Known For : Tiger's Leap Rajmachi Fort Imagicaa
Nestled in the Western Ghats near Mumbai, Lonavala is a charming hill station renowned for its lush greenery, scenic landscapes, and pleasant weather. Famous for its vantage points like Tiger's Point and Sunset Point, Lonavala attracts visitors seeking a tranquil retreat. The town is also known for its delightful chikki (a sweet snack) and serves as a popular weekend getaway destination.
Distance from Mumbai: 83 km
Best Time: Throughout the year
Known For : Louisa point Charlotte lake Monkey Point Matheran
Nestled amidst the Sahyadri range on the Western Ghats, Matheran is a cosy little hill station that stands at an elevation of 2600 feet above sea level, and is just 100 kilometres away from Mumbai, making it the perfect weekend getaway. With its name literally translating to “overhead forest”, Matheran is the smallest hill station near Mumbai and in all of India, but it is extremely popular in terms of tourists looking for a short trip amid spectacular vistas and serenity.
Best Time: Throughout the year
Known For : Kondana Caves Peth Fort Trekking in Karjat
Karjat, nestled in the picturesque Western Ghats of Maharashtra, is a popular weekend getaway known for its lush green landscapes and serene surroundings. This charming town offers a perfect blend of nature and adventure, with numerous trekking trails, waterfalls, and scenic viewpoints to explore. Additionally, Karjat is renowned for its farm stays, providing a tranquil escape for city dwellers seeking a refreshing break.
Distance from Mumbai: 62 km
Best Time: June to September
Known For : Elephant's Head Point Chinaman's Falls Dhobi Waterfall
Mahabaleshwar is a hill station located in the Western Ghats, in Satara district of Maharashtra. Apart from its strawberries, Mahabaleshwar is also well known for its numerous rivers, magnificent cascades and majestic peaks. It is among the most sought after weekend getaways from Pune & Mumbai, located about 120km south-west of Pune and 285km from Mumbai.
Distance from Mumbai: 262 km
Best Time: October to June
Known For : Rajmachi Fort Visapur Fort Bedsa caves
Nestled in the Western Ghats of Maharashtra, Khandala is a charming hill station known for its lush greenery, scenic landscapes, and pleasant weather. Popular for its vantage points offering breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and hills, Khandala is a favored weekend getaway from Mumbai and Pune. The town's attractions include vantage points like Tiger's Leap, Duke's Nose, and serene spots like Bhushi Dam, making it a delightful retreat for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Distance from Mumbai: 79 km
Best Time: Throughout the year
Known For : Kaas Plateau Table Land Mahabaleshwar
Nestled in the picturesque Western Ghats of Maharashtra, Panchgani is a charming hill station known for its lush green landscapes, pleasant weather, and captivating views of the Sahyadri mountain range. Famous for its strawberry farms and colonial-era architecture, Panchgani offers a serene retreat with its scenic viewpoints and sprawling valleys. Visitors can explore attractions like Table Land, Sydney Point, and the old Mahabaleshwar road, making it a popular getaway for nature enthusiasts and weekend travelers.
Distance from Mumbai: 244 km
Best Time: September to May
Known For : Sightseeing in Lavasa Lakeside Promenade Bamboosa
Lavasa, nestled amid the Sahyadri Mountains in Maharashtra, India, is a planned hill station and city. Designed with a European aesthetic, it offers serene landscapes, lakeside promenades, and vibrant architecture. Lavasa is a popular getaway for those seeking a tranquil retreat, featuring recreational activities, scenic views, and a peaceful ambiance.
Distance from Mumbai: 187 km
Best Time: Throughout the year
Known For : Bhimkund Melghat Tiger Reserve Narnala Fort
Chikhaldara is a serene hill station located in the Amravati district of Maharashtra, India. Known for its lush greenery and picturesque landscapes, it offers a refreshing escape for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. The region is dotted with viewpoints, waterfalls, and wildlife, making it a perfect retreat for those seeking tranquility amidst natural beauty.
Distance from Mumbai: 660 km
Best Time: July to February
Known For : Tringalwadi Fort Vihigaon Waterfall Kalsubai Peak
Nestled in the Western Ghats of Maharashtra, Igatpuri is a charming hill station known for its lush greenery and serene landscapes. Famous for the Tringalwadi Fort and the historic Ratangad Fort, Igatpuri offers a tranquil escape with its picturesque hills, dense forests, and cascading waterfalls. Popular among nature enthusiasts and trekkers, it provides a rejuvenating retreat with its pleasant climate and scenic beauty.
Distance from Mumbai: 120 km
Best Time: July to September
Known For : Amboli Falls Madhavgad Fort Shirgaonkar Point
Nestled in the Western Ghats of Maharashtra, Amboli is a serene hill station renowned for its lush green landscapes, waterfalls, and dense forests. A haven for nature lovers and trekkers, Amboli offers panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and is home to attractions like Amboli Ghat, Mahadevgad Point, and the Amboli Waterfall. The monsoon season transforms Amboli into a misty paradise, making it an ideal retreat for those seeking tranquility amidst nature.
Distance from Mumbai: 489 km
Best Time: June to September
Known For : Malshej Falls Pimpalgaon Joga Dam Harishchandragad
Malshej Ghat, located in Maharashtra, is a picturesque mountain pass known for its stunning landscapes, verdant hills, and numerous waterfalls. A popular monsoon destination, Malshej Ghat comes alive with lush greenery during the rainy season, offering breathtaking views of the Western Ghats. The region is also renowned for its diverse avian population, attracting bird enthusiasts to witness migratory species in the scenic surroundings.
Distance from Mumbai: 130 km
Best Time: July to March
Panhala, located in Maharashtra, India, is renowned for its historic Panhala Fort, perched atop a hill, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The fort has played a significant role in regional history, witnessing various rulers and battles. Visitors can explore its ancient structures, bastions, and enjoy the scenic vistas that make Panhala a cultural and natural gem in Maharashtra.
Distance from Mumbai: 383 km
Known For : Artist Village Hatgadh Fort Vansda National park
Nestled in the Western Ghats of India, Saputara is a charming hill station known for its picturesque landscapes and pleasant climate. This popular tourist destination offers a serene escape with lush greenery, a tranquil lake, and the beautiful Governor's Hill. Visitors can enjoy boating on the lake, explore the artist village, and take in panoramic views from the Sunset Point.
Distance from Mumbai: 244 km
Best Time: Mid March to mid November
Known For : Sita Khai Lotus Lake Yashavant Lake
Nestled in the Satpura Range, Toranmal is a picturesque hill station in Maharashtra, India. Known for its cool climate and lush greenery, Toranmal offers a tranquil escape with its scenic landscapes and serene lakes. The region is dotted with religious sites like the Gorakhnath Temple, making it a popular destination for both nature lovers and pilgrims.
Distance from Mumbai: 461 km
Best Time: October to February
Known For : Umbrella Falls Wilson Dam Kalsubai Peak
Nestled in the Sahyadri mountain range in Maharashtra, Bhandardara is a picturesque hill station known for its natural beauty and tranquil ambiance. The area is dotted with lush greenery, serene lakes, and cascading waterfalls, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and hikers. The Arthur Lake, Wilson Dam, and Randha Falls are among the popular attractions that draw visitors seeking a peaceful retreat.
Distance from Mumbai: 166 km
Best Time: June to March
Known For : Dabdaba Falls Jai Vilas Palace Sunset Point, Jawhar
Jawhar, a picturesque hill station in Maharashtra, India, captivates visitors with its lush green landscapes, cascading waterfalls, and serene ambiance. Known for its tribal culture and heritage, Jawhar offers a retreat into nature, with attractions like the Jai Vilas Palace and the majestic Dabhosa Waterfall. The town provides a tranquil escape, making it an ideal destination for those seeking relaxation amid scenic beauty.
Distance from Mumbai: 160 km
Best Time: September to Apr
Known For : Durshet Forest Lodge Uddhar Hot Springs Water sports in Durshet
Durshet, nestled in the Sahyadri range, is a tranquil getaway in Maharashtra, India. Known for its lush greenery and serene landscapes, Durshet offers a perfect escape for nature lovers. Adventure enthusiasts can enjoy activities like trekking and rappelling, making it an ideal destination for a rejuvenating weekend retreat.
Distance from Mumbai: 76 km
Best Time: September to February
Known For : Trekking in Ratanwadi Ratangad Fort Trek Amruteshwar Temple
Ratanwadi is a picturesque village situated in the Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra, India. Known for its serene ambiance and lush green surroundings, Ratanwadi is a popular starting point for treks to the famous Ratangad Fort. The village offers a tranquil escape with its scenic landscapes and serves as a gateway to historical and adventurous exploration in the Western Ghats.
Distance from Mumbai: 181 km
Best Time: September to May
Known For : Trekking in Suryamal Suryamal Peak
Suryamal is a picturesque hill station located in the Thane district of Maharashtra, India. Nestled in the Western Ghats, it offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and lush landscapes. Known for its tranquility and pleasant weather, Suryamal is a popular destination for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful retreat.
Distance from Mumbai: 141 km
Best Time: September to May
Known For : Pilucha Dhabdhaba Waterfalls Jai Vilas Palace
Vikramgad, nestled in the Sahyadri mountain range, is a serene and scenic village in Maharashtra, India. Renowned for its lush greenery and tranquil atmosphere, Vikramgad offers a perfect retreat for nature lovers. Visitors can explore the surrounding hills, waterfalls, and the historic Gandhari River Dam, making it an ideal destination for a peaceful getaway.
Distance from Mumbai: 124 km
Best Time: June to January
Known For : Pratapgad Fort Thoseghar Falls Vajrai Falls
Satara, located in the state of Maharashtra, India, is renowned for its historical significance and natural beauty. The city is surrounded by picturesque landscapes, including the scenic Kaas Plateau, known for its vibrant wildflower blooms. Satara is also rich in historical sites, with attractions like the Ajinkyatara Fort offering a glimpse into the region's cultural and architectural heritage.
Distance from Mumbai: 255 km
These hill stations near Mumbai are a stark contrast to the congested roads of Mumbai, and escaping here will give you time and space to actually clear your thoughts. Let us know down in the comment section below which of these hill stations you have visited.