Mumbai is a bustling city that never sleeps, but sometimes you need a break from the chaos and noise. Luckily, there are several hill stations near Mumbai that offer a serene and solo trip. These destinations are perfect for a quick weekend getaway or a longer vacation. From the picturesque beauty of Lonavala to the peaceful charm of Matheran, the hill stations near Mumbai offer something for every traveler.
With a pleasant climate, scenic views, and a plethora of outdoor activities, these destinations are ideal for nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a break from the city life.
In this article, we will explore the 7 best hill stations near Mumbai that are worth a visit.
Lonavala is one of the best hill stations near mumbai at a distance of around 83 km. It is known for its lush green valleys, picturesque landscapes, and pleasant weather. Lonavala is a popular weekend getaway destination for Mumbaikars, and it offers a range of activities such as trekking, camping, and water sports.
- The best time to visit Lonavala is during the monsoon season, between June and September, when the hills and valleys come alive with lush greenery and cascading waterfalls.
- The winter months of October to February are also a good time to visit, with pleasant weather and clear skies.
- Lonavala is famous for its scenic beauty and breathtaking waterfalls.
- It is a popular weekend getaway destination for people from Mumbai and Pune, offering a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
- Lonavala is also known for its chikki (a sweet snack made of jaggery and peanuts), fudge, and other local delicacies.
- Bhushi Dam
- Karla Caves
- Lohagad Fort
- Tiger’s Leap
- Rajmachi Point
- Wax Museum
- Lonavala Lake
- Tung Fort
- Duke’s Nose
Khandala
Historically, Khandala was ruled by the Maratha Empire and later came under the British Raj. It gained popularity as a hill station during the colonial era, and it remains a popular tourist destination today, known for its beautiful valleys and misty mountains. The approximate distance between khandala and Mumbai is 70 km.
Places to Visit in Khandala
Karla and Bhaja Caves: These ancient rock-cut caves are a must-visit for history buffs and feature intricate carvings and sculptures.
Rajmachi Point: This viewpoint offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
Visapur Fort: This historic fort dates back to the 18th century and offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the region.
Shrivardhan Fort: Another historic fort in the region that dates back to the 17th century and offers spectacular views of the surrounding landscape.
Amrutanjan Point: This viewpoint offers a panoramic view of the nearby towns and villages and is a popular spot for nature photography.
Reversing Station Point: This viewpoint is famous for its breathtaking views of the valley and is a popular spot for adventure enthusiasts.
Best Things to do
Trekking: Khandala is surrounded by picturesque hills and valleys, making it an ideal destination for trekking and hiking.
Cave exploration: The Karla and Bhaja Caves in Khandala are a must-visit for history buffs and feature intricate carvings and sculptures.
Sightseeing: There are several viewpoints in Khandala, such as Rajmachi Point, Tiger’s Leap, and Amrutanjan Point, which offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Adventure activities: Khandala is home to several adventure sports like rappelling, rock climbing, and zip-lining.
Visit historic forts: Shrivardhan Fort and Visapur Fort are historic forts located in Khandala that are popular among history enthusiasts.
Matheran
Matheran is a pollution-free zone and is Asia’s only automobile-free hill station near mumbai, which makes it a popular destination for tourists seeking a peaceful and relaxing vacation. It was discovered in 1850 by Hugh Poyntz Malet, the collector of Thane district. It was developed by the British as a popular summer retreat during the colonial era.
The hill station is known for its panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and mountains, and is home to several popular viewpoints such as the Panorama Point, Echo Point, and Louisa Point.
Matheran is located approximately 80 kilometers from Mumbai and is easily accessible by road and rail. The nearest railway station is Neral, which is approximately 21 kilometers from Matheran.
Best Places to Visit
- Panorama Point: This is the most popular viewpoint in Matheran, offering a panoramic view of the surrounding hills and valleys.
- Charlotte Lake: This is a serene and picturesque lake located in the heart of Matheran.
- Louisa Point: This is another popular viewpoint in Matheran, offering stunning views of the Prabal Fort and Vishalgad Fort.
- Monkey Point: This is a popular trekking destination in Matheran, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and mountains.
- Echo Point: As the name suggests, this point is known for its echo effect, where sounds made at the point are echoed back.
- Pisarnath Temple: This is a popular Hindu temple located in Matheran, dedicated to Lord Shiva.
- One Tree Hill Point: This is a unique viewpoint in Matheran, known for its solitary Jambhul tree and stunning views of the surrounding hills.
- Garbett Point: This is a popular trekking destination in Matheran, offering stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
Best Time to Visit
To visit in matheran, the best time is the winter months, when the weather is cool and pleasant. The temperature during this time ranges between 12°C to 25°C, making it ideal for sightseeing, trekking, and other outdoor activities.
Igatpuri
The distance from Mumbai to Igatpuri is around 135 km, and it takes about 3-4 hours to reach by road. The nearest railway station to Igatpuri is the Igatpuri Railway Station, which is well-connected to major cities across India. The hill station is also easily accessible from other cities in Maharashtra like Nashik, Pune, and Aurangabad.
The history of Igatpuri dates back to the time of the Mauryan Empire, and it was an important center for trade and commerce during the reign of the Maratha Empire. The hill station played a significant role in India’s struggle for independence, as it was the site of many freedom movement activities.
Best Places to Visit
- Bhatsa River Valley: It is a picturesque spot located amidst the Sahyadri ranges, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
- Vaitarna Dam: It is a popular picnic spot and also a source of hydroelectricity, with scenic views of the lake and the surrounding hills.
- Kalsubai Peak: It is the highest peak in Maharashtra and a popular trekking destination, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
- Camel Valley: It is a scenic spot with a beautiful waterfall and rock formations that resemble a camel’s head.
- Tringalwadi Fort: It is an ancient fort that dates back to the 10th century, located on a hilltop with panoramic views of the surrounding region.
Why is famous for tourist attraction
The area is also known for its trekking trails, with many enthusiasts flocking to the region for adventure activities. Additionally, Igatpuri is home to many ancient temples and forts, offering visitors a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the region.
With its natural beauty, cultural attractions, and many adventure opportunities, Igatpuri has become a must-visit destination for those looking to explore the beauty of Maharashtra.
Karnala
It is also an attractive small hill stations near mumbai, which have approximate distance near 50 km from Mumbai. The hill station is known for its historic Karnala Fort and the bird sanctuary that surrounds it.
The hill station’s history dates back to the 12th century when the fort was built by the Yadav dynasty. It was later occupied by various rulers, including the Portuguese and the British. The fort played an important role in protecting the region from invaders and was also used as a watchtower to monitor trade and commerce in the area.
In 1962, the Maharashtra government declared the area around the fort as a bird sanctuary to protect the numerous bird species that inhabit the region. Today, the Karnala Bird Sanctuary is a popular attraction for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.
Best Places to Visit
- Karnala Fort: This historic fort is the main attraction in Karnala. Visitors can trek to the top of the fort to enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding region.
- Karnala Bird Sanctuary: Home to over 150 species of birds, the Karnala Bird Sanctuary is a paradise for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.
- Karnala Beach: The secluded and picturesque Karnala Beach is an ideal spot for a peaceful picnic or a relaxing stroll.
- Karnala Bird Observatory: This facility within the bird sanctuary provides a unique opportunity to learn about the region’s birdlife through interactive exhibits and educational programs.
- Sagargad: Located just a few kilometers away from Karnala, Sagargad is an ancient hill fort that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Trekking to the top of Sagargad is a popular activity among adventure enthusiasts.
Karnala Bird Sanctuary Ticket Cost and timing
Ticket Cost:
- Entry fee for adults: INR 50 per person
- Entry fee for children (3-12 years): INR 30 per person
- Entry fee for senior citizens: INR 30 per person
Timing:
- The sanctuary is open from 7:30 am to 5:30 pm every day of the week.
- The best time to visit is between October and February.
- Visitors are advised to arrive early in the morning to catch a glimpse of the birds in their natural habitat.
Karjat
Today, Karjat is a popular tourist destination and a favorite weekend getaway for tourist. It is famous for its trekking trails, historic sites, and scenic beauty, which makes it a perfect place for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.
It is also one of the best hill stations near mumbai approximately 62 km away and is known for its natural beauty, lush greenery, and waterfalls.
The town has a rich history and was ruled by several dynasties over the centuries, including the Mauryas, Chalukyas, and the Mughals. It played a significant role during India’s freedom struggle, and many notable freedom fighters were born in or had connections to Karjat.
Best Places to Visit
- Kondana Caves: These ancient Buddhist caves are located on the outskirts of Karjat and are a popular tourist attraction for their historical and architectural significance.
- Bhivpuri Waterfall: A beautiful waterfall nestled amidst lush greenery, Bhivpuri waterfall is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.
- Ulhas Valley: This scenic valley is known for its picturesque landscapes and beautiful waterfalls, and is a popular destination for trekking and camping.
- Karjat Hill Station: The town of Karjat itself is a popular destination, known for its scenic beauty and panoramic views of the surrounding hills.
- Bhor Ghat: A historic mountain pass, Bhor Ghat is known for its lush greenery, trekking trails, and scenic beauty. It is a popular destination for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Best Things to do in karjat
- Trekking: Karjat is surrounded by hills and mountains, offering ample opportunities for trekking and hiking. One can explore the beautiful countryside, waterfalls, and scenic vistas while trekking.
- Camping: The picturesque landscapes and tranquil surroundings of Karjat make it a perfect place for camping. There are various campsites in the area that offer an immersive nature experience.
- Waterfall rappelling: Karjat is home to several waterfalls that offer a unique experience of rappelling down the waterfalls. It is a popular activity among adventure enthusiasts.
- Visit Kondana Caves: The ancient Buddhist caves are a major attraction in Karjat. One can explore the caves and learn about the history and culture of the region.
- Visit Ulhas Valley: The scenic valley is a must-visit destination for nature lovers. It offers a peaceful and serene environment, with beautiful waterfalls and lush greenery.
- Visit Bahiri Cave: Bahiri Cave is a popular destination for trekkers and adventure enthusiasts. It is known for its challenging trek and beautiful views from the top.
- Visit Peth Fort: Peth Fort is a historic fort located in the hills of Karjat. It offers a panoramic view of the surrounding countryside and is a popular destination for trekking and camping.
Rajmachi
Rajmachi is also a best hill station near mumbai placed in the Sahyadri mountain range in Maharashtra, India. The hill station is known for its historic fort and scenic beauty.
History:
The Rajmachi Fort was built by the Satavahanas and was later captured by the Maratha Empire.
The fort played a significant role in protecting the region from invaders and was used as a military base during the Maratha Empire.
Distance:
The distance between Mumbai and Rajmachi is nearly 82 km.
The nearest railway station to Rajmachi is the Lonavala railway station, which is around 15 km away.
The hill station can be reached by road from Mumbai via the Mumbai-Pune Expressway. It takes around 2.5-3 hours to reach Rajmachi from Mumbai by road.
Best Places to Visit
- Rajmachi Fort: The historic fort is a major attraction in Rajmachi, offering panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and hills.
- Kondhane Caves: The ancient Buddhist rock-cut caves are located near the Rajmachi Fort and offer a glimpse into the region’s rich history.
- Shrivardhan Fort: The fort is located near the Rajmachi Fort and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
- Kalbhairavnath Temple: The ancient temple is dedicated to Lord Kalbhairav and is a popular pilgrimage site for locals and tourists alike.
- Kondhane Waterfall: The waterfall is located near the Kondhane Caves and offers a refreshing escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
Best Things to do
- Birdwatching: The Rajmachi Bird Sanctuary is home to several species of birds, making it an ideal spot for birdwatching.
- Photography: The scenic landscape of Rajmachi offers several opportunities for photography enthusiasts to capture stunning shots.
- Sightseeing: Visitors can explore the historic forts, ancient temples, and caves in and around Rajmachi, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich history and culture.
- Trekking: Rajmachi is a popular destination for trekking enthusiasts, with several trails offering stunning views of the Western Ghats.
- Camping: The Rajmachi Fort is a popular camping spot, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
If you enjoyed exploring the hill stations near Mumbai, you might also want to check out some of the top destinations for a one-day trip near Mumbai. Some of the popular options include Alibaug, Lonavala, and Mahabaleshwar. Click here to read our blog on the top destinations for a one-day trip near Mumbai.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the hill stations near Mumbai offer a refreshing getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city. From the scenic views of Matheran to the lush greenery of Rajmachi, each destination has its own unique charm. Whether you’re looking for adventure or just some peace and quiet, these hill stations are definitely worth a visit. So pack your bags and embark on a journey to explore the beauty of these serene destinations.