12 Best Getaways from Mumbai in September: Lush Green Escapes & Quiet Beaches

When the rains begin to soften and the September skies drape the land in misty blues, Mumbai itself feels like a city caught between monsoon poetry and autumn’s whisper. But sometimes, the restless soul needs more than the comforting patter of rain on windowpanes.

It seeks lush valleys, quiet shores, and winding trails where time slows down. September, with its cool winds and refreshed landscapes, is the perfect month to steal away from the city’s chaos and wander into nature’s embrace.

So, if you’ve been wondering where to escape for a weekend or a short trip, here’s a curated list of 12 best getaways from Mumbai in September, each with its own shade of green and rhythm of calm.

12 Best Getaways from Mumbai in September

1. Lonavala & Khandala: The Evergreen Monsoon Twins

Just a couple of hours away from Mumbai, the twin hill stations of Lonavala and Khandala are wrapped in clouds during September.

With cascading waterfalls, misty valleys, and trekking trails like Rajmachi Fort or Tiger’s Leap, these towns turn into a painter’s palette of greens. Don’t miss the piping-hot vada pav and chikki stalls that make the journey even sweeter.

Things to Do:

• Visit Bhushi Dam, Tiger’s Leap, and Rajmachi Fort.

• Take scenic drives through the misty ghats.

• Indulge in local chikki and piping-hot vada pav.

How to Reach: Around 80 km from Mumbai; 2-hour drive via Mumbai–Pune Expressway. Also accessible by train.

Best For: Quick weekend getaways, couples, and monsoon drives.

Where to Stay: Della Resorts (luxury), The Machan (treehouse experience), and budget-friendly stays in Lonavala town.

2. Matheran: Where Time Stands Still

Matheran, a car-free hill station, feels like a page pulled out of an old-world novel. The red mud paths, toy train rides, and panoramic points like Louisa Point and Echo Point come alive in the post-monsoon freshness of September. It’s the kind of getaway where you walk more, talk less, and let the forested silence speak.

Things to Do:

• Trek or ride horses to Echo Point, Louisa Point, and Panorama Point.

• Stroll through car-free red mud trails.

• Experience a ride on the toy train.

How to Reach: About 83 km from Mumbai. Drive till Neral, then either trek or take the toy train to Matheran.

Best For: Couples, families, and those seeking a rustic, no-vehicle experience.

Where to Stay: Dune Barr House (heritage property), Usha Ascot, and cozy homestays near the main market.

Also read: Matheran Travel Guide - The Nearest Hill Station to Mumbai

3. Mahabaleshwar: Strawberries & Misty Skies

Mahabaleshwar in September is a medley of scenic viewpoints, gushing Lingmala waterfalls, and strawberry gardens washed clean by the rains. Drive through Panchgani on your way and pause at Sydney Point to watch the valley wear a green velvet cloak.

Things to Do:

• Visit Venna Lake, Lingmala Waterfalls, and Arthur’s Seat viewpoint.

• Taste fresh strawberries and cream.

• Take scenic drives through Panchgani.

How to Reach: Around 263 km from Mumbai (5–6 hours by road). Regular buses available from Mumbai.

Best For: Families, honeymooners, and nature photographers.

Where to Stay: Le Méridien Mahabaleshwar, Brightland Resort, and budget-friendly stays near the market.

4. Alibaug: Quiet Beaches, Gentle Waves

For those who seek the sea, Alibaug is September’s calm escape. The beaches, Nagaon, Varsoli, and Alibaug are quieter after the monsoon crowds, with the waves washing away footprints almost as soon as they’re made. If you wish to add a dash of history, visit the Kolaba Fort standing guard in the waters.

Things to Do:

• Relax at Nagaon, Varsoli, and Alibaug Beach.

• Explore Kolaba Fort during low tide.

• Indulge in seafood at beachside shacks.

How to Reach: 95 km by road from Mumbai. Alternatively, take a 45-minute ferry from Gateway of India to Mandwa and drive 30 minutes to Alibaug.

Best For: Beach lovers, foodies, and quick coastal escapes.

Where to Stay: Radisson Blu Resort & Spa, Outpost at Alibaug, and boutique villas near Varsoli.

Also read: 8 Best Beach in Mumbai for Quality Time

5. Bhandardara: A Lake Wrapped in Clouds

Bhandardara is not just a hill station, it’s a secret pocket of serenity. With Arthur Lake shimmering under drifting clouds and Randha Falls roaring after the rains, September makes it magical. Trek up to Ratangad Fort or simply sit by the waterside and let time dissolve.

Things to Do:

• Sit by Arthur Lake for peace and quiet.

• Trek to Ratangad Fort and Sandhan Valley.

• Witness the roaring Randha Falls.

How to Reach: About 165 km from Mumbai (4–5 hours by road). Best accessed by car.

Best For: Couples, trekkers, and those seeking peace in nature.

Where to Stay: Anandvan Resort, MTDC Resort by Arthur Lake, and rustic camping options.

6. Igatpuri: Nature’s Quiet Retreat

September paints Igatpuri in fresh hues, with the Western Ghats draped in mist. Known for its Vipassana meditation center, it’s equally loved for hikes to Kalsubai Peak, the highest in Maharashtra. Perfect for a mix of adventure and stillness.

Things to Do:

• Trek to Kalsubai Peak (Maharashtra’s highest).

• Visit Bhatsa River Valley and Camel Valley.

• Try meditation at Vipassana International Academy.

How to Reach: Around 120 km from Mumbai; 3-hour drive via NH160. Well connected by trains.

Best For: Adventure seekers, meditation enthusiasts, and offbeat travelers.

Where to Stay: Manas Resort, Mystic Valley Spa Resort, and budget guesthouses near the railway station.

7. Silvassa: A Green Union Territory Escape

Tucked away in Dadra and Nagar Haveli, Silvassa offers tribal culture, lush gardens, and the soothing Dudhani Lake. Just four hours from Mumbai, it’s an underrated September destination for those who want greenery with a dash of cultural exploration.

Things to Do:

• Enjoy Dudhani Lake and Vasona Lion Safari.

• Visit the Tribal Cultural Museum.

• Take peaceful walks in lush gardens.

How to Reach: About 170 km from Mumbai; 3.5-hour drive via NH48.

Best For: Culture lovers, families, and offbeat explorers.

Where to Stay: Treat Resort, Khanvel Resort, and cozy budget hotels in Silvassa town.

8. Daman: Sunsets by the Arabian Sea

Not too far from Silvassa, Daman’s beaches, Devka and Jampore are places where September evenings become poetry in orange and gold. Add a splash of Portuguese charm, seafood shacks, and churches, and you’ve got a breezy coastal getaway.

Things to Do:

• Relax at Devka and Jampore Beach.

• Explore St. Jerome Fort and old churches.

• Indulge in seafood and Portuguese-inspired dishes.

How to Reach: About 170 km from Mumbai; 4-hour drive via NH48.

Best For: Beachside relaxation, history lovers, and foodies.

Where to Stay: The Deltin (luxury), Mirasol Resort, and budget hotels near Devka Beach.

9. Kolad: For the Adventure-Seeker

September turns Kolad into a white-water rafter’s dream. With the Kundalika River gushing with post-monsoon energy, rafting here is both thrilling and refreshing. The surrounding greenery adds to the adrenaline-fueled charm of this quick escape.

Things to Do:

• Go white-water rafting on the Kundalika River.

• Camp by the riverside.

• Try kayaking and zip-lining.

How to Reach: Around 120 km from Mumbai; 3-hour drive via NH66.

Best For: Adventure junkies, groups of friends, and weekend thrill-seekers.

Where to Stay: Kundalika Rafting Camp, Forest Hills at Tala, and budget campsites near the river.

10. Amboli: The Misty Jewel of the Sahyadris

Tucked away in the Western Ghats, Amboli is one of the lesser-known yet most enchanting hill stations in Maharashtra. In September, it turns into a land of misty trails, roaring waterfalls, and deep green valleys. For travelers who love nature unfiltered, Amboli is an absolute delight.

Things to Do:

• Visit the breathtaking Amboli Waterfalls and Nangarta Falls.

• Explore Hiranya Keshi Temple and caves.

• Walk through mist-clad viewpoints like Sunset Point and Mahadevgad.

How to Reach: Around 490 km from Mumbai (8–9 hours by road) via NH66. Nearest railway station is Sawantwadi (30 km away).

Best For: Nature lovers, couples, and monsoon travelers seeking quiet beauty.

Where to Stay: Whistling Woods Resort, Dark Forest Retreat, and cozy homestays in Amboli village.

11. Karjat: Farms, Forts & Fresh Air

Karjat, with its emerald paddy fields, flowing rivers, and fort treks like Kondana Caves, is a rustic September escape. Many choose it for farm stays that let you slow down life’s pace and enjoy village-style living.

Things to Do:

• Explore Kondana Caves and trek to Peth Fort.

• Stay in a rustic farmhouse and enjoy village life.

• Try river rafting during September.

How to Reach: About 62 km from Mumbai; 2-hour drive via Sion–Panvel Highway. Trains from CST also available.

Best For: Family trips, farm stays, and heritage lovers.

Where to Stay: Radisson Blu Resort & Spa Karjat, The Forest Club Resort, and numerous farmstay options.

12. Kashid: Silver Sands & Solitude

When the monsoon mist clears in September, Kashid’s silver sands glisten under soft sunshine. Its calm shores are perfect for long, lazy walks, and if you wish to explore, the majestic Murud-Janjira Fort lies just a short drive away.

Things to Do:

• Take long walks on Kashid’s quiet beach.

• Visit Murud-Janjira Fort.

• Try water sports at the beach.

How to Reach: 125 km from Mumbai (4-hour drive). Can also be reached via Mandwa ferry route.

Best For: Couples, solitude seekers, and beachside photographers.

Where to Stay: Prakruti Resorts, Casuarina Resort, and beachside homestays.

Also read: Traditional Maharashtrian foods that you must try

In September, Mumbai’s heart beats slower, and the world outside the city gates glows brighter. These getaways, be it the hills, lakes, or beaches, are more than just destinations; they’re pauses in life’s busy rhythm.

So pack light, step out, and let the fresh September breeze guide you to the escape your soul has been longing for.