21 Relaxing Hill Stations Near Mumbai For A Soothing Trip In 2023.
by Vagatrip
Are you planning a weekend getaway near Mumbai? Mumbai, known as the city of dreams, can sometimes become overwhelming. However, one of the best things about this bustling metropolis is that it offers fantastic holiday destinations nearby. You can find beautiful natural surroundings, exciting adventures, spiritual retreats, and amazing sightseeing spots that are perfect for rejuvenating your mind and body. Thanks to the Western Ghats, which bless the region, there are numerous stunning hill stations near Mumbai that are definitely worth exploring.
21 Hill Stations Near Mumbai
1. Lonavala – Closest Hill Station
Lonavala is famous for its stunning natural scenery, ancient forts, mysterious caves, and sacred temples. This charming hill station near Mumbai attracts visitors from all over India. It is located in the western part of Maharashtra and is often referred to as the 'Jewel of the Sahyadri' mountain range. It's also one of the closest hill stations to Mumbai.
How to reach: 95 km from Mumbai, Lonavala railway station have the trains from Mumbai (110 km)
Best time to visit: October to June
Ideal Duration to stay: 1 day
Attractions: Scenic Beauty, Buddhist Caves, Nature Walks, Trekking, Pleasant Weather, Waterfalls, Forts
Places to Stay: Lonavala Holiday Homes, Meritas Adore Resort, Elite 2 BHK Home, Raheja Hill Resort
Things to do: Sightseeing, trekking, camping, bird spotting, photography
2. Matheran – Eco-Friendly Hill Station
Matheran is a fantastic weekend destination near Mumbai and the tiniest hill station in India. Its name signifies 'forest on the forehead.' The Ministry of Environment and Forests has declared Matheran an eco-sensitive area, and it is the only automobile-free hill station in Asia. Situated near Lonavla, the nearest hill station to Mumbai, Matheran offers everything you need for a rejuvenating getaway and is considered the best hill station closest to Mumbai.
How to reach: 110 km from Mumbai. Nearest railway station is Neral at the distance of 21-km.
Best time to visit: November to June, but the place is worth a visit anytime.
Ideal Duration to stay: 1-day trip
Attractions: Scenic Beauty, Horse Riding, Nature Walks, Pleasant Weather
Places to Stay: Lucky Cottage, Misty Matheran Resorts, Alexander Heritage And Rainforest Resort, Hotel Ayaan Valley
Things to do: Sightseeing, trekking, camping, nature walk
3. Panchgani – World’s Oldest Hill Station
Panchgani, located near Mumbai, is known as one of the top hill stations in the area. It boasts five beautiful hills and serene lakes. If you're looking for a weekend getaway with your family near Mumbai, Panchgani is the closest hill station. You can soak up the old-world charm and enjoy breathtaking views of the Krishna River from the hilltop. Don't miss out on these unforgettable experiences!
How to reach: 250 km from Mumbai (via Expressway)
Best time to visit: September to May, weather is pleasant throughout the year
Ideal Duration to stay: 2 days trip
Attractions: Table Top Hill, Nature Walks, Pleasant Weather
Places to Stay: SANIYAVILLA, Panchgani villa no 2, Ayesha Villa, Haveli, SHIRIN VILLA
Things to do in Panchgani: Sightseeing, nature walks, photography
4. Mahabaleshwar – Maharashtra’s Biggest Hill Station
Mahabaleshwar, known for its delicious strawberries and breathtaking views, is one of the closest and most popular hill stations near Mumbai. The 'Krishna river', India's third longest river, originates from the Mahadev temple in Old Mahabaleshwar. This charming town is famous for its beautiful scenery, diverse plant and animal life, and natural attractions such as verdant hills and cascading waterfalls. With its abundance of attractions, Mahabaleshwar is certainly one of the closest hill stations to Mumbai.
How to reach: 270 km from Mumbai (via Expressway). For Mahabaleshwar, the nearest railhead is Wathar (62 km) but Pune (120 km) is the convenient railhead.
Best time to visit: October to June
Ideal Duration to stay: 2 days trip
Attractions: Scenic Beauty, Nature Walks, Pleasant Weather, Boating, Waterfalls, Connaught peak, Kate’s point, Wilson point, Venna lake, Elephant’s point
Places to Stay: Hotel Forest View, FabExpress Sagar villa, Mango Hotels Valley View, Aditya Hill View Inn, Treebo Trend JP Cottage
Things to do in Mahabaleshwar: Sightseeing, trekking, camping, water sports adventures
5. Chikhaldara – Maharashtra’s Coffee Growing Region
Chikhaldara is a unique hill station close to Mumbai, located in the Vidarbha region. It is a hidden gem that hasn't been fully discovered yet. According to legends, this town is the mythical spot where the heroic Pandava Bhima defeated the fierce Keechaka in a close combat battle. Chikhaldara is surrounded by breathtaking deep valleys, filled with misty clouds and magnificent trees. Because of its natural beauty, it has become a popular destination for people looking for a cool and refreshing summer getaway. It is undoubtedly one of the best additions to the list of hill stations near Mumbai.
How to reach: 672 km from Mumbai. Nearest railway station is Badnera at 110 km on the Central Railway line.
Best time to visit: October to June
Ideal Duration to stay: A weekend trip
Attractions: Chikhaldara Wildlife Sanctuary, Melghat Tiger Reserve, Wan Sanctuary, Bhimkund, Shakkar Lake, Kalapani dam, Hariken Point, Sunset point, Panchbol point
Places to Stay: Hotel Vedanta, BTP Inn, Amruta Homestays, Balaji Guest House, Resort Shankarmuni
Things to do: Visit wildlife sanctuary, sightseeing, camping, bird spotting, photography
6. Lavasa – India’s Newest Hill station
Lavasa, the newest city in India, is a charming hill station located near Mumbai. Inspired by the Italian city of Portofino, Lavasa is designed as a cluster of five towns nestled on seven hills. Its picturesque mountain routes have made it a favorite destination for motorcycle enthusiasts from all over the country. If you're looking for a tranquil hill station near Mumbai, Lavasa should definitely be on your list. It offers the closest and most peaceful retreat from the bustling city.
How to reach: 185 km from Mumbai, Mumbai to Pune by train (119 km); Pune to Lavasa by taxi(37 km)
Best time to visit: Throughout the year
Ideal Duration to stay: A weekend destination
Attractions: Scenic Beauty, Pleasant Weather, Adventure and Water Sports, Varasgaon Dam, A musical fountain and laser animation show
Places to Stay: Lavasa Luxury Deck Apartment, Luxury 3 BHK Villa, Alliance Villa, Leke view farm house
Things to do: Sightseeing, Water sports adventure, camping, photography
7. Panhala – Smallest City In Maharashtra
Panhala, a city located within the historic Panhala Fort, is a charming and picturesque town. It is famous for its medieval forts and offers breathtaking views of the Sahayadri mountain range.
How to reach: 375 km from Mumbai. Nearest railhead is Kolhapur, 18 km on south central Railway.
Best time to visit: October to June
Ideal Duration to stay: A trip of 5 days
Attractions: Panhala Fort, Scenic Beauty, Nature Walks, Historical Significance, Water tanks, Parashara cave, Ambabai Temple, Teen Darwaja, Sajja Kothi, Sambhaji Temple, Someshwar Tank, Andhar Bav and Nayakini Sajja
Places to Stay: Panhala Guest House, Serenity Resort Panhala, Vihar Lodging, Royal Residency
Things to do: Sightseeing, camping, visit temples, photography
8. Karjat – Famous For Its Caves
Karjat is a beautiful place that stretches across Bhorghat, Sahayadri, and the Western Ghats. It is located near the Ulhas River. People love to visit Karjat because of its stunning natural scenery and the countless opportunities it provides for adventurous activities like river rafting, trekking, hiking, and mountain climbing. Many consider Karjat to be the top choice for a nearby hill station getaway from Mumbai.
How to reach: 62 km via Sion-Panvel, 54 km from Mumbai railway station
Best time to visit: July to September
Ideal Duration to stay: A 1 day trip
Attractions: White water River rafting in the upper sections of the River Ulhas, Hiking, Trekking and Mountain climbing options, Bhor ghat, Ulhas valley, Peth Fort and Kondana caves, ND Studio of Art Director Nitin Chandrakant Desai.
Places to Stay: Leisurely Kallisto Hillside Hideaway, Radisson Blu Resort & Spa, Elevar Villa, The Whey Side
Things to do: Sightseeing, trekking, photography
9. Igatpuri – Natural And Spiritual Beauty
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Igatpuri, the biggest Vipassana meditation center in the world, is a calm hill station. With its hills all around, Igatpuri is a popular place in India for hiking, trekking, and shooting scenes for many Indian movies. It's considered one of the top summer destinations near Mumbai.
How to reach: 130 km from Mumbai, there is direct train between Mumbai and Igatpuri. Rail distance is 83 km
Best time to visit: Monsoon season is best to visit
Ideal Duration to stay: 2 days trip
Attractions: Scenic Beauty, Vipassana Center, Nature Walks, Trekking, Pleasant Weather, Waterfalls, Forts, Bhatsa river valley, Amruteshwar Temple, Tringalwadi fort, Ghatandevi temple, Camel valley and Dhammagiri Meditation Centre
Places to Stay: Igatpuri Villa, Royal Oakwood Villa, Ganaka Motel, Nature’s Dreamland, Rain Forest Resort
Things to do: Sightseeing, trekking, nature walks, , photography
10. Amboli – Last Hillstation Before Goa
Amboli is a small town located in the Sahyadri Range. It is situated near the popular tourist spot of Goa and offers a peaceful escape from the crowded holiday destinations. Amboli is known for its beautiful plants and animals, making it a fantastic hill station near Mumbai that attracts many visitors.
How to reach: 491 km from Mumbai, the nearest railhead is Sawantwadi which is 28 km from Amboli. Regular buses ply on the route.
Best time to visit: Throughout the year, but monsoon is the best
Ideal Duration to stay: A weekend trip
Attractions: Sea-View Point, Mahadevgad Point, Purvicha Vas, Nagatra falls, Hiranya Keshi, Narayangad, ancient Shiva temple
Places to Stay: Dark Forest Retreat, Vamoose Green Valley, Garawa resort, Vamoose Sailee
Things to do: Sightseeing, camping, photography
11. Toranmal – A Religious Yatra Site
Toranmal is an incredibly calm and serene location situated in the Satpura Mountains. It is home to a wide array of plants and animals. Unlike many other places, Toranmal is not crowded with lots of people, but its natural beauty leaves a profound impact on every visitor.
How to reach: 459 km from Mumbai, Nearest railhead is Nandurbar, 76 km on Surat-Bhusawal lime of Western Railway. A more convenient railhead is Dhule, 128 km.
Best time to visit: October to June
Ideal Duration to stay: A weekend trip
Attractions: Yashwant Lake, Aawashabari point, sunset point, check dam, coffee garden, Gorakshaknath Temple, Lotus Lake, Seven Steps view point, Sita Khai and Nagarjun point
Places to Stay: Lake N Hills Resort, Toranmal Hill Resort Cottages, Hotel Lake View
Things to do: Sightseeing, camping, trekking, photography
12. Saputara – A Hill Station In Gujarat
Saputara is a beautiful hill station located in the Dang district of South Gujarat State. It's the only hill station near Maharashtra and is situated on a lush plateau in the Sahyadri range, surrounded by dense forests. The area is known for its incredible biodiversity and natural beauty. You can enjoy breathtaking views of the landscape, which includes stunning mountains and valleys. Saputara is also proud of its rich heritage and cultural traditions, especially the folklore and customs of the local Dangi people.
How to reach: Mumbai to Nasik by train(154 km); Nasik to Saputara by taxi(65 km)
Best time to visit: middle of March to middle of November
Ideal Duration to stay: 2 days trip
Attractions: Artist Village, Vansada National Park, Sunrise Point, Sunset Point, Ropeway, Gira Falls, the Rose and Step Gardens
Places to Stay: Hotel Lake View , Artist Village, Manas Homestay, Hotel Kansar Palace
Things to do: Visit National Park, sightseeing, camping, photography
13. Satara – A 16th Century City
The name of the town comes from the seven hills that surround it. Satara is a peaceful hill station near Mumbai, known for being a great place to visit during the summer. One of its famous attractions is the delicious Kandi Pedha sweet. Satara is also recognized for its rich cultural heritage, which makes it an important historical center.
How to reach: 255 km from Mumbai, There is direct train between Mumbai and Satara(182 km)
Best time to visit: July to February
Ideal Duration to stay: 4 days trip
Attractions: Satara’s Ajinkyatara and Sajjangarh Forts are a pleasurable sight, Kaas plateau, Thoseghar Waterfall, Vajrai Waterfall, Dhom Dam, Gove village.
Places to Stay: Mauli Agro Tourism, MM Villa, Treebo Trend Shri Vitthal Mangalam, Hotel apratim lodging
Things to do: Sightseeing, camping, trekking, photography
14. Khandala – A Romantic Hill Station
Isn't it hard to forget this place? It's famous for the song by Amir Khan, right? Besides being a popular spot, Khandala has beautiful views of greenery, stunning waterfalls, tall mountains, and much more. You'll absolutely enjoy visiting this fantastic hill station near Mumbai!
How to reach: 81 km away from Mumbai, can be reached through Bangalore-Mumbai highway
Best time to visit: October and April
Ideal duration to stay: 1 day
Attractions: Pawna dam, Visapur
Places to Stay: Dukes Retreat, Della Resorts, D.A.T.A Resort, EL House
Things to do: Sightseeing, camping, swimming, photography
15. Bhandardara – A Holiday Resort Village
If you're planning a trip to hill stations near Mumbai with your friends, this is an amazing place to visit! It's located in the beautiful Sahyadri ranges and provides breathtaking views. It's perfect for exciting treks and hikes. Apart from that, camping in Bhandardara is a wonderfully relaxing activity to enjoy over a weekend. Don't forget to include it in your itinerary!
How to reach: 192 km away from Mumbai, can be reached through NH 160
Best time to visit: Winters
Ideal Duration to stay: 1 day
Attractions: Arthur lake, Umbrella falls
Places to Stay: Samadhan Resort, Bhandardara Camping, Saptashrungi Tourist Stays, BHAKTI NIVAS
Things to do: Sightseeing, photography
16. Malshej Ghat – An Exotic Mountain Pass
Malshej Ghat is a beautiful hill station near Mumbai, Maharashtra, found in the Thane district. It's surrounded by the Western Ghats' hills and offers a stunning natural setting with lush greenery. The area is famous for its winding roads that run along the rocky hillsides and numerous slender waterfalls cascading down the slopes. The weather is often misty and wet, making it a romantic destination for couples. Malshej Ghat is also known for its diverse plant and animal life, and it serves as a temporary home for many migratory birds, including pink-legged Flamingos from Siberia.
How to reach: 126 km away from Mumbai, can be reached through NH61
Best time to visit: July and September
Ideal Duration to stay: 1 day
Attractions: Malshej Falls and Pimpalgaon Joga Dam
Places to Stay: Jandyal Farm House, Saj By The Lake
Things to do: Sightseeing, camping, trekking, bird spotting, photography
17. Jawhar – A Culturally Rich Hill Town
Jawhar, a charming hill station in Maharashtra's Thane district, is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts. It sits atop the Western Ghats and is brimming with stunning natural beauty. The rocky hills, lush forests, and cascading waterfalls create mesmerizing landscapes that will captivate your senses. Jawhar is not only renowned for its scenic wonders but also for its cultural heritage, notably the captivating Warli paintings—a form of indigenous art. Additionally, this place boasts intriguing historical monuments that add to its allure.
How to reach: 140 km away from Mumbai, can be reached through NH48
Best time to visit: October to February
Ideal Duration to stay: 1 day
Attractions: Hanuman Point, Jai Vilas Palace, Sunset Point, Dabdaba Falls, Jawhar Fort
Places to Stay: Prakriti Agro Farm, Dabhosa Waterfall Resort, Shanti Sarovar Resort
Things to do: Sightseeing, photography
18. Durshet – Offbeat As It Is
Durshet, located near Mumbai, is a beautiful hill station known for its stunning natural beauty, magnificent waterfalls, and exciting adventure activities. Despite being secluded, you will be accompanied by mist-covered hills and the soothing sounds of nature. Durshet is filled with lovely hills that provide fantastic opportunities for trekking. It is considered one of the top hill stations in Maharashtra, offering a unique and offbeat experience.
How to reach: Durshet is well connected via roadways to Mumbai. Being just 75 km away, it hardly takes an hour and a half to reach.
Best time to visit: November to March
Ideal Duration to stay: 2 days
Attractions: Imagica theme park, Duke’s Nose Trail, Adoshi Dam, Vireshwar Lake
Places to Stay: Durshet Forest Lodge, The Machan, The Forest Club Resort
Things to do: Sightseeing, camping, trekking, photography
19. Ratanwadi – For Weekend Thrills
For an incredibly exciting weekend, explore Ratanwadi, a charming village close to Pune. Visiting Ratanwadi can be a unique experience as the village remains largely untouched by modern society. You'll find simple houses scattered across hills, and there are many fun activities to enjoy.
How to reach: It takes about 5 hours to reach Ratanwadi from Mumbai located at a distance of 177 km. There is amazing road connectivity.
Best time to visit: All year round
Ideal Duration to stay: 2 days
Attractions: Amruteshwar Temple, Ratangad, Arthur Hill Lake, Sandhan Valley
Places to Stay: Anandvan Resort, The Yash Resort
Things to do: Sightseeing, trekking, photography
20. Suryamal – A Hidden Gem
Suryamal, a secret treasure in Maharashtra, is situated high up at 1800 ft above sea level. Explore the breathtaking beauty of valleys, hidden hiking trails, small hills, and lush green landscapes. The view from the top is absolutely stunning, so make sure to bring your camera along for some incredible photos.
How to reach: Just 3 hours is all it takes to reach Suryamal via drive. We recommend driving because of the fantastic views you get while on your road trip.
Best time to visit: November to February
Ideal Duration to stay: 2 days
Attractions: Kohoj Hill Fort, Trimbakeshwar Temple, Suryamal Peak
Places to Stay: Wild Camp – The Nature Resort, Mystic Valley Spa Resort, SkyWater Villas And Lifestyle
Things to do: Sightseeing, trekking, camping, photography, nature walks
21. Rajmachi – An Attractive Village
Rajmachi, a quaint little village, exudes a captivating old-fashioned allure. During both summers and monsoons, Rajmachi draws a large crowd of tourists, earning its reputation as one of Maharashtra's top hill stations. The lush green scenery delights the eyes, making it a wonderful destination to explore during the rainy season in Maharashtra.
How to reach: At a distance of 311 km, it takes an overnight journey at least to Rajmachi from Mumbai.
Best time to visit: June to September
Ideal Duration to stay: 2 days
Attractions: Sadashivgad Karad, Shrivardhan Fort, Krishna Koyna Pritisangam
Places to Stay: The Fern Residency, Hotel Sangam, Lotus Lodging
Things to do: Sightseeing, photography