Everyone wants a relaxing weekend after spending the week in the busy and fast paced life of the city and that is why a good list of weekend getaways is a must keep for everybody. We all know how hectic the city life can get but the best part is that Mumbai is surrounded with lots of places where you can go and enjoy the weekend. So let’s begin with Alibag.
So as promised we will begin our Mumbai getaways with Alibag, also called Alibaug is a coastal town, just south of Mumbai. It's beaches are very popular and it is just about 100 km from Mumbai.
The fastest and the cheapest way to reach Alibag from Mumbai is by ferry which is available from Gate Way of India. Air conditioned ferries are also available which is a boon especially during summers.
Fun fact:
The name Alibag means Gardens of Ali which is because earlier a rich man called Ali lived here and owned many plantations of mangoes and coconuts in his gardens. Hence the locals call the place Alibag.
We started our trip with a beautiful sunrise and the seagulls engulfing our ferry. Seagulls are known to be an intelligent species of birds. The birds here stand true to their trait and have developed skills of getting clicked by the travellers and often wait for the tourists to feed them some food. I would suggest you to take the first ferry which is at 7:00 AM as it is less crowded and you will also get to witness a beautiful sunrise.
The Ferry will drop you at Mandwa Jetty after 1 hour. From there you need to take a Bus ride to get to Alibag which will be available in half an hour and included in your ferry ticket. Trust me it’s a long walk from the jetty to the Bus stand so don’t waste time enjoying this view.
After that Bumpy bus ride you will want to freshen up. So check in to one of the best resorts in Alibag- Radisson Blu Resort and Spa. It is a beautiful resort with lots of facilities to offer and an excellent service. Also be ready to bargain with auto drivers to take you from the bus stand to the resort. Be smart and don’t get fooled!
Once you have checked in to your rooms go take a dip in this huge sparkling blue swimming pool. To add to the merriment you can even order drinks by the pool. Soak in the sun and have a relaxed time. Talking of relaxation also reminds me of the spa at the resort that one must indulge in to experience the various massages and therapies.
After the swim, take a nice long walk and explore the resort. While you are at it there are other fun activities you can do around the resort. Play Air Hockey, Carrom Board, try a hand at Snooker or watch a movie in their game room. For lunch savour some healthy cuisines at any of their restaurants before going out for the evening.
Now that you have had a nice sunny relaxed afternoon head out to Alibag beach for even a better evening. Alibag has a number of beaches, and all of them are just a few minutes drive from one another. The most visited beach here is the Alibag beach which offers a spectacular view of not only sunrise and sunset but of the Colaba fort as well.
Don’t just enjoy the view of the Kolaba fort from the beach but you can also take a tour of the fort. For which you will have to take a short boat ride. The boat ride is also seasonal. When the tides are low the water is so back up the beach that you can either walk or take a tonga ride. And if you don’t want to waste all your energy then I suggest you take the tonga ride. Be ready to bargain !
The Colaba fort was once cornerstone of the Maratha empire, and most of the fort is still in good shape. A minimal fee is charged for the entry. The fort has many fresh water tanks, wells and temples. Those visiting Kolaba Fort should remember that it remains open from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm and November to July is the best time to visit the fort.
Hope you had a nice sleep and rested up well. Grab your Breakfast and take a stroll in these beautiful gardens. Take lots of good pictures and enjoy your morning. Check out of the resort and head out for Mandwa Jetty to reach in time for Lunch. Mandwa Jetty has some really pretty cafe’s by the sea side.
Sit by the seaside and enjoy a delicious meal. There are some very nice cafe’s but I personally liked the Flamboyant by boardwalk and the Kiki’s Cafe. Both have a outdoor seating where you can enjoy the view of the sea, feel the breeze and have a good time.
Return to the Jetty and take the ferry back to Gateway of India. On the way back you will be delighted with the beautiful sunset and the view of the gateway of India and the Taj Hotel. You can also see the city which is a pleasant sight to the eyes.
