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India.com
3 days ago
- India.com
Epic Monsoon Road Trips Around Mumbai For Rain Lovers And Road Trip Addicts
Sometimes, escape doesn't mean catching a flight. It means starting your car. When the city lights of Mumbai start to flicker under monsoon skies or summer heat, something stirs in every Mumbaikar's heart. A soft tug. A reminder. That just beyond the traffic and towers lie roads that twist into freedom. Most weekends, people flock to Lonavala or Matheran. But what if we told you the best getaways are not the obvious ones They are the detours The turnoffs that promise green hills waterfalls hidden forts and cups of chai on a roadside that has no name These are the drives where the journey matters more than the destination. Where rain on your windshield or wind in your hair becomes the soundtrack of freedom. So fuel up pack light and let's leave the city behind. Why Road Trips from Mumbai Feel Different It's not just the road. It's the contrast. Mumbai is a city that never sleeps. But the Western Ghats do. They sleep they dream they breathe. And they welcome you back every single time. When you drive out of Mumbai the city's hum fades behind you replaced by the scent of wet earth old trees and petrol mixed with monsoon mist. These roads don't rush you. They remind you to pause. To stare at cloud covered valleys. To buy corn on the cob from a roadside vendor. To stop for a vada pav that tastes better just because you're eating it in the rain. The best part No flight tickets. No luggage drama. No itinerary stress. Just open roads and an open mind. Forget Lonavala. These Routes Are Waiting for Your Wheels 1. Mumbai to Mulshi – Where the Lake Mirrors the Sky Not as famous as its crowded cousins Mulshi remains an underrated gem. A few hours' drive past Pune you'll hit winding roads that snake along dense forests and open up to a vast calm lake. During monsoon waterfalls spill over cliffs like secret whispers. Stop at roadside dhabas for piping hot misal pav. Find a spot by the lake and watch clouds dissolve into the water. No fancy resort needed. Just you a thermos of chai and endless reflections. 2. Mumbai to Bhandardara – The Hidden Gem of the Sahyadris Take a break from beach towns and head towards mountain mist. Bhandardara is about 165 kilometers from Mumbai but every kilometer feels like therapy. The drive takes you through rural roads village markets and finally to Arthur Lake which looks like a painting especially in monsoon. The Wilson Dam roars with life while Randha Falls is at its fullest. Bring your camera or better yet just stand there and feel the spray on your face. Pitch a tent by the lake or check into a simple homestay. Here luxury is measured in raindrops and silence. 3. Mumbai to Dapoli – The Coastal Detour Long drive lovers here's your escape route. About 230 kilometers away Dapoli is where the Konkan coast shows off its hidden side. The road sways between green hills and sudden glimpses of the Arabian Sea. Stop at Harnai Port for fresh fish or just stroll along uncrowded beaches like Murud and Ladghar. Seafood thalis coconut water and the salty wind remind you why roads are sometimes better than runways. 4. Mumbai to Malshej Ghat – The Misty Mountain Pass If you crave waterfalls cliff views and a dash of adventure point your wheels to Malshej Ghat. About 130 kilometers from Mumbai this mountain pass is a monsoon magnet. Waterfalls spill right onto the road. Clouds roll over your car like soft blankets. Keep your windows down feel the mist and watch flamingos gather near Pimpalgaon Joga Dam. Early morning drives are magic here. Fewer cars more birds. More quiet. Bring a raincoat. Forget an umbrella. This place teaches you to stand in the rain and smile. 5. Mumbai to Karnala – The Tiny Trek with a Big View Not every road trip needs hours behind the wheel. Just 50 kilometers away Karnala Fort and Bird Sanctuary offer an easy escape for a day. The drive takes less than two hours but drops you into a world of green trails and old stones. Hike up to the fort watch hill views get lost in bird calls. The monsoon covers the old ramparts in moss. Nature rewrites history in green ink. Carry snacks. Leave behind plastic. Take away only memories and muddy shoes. Why Hit the Road Instead of the Runway Road trips don't ask you to plan months in advance. They ask you to trust the weather trust your playlist and trust that sometimes the best plans are the ones you can change mid way. When you drive out of Mumbai you spend more time watching the landscape shift than waiting at an airport lounge. You discover roadside stalls that serve chai that tastes better than any café in the city. You connect with the people who run tiny homestays sell wildflowers or wave at you from bullock carts. And when you return you don't just bring back photos. You bring back stories you can tell on another rainy day. Practical Tips – How to Road Trip Like a Local Keep your fuel tank happy. Petrol pumps can be far apart in the Ghats. Carry cash. Small villages may not have card machines. Download offline maps. Signal drops are part of the adventure. Start early. The roads belong to you before the sun climbs too high. Keep snacks handy. Banana chips chikki bhutta. The classics. The Hidden Economy of Road Trips This isn't just about finding new places. It's about sustaining them. When you spend on local food stalls or stay at family run lodges you put money where it matters. You keep small towns alive you help families send kids to school you show that beauty has value beyond Instagram likes. You also help spread the tourist load. Lonavala gets crowded for a reason. But when you choose Bhandardara or Mulshi you give lesser known places a chance to thrive. Your wheels your wallet and your choices shape the future of these fragile escapes. So What's Stopping You A little rain A rough patch of road A missed turn That's exactly the point. These trips aren't perfect. They're alive. Somewhere beyond Mumbai's skyline a small chai stall waits for you to park under its tin roof. A dog sleeps by the roadside. A waterfall roars to no audience. And someone maybe you is ready to witness it all. Not for a selfie. Not for a post. But for the quiet thrill of knowing you found a piece of the world that feels yours for a moment. So next weekend don't stay in. Let your car's tyres trace a new story. Because escape doesn't always need a plane. Sometimes all you need is four wheels and a sky that refuses to stay dry. Final Thought Don't just live in Mumbai. Drive out of it. When the city gets too loud roll down your windows. The road is always waiting. And the road knows all your secrets.
NDTV
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- NDTV
Wonder Why Its Called a Frankie? The Delicious Backstory Of Mumbais Iconic Roll
Ask any Mumbaikar about their favourite roll, and chances are you will hear one name again and again - Tibbs Frankie. From bustling railway stations like Dadar and Churchgate to hangout hubs like Bandra and Colaba, these compact kiosks are everywhere. Soft, chewy parathas stuffed with spicy, tangy fillings, each bite of a Frankie is packed with flavour. Locals love it, celebrities swear by it, and for many, it is a nostalgic snack that never goes out of style. But have you ever wondered where did it get the name from? The Mystery Behind The Name: Believe it or not, these mouthwatering rolls did not have a name at first. The story goes back to 1967, when founder Amarjit Singh was watching a historic India vs West Indies cricket match. As former West Indies captain Sir Frank Worrell hit a sixer, the crowd erupted, chanting "Frankie!" Inspired by the moment, Singh decided to name his creation after that cheer, hoping his rolls would one day be celebrated with the same enthusiasm. And just like that, the Frankie was born. Also Read: 6 Easy Mumbai Street Food Recipes That You Must Try How It All Began: The Origin Of Frankie In Mumbai If reports are to be believed, the idea for Tibbs Frankie took shape when Amarjit Singh was returning to India via Beirut and tasted soft, pillowy pita bread. Intrigued, he began experimenting with Indian flavours and textures alongside his wife and co-founder, Surinder Kaur Tibb. After three years of trials, they introduced a roll that combined juicy Indian gravies, fresh veggies, and their signature masalas, all wrapped in a roti. Their first offering? A mutton curry roll sold from the backseat of their car near Powai Lake. And as obvious, it was an instant hit. Also Read: From Chicken Kathi Roll To Keema Roll: 7 Delectable Chicken Roll Recipes Why Frankie Works And How Is It Different From Kolkata Roll: There is a reason Frankie has stood the test of time. It is customisable, portable, and deeply satisfying. The paratha is soft yet sturdy, the filling is spicy and comforting, and the extras - onions, chutneys, sauces - add layers of flavour. It is the kind of snack that feels indulgent without being over the top. Unlike Kolkata rolls that use flaky egg parathas or lean heavily on tandoori fillings, Mumbai's Frankie has its own identity. It is less about tradition and more about taste. And that is what makes it so versatile. Today, you will find Frankies stuffed with everything from schezwan noodles to cheese-loaded mushrooms. But the original Tibbs-style Frankie still holds its ground, especially among loyalists who swear by the classic chicken or mutton versions. Also Read: Love Tandoori Veggies? You've Got To Try This Easy To Make Kathi Roll ASAP Evolution Of The Menu: From Mutton Rolls To Modern Mashups Frankie may have started with a simple mutton curry wrapped in a roti, but over the decades, its menu has grown into a vibrant tapestry of flavours that reflect changing tastes, dietary preferences, and regional influences. 1. The Classics: The original Mutton Frankie remains a fan favourite, slow-cooked meat in a rich, spiced gravy, wrapped in a buttery roti. Chicken Tikka Frankie and Egg Frankie soon followed, offering hearty, protein-packed options for meat lovers and eggetarians alike. 2. Vegetarian Delights: As vegetarianism gained popularity, the Classic Veg Frankie, a spiced aloo patty with onions and chutneys, came into being. Tawa Paneer Frankie and Chilly Paneer Frankie added North Indian and Indo-Chinese flair to the veg lineup. 3. Fusion And Regional Twists: Responding to local palates, Frankie found its fusion flavours like Schezwan Chicken, Chettinad Chicken, and Bhuna Gosht Frankie, blending street food with regional spice profiles. The Chipotle Veg Frankie and Cheesy Jalapeno Frankie cater to globalised tastes and Gen Z cravings. How To Make Frankie-Style Rolls At Home: Chicken Frankie Recipe: Step 1: Prepare the dough: Knead maida with salt, oil, and water into a soft, sticky dough. Rest it with a layer of oil on top. Step 2: Marinate the chicken: Mix boneless chicken with vinegar, salt, ginger garlic paste, red chilli and black pepper. Let it marinate for 15-30 minutes. Step 3. Cook the filling: Saute onions and ginger garlic paste, add dry spices, then cook the marinated chicken till tender. Finish with garam masala and vinegar. Step 4. Make the chutney and vinegar chillies: Blend coriander, mint, ginger, green chilli and salt for chutney. Soak chopped green chillies in vinegar and set aside. Step 5. Assemble the Frankie: Roll and cook thin rotis, top with beaten egg, then fill with chicken, onions, chutney, and vinegar chillies. Roll in foil and serve hot. For a detailed recipe of Frankie-style chicken roll, click here. The Bottom Line: From a cricket cheer to a culinary icon, the journey of Frankie is as flavourful as the roll itself. What began as a roadside experiment has grown into a beloved snack that continues to evolve with every generation. Whether you are loyal to the original Tibbs mutton roll or curious about the latest fusion twist, Frankie remains a delicious reminder of Mumbai's street food spirit, which is bold, inventive, and always ready to surprise. Advertisement About Somdatta Saha Explorer- this is what Somdatta likes to call herself. Be it in terms of food, people or places, all she craves for is to know the unknown. A simple aglio olio pasta or daal-chawal and a good movie can make her day. For the latest food news, health tips and recipes, like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter and YouTube. Tags: Tibbs Frankie History Of Frankie Roll Tibbs Frankie Menu Show full article Comments
Time of India
3 days ago
- Time of India
Mumbaikars enjoy monsoon treks
Monsoon trekking near Mumbai has surged in popularity, transforming from a niche activity to a mainstream passion. Trekkers are drawn to the Western Ghats' scenic beauty during the rainy season. While many new, untrained groups have emerged, experts emphasize safety and proper gear. Seasoned hikers are exploring offbeat trails, and eco-conscious trekking is gaining traction. Monsoon has always been synonymous with treks. But what had begun as a niche pursuit for seasoned mountain climbers and fitness enthusiasts, has now evolved into mainstream passion for many. With its pretty waterfalls and misty trails, monsoon trekking has become Mumbaikar's unofficial rejuvenation ritual. It is this rebellion against routine, of nature-hungry urbanites, that has led to a marked rise in monsoon treks. Whether you're scrambling up mossy forts or splashing through streams, these getaways are all about ditching the city's chaos for nature's drama. 'Treks during rainy season were always popular but now there's been a steady rise' The western ghats are at the best during July and August and its the ideal time to connect with nature. Vinay Gupta from Adventure Geek Trekking says, 'The rainy season has this special feeling of relaxation, there is greenery all around and we have the most scenic views, right from mountains to rivers to waterfalls which make treks more enticing.' Suraj Parab from Sahyardri Rangers adds, 'We have the most active trek groups during this time. One can enjoy trekking all year, but we've seen a steady rise of trekkers during monsoon.' You Can Also Check: Mumbai AQI | Weather in Mumbai | Bank Holidays in Mumbai | Public Holidays in Mumbai 'Treks should be done only when supervised by trained experts' Utkarsh Arora of Urban Trekkers says, 'There are a few registered, trained trek leaders and certified trek companies, and sadly, there are hundreds of random unqualified trek organisers. They market it all very well, slash prices, and hence their quality, safety, and everything else gets compromised. We stick to quality standards, ensure there is no overcrowding, keep safety a priority.' Suraj adds, "These days, many people are venturing out on treks alone, which isn't safe unless you are a pro. Treks should ideally be done under the supervision of trained experts. These days anyone is forming a group and taking people on treks at very low prices. The problem is that people don't check the background or safety measures of these groups. Then when an accident happens, the authorities are forced to shut down the spot completely, which affects everyone, including responsible and experienced groups.' 'Serious hikers have shifted towards offbeat trails' Harsh Mandavia, an avid trekker says, 'One clear trend among serious hikers this year is a shift towards offbeat trails, hidden gems that aren't yet overrun by crowds. I went on two such treks this month. One was a short hike to a secluded waterfall deep in a village forest. We were guided by a local, walked over rocky forest paths, and finally reached a stunning waterfall. We even got to swim and cross from one side to the other holding onto a rope, it was cold, thrilling, and deeply refreshing. The second was a trek called Steps to Paradise, a two-hour uphill climb in constant rain and chilling wind. The trail was lush and slippery with rocky patches, and at the top, we discovered a historic fort and the tombstones of Maratha soldiers.' 'Eco conscious trek is the new cool' Most trek organisers are pushing for clean treks and their leave-no-trace principles, zero-plastic policies and education on local biodiversity are trending amongst young trekkers. 'Bring-your-trash-back while departing from the trek or adventures places, is something that is key for all treks I attend. One has to keep in mind that the next day someone else will go and they too deserve a clean place. Plus, these areas are habitats of wild animals and need to be kept the way nature meant it to be,' says Dharmesh Barai, a trek enthusiast, and eco-warrior who works on conserving mangroves, wetland eco systems. 'There are multiple options of trek dates' Trekkers have a wide range of options to choose from and that is what makes monsoon treks popular. 'We organize around 50-80 weekend treks from June to September. Apart from this there are also one-day treks to nearby forts and mountains, that is in demand,' says Vinay. Suraj adds, 'We have three to four groups of trekkers every weekend during peak monsoon (July–August).' 'Treks are for all ages' There are groups of like-minded trekkers where strangers turned into companions. Samiksha Shetty who works in a media studio says, 'I have a group of friends now who are my trek buddies apart from being office colleagues. We try to go at least for two or three treks during monsoons.' There are weekend groups, office groups and some women-only treks too that find a shared connection in every trail. Vinay adds, 'There are also some treks for kids from age 3-5 with parents' supervision and some with 50+ trekkers with good health. ' 'Awareness around the importance of the right gear is crucial' Avid trekkers say that people show up for treks completely unprepared and that a small mistake in the mountains can lead to serious consequences. 'I've seen first-time trekkers, driven by social media trends and reel culture, turn up in hiking in jeans, casual clothes, and regular sneakers, unaware how risky that can be, especially during the monsoon. The Sahyadris are beautiful but can be dangerously slippery. I've seen people slip and injure themselves on wet rocks. A proper trekking shoe is the bare minimum. It's not about looking 'pro,' it's about safety. Awareness around the importance of the right gear is crucial,' warns Harsh. 'Trekking is an adventure sport, accidents happen' There are some treks that are challenging, especially for newbies. 'So, we have our trail marked with danger patches and easy ones. When there are danger patches, all the trekkers get together, support each other. We tie ropes and follow all safety measures. The coordination among the trekkers, if it's done well, everything goes well. Despite that, accidents do happen once in a while. After all it's an adventurous sport to be honest. Luckily, it hasn't happened to us yet!' says Utkarsh. Harsh signs off, 'Once we got lost mid-hike and it took us two nerve-wracking hours to finally reach base village. This taught us how vulnerable we are in the wild without internet, navigation, or proper guidance.' 'We like eating local food' 'Majority of trek companies arrange for local food at the base village. And we do this because it provides a good source of income for the locals. After a hike one needs a fresh meal and this is the best option,' says Utkarsh. TOP MONSOON TREKS NEAR MUMBAI: Sondai Fort, Near Karjat Trek Type: Easy to Moderate Highlights: Iron ladders, village views, hidden water tanks, foggy surroundings Best For: Beginners and quick day hikes with 10/10 Instagram potential Kalavantin Durg, Near Panvel (Base: Thakurwadi) Trek Type: Difficult Highlights: Steep rock-cut steps, vertical thrill, views of Prabalgad & Matheran Best For: Daredevils and adrenaline junkies (not for the faint of heart!) Tikona Fort, Near Pawna Lake Trek Type: Easy Highlights: Triangular hill, Pawna dam views, steep final ascent Best For: Beginners, weekend warriors, couples on a scenic mission Devkund Waterfall Trek, Near Bhira (Raigad District) Trek Type: Moderate Highlights: Hidden plunge waterfall, jungle trail, river crossings Best For: Waterfall chasers and anyone who wants that one perfect monsoon reel Naneghat Reverse Waterfall Trek, Junnar (Ghatghar base) Trek Type: Moderate Highlights: Historical trade route, wind-blown 'reverse' waterfall, misty ghats Best For: Wind lovers, history geeks, and rain-soaked romantics Kalu Waterfall Trek, Malshej Ghat region Trek Type: Moderate to Difficult Highlights: One of the tallest waterfalls near Mumbai, ridge walks, roaring water views Best For: Waterfall fans who want an offbeat, less crowded trail Rajmachi Fort Trek, Near Lonavala/Khandala Trek Type: Easy to Moderate Highlights: Twin forts (Shrivardhan & Manaranjan), lush forest trail, waterfalls Best For: Beginners and night trekkers Kalsubai Peak, Igatpuri (3–4 hrs from Mumbai) Trek Type: Moderate to Difficult Highlights: Highest peak in Maharashtra (5,400 ft), iron ladders, panoramic views Best For: A rewarding challenge with epic views Lohagad Fort, Near Lonavala Trek Type: Easy Highlights: Long fortified walls, "Scorpion Tail" ridge, mist-covered staircases Best For: Beginners, family treks Visapur Fort, Near Lohagad Fort, Lonavala Trek Type: Moderate Highlights: Waterfall-strewn path, wide fort ruins, views of Lohagad Best For: Those wanting a slightly more adventurous alternative to Lohagad Peb Fort (Vikatgad), Near Neral (Matheran range) Trek Type: Moderate Highlights: Caves, ladders, rock patches, views of Panorama Point Best For: Adventure lovers, small group hikes Garbett Plateau, Matheran Trek Type: Moderate (Long hike) Highlights: Vast green plateau, waterfalls, panoramic valley views Best For: Photographers, landscape lovers
Mint
4 days ago
- General
- Mint
Mumbaikar in Bengaluru shares survival hack: ‘Came with a lot of caution, but what I got was…'
'I came in with a lot of caution,' a Mumbaikar living in Karnataka's Bengaluru for the past 5 years said he was 'welcomed' to the city and has 'barely faced any issues' in these years, unlike the common chatter about hostility on social media. In a now-viral Reddit post, the man busted the common beliefs about moving to Bengaluru and shared a rather simple survival hack to win over the locals. The Mumbaikar said, 'I'm originally from Mumbai, born and brought up in a Maharashtrian household. About five years ago, I moved to Bengaluru for work, and I'll be honest, I came in with a lot of caution.' The man said, before shifting, he kept hearing the usual: 'Bengaluru traffic will drive you mad.' 'Autos and cab guys are a nightmare.' 'Locals don't like outsiders, especially if you don't speak Kannada.' However, to his surprise, the Mumbaikar said his actual experience has been the 'complete opposite'. 'Whether I've driven my own car or taken autos and cabs, I've barely faced any issues. People have been respectful, fair, and often more helpful than I expected. I was prepared for hostility, but what I got was patience,' he wrote. The Mumbaikar said his 'effort' to learn basic Kannada made the 'biggest difference'. 'What made the biggest difference, I think, is effort. I started learning Kannada just basic stuff, greetings, directions, small talk. Even when I mess it up, people appreciate it,' he said. 'They smile, they help, and they correct me kindly. It's made me feel included, not alien,' he added. This comes at a time when much hostility toward outsiders is being reported from Bengaluru for not knowing Kannada. 'This city feels like it mirrors what you bring to it. I never acted like a tourist or outsider, I just tried to belong, and Bengaluru met me halfway,' the man said. The Mumbaikar also noted that others may have had different experiences. 'But personally, I've felt nothing but welcome. It makes me wonder: Is it possible that the city treats you how you treat the city?' he asked. Netizens welcomed the post, saying that Bangalore does meet people halfway. 'The hostility part is blown out of proportion. The ones creating such situations are an extremely small minority. Most people here are well natured and treat everyone well,' a social media user said. Another added, 'Never faced any problems with people here in Bangalore.' 'The sentiment that Bangalore people have met them halfway is objectively true IMO,' said a user. 'The kind of entitlement I've seen some Hindi speakers have like 'No, I will only speak Hindi' has just not been there before with locals. Even people who only know Kannada make efforts to speak English and even Hindi,' the user added. However, a few skeptical users asked, '5 years in Bangalore and you have never faced any issues with traffic?'
News18
14-07-2025
- Sport
- News18
Shubman Gill To Replace Rohit Sharma As India's ODI Captain?
Shubman Gill's success as Test captain has sparked speculation about him replacing Rohit Sharma as India's ODI skipper, possibly leading in the 2027 World Cup and upcoming ODIs. Shubman Gill's success as Test captain has got fans buzzing about his prospects as an ODI skipper for India. A couple of journalists posta speculating about the 25-year-old possibly replacing Rohit Sharma at the helm has made the duo trend on platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram since Thursday (July 10). According to Sports Tak, Gill will captain India at the 2027 World Cup and will take over in the foreseeable future, but how long Rohit can maintain his place is unclear. Other reports claim that Gill will lead India the next time they play ODIs, which, as of now, will be in October when they visit Australia for a three-match series. This speculation is heating up now, but began as early as December 2024 when Rohit dropped himself from the fifth Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. As it turned out, it was his last act as India's Test captain. He went on to lead the team to the 2025 Champions Trophy and maintained his willingness to play ODI and Tests for India (he retired from T20Is after winning the 2024 T20 World Cup). However, before the squad for the England Tests was going to be announced, reports came in claiming that the BCCI selectors had decided to remove Rohit from Test captaincy. The senior star announced his retirement from the format soon after. It is said that the Mumbaikar is trying to remain fit for the 2027 World Cup, which will take place in South Africa, to try and overturn the heartbreak of the 2023 edition, where India lost in the final in Ahmedabad. His long-time teammate, Virat Kohli, also retired from Tests and T20Is, and has also said he's aiming for the same. However, their international comeback has been delayed because India's tour of Bangladesh, set for August, has been suspended. There are rumors that the BCCI might arrange a tour of Sri Lanka in the window but that remains to be seen. Gill established himself in ODIs before Tests, with brilliant runs in 2023 and 2024 as an opener. His captaincy in England has been impressive, full of good tactical decisions and open communication with teammates. The other option often touted for ODI captaincy is Shreyas Iyer, who is also cemented at number four and considered one of India's best white-ball captains due to his IPL success. view comments Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
