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People think of a fast and furious lifestyle when Mumbai comes to their mind, but the megacity also has numerous serene locations where they can immerse themselves in nature. In the past few years, camping around the city has become popular, with different campsites offering mixes of adventure and relaxation. Whether you desire to camp in the night under the stars on a remote beach, wake up to the sounds of birds beside a lake, or trek up to the peak of a hill to set up camp, this is a perfect blend that invigorates you.
Factors That Affect Camping In Mumbai
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The factors that influence camping in Mumbai, which you should know about, and that are important before you plan your trips are listed below:
Weather: The weather is an important aspect of camping. Winter and post-monsoon months are ideal for camping, with pleasant temperatures and clear blue skies. However, don’t set out for camping during the monsoon because heavy rains can have an adverse influence on travel.
Crowds: Certain popular camping spots, like Pawna Lake and Matheran, can get quite crowded, especially on weekends and holidays. Consider visiting such locations during the weekdays or selecting less-known camping locations to escape the crowds.
Trekking Difficulty: Some camping spots are accessible by trek, while places like Rajmachi Fort require climbing up to the campsite. Always assess your fitness level and choose a campsite that meets your capability.
How To Reach Camping Spots Near Mumbai
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You can reach Mumbai from anywhere in India, and it is one of the most popular cities. It can be accessed by road, train, and ferry.
By Road: Mumbai is well-linked to various camping destinations by road. Renting a vehicle or taking a bus is probably the easiest. The travel time from the city to most campsites ranges between 1 to 3 hours.
By Train: Some camping spots, like Rajmachi and Matheran, can be reached by train. You can take a train from Mumbai to either Lonavala or the nearby Neral stations, then tackle the rest of the journey by taxi or trek to the campsite.
By Ferry: For beach camping in places such as Manori Beach, you may take a ferry from Marve Beach or Malad. This scenic route provides the perfect escape from the busy city life.
Popular Camping Places In Mumbai
Mumbai has some pretty great camping spots on the outskirts. The list below is some of the best localities to make your next camping adventure worthwhile:
1. Pawna Lake
Photo: Sachin Mohol / Wikimedia Commons
Near Lonavala is a serene dam or lake named Pawna Lake which is well known for its picturesque beauty and tranquil waters. Camping at the lake is pleasant, with stunning sunset views, star-gazing, kayaking, fishing, and bonfires. The hills and forts of Lohagad that surround the area make for a great hiking and nature exploration spot. Perfect for families and friends, even for couples looking for a relaxing retreat so close to Mumbai.
Cost/person: ₹1,200 – 2,500
2. Karnala
Photo: Incredible Mother Earth / Wikimedia Commons
Karnala, approximately 60 km from Mumbai, is a popular bird sanctuary and trekking site. Campers are allowed to pitch their tents in the designated areas of the sanctuary, where they can go bird-watching or hike to Karnala Fort. The surrounding forest area allows one to be alone and away from civilisation, making it an excellent spot for nature lovers. The sanctuary houses more than 200 bird species, including migratory species in the winter.
Cost /person: ₹1,500 – 2,500
3. Manori Beach
Photo: Sanjaybhagwat / Wikimedia Commons
Manori Beach is the perfect beach camping in Mumbai. The sandy shores, gentle waves, and chilled-out vibe make it one of the ideal getaways. Manori Beach is less crowded than most other beaches in Mumbai and makes enjoying bonfires, beach barbecues, and calm night skies an almost second nature. It’s known for its Portuguese-style houses and fresh local seafood, on the other hand. Perfect for a beach getaway without leaving the city and enjoying your time to the fullest.
Cost/person: ₹1,200 – 2,000
4. Matheran
Photo: Le Priyavrat / Wikimedia Commons
Located about 80 km from Mumbai, Matheran is a quaint hill station for cool and quiet camping. The hill station, being eco-friendly, allows no vehicles, making it ideal for trekking and camping amidst rich forests and spectacular viewpoints. Other camping sites include Charlotte Lake and Panorama Point, where you can pitch your tent and enjoy stunning scenery along the Sahyadri range. The breeze of fresh air and tranquillity makes Matheran an oasis that an escape from city life would yearn for.
Cost/person: ₹1,500 – 3,000
5. Rajmachi
Photo: BHARATHGOTTEMUKKULA / Wikimedia Commons
The historic Rajmachi Fort, a scenic spot set between Lonavala and Banshee, is famous for trekking. The trekking route to Rajmachi Fort is moderately difficult, with dense forests giving panoramic views of the surrounding valleys. Once you reach the top, camping next to the historical Rajmachi Fort is a delight, and you will have a view of spectacular sunrises and sunsets. It is a huge hit with adventure lovers and history buffs who want to breathe fresh mountain air right next to Mumbai.
Cost/person: ₹1,500 – 3,000
Best Time To Visit
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The best time to visit Mumbai for camping is from October to March, during winter and post-monsoon. During this period, the temperatures range from 15 to 30 degrees Celsius, providing a great outdoor setting. The lush greenery left behind by the monsoon rain provides a beautiful backdrop to the camping adventure.
Camping Costs In Mumbai
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The cost of camping around Mumbai usually ranges from ₹1200 to ₹3000 per person for a one-day, one-night stay. It generally includes:
- Tents
- Sleeping bags, Lunch, breakfast, and dinner are included in the package
- Activities like bonfires or treks.
- Some luxury camping sites (glamping) offer premium services, which can typically range between ₹3,000 to ₹6,000 per person.
Camping in Mumbai relieves the traveller of the friction and fast life of the city; they enter nature again. The additions of the hilltops, lakesides, and a nearby serene beach make a camping experience suitable for everyone, be it a quick weekend getaway or a longer one. Camping in Mumbai promises travellers outdoor fun, natural views, and quiet nights beneath the stars. So, plan your Mumbai tour with TripXL and customise it with camping plans and more.
Cover Photo: Miro Alt / Pexels / Image For Representation
