How to spend a day out in Mumbai

The city that never sleeps is often in need of an escape from the urban rush, and Mumbai offers the perfect combination of retreats to soothe the burdened mind and body. With thrilling lion and tiger safaris and a walk into the lush verdure, Sanjay Gandhi National Park is the spot for an escape into nature. Elephanta Caves offers yet another unmatched experience of taking a ferry ride to one of the most beautiful islands and exploring ancient rock-cut temples. The very many beaches of this city, particularly Aksa Beach, Juhu Beach, and Madh Island provides you with serene shorelines, seafood delicacies, and street food. If a quiet alcove is what you seek, Manori Island’s scenic beaches and ferry rides will make it worth your day.

1. Sanjay Gandhi National Park
   • Address: Borivali East, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400066
   • Distance: 40 km
   • Travel Time: 1 hour
   • Activities: Exploring the Kanheri Caves, nature walks, trekking, boating in the artificial lake, and visiting the lion and tiger safari.
   • Price Range: Entry fee is INR 58 for adults. Safari costs around INR 64 for adults and INR 25 for children. Additional charges for boating and guided tours.
2. Elephanta Caves
   • Address: Elephanta Island, Mumbai Harbour, Maharashtra
   • Distance: 11 km (plus a ferry ride)
   • Travel Time: 1 hour (includes 1-hour ferry ride from Gateway of India)
   • Activities: Exploring the ancient rock-cut temples and sculptures, hiking, and picnicking.
   • Price Range: Ferry costs around INR 130-200 for a round trip. Entry fee to the caves is INR 40 for Indians and INR 600 for foreigners.
3. Aksa Beach
   • Address: Aksa Village, Malad West, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400095
   • Distance: 27 km
   • Travel Time: 1 hour
   • Activities: Beach walks, picnicking, enjoying local street food, and playing beach games.
   • Price Range: Free entry. Costs for food and activities vary.
4. Madh Island
   • Address: Madh Island, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400061
   • Distance: 30 km
   • Travel Time: 1 hour
   • Activities: Beach walks, visiting fishing villages, exploring forts, and enjoying seafood at local eateries.
   • Price Range: Free entry. Costs for food and activities vary.
5. Juhu Beach
   • Address: Juhu, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400049
   • Distance: 20 km
   • Travel Time: 1 hour
   • Activities: Beach activities, street food, horse and camel rides, and visiting nearby attractions like the ISKCON Temple.
   • Price Range: Free entry. Costs for food and activities vary.
6. Manori Island
   • Address: Manori, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400095
   • Distance: 40 km
   • Travel Time: 1 hour (includes a short ferry ride)
   • Activities: Beach activities, exploring local villages, and enjoying a quiet, scenic environment.
   • Price Range: Free entry. Ferry costs around INR 50-100. Food costs vary.
   These destinations offer a mix of nature, history, and recreational activities, ensuring a fun and memorable day out with family or friends.