Mumbaikar's thoughts hover a lot! It is a matter of fact that sometimes the entertainment industry of Mumbai is the hype and sometimes the best hill stations near Mumbai are the talk of the town! And why would it not be? The entertainment city has dozens of rejuvenating hill stations within 100 to 500 kilometers.
From the calm valleys of Igatpuri to the misty mornings of Mahabaleshwar, all the best hill stations in Maharashtra have every element of nature that’ll leave you mesmerized, and may turn you into a part-time poet.
If you want to reconnect with yourself away from the hustle and bustle of Mumbai, bookmark these gorgeous hill stations near Mumbai that are just a short ride away for the upcoming long weekend in August! These places will make sure that your holiday relaxes you in time for you to get back to your lifestyle.
1. Lonavala: Explore The Scenic Beauty!
With many waterfalls, caves, trekking and hiking points, Lonavla hill station is among the most celebrated hill stations near Mumbai. And being a part of Sahyadri mountains, it offers some magnificent vistas!
How to reach: Nearest Airport- Lohegaon Airport, Pune; Mumbai to Lonavala- 84 kms (approx)
Best time to visit: Throughout the year
Places to stay: Whispering Wood Resort, Amanzi Resort, Hilton Shillim Estate Retreat and Spa, Meritas Adore Resort, Hotel Ferreira Resort, The Dukes Retreat, Eko Stay.
Places to visit: Bhushi Dam, Pawna Dam, Tungarli Lake, Kune Waterfall, Lohagad Fort, Bhaja Caves
Ideal duration: 1-2 days
2. Matheran: A Serene Hill Station!
Matheran hill station is one of the most scenic and serene hill stations near Mumbai with the backdrop of plush green Sahyadri hills. This is the only eco-friendly hill station in Maharashtra, certified by Ministry of Environment and Forests and the only automobile-free hill station in India!
How to reach: Mumbai to Matheran - 83 kms (approx)
Best time to visit: Throughout the year
Places to stay: Horseland Resort & Mountain Spa, Brightlands Resort, Misty Matheran Resorts
Places to visit: Echo Point, Louisa Point, Panorama Point
Ideal duration: 2-3 days
3. Igatpuri: A Beautiful Weekend Getaway!
Famous as a weekend getaway from Mumbai and Pune, Igatpuri has the largest Vipassana meditation academy and offers immense natural beauty and solitude to your mind and soul. The pleasant climate, breathtaking valleys, sparkling waterfalls, and vintage forts have made Igatpuri one of the best hill stations in Maharashtra!
How to reach: Nearest airport is in Mumbai. Mumbai to Igatpuri- 120 kms(approx.)
Best time to visit: July-September
Places to stay: The Herb Farm, V2- Vue’ Villa, Nature’s Dreamland, Nature Leap Resort, Takshashila’s Educational Resort
Places to visit: Dhamma Giri Vipassana, Igatpuri water sports & camping, Myanmar Gate, Vihigaon Falls
Ideal duration: 2-3 days
4. Mahabaleshwar: The Most Gorgeous Hill Station!
Counted as the best hill stations in Maharashtra, the intoxicating aromas of strawberries and misty mornings allure tourists from Pune, Mumbai, and other nearby cities. It’s among the most gorgeous hill stations, for those who want to experience the romantic monsoon and winter of Mahabaleshwar. Also a photographer’s paradise!
How to reach: Nearest airport is in Pune (120 kms away); Nearest railhead is in Wathar (60 kms away); Mumbai to Mahabaleshwar- 264 kms (approx)
Best time to visit: December – February
Places to stay: Le Méridien Mahabaleshwar Resort & Spa, Evershine Keys Resort, Club Mahindra Sherwood, Rockford Resort, Radhey Agro Resort
Places to visit: Venna Lake, Mini Kashmir, Lord Mahabaleshwar Temple, Arthur’s Seat, Elephant’s Head Point
Ideal duration: 3-4 days
5. Khandala: Take A Stroll To Lush Green Forests!
The picturesque Khandala is one of the cleanest and romantic hill stations near Kolhapur. Located very close to Lonavala, it is known for lush green forests, misty mountains, sparkling waterfalls and wonderful views. With majestic hill forts and hill caves, enchanting view points, and trekking paths, it is a perfect abode for adventure enthusiasts as well as lovebirds!
How to reach: Nearest airport is in Pune (66 kms away); Nearest railhead is in Lonavala city; Mumbai to Khandala- 80 kms (approx)
Best time to visit: Throughout the year
Places to stay: Dukes Retreat, Della Resorts, D.A.T.A Resort, Villa 41, Leela’s Cottage, SaffronStays Constellations
Places to visit: Kune Falls, Della Adventure Park, Bhor Ghat, Rajmachi Fort, Rajmachi Garden, Lion's Point, Pavana Lake
Ideal duration: 2-3 days
6. Panchgani: The Land Of Five Hills!
Panchgani- "The land of five hills", located approximately 100 kms from Pune, is one of the best hill stations in Maharashtra, which allures visitors because of its pristine beauty, dense forests, and the best views of Sahyadri! This place is also known to be a traveler-rated Maharashtra hill station.
How to reach: Nearest airport and railhead is in Pune; Mumbai to Panchgani- 245 kms (approx)
Best time to visit: September -May
Places to stay: Bella Vista Resort, Hotel Mount Castle, Hira Baug Resort, Hotel Malas, Swarnam villa and rhytham vila, Hotel Valley Nest, Trinity House
Places to visit: Mapro Garden, Kaas Plateau, Table Land, Bhilar and Lingmala waterfalls
Ideal duration: 3-4 days
7. Jawhar: Feel The Natural Splendour!
Jawhar is one of the most offbeat and best hill stations in Maharashtra, located in Thane region. Surrounded by cascading waterfalls and luxuriant hill, Jawhar is among the perfect monsoon getaways near Pune and Mumbai, and is also famous for ages old and mesmerizing tribal art known as Warli paintings!
How to reach: Nearest railhead is in Igatpuri; Mumbai to Jawahar- 141 kms (approx)
Best time to visit: September-April
Places to stay: Magpie Tourist Resort, Jawahar Resort, Symphony Lakeview Resort, Dabhosa Waterfall Resort, Sajan Nature Club, Serene Nook Villa
Places to visit: Dabhosa Falls, Jai Vilas Palace, Hanuman Point, Jai Sagar Dam, Jawhar Fort, Kalmandavi Waterfall
Ideal duration: 2-3 days
8. Koroli: Experience The Gorgeous Valleys!
Nestled in nature’s lap, Koroli is another un-explored hill stations in Maharashtra. Once you are here, enjoy the beauty of gorgeous valleys, lush green fields, amazing weather and enchanting quietude! Koroli is a heaven for hikers, trekkers, nature lovers, and photography enthusiasts. This place is also dotted by some of the most astounding villas in Maharashtra!
How to reach: Nearest airport is in Nashik; Nearest railhead is in Igatpuri; Mumbai to Koroli- 160 kms (approx)
Best time to visit: October-February
Places to stay: Bimal Farm Home Stay, JenJon Lake Vaitara Resort, Hotel Shiva’s Inn, Spandan Holiday Home Resort
Places to visit: Anjaneri, Upper Vaitarana Dam, Upper Vaitarana Reservoir, Talegaon Kachurli
Ideal duration: 1-2 days
9. Sawantwadi: A Peaceful Getaway!
Tucked between Sahyadri hills on one side and coastal road on the other, Sawantwadi is known for peaceful environs, serene lakes, vintage temples, plush green forests, and sumptuous authentic Konkani food! This is for those in search for a tranquil place filled with natural wonders.
How to reach: Nearest airport is at Dabolim, ; Nearest railhead is at Sawantwadi road; Mumbai to Sawantwadi- 537 kms (approx)
Best time to visit: September-March
Places to stay: Konkan Crown Resort & Club, Green Grass Resort, Happiness FarmStay and Foodforest, Amboli Hill Resort, Kay’s
Places to visit: Moti Talao, Sawantwadi Palace, Moti Lake, Atmeshwar Tali
Ideal duration: 2-3 days
10. Malshej Ghat: A Perfect Place For All Nature Enthusiasts!
Idyllic for adventure buffs and nature enthusiasts, Malshej Ghat is one of the best hill stations in Maharashtra. Situated 85 kms from Kalyan, Malshej Ghat has won the hearts of all kinds of travellers with its natural marvels and architectural wonders! From numerous waterfalls and spectacular dams to hill forts and some of the most famous age old temples in Maharashtra, it has everything one can ask for.
How to reach: Nearest airport is in Pune (154 kms away); Nearest railhead is at Kalyan; Mumbai to Malshej Ghat: 126 kms (approx)
Best time to visit: July-March
Places to stay: Savana Lake Resort, The Lagoona Resort, Shivneri Fort Valley Resort, Jandyal Farm House, Saj, Hotel Girija, Hotel Swad Nisarg
Places to visit: Harishchandragad Fort, Ajoba Hill Fort, Malshej Waterfalls, Pimpalgaon Joga Dam
Ideal duration: 2-3 days
11. Amboli: Get The Soothing Vibes Of Hills!
One of the most serene hill stations of Maharashtra, Amboli is known for its soothing vibes having a pleasant weather all throughout the year. Probably this why this place is considered as a famous for honeymoon destinations near Mumbai! It is the last hill station before the border of Goa starts and is supposedly a less explored place. So, if you’re in luck, you won’t find many people at this place and you can go touring all by yourself in this gorgeous land!
How to reach: Nearest airport is in Goa; Mumbai to Amboli- 490 kms (approx)
Best time to visit: June-September
Places to stay: Dark Forest Retreat, Garawa Resort, Vamoose Sailee, Vamoose Green Valley, Amboli Hill Resort
Places to visit: Amboli Ghat Waterfall, Amboli Sunset Point, Mahadev Gad, Shirgaonkar Point
Ideal duration: 1-2 days
12. Bhandardara: Get A Magistic Views Of Mountains!
An easy access via road makes it the perfect spot for a relaxing weekend getaway from Mumbai as it is only 117 Kms away from the city. With lush green forests sided with plenty of beautiful waterfalls and shielded by majestic mountains, you’re surely missing out on something if you haven’t been to this place yet. What’s more is that you can check out plenty of couple attractions in one of the most charming hill stations of Maharashtra.
How to reach: Nearest airport is in Pune; nearest railhead is Igatpuri; Mumbai to Igatpuri- 165 kms (approx)
Best time to visit: June-March
Places to stay: Anandvan Resort, Savana Resorts, Shagun Resort, Bhandardara Camping, Campingworld, Bhakti Nivas, Samadhan Resort
Places to visit: Arthur Hill Lake, Umbrella Fall, Amruteshwar Temple, Kalsubai Peak, Harishchandragad Fort, Sandhan Valley, Wilson Dam
Ideal duration: 2-3 days
13. Rajmachi: A Perfect Break From Bustling City Life!
Rajmachi is a quaint village located in the glorious mountain range of Sahyadri, that has mesmerizing greenery all around which will leave you spellbound! Don’t forget to try the trekking route in one of the most serene hill stations in Maharashtra.
How to reach: Nearest airport is in Pune; nearest railhead is from Pune-Lonavala-Udhewadi route; Mumbai to Rajmachi- 312 kms (approx)
Best time to visit: June-September
Places to stay: Lotus Lodging, The Fern Residency Karad, Hotel Pankaj Executive, Sapphire Premium Hotel & Suite, Matoshree Apartments
Places to visit: Sadashivgad Karad, Shrivardan Fort, Krishna Koyna, Pritisangam
Ideal duration: 3-4 days
14. Karjat: A Well-Known Place For Trekkers!
Being one of the most calming hill stations of Maharashtra, Karjat is the last stop of Thane district and is also one of the remote villages that is yet to be explored by many travellers. Though this place is slightly popular amongst trekkers, this place is perfect for a reviving escapade from your daily routine.
How to reach: Nearest airport is in Mumbai; nearest railhead is in Karjat; Mumbai to Karjat- 63 kms (approx)
Best time to visit: June-September
Places to stay: Tripvillas Sparsh Resort Chalets, The Leela’s Resort, The Forest Club Resort, SaffronStays One Tree Farm, SaffronStays Opal and Jade,
Places to visit: Sondai Fort, Kondana Caves, Ulhas Valley, Dhapaya Mandir, Sai Baba Temple, Morbe Dam
Ideal duration: 2-3 days
15. Saputara: Indulge In The Lush Green Western Ghat Views!
Be it on family vacations, honeymoon tours, or an outing with your gangs of wanderers, liveliness, and fun cease to bound you in Saputara. Snuggled in the Sahyadri Range of the Western Ghats, Saputara is located in the Dang district of Gujarat, near the Mumbai border. If you are itching to explore the Western Ghat’s wildlife, Saputara got you covered with more than one thing- waterfalls, thrilling treks to climb, and plenty of adventure sports to indulge in.
How to reach: Nearest airport is in Nashik; nearest railhead is Waghai railway station at Billimora; Mumbai to Saputara- 246 kms (approx)
Best time to visit: Throughout the year
Places to stay: Shilpi Hill Resort, Savshanti Hill Resort, Aakar Lords Inn Resort
Places to visit: Artist Village, Hatgad Fort, Saputara Lake
Also Read: Hatgad Fort Trek Thrilling Experience!
Ideal duration: 2-3 days
16. Chikhaldara: Discover The Excellent Wildlife!
Located in Amravati, Chikhaldara is one of the best hill stations in Maharashtra that offers majestic views and excellent wildlife! Chikhaldara is the only place in the region that produces coffee making it famous amongst coffee lovers. The magnificent view of the hills coupled with the glory of the Semadoh lake is the highlight of this place.
How to reach: Nearest airport is in Nagpur; nearest railhead is in Amravati; Mumbai to Chikhaldara- 702 km (approx)
Best time to visit: July-February
Places to stay: Amruta Homestays, BTP Inn, Hotel Harshawardhan, Hotel Shiv Mahima, Hotel Vedanta
Places to visit: Gawilgad Fort, Mozari Point, Shakkar Lake, Gawilgad mountain
Ideal duration: 1-2 days
17. Panhala: The Magnificent Waterfall!
Panhala is a beautiful place that comes alive during the monsoon season making it one of the best places to visit in monsoon in Maharashtra! The highlight of the place is the Panhala Fort and the magnificent waterfall. The fort still houses the temple that was installed by King Shivaji which speaks of nothing but the achievements of the King.
How to reach: Nearest airport is in Mumbai; nearest railhead is in Kolhapur; Mumbai to Panhala- 373 kms (approx)
Best time to visit: October-December
Places to stay: Serenity Resort Panhala, Radhanand Holiday Home, Magadh, Studio Villas, Panhala Guest House
Places to visit: Panhala Fort, Sajja Kothi, Teen Darwaja, Shree Jotiba Devasthan
Ideal duration: 3-4 days
18. Durshet: An Archaeological Marvel!
Durshet, now one of the most beautiful hill stations of Maharashtra, in the 1600s was a battlefield for Shivaji Maharaj! The hill station is an archaeological marvel and now entices a large number of tourists throughout the year. This place is the perfect destination for people looking to spend some time in the company of nature.
How to reach: Nearest airport is in Mumbai; nearest railhead is in Khopoli; Mumbai to Durshet- 77 kms (approx)
Best time to visit: September-February, June-August
Places to stay: Durshet Forest Lodge, Novotel Imagica, Sterling Natural Trails, The Machan, The Forest Club Resort
Places to visit: Uddhar Hot Water Springs, Pali Fort, Kundalika River, Imagicaa Water Park, Aqua Magica, Duke’s Nose Trail, Mrugagad, Adoshi Dam
Ideal duration: 2-3 days
19. Lavasa: An Unexplored Hill Station!
Thanks to the magnificent backdrops, Lavasa is getting famous amongst couples for their pre-wedding shoots. The hill station combines natural beauty with modern entertainment options. Visit this place if you are looking to spend some amazing time in the lap of nature coupled with entertainment from the city!
How to reach: Nearest airport and railhead is in Pune; Mumbai to Lavasa- 187 kms (approx)
Best time to visit: Throughout the year
Places to stay: Ripples Resort, Fortune Select Dasve, Ekaant Retreat, Lavasa Luxury Lakeview Studio, SaffronStays Calvin & Hobbes, Kaarvi Indraprastha
Places to visit: Lakeside Promenade, Bamboosa, Temghar Dam, Lakeshore Watersport, Tikona Fort
Ideal duration: 2-3 days
20. Bhimashankar: A Worth-Visiting Place!
Bhimashankar is one of the holiest hill stations in Maharashtra. The hill station is known for the religious story and presence of a number of temples in the vicinity. Aprt from the Jyotirlinga, The Bhimashankar Wildlife sanctuary is one of the most notable places to visit in Bhimashankar!
How to reach: Nearest airport is in Pune; nearest railhead is in Karjat; Mumbai to Bhimashankar- 196 kms (approx)
Best time to visit: November-February
Places to stay: Sahyadri Hills Resort, The Ridge Resort, Saguna Baug Agro Tourism Resort, Jamrung Hillside Camping, The Ocean Tales Kovalam
Places to visit: Bhimashankar Jyotiring Mandir of Forest & Shrine, Shri Bhimashankar Jyotiring Wildlife, Hanuman Lake, Shree Bhimashankar Jyotiring Mandir
Ideal duration: 2-3 days
21. Tamhini Ghat: A Heaven For Tourists!
One of the most busy hill stations of Maharashtra, Tamhini Ghat is a haven for tourists who are looking for a break from their hectic lifestyle; lakes, waterfalls, green dense forests, and magnificent views to top it all! Take a stroll in this place and you will be amazed by the sheer beauty of this place and the serene and calm atmosphere it offers.
How to reach: Nearest airport and railhead is in Pune; Mumbai to Tamhini Ghat- 143 kms (approx)
Best time to visit: July-September
Places to stay: Four Seasons Resort, Bougainvillea Resort, Resort Cabana
Places to visit: Tamhini Ghat, Tamhini Waterfalls, Bhira Dam, Kalika Mandir, Mulshi Lake, Kailashgad Fort, Tikona Fort, Mulshi Dam, Korigad Fort
Ideal duration: 2-3 days
22. Satara: A Visit To Splendid Mountains!
Planning for a weekend getaway to explore some rocky magnificent mountains, giant water bodies? Then you must choose Satara which is indeed a beautiful and splendid Maharashtra hill station. Satara is visited mostly by spiritual followers of divine men whose Samadhi is there and is also acknowledged as the "Queen of Hills" as it offers mesmerizing views and the splendid waterfalls!
How to reach: Nearest airport is in Pune; nearest railhead is in Satara; Mumbai to Satara- 254 kms (approx)
Best time to visit: Throughout the year
Places to stay: The Fern Residency, Kaas Woods Resort, Nivant Hill Resort, Patil Wada by Rock Spring Resort, Treebo Trend Shri Vitthal Mangalam
Places to visit: Thoseghar Falls, Sangam Mahuli, Pratapgad Fort, Ajinkyatara Fort, Shri Uttar Chidambaram Nataraj Mandir, Char Bhinti Hutatma Smarak, Dholya Ganapati Mandir, Rajwada, Shri Chattarpati Shivaji Museum.
Ideal duration: 2-3 days
23. Wai: A Eye-Catching Beauty Of Hill Stations!
If you want to discover mesmerizing hill stations of Maharashtra then you must opt for Wai popular for its Buddhist caves! The tourists will get to see amazing views of the mountains which is indeed mesmerizing. There are numerous places in Wai which you must visit when in Wai such as dams, caves, temples, lakes and forts.
How to reach: Nearest airport is in Pune; nearest railhead is in Wathar; Mumbai to Wai- 230 kms (approx)
Best time to visit: September to May
Places to stay: I-Camp Resort, Hotel Valley Exotica, Hotel Shri Nivas Executive, Magnus Caverns Resort, Saffron Stays Verandah by the Valley
Places to visit: Marpo Gardens, Dholya Ganpati Temple, Tapola Lake, Vision Optics Temple, Mahaganpati Temple, Menawali Wes, Vishnu Mandir, Rajpuri Caves, Nana Phadnavis Wada.
Ideal duration: 2-3 days
From the list of the less traveled to the most celebrated hill stations of Maharashtra, which of these are you planning to visit over the long weekend? Let us know in comments below!
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