Traveller question: "My partner's 30th birthday falls on 26th Jan. I am looking for gifting options for adventure+activity (any other suggestion is welcome). I only have the weekend and a reasonable budget. Travelling from Mumbai."
Aashish Gupta answered:
January is a great time in the outdoors around Mumbai. I've listed a few options you can consider:
Durshet Forest Lodge
This is a resort set against the stunning Sahyadri range. The river Amba ambles adjacent to the property. The lodge includes an excellent 35 acre natural forest with extensive teak trees, Flame of the forest trees and an occasional silver oak thus making it a trekkers, wild life and bird watchers paradise.
It is only 2 hours away from Mumbai. Adventure activities that you can try include: Rappelling, Rock Climbing, Valley Crossing, Rifle Shooting, Trekking, Camping, Rafting on the Kundalika River.
Prices start at Rs. 2500 per person.
The Machan, Lonavala
A luxury eco-resort with unique tree houses rising 30 - 45 feet above the forest, offering complete serenity if you're looking to escape into nature. Each machan has been carefully designed to minimize any impact on its natural surroundings while offering spectacular views in luxurious comfort.
100% off grid and run only on sustainable resources, The Machan is an island of green unto itself.
Located in Jambulne, one of 25 biological hotspots of the world and a mere 2.5 hour drive from Mumbai. Activities include trekking, birding, cycling and visiting surrounding historical sites.
Prices start at Rs. 5900 per person.
Kundalika Rafting Camp
A campsite with beautiful views and direct access to the backwaters of Kundalika river. It is equipped with semi luxury tents and spacious grounds.
The main attraction is the rafting experience which is fabulous with 13 km stretch with nice grade III and grade IV rapids.
Located about 3 hours from Mumbai. Prices start at Rs. 2500 per person, with some weekend all-inclusive deals also available.
Dabhosa Waterfalls Resort
A medley of dormitories and rooms all overlooking a spectacular waterfall.The real feel of the wild and the wanton is exaggerated by the roar of the waterfall and local adivasi tribe. You can enjoy the magic of the local folk dance and get thoroughly spooked during the haunted night walk and witch craft demos.
Located about 3.5 hours from Mumbai. Adventure activities include Kayaking, Flying Fox, Rappelling, Trekking, Outdoor Camping.
Prices start at Rs. 2500 per person.
Other than an adventure+active getaway, you can also consider a relaxing stay at the fantastic Verandah in the Forest (Matheran, prices starting from Rs. 1500 per person) or a wine-tasting weekend at Sula Vineyards (Nashik, prices starting at Rs. 3250 per person).
Hope these help you find what you had in mind. If you have more questions or need help with bookings, transportation, researching more options or anything, I would love to assist you.
