Weekend Getaways

Assignments, submissions, deadlines, still haunt your holiday nights? You need a breath of fresh air, a breath of freedom, a break from the black and white monotony of everyday life. You, my friend, need to lift that holiday spirit and board the train driven by the wanderlust.

Traveling, to each, has its own perception and purpose. To some, a barefoot walk on the dew-laden grass by the lakeshore, to another, the adrenaline rush before bungee jumping off the cliff. We bring to light, some these unexplored little ventures for you to let off some steam and revel in the experience.

1. Night trek amongst fireflies:

Yes, you read it right. Fireflies! Rajmachi fort near Karjat is the place to go if you want to see these tiny insects which leave you awestruck. The fort was built by the Marathas back in the day and can be approached easily by road from Mumbai. Many tour operators conduct overnight treks to this fort. Spending a night camping under the stars at Rajmachi fort is the right way to spend your weekend if you want to do something different yet exciting. The trail has several waterfalls and Buddhist caves too. It is the perfect combo for trekking enthusiasts wishing to catch the mesmerizing fireflies in their natural habitat. The presence of fireflies will certainly give your weekend a fairytale twist.

2.  Ferry ride to Alibaug:

To all the people who love the sea, this one is the perfect weekend getaway. There is no better way to escape your everyday routine than to spend a weekend at Alibaug. Alibaug is a tiny coastal town to the south of Mumbai with plenty of forts and temples to keep you busy. You can relax and explore some of the nearby hidden beaches with friends and family. Although you can easily reach Alibaug by road, taking the ferry from the Gateway Of India will make your weekend more exciting. Let the wind in your hair blows your worries away..

3.  Scuba diving at Tarkarli:

Want to experience some ‘Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara.’? Then Tarkarli is the place, my friend. Tarkarli is a virgin village located on the shores of the Arabian sea. Known for its white sands and clear waters, Tarkarli beach provides space for water sports like parasailing and scuba diving. To the south, the peaceful backwaters of Karli river are lined with palm trees and inhabited by dolphins. It’s  located 576 km from Mumbai, but a chance to witness underwater life is just incomparable to the time it takes to reach there. Ah! There’s a different life altogether down there…sights witnessed only in aquariums and movies are no longer behind the screen, they are right there in your arm’s reach. Good bunch of people and apt weather will make your weekend worth a count.

4. River Rafting Expedition:

Does the turbulent flow of the water exhilarate you? Would you be thrilled to get drenched, head to toe, as you ride the oncoming rapid? White Water Rafting in the waters of the Kundalika promises to quench your thirst for adventure. The starting point for most expeditions is a remote hamlet at Kolad. It is a short drive from Mumbai, about 120 km away, located in the virgin forests below Mulshi and Bhira Dams. Numerous tours and activity groups offer varied packages for your expedition. And, to dissolve the misconceptions, the activity does not require any swimming experience.

Besides rafting, you can also indulge in other activities, such as kayaking and river crossing. Let the water baby lose, and embark on this memorable excursion.

5. Long Drives:

It’s not necessary to always have a plan for the weekend. Sometimes you want to laze around the whole day and then escape your monotonous schedule to spend some alone time. So, pick up your car keys and walk out for a long drive. It doesn’t matter if the destination is planned or not, what matters, is the journey. Going on a long drive not only refreshes you but it rejuvenates your soul. Some good music and pleasant weather add up to the bliss.

Drive up to Malshej Ghats and experience its calming weather and scenic waterfalls. Mumbaikars favourite long drive destination, Marine Drive is always an option. Worli sea link proves itself to be an eye pleaser time and again. Mornings experienced there are exceptionally beautiful.

So don’t think much, step down on that gas pedal and race down to your little escapade.

Article by Squidward, Patrick Jane and Hermione Granger