When we think of hill stations in India, we think of various locations such as Ladakh, Manali, Shimla, Kasol, Darjeeling and many others. However, Maharashtra isn’t far behind! There are many hill stations in Maharashtra that offer great weather, fabulous views, fantastic scenery and a memorable experience.
The hill stations such as Mahabaleshwar and Lonavala come to mind. Of course, these hill stations are magnificent and have every reason to be in everyone’s mind. We have a surprise for you though - Maharashtra is more than that! There are many hill stations in the state that have their unique charm and are perfect for a hilly getaway!
We have listed the top 11 hill stations in Maharashtra that will surely refresh you and leave you with great memories!
Top 11 Hill Stations In Maharashtra
1. Mahabaleshwar
If you are a tourist from Mumbai and Pune, you have surely not ignored Mahabaleshwar from your vacation plans. It is considered to be one of the best hill stations in Maharashtra. Its chilly weather, delicious strawberries and the magnificent view will have anyone fall in love. It’s great for those who want to experience the best of monsoons and winters in Maharashtra.
It is also a photographer’s paradise since it has spectacular viewpoints such as Kate’s Point and Elephant point. It also has other major attractions such as Venna Lake, Chinaman Waterfalls and Connaught Peak. Pune Airport is the closest airport located 120 KM away and Wathar is the closest railway station located 60 KM away.
2. Lonavala
Lonavala is one of the best hill stations in Maharashtra which is renowned for its many waterfalls, trekking routes, and hiking points. It is the favourite destination for those nature lovers, adventurers and casual vacationers. Located amidst the beautiful Sahyadri hills, it is a perfect vacation spot for those in Mumbai, Pune and other nearby cities.
There are many attractions in Lonavala such as Tiger’s leap, Rajmachi Sanctuary, Amrutanjan Point, Duke’s Nose, Koregad Fort and Bhaja Caves. There are many beautiful dams to visit as well as such Bhushi Dam, Pawna Dam, and Tungarli Lake. You can also experience boating at Lonavala Lake.
3. Panchgani
The name Panchgani means ‘the land of five hills. It is one of the best hill stations near Pune. The hill station is known for its pristine beauty, dense forests and beautiful view from the Sahyadri ranges. If you want to experience the best of Panchgani, you should drive to the hill station through the picturesque western ghats. It is among the best hill stations in Maharashtra.
There are many viewpoints such as Table Land Viewpoint, Sydney Point, Kate’s Point, Wilson Point and Parsi Point from where you can get a fabulous view of the valley. The highlight of Panchgani is the Mapro Garden - which has a fruit processing plant, retail products and a restaurant. Dhom Dam, Rajpuri Caves, Lingmala Falls, and Bhilar Falls are some of the other places that shouldn’t be missed.
4. Matheran
Matheran is a fabulous hill station in Maharashtra if you stay in Mumbai and nearby cities. It offers the travellers respite from the everyday city life, traffic and pollution. It is an eco-friendly hill station since it’s the only car-free hill station in India. There is a toy train which runs from Neral to Matheran. The train is considered to be the main highlight of Matheran.
There are many places to visit in Matheran, such as One Tree Hill Point, Echo Point, Alexander Point, and Prabal Fort.
5. Igatpuri
Another famous hill station getaway near Mumbai and Pune is Igatpuri. It offers immense natural solitude and has the largest Vipassana Academy. The hill station is close to Nashik as well. The pleasant climate, beautiful valleys, waterfalls, and historical forts have made it one of the most popular hill stations in Maharashtra.
You can also hike up to the Tringalwadi Fort and Kalsubai Park. Camel Valley and Bhatsa River valley are also the highlights. If you are into trekking and photography, then this place is surely for you! The other places in Igatpuri that should be on your checklist are Dhamma Giri Vipassana, Myanmar Gate and Vihigoan Falls. The destination is great for watersports and camping as well.
6. Khandala
Khandala is located quite close to Lonavala and is known for its lush green forests, spectacular waterfalls, mountains and wholesome views. Lonavala - Khandala stretch is considered to be one of the most popular and picturesque hill stations in Maharashtra. Its hill forts, caves, viewpoints and trekking spots makes it a great place for trekking enthusiast and adventurers.
Khandala offers various attractions such as Kune Falls, Rajmachi Point, Rajmachi Garden, Bhor Ghat and Della Adventure Park.
7. Bhandardara
Famous for its Bhandardara lake, Bhandardara is an emerging camping spot in Maharashtra. The hill station is surrounded by dense forests and magnificent waterfalls. The place is increasing in popularity due to its scenic lake and ambience. If you are in Mumbai, Pune and nearby cities and want to go on a camping trip, Bhandardara is great for you!
The popular places to visit are Arthur Hill Lake, Umbrella Falls, Amruteshwer Temple and Kalsubai Peak. Bhandardara is the best place for camping with your friends due to its great location.
8. Amboli
Amboli is of the pristine hill stations in Maharashtra. Its pleasant weather makes it a perfect honeymoon destination. It is the last hill station in the state before Goa starts. This place is quite unexplored and if you are lucky, you won’t find many people crowding there and you can have it all by yourself.
The places of attraction in Amboli are Amboli Ghat Waterfall, Mahadev Gad, Amboli Sunset Point and Shirgaonkar Point.
9. Chikhaldara
If you are a coffee lover, then Chikhaldara should be on your list. It is one of the very few places that produce coffee in Maharashtra. Along with coffee, the hill station offers wildlife and a beautiful view. If you want to experience something unique, you need to try this place out. Some of the places you can visit are Gawilgad Fort, Mozari Point, Shakkar Lake and Gawilgad Mountain. The highlight of this place is the Semadoh Lake, which one can view from the hills.
10. Rajmachi
Located in the magnificent hills of Sahyadri, Rajmachi is a small and serene village filled with mesmerizing beauty and greenery. It is among the best hill stations in Maharashtra and is known for the Rajmachi Fort, one of the famous forts of the Maratha Empire. You can reach the fort by trekking and is one of the best experiences.
Other than that, the hill station can be a quiet getaway from the hustle of everyday life. Some of the other places around it are Sadashivgad Karad, Shrivardan Fort and Krishna Koyna.
11. Wai
Wai is a mesmerizing hill station in Maharashtra filled with dams, lakes, caves, temples, and forts. It is located near Satara. It is especially known for its Buddhist Caves. Some of the famous attractions in Wai are Nana Phadnavis Wada, Dholya Ganpati Temple, and Wai Caves. The Dholya Ganpati Temple was constructed in the 17th century and was built by Raja Bhoja.
With these many hill stations in Maharashtra, you have plenty of options for a weekend getaway in the mountains. It is great for travellers from Mumbai, Pune, Thane, Navi Mumbai, Panvel and other cities in Maharashtra since they can escape the everyday hustle of the\ city and enjoy the best of nature, view and serenity. Check out our blogs to know about getaways and travelling!