Whether you seek mist-covered peaks, pristine lakes, or historical marvels, Maharashtra’s hill stations provide the perfect escape to unwind in the lap of nature.
Resting on the majestic Deccan plateau, Maharashtra is a beautiful state adorned with charming cities, breathtaking waterfalls, pristine beaches and rolling hills. Bordered by the Western Ghats on one end, it stands as one of the many stunning states in India where one can find both a beach and a mountain within short driving distance. Whether you live in one of Maharashtra’s vibrant cities, like Mumbai or Pune, or you are visiting the state for a vacation from anywhere, we strongly recommend exploring the stunning hill stations that Maharashtra has to offer!
Spend your holidays at these marvellous hill stations in Maharashtra
Amboli
Located in Sindhudurg, Amboli is a beautiful hill station hidden in the heart of the Sahyadri ranges. It is not only a paradise for mountain lovers, but it also attracts water babies with its unique offering — a vantage point to observe the magnificent deep-blue ocean. Have a trekking adventure to Kavalshet Point, Kavalesaad Point, Shirgaonkar Point, Parikshit Point and Amboli Forest Park. Drive across the scenic Amboli Ghat mountain pass, where you will be delighted by several waterfalls.
How to reach
By air: Goa’s Manohar International Airport is the nearest, approximately 62 km away.
By rail: Sawantwadi Station is the closest, approximately 39 km away.
By road: Goa is 103 km away.
Mhaismal
Located in the Marathwada region, Mhaismal is another unexplored gem of Maharashtra. Untouched natural beauty defines this hill station, making it a charming and underrated destination waiting to be explored. Get in touch with your spiritual side at the renowned Girija Mata Temple, Gorakshnath Baba Caves and Shri Bhadra Maruti Temple. The quaint town even has a water dam, offering a scenic viewpoint. The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ellora Caves, located about 12 km away, adds another dimension to your Mhaismal experience.
How to reach
By air: Aurangabad Airport is the nearest, approximately 42 km away.
By rail: Aurangabad Station is the closest, approximately 35 km away.
By road: Aurangabad is 40 km away.
Matheran
Matheran prides itself on being a pedestrian-only hill station, banning motor vehicles to provide a perfect escape from the city’s poor air quality. Hop on the toy train from Neral to Matheran and embrace the picturesque journey in the Vistadome coach. This hill station is a hiker’s paradise, with Panorama Point, Hart Point, Monkey Point, and Charlotte Lake sprawled across Matheran, offering ideal spots to enjoy a sunrise and sunset.
How to reach
By air: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport is 93 km away.
By rail: Matheran Station is the main railway station here.
By road: Mumbai is 83 km away.
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Book your stay at SaffronStays Parsi Manor, Matheran via Agoda
Jawhar
Perched at a height of 1,699 ft, Jawhar is sanctified with scenic beauty and pleasant weather, making it an ideal destination for weekend getaways. Located in the Palghar district, this retreat has an abundance of lush natural beauty along with heritage. Spend time at Jai Vilas Palace, Bhupat Garh Fort, Shirpamal and the Old Palace. Enjoy the charm of Dabhosa Falls, Kalmandvi Waterfall, Pawarpada Waterfall and Hiradpada Waterfall. Hike to Hanuman Point and Sunset Point to immerse yourself in the wild.
How to reach
By air: Nashik National Airport is 105 km away.
By rail: Dahanu Station is the closest, approximately 67 km away.
By road: Nashik is 80 km away.
Lonar
Did you know that Maharashtra has a meteorite site? Astrophiles will love to spend their weekend in Lonar, home to the third-largest crater lake in the world, formed between 35,000 and 50,000 years ago due to a meteorite crash. Lonar is located in Buldhana district and features ancient temples like Gomukh Temple, Daityasudan Temple, Kamalja Devi Temple, Motha Maruti Temple and Kumareshwar Temple.
How to reach
By air: Aurangabad Airport is the nearest, approximately 134 km away.
By rail: Aurangabad Station is the closest, approximately 151 km away.
By road: Aurangabad is 149 km away.
Junnar
Go back in time as you explore the mountains of Junnar, an ancient hill station of great significance and heritage, renowned as the birthplace of the ruler Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Situated in the Pune district, Junnar is home to iconic archaeological sites like Lenyadri Caves, Shivneri Fort, Junnar Fort, Bhimashankar Buddhist Caves and Tulja Buddhist Caves. You can also spot leopards in the wild at Manikdoh Leopard Rescue Centre.
How to reach
By air: Pune International Airport is the nearest, approximately 90 km away.
By rail: Pune Station is the closest, approximately 94 km away.
By road: Pune is 94 km away.
Lonavala-Khandala
The go-to hill station for Mumbaikars and Punekars, Lonavala and Khandala are famous for being the beloved getaway from these metropolitan cities. With a convenient location and wonderful attractions, these twin hill stations attract many travellers. Whether you wish to spend your day at a theme park, hike through the jungle, enjoy a waterfall or explore caves, Lonavala and Khandala have something for everyone. Explore historical sites like the Lohagad Fort, Visapur Fort, Rajmachi Fort, Bhaja Caves, Karla Caves and Shree Narayani Dham Temple. Hike to the Lion’s Point, Tiger’s Leap and Duke’s Nose. Have a childlike adventure at Imagicaa and Della Adventure Park. Embrace nature at Kune Falls, Lonavala Lake, Bhushi Dam and Rajmachi Garden.
How to reach
By air: Pune International Airport is the nearest, approximately 74 km away.
By rail: Lonavala Station is the main railway station in the city.
By road: Pune is about 64 km, and Mumbai is 88 km away.
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Book your stay Hilton Shillim Estate Retreat & Spa via Agoda
Mahabaleshwar
Mahabaleshwar is a premier destination, synonymous with the revered Mahabaleshwar Temple. This former summer capital of the Old Bombay Presidency is renowned for its amazing weather and lush greenery, making it a popular hill station in Maharashtra. Enjoy strawberry picking in Mapro Gardens or boating in Venna Lake. Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature by hiking to Arthur’s Seat, Elphinstone Peak, Connaught Peak and Echo Point. Visit Lingmala Falls and Dhobi Waterfall, and explore the hill station’s history at Pratapgarh Fort and Shri Panchganga Mandir.
How to reach
By air: Pune International Airport is 128 km away.
By rail: Wathar Station is the closest to Mahabaleshwar, approximately 81 km away.
By road: Pune is 137 km away.
Book your stay at Le Meridien Mahabaleshwar Resort via Booking.com
Book your stay at Le Meridien Mahabaleshwar Resort via Agoda
Panchgani
Another beloved hill station in Maharashtra, Panchgani’s hilly landscape, has a huge volcanic plateau at its heart — Table Land. This natural marvel is just one of the many wonders of Panchgani, attracting travellers with its towering mountains. These hills have some breathtaking viewpoints like Parsi Point, Sydney Point and Kates Point. Go boating at Dhom Dham in Wai and explore the Rajpuri Caves as well as Pratapgad Fort. Don’t forget to enjoy a scenic picnic at Sherbaug, learn about the local art at Devrai Art Village and shop at Budh-ka-Bazaar. If you are keen on adventure, try paragliding here. What’s wonderful is that Mahabaleshwar is just 19 km away; you can cover these two destinations in just one trip.
How to reach
By air: Pune International Airport is the nearest, approximately 109 km away.
By rail: Satara Station is the closest, approximately 50 km away.
By road: Pune is 98 km away.
Book your stay at Skai Villa by Hill Staytion via Booking.com
Book your stay at Skai Villa by Hill Staytion via Agoda
Durshet
Last but not least is Durshet, another underrated hill station in Maharashtra. About 40 km away from Lonavala-Khandala, Durshet is calmer than its neighbours and is more about experiencing untamed nature. The quaint village is set across the banks of the river Amba, offering more camping options and nature lodges. Try the Umberkhind trek to witness the battleground where Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj defeated General Kartalab Khan.
How to reach
By air: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport is the nearest, approximately 85 km away.
By rail: Khopoli is the closest railway station, approximately 18 km away.
By road: Mumbai is 76 km away.
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Related: The Idyllic Hill Stations Of Kerala: Your Perfect Getaway
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
– What is the best time to visit these hill stations in Maharashtra?
These hill stations have great weather year-round. Whether you’re looking to escape the summer heat, avoid pollution, or experience quintessential winter, these destinations offer a delightful experience.
– What are the best hill stations in Maharashtra to go by bike?
Durshet, Panchgani, Mahabaleshwar, Lonavala, Khandala, Junnar, Lonar, Jawhar, Mhaismal and Amboli are some of the best hill stations in Maharashtra for a bike ride.
– Is it necessary to make hotel reservations in advance for these hill stations?
While not necessary, making hotel reservations in advance is advisable for a hassle-free travel experience. It ensures a tension-free arrival without worrying about last-minute accommodation.
– What adventure activities are available in these hill stations?
These hill stations in Maharashtra offer a range of adventure activities, including camping, trekking, and even paragliding.