Winters are a wonderful time to get away from the city and make the most of the places to visit near Mumbai in December. Imagine cosying up in a beautiful luxury villa near Mumbai with sunset views, a crackling fire and the people you love.
From scenic hill stations near Mumbai and lush lakes to coastal towns and quiet retreats, there’s no shortage of winter getaways near Mumbai or weekend escapes from Mumbai in December. Whether you’re planning a short trip or a long holiday, these December destinations near Mumbai offer comfort, stunning views and plenty of opportunities to relax, explore and make memories.
Here’s our curated list of places to visit near Mumbai in December that promise the perfect winter break.
Lonavala
A quick drive from Mumbai, Lonavala is one of the best places to visit near Mumbai in December with the family. Think morning walks with hill views, visits to nearby forts and the beauty of Pawna Lake in Lonavala. With its misty landscapes and winter charm, Lonavala is one of the top weekend getaways from Mumbai in winter.
Begin your winter holiday at Om Anantha—an elegant pet-friendly, 5-bedroom home with open views of Pawna Lake and breezy patios for evening tea.
Travelling with a larger group? Check into Villa Sorrento, a luxury villa near Mumbai with 7 bedrooms, an in-house bar, a gym and all the amenities you need for a relaxing short trip from Mumbai in December.
How To Get There
Lonavala is about 80 kms (2-2.5 hours) from Mumbai by road via the Mumbai–Pune Expressway. You can also take a train from Mumbai to Lonavala Railway Station, which is well connected.
Things to Do in Winter in Lonavala:
- Trek to Lohagad and Tikona forts in Lonavala.
- Enjoy a picnic by Pawna Lake.
- Visit viewpoints in Lonavala like Bhushi Dam and Tiger’s Leap for scenic views.
- Try winter delicacies like hot corn and vada pav by the roadside stalls.
Alibaug
Whether you’re visiting historic forts in Alibaug or simply soaking in the coastal charm, this is one of the best places to visit near Mumbai in winters. It’s the perfect time to lounge by the beaches in Alibaug, surrounded by the sea breeze. Winter also brings in fishing season, which means seafood specials are at their best. It’s also a quick getaway from Mumbai in winters. Alibaug is ideal for families, friends, or couples looking for a winter getaway near Mumbai.
Unwind with family at The Ray, a 5-bedroom villa in Alibaug with floor-to-ceiling windows, sprawling rooms and a pool lounge for post-swim conversations and nibbles.
If you’re holidaying with friends, Santorini is the perfect pick. Designed like a Grecian villa, this stylish 5-bedroom home boasts pops of colour, a poolside gazebo and a barbecue sit-out and bar area.
How To Get There
Alibaug is a great place to visit near Mumbai in winter. It’s about 95 kms (3 hours) by road from Mumbai. A faster option is to take a Ro-Ro ferry or speedboat from Mumbai’s Gateway of India to Mandwa Jetty (45–60 minutes), followed by a 30-minute drive to Alibaug.
Things to Do in Winter in Alibaug:
- Stroll along Alibaug, Kashid and Nagaon beaches.
- Visit Kolaba Fort, accessible by foot during low tide.
- Savour fresh seafood in Alibaug at local beachside shacks.
- Try water sports in Alibaug like parasailing and jet skiing.
Karjat
Often less crowded than other spots, Karjat is a peaceful place to visit near Mumbai in December. Tucked in the Western Ghats, this weekend getaway near Mumbai is filled with nature trails and flowing rivers and is an ideal place to enjoy a winter escape from the city.
For an idyllic place to visit near Mumbai in December, escape to Maharajah House, our 4-bedroom villa with river views and a farm-to-table dining concept.
Bring your fur babies over to Belmonte, a pet-friendly resort near Mumbai with 4 bedrooms, contemporary interiors, a badminton court and a hammock for reading and relaxing.
How To Get There
Karjat is a great place to visit near Mumbai in December. It’s located around 65 kms from Mumbai (about 1.5-2 hours by road). Karjat Railway Station is also well-connected to Mumbai CST and Dadar by local and express trains.
Things to Do in Winter in Karjat:
- Go trekking at Kondana Caves and Kothaligad Fort.
- Explore nature trails and riverside walks.
- Enjoy cycling in Karjat or picnics in the countryside.
- Visit ND Studio in Karjat, a popular Bollywood filming location.
Mahabaleshwar
When it comes to places to visit near Mumbai in December, few spots are as gorgeous as Mahabaleshwar. It’s when strawberry season is at its peak and the views are straight out of a postcard. Mahabaleshwar is a great winter destination in India.
Catch up over long conversations at Vinayalam, a luxurious villa in Mahabaleshwar with a lush garden, open views and 3 well-appointed bedrooms filled with charming heirloom furniture.
For a villa with a view, consider Gold Mist. Perched at the edge of a mountain, this 3-bedroom villa offers splendid views of the Krishna Valley. Its landscaped garden and open verandah are where you can bite into juicy strawberries fresh from the market or recount old stories with your family over tea.
How To Get There
Mahabaleshwar is 260 kms from Mumbai (6–7 hours by road). The nearest railway station is Wathar (60 kms), but Pune Railway Station (120 kms) is a more convenient option, followed by a cab.
Things to Do in Winter in Mahabaleshwar:
- Visit strawberry farms in Mahabaleshwar and enjoy fresh strawberries n’ cream.
- Take a boat ride at Venna Lake.
- Explore viewpoints in Mahabaleshwar like Arthur’s Seat and Wilson Point.
- Shop for jams, jellies and honey at local markets in Mahabaleshwar.
Goa
Goa must be on your list of places to visit near Mumbai in December. From exploring markets and beaches in North Goa to finding quieter spots and hidden cafés in South Goa, there’s plenty to do at this holiday destination near Mumbai in winter.
Villa Azul, a chic, pet-friendly villa in North Goa with beautiful courtyards is ideal for a holiday with friends. Down south, Villa Paladio is a beach-facing villa in Goa, perfect for spending quality time with the family, susegad style.
Lohono Stays offers a large selection of unique villas in North and South Goa that are perfect for your winter escape near Mumbai. Check them out here.
How To Get There
There are daily direct flights from Mumbai to Goa (about 1.5 hours). You can land at Goa International Airport (Dabolim) or Manohar International Airport (Mopa, North Goa). Alternatively, trains and overnight buses connect Mumbai to Goa. Driving takes about 9–10 hours.
Things to Do in Winter in Goa:
- Visit the many beaches in Goa.
- Shop at markets in Goa like Anjuna Flea Market or Mapusa Market.
- Try water sports in Goa like parasailing, kayaking and banana rides.
- Attend beach parties and enjoy Goa nightlife.
Best Time & Duration for Winter Travel Near Mumbai
Winter (November to February) is the best time for weekend getaways near Mumbai. Indeed, there are plenty of places near Mumbai in winters that make for great holiday destinations. The cool mornings and evenings make it perfect for outdoor activities, while afternoons are comfortable for sightseeing or relaxing at your villa.
- December is particularly special, with strawberry season in Mahabaleshwar, festive celebrations in Goa and crisp hill-station weather in Lonavala and Karjat.
- Ideal Duration:-
Short escapes (2–3 days): Lonavala, Karjat, Alibaug.
Longer holidays (3–5 days): Mahabaleshwar, Goa.
FAQs About Places To Visit Near Mumbai in Winters
Q. 1) Which is the best place to visit near Mumbai in December?
Lonavala and Mahabaleshwar are great places near Mumbai in winters for families, offering nature, forts and lakes to explore. Alibaug works well if you want a beach holiday near Mumbai.
Q.2) What’s the best beach getaway near Mumbai in December?
Alibaug is closest, but if you’re up for a quick flight, Goa offers the ultimate beach escape.
Q. 3) Are these destinations pet-friendly?
Yes! Many Lohono villas like Om Anantha (Lonavala), Belmonte (Karjat) and Villa Azul (Goa) are pet-friendly.
Q.4) How many days are ideal for a trip?
- Lonavala/Karjat: 2–3 days
- Alibaug: 2–3 days
- Mahabaleshwar: 3–4 days
- Goa: 4–5 days minimum
Q.5) What’s the best time to book these places near Mumbai in winter?
December and January are peak seasons near Mumbai, so it’s best to book at least a month in advance, especially for Goa and Mahabaleshwar.
If you’re looking at holiday places near Mumbai, then these places to visit near Mumbai in December are ideal for everything from family gatherings to fun trips with friends. With their cool weather, scenic landscapes and luxurious stays, you’ll find that these are truly the best places near Mumbai in winters to relax, reconnect and recharge. Whether you’re seeking hill stations, coastal escapes or quick weekend getaways near Mumbai, these top places near Mumbai in December promise memorable experiences.
