Mumbai to Nagpur via Samruddhi Mahamarg: Monsoon Getaways Near Mumbai

Everyone has heard about the newly opened Samruddhi Mahamarg, Maharashtra’s ambitious expressway that has drastically reduced travel time across the state. But have you considered how this engineering marvel could transform your monsoon travel plans? Beyond the statistics and speed, this expressway unlocks a curated set of luxurious, mist-soaked places to visit near Mumbai,  destinations that once required long, winding drives are now just a smooth cruise away.

What is the Samruddhi Mahamarg?

Officially known as the Hindu Hrudaysamrat Balasaheb Thackeray Maharashtra Samruddhi Mahamarg, this six-lane, access-controlled expressway spans 701 km, linking Mumbai and Nagpur and passing through 10 districts, including Nashik, Aurangabad, Jalna, and Amravati. The Samruddhi Mahamarg route is built with world-class infrastructure, wildlife overpasses, trauma care units, fuel and EV stations,  and reduces travel time from over 16 hours to under 8.

More importantly, the Samruddhi Mahamarg opening has made several monsoon-friendly destinations easily accessible, many now just 2 to 5 hours away instead of the usual 7–9 hour hauls. As the monsoon breathes life into Maharashtra’s landscapes, this expressway becomes the perfect launchpad for quick getaways including some that can rival popular Mumbai tourist places for their beauty and uniqueness. Below is a guide to 8 destinations that are stunning in the rains, open to tourists, and now closer than ever before via the Samruddhi Expressway.

1. Igatpuri

Distance from Mumbai: ~120 km
Exit: Nashik Interchange
New Travel Time: Around 2.5 hours (previously ~4 hours via NH160)

Igatpuri is a classic monsoon favorite, surrounded by the lush Sahyadris, carpeted in mist, and dotted with waterfalls that pour down cliffs like silver ribbons. The town is known for its tranquil vibe and iconic Vipassana International Academy, but it transforms into something truly spectacular in the rains.

Expect gushing streams beside the highway, hills draped in green velvet, and trekking trails that feel untouched. It’s ideal for a luxury weekend break, think infinity pools facing the rain, spa sessions as clouds roll by, and morning chai with fog-laced views. No wonder it’s climbing the ranks among places to visit near Mumbai during monsoon.

Things to Do in Igatpuri

• Trek to Kalsubai Peak (Maharashtra’s highest point) for breathtaking cloud-kissed views
  
• Explore Camel Valley where waterfalls cascade dramatically during monsoon
  
• Visit Bhatsa River Valley for river rafting and scenic picnics by rushing waters
  
• Take a monsoon trek to Tringalwadi Fort for panoramic valley views
  
• Experience world-renowned Vipassana meditation at the International Academy

Where to Stay in Igatpuri

For a luxury monsoon retreat, choose hillside escapes like Mokshah, Pearl Lakeview Mansion, or Villa Stonera, all offering panoramic views and privacy.

2. Bhandardara

Distance from Mumbai: ~170 km
Exit: Ghoti via Nashik Interchange
New Travel Time: 3.5 hours (earlier ~5.5 hours via Igatpuri-Ghoti roads)

Bhandardara is best described as Maharashtra’s monsoon postcard. A stunning mix of valleys, lakes, forts, and seasonal waterfalls, it’s perched on the edge of Arthur Lake with the Sahyadri hills framing its perimeter. With the Samruddhi Mahamarg connecting directly to Nashik, reaching Bhandardara is now smoother and faster, ideal for spontaneous rain-chasing weekends.

Compared to other things to do in Mumbai during the rains, like Marine Drive strolls or fort visits, this escape offers a rawer, greener experience.

Things to Do in Bhandardara

• Witness the spectacular Umbrella Falls (Reverse Waterfall) near Wilson Dam
  
• Take boat rides on Arthur Lake surrounded by emerald hills
  
• Visit Randha Falls where water plunges 170 feet into misty gorges
  
• Trek to Ratangad Fort for sunrise views above cloud cover
  
• Challenge yourself with Harishchandragad trek to see the famous Konkan Kada cliff
  
• Climb Ajoba Hill Fort for 360-degree views of the Sahyadri range
  
• Visit Amruteshwar Temple for ancient architecture amidst lush surroundings
  
• Explore Sandhan Valley (Valley of Shadows) for dramatic gorge photography
  

Where to Stay in Bhandardara

Rain-washed getaways like Lush Villa, Sunset on the Lake, and Villa Wine offer front-row seats to Bhandardara’s monsoon magic.

3. Nashik

Distance from Mumbai: ~170 km
Exit: Direct via Samruddhi Mahamarg
New Travel Time: 2.5 hours (previously ~4 hours via NH160)

Nashik is no longer just for wine weekends or religious pilgrimages, it’s now a stylish monsoon destination in its own right. With the Samrudhhi highway bypassing highway bottlenecks, weekend trips to Nashik’s vineyards and hill viewpoints now feel almost like a city extension.

During the monsoon, the lushness of the Gangapur Dam region is unmatched, vineyards look like Tuscany on a rainy day, with dramatic skies and cool weather. This seasonal transformation positions Nashik as more than just another stop on the Mumbai tourist places list.

Things to Do in Nashik

• Take vineyard tours at Sula, York, or Vallonné with rain-kissed grape vines
  
• Explore Pandavleni Caves (ancient Buddhist caves) shrouded in mist
  
• Take peaceful walks along Godavari River ghats during gentle rains
  
• Trek to Anjaneri Fort (believed birthplace of Hanuman) through cloud forests
  
• Visit Gangapur Dam for scenic boat rides and water sports
  
• Explore Saptashringi hills with seven peaks perfect for monsoon photography
  

Where to Stay in Nashik

Stay amid vineyards and green hills at The Rainfield Villa, Amber & Mist, or Soul Serenity — perfect for a wine-and-rain weekend.

4. Trimbakeshwar & Brahmagiri Hills

Distance from Mumbai: ~180 km
Exit: Nashik Interchange
New Travel Time: 3 hours (previously 5 hours due to winding approach roads)

Known for the ancient Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga Temple, this sacred town now sees a smoother, more direct approach via the Samruddhi Mahamarg. What makes it spectacular in monsoon is not just its spiritual significance, but the adjoining Brahmagiri Hills, offering surreal, fog-draped treks and panoramic views of the Western Ghats.

This destination adds a spiritual and ecological layer to your getaway, making it one of the more meaningful places to visit near Mumbai this season.

Things to Do near Trimbakeshwar & Brahmagiri Hills

• Seek blessings at Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga Temple, one of India’s 12 sacred shrines
  
• Witness the Godavari River origin at Brahmagiri, considered highly auspicious
  
• Trek to Brahmagiri Peak for sunrise views above cloud cover
  
• Explore Nilamgiri and Kalagiri peaks for challenging monsoon treks
  
• Visit Gangadwar where Godavari emerges from underground springs
  
• Take guided wildlife walks in Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary

Where to Stay in Trimbakeshwar

Choose peaceful hillside homes or cottages with views of Brahmagiri; perfect for spiritual downtime or nature walks.

5. Ellora Caves & Daulatabad Fort (Aurangabad)

Distance from Mumbai: ~340 km
Exit: Aurangabad Interchange
New Travel Time: 5–5.5 hours (previously over 8 hours)

Ellora Caves are among India’s most magnificent rock-cut temples, and unlike Ajanta, they remain open during monsoon. Thanks to the Samruddhi Mahamarg, Aurangabad is now a fantastic long-weekend option rich in history, architecture, and rain-soaked greenery.

The proximity of this site via the Samruddhi Expressway means you can now pair it with other cultural hotspots without the exhaustion of long travel times.

Things to Do near Ellora Caves & Daulatabad Fort

• Marvel at Kailasa Temple (Cave 16), the world’s largest monolithic rock excavation
  
• Explore Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain caves showcasing religious harmony
  
• Visit Daulatabad Fort with its ingenious defense mechanisms and secret passages
  
• Discover Bibi Ka Maqbara (Mini Taj Mahal) gleaming in monsoon light
  
• Shop for Himroo and Paithani textiles in traditional bazaars
  

Where to Stay near Aurangabad

Unwind after a day of exploration at Richmond House, a serene villa stay that blends comfort with local charm.

6. Lonar Lake

Distance from Mumbai: ~420 km
Exit: Jalna Interchange
New Travel Time: 6 hours (earlier over 9 hours with no direct connectivity)

A geological wonder, Lonar Lake was formed by a meteor strike over 50,000 years ago. Surrounded by forest reserves, the lake becomes a hub of biodiversity during monsoon, from migratory birds to unique algae blooms that give the lake its mystical green hue.

The improved access thanks to the Samruddhi Mahamarg brings this once-remote destination onto the map of monsoon explorers.

Things to Do in Lonar Crater Lake

• Take guided geological tours to understand meteor impact and crater formation
  
• Visit the Lonar Crater Museum for scientific exhibits and research findings
  
• Explore Daitya Sudan Temple with intricate carvings glowing in monsoon light
  
• Visit Gomukh Temple and other ancient shrines around the crater rim
  

Where to Stay near Lonar Lake

Eco-retreats and private villas near the crater rim are now more accessible for overnight stays.

7. Malshej Ghat

Distance from Mumbai: ~130 km
Nearest Samruddhi Exit: Shahapur (via early diversion)
New Travel Time: 3 hours (from expressway junction, earlier ~4.5 hrs via Kalyan-Alephata)

While not directly on the Samruddhi Mahamarg route, Malshej Ghat is close enough to benefit from its faster access. Known for its hairpin bends, roadside waterfalls, and sudden cloud bursts, it’s a classic monsoon destination that’s now more reachable than ever.

In many ways, Malshej offers a wilder experience than most conventional things to do near Mumbai during monsoon.

Things to Do in Malshej Ghat

• Drive through 47 hairpin bends with waterfalls cascading onto the road
  
• Spot migratory flamingos at Pimpalgaon Joga Dam during monsoon
  
• Trek to Harishchandragad Fort via the challenging Malshej route
  
• Explore Shivneri Fort (Chhatrapati Shivaji’s birthplace) through misty trails
  

Where to Stay in Malshej Ghat

Monsoon-ready villas like Pranah, Middle Earth, and Nivaant Farms provide an elevated stay experience close to the cloud-draped ghats

8. Chikhaldara

Distance from Mumbai: ~670 km
Exit: Amravati Interchange
New Travel Time: Under 7 hours (earlier over 11 hours)

Perched in the Melghat ranges of eastern Maharashtra, Chikhaldara is the only hill station in the Vidarbha region. With the Samruddhi Mahamarg connecting directly to Amravati, it’s now reachable in a single day, opening it up for monsoon tourism from the west.

The region’s forests, viewpoints, and cool air offer a refreshing contrast to both urban humidity and Sahyadri treks.

Things to Do in Chikhaldara

• Take safari tours in Melghat Tiger Reserve to spot tigers, leopards, and sloth bears
  
• Visit Semadoh Lake for boating amidst serene forest surroundings
  
• Explore Gugamal National Park for diverse wildlife and pristine nature
  
• Visit Hurricane Point for panoramic views of Melghat forests and valleys
  
• Trek to Devi Point and witness Bhimkund (natural pool) fed by monsoon waterfalls

Where to Stay in Chikhaldara

Pick from forest-view heritage homes or secluded hilltop stays offering cool weather and wild vistas.

Samruddhi Mahamarg Makes Monsoon Destinations Near Mumbai Closer Than Ever

The Samruddhi Mahamarg is more than just an expressway, it’s Maharashtra’s grand corridor of discovery. With destinations like Ellora, Bhandardara, and Chikhaldara now within easy reach, your next rainy escape doesn’t have to be a compromise between comfort and adventure.

Whether you’re looking for spiritual solace, ancient wonders, or landscapes that come alive with the rains, the Samrudhhi highway is the monsoon travel game-changer. So this year, skip the usual suspects and hit the road on your own trail of discovery,  powered by the speed, safety, and connectivity of the Samruddhi Mahamarg.