5 Best Places to Visit Near Mumbai in July
There’s something oddly satisfying about watching the rains crash against the car window while heading out of Mumbai. Every year, once July hits, city folks start craving a break, not from work, but from the greyish-brown view outside their window. When puddles take over footpaths and the air turns heavy, it’s time to chase water doing what it’s supposed to, falling off cliffs or filling up quiet lakes.
But this isn’t a typical list of places to visit near Mumbai in July. It’s not what Google throws up on page one. These are spots people have actually been to, or ones locals have nudged them towards. And they genuinely hit different during the Mumbai monsoon. All of them are under 6 hours by road and offer more than just views, they offer moments.
In this Blog
1. Malshej Ghat: Where the Clouds Show Off
For anyone who hasn’t seen clouds casually roll over roads like they own the place, Malshej Ghat will blow their mind. Nature here puts on a full-blown drama, fog, thunder, birds flying in perfect formation, and waterfalls that show up out of nowhere.
Malshej Ghat Maharashtra isn’t just about scenic drives. It’s part of the Western Ghats and a known biodiversity hotspot, especially for birdwatchers. During July, one can spot a variety of migratory birds, including the exotic flamingos that arrive from nearby wetlands. The Harishchandragad Fort trek is also a favourite for seasoned trekkers. Slippery but worth the effort, it rewards visitors with panoramic valley views and mist-covered trails.
Most visit for a day trip, but staying overnight is highly recommended. The mornings are quiet, and the views are better without traffic and crowds. Around this time, flamingos often show up too. Yes, actual flamingos in the hills!
Booking a villa in Malshej Ghat Maharashtra is a surreal experience—especially waking up to clouds slipping through the balcony.
Why it stands out:
- Spontaneous waterfalls that only exist for a few hours
- Hot vada pav from roadside stalls with absurdly good chutney
- Less crowded on weekdays
2. Bhandardara: Where Time Slows Down
Bhandardara doesn’t try too hard to impress, and that’s the charm. It’s one of those places to visit near Mumbai in July where a plan isn’t needed. Just show up, pick a spot, and stay there until the rain soaks through everything.
Arthur Lake is the centrepiece here, surrounded by hills that change colour every week during monsoon. Wilson Dam overflows in July, creating a visual spectacle. Umbrella Falls, a monsoon-only delight, emerges when the dam fills up. Then there’s Randha Falls, a short drive away, where the Pravara River plunges 170 feet down into a deep gorge.
The village lanes are often silent except for the sound of rain, crickets, and the occasional temple bell. This is one of those places to go near Mumbai where one can reconnect with silence.
Explore Arthur Lake, Wilson Dam, and Umbrella Falls. But honestly? The best part is doing absolutely nothing. Villas near the lake offer magical sunrises.
What’s different here:
- More frogs than tourists and that’s a good thing
- Fish curry thalis in local homes are wildly underrated
- No one bothers you for selfies while you sit by the lake
3. Khandala-Lonavala (But Go Off Track)
Yes, Lonavala & Khandala are already in every ‘places to visit near Mumbai in July’ list. But the key is to avoid the overdone spots and explore lesser-known areas.
Lonavala Ghat transforms into a lush wonderland with cascading falls and endless mist. While Tiger’s Point and Bhushi Dam get overcrowded, peace-seekers should try the forested trails behind Thokarwadi village or visit the Kune Waterfalls, less known but equally dramatic. These hidden spots are best explored on foot, so carry good shoes and a sense of direction.
Then there’s the food scene. Local joints off the highway serve spicy misal, puran poli, and waran bhaat with homemade pickles. Skip chain restaurants and follow local recommendations.
With friends or a partner, skip hotels. Opt for a villa in Lonavala Ghat zone for private rain-facing balconies and home-cooked meals with generous ghee.
Why it makes the cut:
- Super easy drive from Mumbai
- Fun detours and chai breaks
- Can easily turn into a low-effort food crawl
4. Igatpuri: The Moodiest One of the Lot
Igatpuri in Maharashtra in July is dramatic, moody, and incredibly photogenic. Just a decent camera or phone can capture more than enough. The rains bring everything to life, waterfalls, lush greenery, and cinematic landscapes.
The Camel Valley viewpoint offers panoramic views of multiple waterfalls, while the Bhatsa River Valley is best viewed during foggy mornings. Tringalwadi Fort is an easy monsoon trek and offers quiet moments surrounded by nothing but cloud and stone. This hill station near Mumbai also houses the famed Dhamma Giri Vipassana Centre, known worldwide for meditation retreats. While a course might not be everyone’s idea of a monsoon break, even walking past the golden pagoda feels otherworldly in the mist.
Those looking for peace or even photography inspiration will find it here. And for anyone staying over, booking a villa in Igatpuri with a kitchen is a must. Evenings are made for pakoras, chai, and card games.
Things that make it great:
- No big crowds midweek
- Secret picnic spots near Camel Valley
- Scenic train rides if you take the rail route in
5. Karjat: Close Enough to Be Spontaneous
Karjat wins for spontaneity. Just a two-hour drive away, it feels like a proper getaway despite the proximity. Most head to farmhouse stays, but the magic lies in veering off-course.
The area behind ND Studios hides some of the most untouched monsoon trails, complete with hidden waterfalls and bamboo groves. Locals may even point out secret swimming spots that don’t show up on maps.
The short but scenic trek to Kondana Caves is perfect during July. The Buddhist-era caves feel more mystical when the forest is soaked and the waterfalls cascade right over the entrance.
This is one of the most flexible places to go near Mumbai, perfect for both laid-back weekends and active escapes. And yes, the vada misal in the main market is criminally underrated.
Going with a group? A villa in Karjat is a game-changer, think private garden, your own music, and no forced small talk.
Why Karjat is worth it:
- Great for last-minute plans
- Balanced mix of chill and act
- Local Maharashtrian food that hasn’t been altered for tourists
Don’t Wait for the “Perfect” Weekend
Waiting for the ideal weather in July near Mumbai is like waiting for an empty Dadar train, it’s just not happening. The trick is to go anyway.
Pack that rain jacket, carry a power bank, and maybe an extra pair of socks. Pick one of these places to visit near Mumbai in July, and commit to getting drenched. That’s half the fun.
These monsoon getaways near Mumbai keep pulling people back, not just for the views, but for the chai breaks, shared umbrellas, spontaneous detours, and the excitement of finding a “shortcut” that might be a dead-end.
So, what’s the next weekend plan?
Banner Image Credit: Sabarni Das via Flickr
Also Read:
Best Weekend Getaways in Monsoon: Quick Trips from Mumbai and Bangalore
Head To These Pool Villas Near Mumbai This Summer
Private Pool Villas Near Mumbai for a Family Summer Getaway
Best Places to Visit in July in India for Monsoon Waterfalls
10 Best Places to Visit in India in July (2025): Monsoon Travel Guide
