Mumbai is one of the most famous cities of Asia. Apart from being the capital of the state of Maharashtra and the nation�s commercial and entertainment capital, Mumbai is also the center of tourism in Maharashtra. This state in Western India is one of the richest states of the country in terms of tourism. Its coastline borders the Arabian Sea, and offers a large number of famous beach destinations. The Western Ghats and the Sahyadris are the two mountain ranges that are home to some of the best known hill stations of this region. Mumbai itself is one of the major tourist attractions of Maharashtra, and there are many tourist spots near Mumbai that can be visited by tourists by undertaking short excursions. The spots to be visited on excursions from Mumbai include beaches, ruins of medieval forts, and hill stations. Some of these destinations are being discussed below.

Bassein :
This place is best known for the ruins of a Portuguese fort. The Nalasopara village, lying about 10 kilometers from here is an interesting site. Many Buddhist relics have been discovered here. The Akoli hot springs and Vajreshwari temple are among the other places situated nearby. Bassein is an ideal place for a short weekend trip, and is one of the important destinations that can be visited by planning excursions from Mumbai.

Murud - Janjira :
This is one of the most well known tourist spots near Mumbai. A famous beach resort, Murud Janjira has a beautiful beach, and ruins of a 300 year old fort. A shrine dedicated to Lord Dattatreya is located on a hill top here.It can be reached easily from Mumbai by road.

Matheran :
One of the hill stations of Maharasthra, Matheran is a scenic and peaceful spot located very close to Mumbai. It is an ideal weekend getaway and can only be reached by an enchanting toy train ride which is one of the major tourist attractions in Maharashtra. Apart from breathtaking views and amazing natural beauty, Matheran offers well maintained parks, and a market where one can buy many interesting handicrafts.

Lonavala -Khandala - Karla:
These wonderful hill stations nestled in the Sahyadris can be easily approached from Mumbai, or Pune. They are among the most popular spots that can be visited on excursions from Mumbai. Located along the Mumbai � Pune expressway, Lonavala and Khandala offer a pleasant weather all year round and splendid scenic beauty, apart from some Buddhist caves that can be visited from here. A large number of accommodations are available here. Sanjay Gandhi National Park:
This protected forest lies very close to Mumbai, and can be reached easily by the suburban railway. Located right next to a sprawling urban settlement, this large forested area has been in news recently for its leopards whose habitat has been under constant threat. The park is also famous for the Kanheri caves, rock cut Buddhist caves similar to the famous caves at Ajanta and Ellora. A toy train ride in the park is one of the highlights of a visit to this park. The park is located very close to the Borivli rail station and is also called the Borivli National Park.

There are many other attractive tourist spots that can be visited on excursions from Mumbai. These include the Karnala bird sanctuary, Ganapatipuley, Vijaydurg, Sindhudurg, Harihareshwar, Alibag, Valneshwar, Karla, Dahanu, Bodi, and Elephanta.

Touristplacesinindia.com offers online information about Excursions from Mumbai and other important tourist places in India.