Nashik, about 165 kilometres north-east of Mumbai, is better known as a Hindu pilgrimage city on the Godavari river, but over the past few decades it has also become the centre of Indian wine. The region’s altitude, sunshine and cool nights suit grapes, and the hills around the city are now dotted with vineyards, tasting rooms and resorts. Sula Vineyards, set on the shores of the Gangapur Dam, was one of the pioneers, and it remains the best known, with a lakeside setting, rows of vines, a modern winery and a restaurant overlooking the water. A day trip from Mumbai gives you the chance to see this unexpected side of India without a long overnight journey. The visit usually includes a tour of the vineyard and winery, an explanation of how Indian grapes are grown and harvested, and a tasting of several wines, often including white and sparkling styles, plus reds. Many visitors find the lakeside terrace and the views across the vines are as much of an attraction as the wine. The day is long, because the journey takes several hours each way by road or train, so the trip is best planned as a full outing with an early start.
How to join
The trip leaves Mumbai early, with travel by road or by train, depending on the option chosen. Confirm the departure time, the transport, the number of tastings included and whether lunch is part of the package. The journey from Mumbai to Nashik takes several hours each way, and the return can be slow if traffic builds, so plan for a late evening. Bring ID if you plan to taste, because India has strict rules on alcohol, and the legal drinking age varies by state. Wear comfortable clothes and sun protection.
What to expect
The vineyard tour is informal and informative, with a guide explaining the grape varieties, the pruning and picking, and the production process. Tastings take place in the tasting room or on a terrace, and the lakeside restaurant offers lunch and views. The best time of year for the vines is the harvest and crush season from roughly February to April, when the winery is at its busiest and visitors can sometimes watch the grapes being processed.
The monsoon brings green landscapes but heavy rain, while summer can be hot. The winery is popular, so weekends and festival periods are crowded.
Making the most of it
This is a relaxed outing for couples, friends and anyone who wants a break from the city, and it pairs well with an interest in food and drink. If you want to stay longer, consider an overnight stay at a vineyard resort and visits to other wineries and the temples of Nashik. Remember that you should not drive after tasting, so the organised transport is a real advantage.
If you do not drink alcohol, check whether juice or non-alcoholic options are offered, and whether the trip still appeals for the scenery and the visit. Always confirm the opening days, the tasting menu and the transport arrangements when you book. Bring a light jacket for the air-conditioned tasting room, a hat for the terrace and a small bag for any bottles you buy, and check the airline rules if you plan to carry wine home.
What to expect
The experience
A long day trip to the Nashik wine region with a vineyard and winery tour, a tasting and a lakeside setting.
Best time
February to April for the harvest and crush, or the cooler months from November to February.
How long
Twelve to fourteen hours including the journey from Mumbai.
Tips
Bring ID, wear comfortable clothes, do not drive after tasting and confirm what the tasting and lunch include.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Wine and food lovers and anyone curious about India’s wine country.
- Families
- Better for adults and older teenagers, because the day is long and centred on tasting.
- Couples
- A relaxed lakeside day with wine and views.
- Pair with
- A night in Nashik or a visit to the city’s temples and ghats.
- Time needed
- A full day, or an overnight stay.
Good questions
How far is Sula Vineyards from Mumbai?+
Nashik is about 165 kilometres from Mumbai, and the journey takes several hours each way by road or train.
What will I taste?+
Usually a flight of several wines, which may include white, sparkling and red. The exact tasting depends on the package, so check before booking.
Is lunch included?+
This varies by option, so confirm when you book. The vineyard has a restaurant overlooking the lake.
When is the best time to visit?+
February to April is harvest and crush season, while November to February offers pleasant weather. The monsoon is green but wet.
Can non-drinkers enjoy the trip?+
Yes, for the scenery and vineyard tour, but check whether non-alcoholic options are available.
