Being a Mumbaikar is tough. The maximum city hardly allows its citizens some quality time to unwind. The daily grind seems endless. But then, being the gorgeous state that Maharashtra is, Mumbai is blessed with its fair share of restful getaways. Here, we feature some of the best hill stations near Mumbai that will rejuvenate you and give you the much-needed break from city life. By Karan Kaushik
Don’t call yourself a mountain lover if you haven’t been to these hill stations near Mumbai
Lonavala-Khandala
View this post on Instagram
These twin hill stations sit astride the ghats near the western end of the Deccan Plateau, a little more than halfway between Mumbai and Pune. Blessed with ancient Buddhist caves, majestic forts, and rugged hills, Lonavala and Khandala are every bit delightful. When here, you can take thrilling treks, spend some quality time camping, and partake in sightseeing too. Popular attractions include Carla Caves, Bhaja Caves, Bedsa Caves, Duke’s Nose, Amrutanjan Point, Lohagad, Tungarli Lake, Lonavala Lake, Tikona Fort, Bhushi Dam, and Visapur. If angling interests you, the lakes provide plenty of opportunities.
Distance from Mumbai: 79km
Matheran
View this post on Instagram
Mather prides itself on being the only pedestrian hill station in Asia. Perched at a height of 2,636 ft above sea level in the Western Ghats, Matheran rewards travellers with its thick cover of evergreen forest, which makes the hill station a paradise for walkers. Matheran was discovered by Hugh Poyntz Malet, Collector of Thane District in 1850. Enjoy splendid views after a refreshing trek to the Panorama Point, take nature walks to Hart Point and Monkey Point, watch sunsets from Porcupine Point, go trekking, and savour some chikkiland, a caramel confection.
Distance from Mumbai: 83km
Mahabaleshwar
View this post on Instagram
Set amidst the Western Ghats, not too far from the Konkan Coast, Mahabaleshwar is one of the best hill stations near Mumbai. Famous for its berries (strawberry, mulberry, raspberry, and gooseberry), Mahabaleshwar served as the summer capital of the erstwhile Bombay Presidency. On offer here are rugged hills, enchanting waterfalls, dense forests, shining rivulets, revered temples, and much more. It’s great for trekking too. Catch a stunning sunset from Mumbai Point, visit Arthur’s Seat, named after British actor Arthur Malet, explore the Hunter, Wilson, Malcolm, Kate’s, and Marjorie points, unwind at Venna Lake, and seek blessings at the Mahabaleshwar and Panchganga temples.
Distance from Mumbai: 263km
Karjat
View this post on Instagram
Karjat hill station is where the coastal plains of the Konkan end and Bhor Ghat starts. Karjat is Mumbai’s closest trekking destination and sits by the banks of river Ulhas. Its leafy hillsides are dotted with white waterfalls and rivulets. From a distance, you get to see pinnacles, forts, gentle spurs, cliffs, and plateaus on a clear day. Come to Karjat for its health retreats, ancient rock-cut caves, imposing Maratha forts, easy treks, and white-water rafting trips. Main attractions include trekking to Matheran via Rambagh Pont, Peth Fort, and Kotligad, and the classic walk up to Bhimashankar.
Distance from Mumbai: 62km
Chikaldhara
View this post on Instagram
Nestled in Maharashtra’s Amravati district, Chikhaldara is considered the state’s only coffee-producing hill station. Heavenly brews aside, the quaint retreat is surrounded by beautiful lakes, plunging waterfalls, mesmerising viewpoints, and exotic wildlife like barking deer, chousingha, and sambar deer. When here, carve out time to visit the Narnala Fort, Tribal Museum, and Semadoh lake. If wildlife interests you, do visit the Melghat Tiger Reserve. You may also fancy a visit to Bhimkund, a place associated with the Pandavas from Mahabharata.
Distance from Mumbai: 663km
Panchgani
View this post on Instagram
Located amidst the Sahyadris at 4,400 ft, Panchgani offers a restorative escape from the maddening world. This quaint little town is all about old-school vibes. From charming old colonial bungalows to ancient caves and botanical delights, Panchgani has everything a laidback vacation should feature. Soak in stunning views from the Parsi Point, drive to Tableland, go boating at Dhom Dham in Wai, explore the Rajpuri Caves, enjoy a picnic at Sherbaug, and shop till you drop at Budh-ka-Bazaar.
Distance from Mumbai: 242km
Igatpuri
View this post on Instagram
If the traveller in you has been craving a good hike, head to Igatpuri. The short escape is surrounded by the Sahyadaris and dotted with ancient fort ruins, pretty resorts, and small spas. The globally recognised centre for meditation, Dhamma Giri is famous for ‘vipasana’ and adventure activities like rock climbing and rappelling makes it hard to believe that Igatpuri is still very much left off the map. Though you can reach Igatpuri in a little over two hours if you speed up the Old Mumbai Agra Road, take the route that takes you through Kalamgaon via Eastern Express Highway for a more pleasant trip.
Distance from Mumbai: 120km
Lavasa
View this post on Instagram
Not planning a trip to Europe anytime soon. No worries, you could go to Lavasa. This planned city near Pune is known for its French Riviera style buildings painted in bright neon colours. When here, you can Kayak or boat at the Warasgaon Lake. You can even hire a jet ski. Art lovers must visit nearby Bamboosa village, famous for its intricately carved bamboo handicrafts. Hire a bicycle and soak in the chic vibes around the promenade. Water babies can have a great time at Vortex Splash Pad, an international theme park. Popular spots include Dasve viewpoint and Panshet Dam.
Distance from Mumbai: 196km
Bhandardara
View this post on Instagram
This lesser-explored hill station sits quietly by the banks of the Pravara River. Bhandardara is home to Mt Kalsubai, the highest peak in the Sahyadris. The hill station offers an easygoing, sleepy, and rustic charm and lets you rest in nature’s cradle. Enjoy refreshing boat rides in the Arthur Lake, trek to hill forts of Shivaji, or marvel at the cascading Umbrella Falls in the gorgeous, rustic setting. Bhandardara is a camper’s paradise and offers ample opportunities for camping. For the best experience, visit during the Fireflies Festival.
Distance from Mumbai: 165km
Related: Unwind In The Lap Of Nature At These Peaceful Villas In Maharashtra
Karan Kaushik
Most popular
Most popular
