9 Breathtaking Hill Stations Near Mumbai (2024)
Looking for an escape from the scorching heat of the Mumbai city? Once the hectic life of the metropolis starts getting on your nerves, give yourself a break. Hill stations near Mumbai are the best spots to rejuvenate yourself in the lap of nature. Surrounded by natural beauty, these hill stations are perfect for reinvigorating your soul. Here are some of the best hill stations that you should consider exploring near Mumbai.
9 Breathtaking Hill Stations Near Mumbai
1. Matheran: Located approximately 110 km away from Mumbai, Matheran is known for being the smallest hill station in the country. This region has been declared as eco-sensitive by the Ministry of Environment. Also, it is the only automobile free hill station in Asia. Matheran translates into ‘forest on the forehead’. Enriched with natural beauty, this hill station has 33 lookout points from where you’ll be able to experience the magnificent panoramic view. Frequently visited by photographers and nature lovers, Matheran also offers a toy train that lets you explore the dense forests here. During your stay here, you must visit places like Dodhani Waterfalls, Chanderi Caves, and Irshalgad Fort.
Location: Matheran, Karjat Tahsil, Raigad District, Maharashtra.
Best Time to Visit: November to June.
2. Lonavala: Situated 95 km away from the city, Lonavala takes pride in being home to spectacular forts, caves, and picturesque landscapes. Being one of the most visited hill stations near Mumbai, Lonavala is also known as the ‘Jewel of the Sahyadri’. Some of the places that you should visit during your trip to Lonavala include Rajmachi Point, Lonavala Lake, Shivaji Udyan, Valvan Dam, Ryewood Park, Tiger’s Leap, Della Adventure Park, Duke’s Nose, etc. The pleasant weather here makes Lonavala ideal for nature walks.
Location: Lonavala, Pune, Maharashtra.
Best Time to Visit: October to June.
3. Panchgani: Being the oldest hill station in the world, Panchgani is located approximately 250 km away from Mumbai. Surrounded by five rolling hillocks, this hill station used to be the summer resort of Britishers. Being one of the most visited destinations for families and friends, Panchgani near Mumbai features architecture from the British era along with natural beauty. Many prefer to trek and hike here because of the lush valleys and picturesque hills. Also, don’t miss the carvings of the Krishna river from the top of the hill.
Location: Panchgani, Satara district, Maharashtra
Best Time to Visit: September to May
4. Mahabaleshwar: Mahabaleshwar hill is another gem located in the lap of the Sahyadri range. Situated 270 km away from Mumbai, this hill station attracts thousands of visitors every year because of its natural beauty. Being the biggest hill station in Maharashtra, Mahabaleshwar is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. Frequently visited by adventurers and wildlife enthusiasts, this hill station unravels the opportunity for you to experience the beginning point of the Krishna river which is known for being the third longest river in the country. Other attractions that you should consider visiting are Connaught peak, Kate’s point, Wilson point, Venna Lake, and Elephant’s point.
Location: Mahabaleshwar, Satara district, Maharashtra
Best Time to Visit: October to June
5. Chikhaldara: Want to be blown away by the aroma of coffee? Chikaldhara is the perfect spot to be at! Located 672 km away from the city, this hill station adorns itself with breathtaking valleys covered with velvet mist. Besides being home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, this hill station near Mumbai is also known for being the abode to Indian tigers in the state. If you are into mythology, you’ll be glad to know that Bhima killed the Keechaka with hand-to-hand combat in this very town. You should also consider visiting places such as Chikhaldara Wildlife Sanctuary, Melghat Tiger Reserve, Wan Sanctuary, Bhimkund, Shakkar Lake, Kalapani dam, Hariken Point, Sunset point, and Panchbol point.
Location: Chikaldhara, Amravati district, Maharashtra
Best Time to Visit: October to June
6. Lavasa: Being the newest addition to the hill stations near Mumbai, Lavasa is filled with grandeur. Spread across seven hills, this modern hill station owes its design to the Italian city of Portofino. If you want to get away from the urban hustle-bustle, this hill station 185 km away from the city is the perfect place to be at. Lavasa unravels the rejuvenating opportunity for you to enjoy multicolored buildings, play watersports, and experience the Temghar Dam as well. You shouldn’t miss the Dasve viewpoint and the Lavasa nature trail here.
Location: Lavasa, Pune, Maharashtra
Best Time to Visit: Throughout the Year
7. Panhala: Despite being the smallest city in the state, Panhala is known for its natural beauty and serenity. Located 375 km away from Mumbai, this hill station boasts of magnificent views of the Sahyadri ranges and medieval forts as well. The city itself is built in the Panhala fort. During your visit here, you should consider visiting a couple of places including Parashara cave, Ambabai Temple, Teen Darwaja, Sajja Kothi, Sambhaji Temple, Someshwar Tank, Andhar Bav, etc.
Location: Panhala, Kolhapur District, Maharashtra
Best Time to Visit: October to June
8. Karjat: Situated 62 km away from Mumbai, Karjat is one of those hill stations that allow you to transform your inner self. Embellished with spectacular hilly terrains, this hill station on the basin of the Ulhas river is known for its natural beauty. Most of the visitors to this hill station come here primarily because of the incredible hilly terrains of the Western Ghats, Sahyadri, and Bhorghat. Looking for an adrenaline rush? Don’t miss the chance to go mountain climbing, trekking, and hiking here.
Location: Karjat, Raigad District, Maharashtra
Best Time to Visit: July to September
9. Igatpuri: The scenic hill station of Igatpuri is located approximately 130 km away from Mumbai. Unraveling the reinvigorating opportunity for you to experience nature and spirituality at the same place, this hill station near Mumbai is home to the largest Vipassana meditation center in the world. During your visit here, you must visit the Tringalwadi Fort from where you’ll get a picturesque view of the entire area. Other places to visit include Bhatsa river valley, Amruteshwar Temple, Ghatandevi temple, Camel valley, and Dhammagiri Meditation Centre.
Location: Igatpuri, Nashik District, Maharashtra
Best Time to Visit: Monsoon
Tired of combatting the urban noise? Head to the serene hill stations near Mumbai and rejuvenate yourself in the lap of nature. Whether you love adventurous activities or simply want to meditate, these mountains are the best spot to have your inner needs fulfilled. Now you can even customize your itinerary at an affordable rate with thetoptours.com!
