Historians say that the fort was constructed under the Devagiri Yadavas and the Tughlaq rulers before 1400 CE. Due to its strategic positioning, it was eyed by many dynasties.
Two trails lead to the top — a fort trail and the nature trail. At the bottom of the fort, you will find the Bhavani temple. One can also visit the Karnala Bird Sanctuary.
2. Matheran
This green offbeat hill station is at a distance of 83 km from Mumbai and has many spots that offer a panoramic view of the landscape. These include Monkey Point, Heart Point, Louisa Point, and Porcupine Point among others.
Some places you can visit include the Dodhani Waterfalls, Charlotte Lake, and Chanderi Caves. You could also trek to Kalavantin Pinnacle.
3. Durshet
This tiny village is nestled in the Sahyadri ranges and situated by the banks of river Amba, all at a distance of 76 km from Mumbai.
Visit the mountain forts of Sarasgad and Sudhagad at an altitude of 490 metres located in Pali township. The former was renovated and restructured under Maratha king Shivaji.
Pic source: Instagram: Prathmesh Shankar Ghone
4. Alibaug
About 95 km away from Mumbai, the coastal town of Alibaug in the Raigarh district is a must-visit if you want to relax by the beach.
Steeped in Portuguese culture, the place is home to the Revdanda Fort, the Korlai Fort, and the Magen Aboth Synagogue.
5. Kamshet
This village, situated in the Pune district and about 110 km away from Mumbai, offers a beautiful view of the Sahyadri ranges.
There are several caves to explore in the area like the Bhaja Buddhist Caves, Bedse Caves, and Karla Caves among others.
6. Igatpuri
Located about 130 km from Mumbai and nestled in the Western Ghats, Igatpuri plays home to the site of ‘The Five Waterfalls’, the Igatpuri cemetery, and the Bhatsa River Valley.
7. Manori
This fishing village falls under the Mumbai Suburban district and is less than 50 km away from Mumbai, making it possibly one of the most convenient places to visit in the entire list.
Manori is also known for its delicious seafood, and wherever you stay, make sure you ask them about the fresh catch.
8. Karjat
Located in the Raigad district, this quaint little town is only 70 km away from Mumbai.The Kondana Caves, located about 12 km from Karjat, are a group of 16 Buddhist caves filled with beautiful structures and walls with carvings.
Other than that, visit the Blackwater of the Pali Bhutivali Dam, Ulhas Valley, Bhivpuri Waterfalls, and Bahiri Caves, and enjoy the beautiful view from Kothaligad fort.
9. Kolad
This village in the Raigad district is located about 117 km away from Mumbai. Situated by the banks of River Kundalika, Kolad is well known for river rafting.Don’t forget to visit the Sutarwadi Lake, the Tamhini Falls, Tala Fort, and Ghosala Fort.