 litres of water with you. 

Difficulty: Easy

Distance From Mumbai: 74.2 km

Duration: 2 hours ascend, 45 minutes descend

Best season: Monsoon

Base Camp: Mahuli Fort Base

Famous for its panoramic views of the Sahyadri Mountain Range, Gorakhgad Trek is one of the most challenging treks in Mumbai. Slippery slopes, rocks, and boulders are going to make your journey tough but once you reach the peak, everything’s going to be worthwhile. Let the adrenaline rush through your body as you walk through the path with the chilly breeze cooling you down and lush greenery delighting your eyes. 

Tip: Make sure to carry a basic first aid kit, water, and high-calorie snacks. 

Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult 

Distance From Mumbai: 92.6 km

Duration: 3 hours ascend, 2.5 hours descend 

Best season: Winter 

Base Village: Dehari

Standing at a height of 1084 metres above sea level, the trek to the majestic Visapur fort is adorned with thick vegetation, sparkling waterfalls, and picturesque scenery. Although built as a twin of the famous Lohagad fort, it sits at a higher altitude and spans a larger area. At the top, you get to see a sublime view of the landscape which will leave you in awe of the beauty and bounty of nature. 

Tip: Order local food from villagers and savour it as you watch the scenic landscape. 

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Distance From Mumbai: 97.5 km

Duration: 2.5 - 3 hours each way

Best season: Monsoon

Base Village: Malavli