Ever since we were little, many of us have felt a special love for hills and mountains. We used to draw these beautiful scenes of hills with such joy. It’s like hills and mountains have a way of calling to us, pulling us towards them with an invisible force. And when we talk about such places, the hill stations in Maharashtra hold a special spot.
Tucked away in the Western Ghats and the Sahyadri Ranges, Maharashtra’s hill stations are truly something else. They have this unique beauty that makes the state even more appealing. People from all over India, and even beyond, travel to Maharashtra just to see these amazing places. This article is going to take you through the top 10 hill stations in Maharashtra that you really should visit. Each of these places has something magical to offer, making them a must-see for anyone who loves nature.
List of the 10 Best Hill Stations in Maharashtra:
1. Mahabaleshwar
Mahabaleshwar served as the honeymoon destination for the majority of Maharashtra’s grandparents. This hill station has a rich history. Mahabaleshwar is 120 kilometers southwest of Pune and 285 kilometers from Mumbai. Its name literally means “God of Great Power”. Mahabaleshwar’s popularity stems from numerous factors.
From winding roads leading up to the hill station to constant fresh breezes, everything will mesmerize you. Besides, the jaw-dropping vistas of hills and valleys, including sunrise, sunset, and everything in between an old Shiva temple, draw you again and again towards Mahabaleshwar. While you come to this beautiful hill station, don’t forget to visit adjacent Panchgani and Pratapgad, the site of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and Afzhal Khan’s historic meeting.
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Top Things to Do: Enjoy boating in Venna Lake, horse riding, trekking to various points, and indulging in fresh strawberry cream.
Top Places to Visit: Elephant’s Head Point, Pratapgad Fort, Mapro Garden, Lingmala Waterfall, and Arthur’s Seat.
Best Time to Visit: March to June for a cool summer retreat; December to February for a chilly winter escape.
How to Reach: Accessible by road from nearby cities; the nearest railway station is Satara, and Pune is the closest airport.
View the package for 3 Nights 4 Days Mahabaleshwar With Panchgani Tour Itinerary.
Read more details: Top 6 Places to See in Mahabaleshwar
2. Bhandardara
If you’re searching for a picture-perfect location for your weekend getaway, come to Bhandardara, which is nestled in the Ahmednagar district. The scenery of this place includes a thundering waterfall, towering hills, flowing waters from a dam, and lush foliage all around. Undoubtedly, this place looks like something out of a poet’s imagination. Bhandardara allows you to enjoy nature at its best.
It is a popular destination for families looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. It is also famous as a religious pilgrim for the old Amruteshwar Shiva temple, known for its unusual architecture. Wilson Dam and Arthur Lake are two other prominent attractions at Bhandardara.
Top Things to Do: Camping by the lake, visiting waterfalls, trekking to forts, and photography of scenic landscapes.
Top Places to Visit: Wilson Dam, Arthur Lake, Randha Falls, Umbrella Falls, and Kalsubai Peak.
Best Time to Visit: June to March offers a pleasant climate and lush greenery post-monsoon.
How to Reach: Well-connected by road; the nearest railway station is Igatpuri, and Nashik is the closest airport.
3. Malshej Ghat
During the monsoons, visitors go to Malshej Ghat to satisfy their mind, body, and soul in the lush environment and cascading waterfalls. Malshej Ghat, located near the Thane and Ahmednagar districts’ borders, is an excellent site. Here you can explore how lovely showers can be. The torrential downpour, along with chilly air, morning fog, and lush foliage all around, creates a scene that appears to have left the confines of a painting.
The place is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including many various types of birds. Here you can explore flamingos that migrate here from Gujarat’s Rann of Kutch. Undoubtedly, Malshej Ghat is the perfect haven for aspiring ornithologists. When you come to this place, you must visit the neighboring Naneghat, which is famed for stargazing (when the skies are clear) and is home to two of the eight Ashtavinayak temples — Azhar and Lenyadri.
Top Things to Do: Hiking, bird watching, visiting waterfalls, and exploring ancient forts.
Top Places to Visit: Harishchandragad Fort, Pimpalgaon Joga Dam, and Ajoba Hill Fort.
Best Time to Visit: July to March for monsoon and winter beauty.
How to Reach: Easily reachable by road; nearest railway station is Kalyan, and Pune or Mumbai serves as the nearest airports.
4. Chikhaldara
Chikhaldara is a long way from Mumbai and Pune and is located in the Vidarbha area. This one is a roaring hill station as tigers surround it. In comparison to other sections of Vidarbha, Chikhaldara receives a lot of rain. It does bring you to a tranquil zone with abundant vegetation and fauna. Surely, this place is ideal for relaxing and reconnecting with oneself.
While you come to Chikhaldara, make sure to visit the Melghat Project Tiger Area. It encompasses Chikhaldara on three sides and covers an area of around 1,676 square kilometers. It is one of the best attractions of Chikhaldara. The Project Tiger territory is separated into many smaller wildlife preserves. The Melghat Project Tiger is home to over 700 plant species from 400 different genera and 97 families. Here, you will explore a diverse fauna that includes over 70 tigers and leopards, 200 sloth bears, 1800 Indian gaurs, and several rare animals such as the Flying Squirrel, Pangolin, Mouse Deer, Ratel, and Honey Badger.
Top Things to Do: Wildlife safaris in Melghat Tiger Reserve, trekking, boating, and visiting viewpoints.
Top Places to Visit: Bhimkund, Melghat Tiger Reserve, Muktagiri, and Gawilgadh Fort.
Best Time to Visit: October to March for a pleasant climate and wildlife sighting.
How to Reach: Accessible by road; nearest railhead is Amravati, and Nagpur is the closest airport.
5. Amboli
Amboli, known as the ‘Queen of Maharashtra’, is enough to give us an impression of its natural beauty. It is located at an altitude of roughly 690 meters above sea level. It’s a natural hotspot that is cool, peaceful, and serene. During the monsoons, Amboli has the most beautiful appearance. Its landscape includes deep forests and a significant number of waterfalls.
Amboli has numerous spectacular views from which you can enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys. Amboli’s natural beauty is enhanced by its diverse flora and fauna. It includes various trees, plants, birds, wild animals, reptiles, butterflies, frogs, and other creatures.
Top Things to Do: Waterfall visits, trekking, and exploring dense forests.
Top Places to Visit: Amboli Waterfall, Hiranyakeshi Temple, Mahadevgad Point, and Sunset Point.
Best Time to Visit: June to September for monsoon beauty; November to February for cooler weather.
How to Reach: Well-connected by road; nearest railway station is Sawantwadi, and Goa is the closest airport.
6. Lonavala – Khandala
Lonavala and Khandala’s twin hill stations are just a hop, skip and jump away from both cities. These hill stations are genuine blessings for Mumbaikars and Punekars. During the monsoon, both Lonavala and Khandala are noted for their delightful and refreshing weather, as well as their stunning green cover.
Lonavala and Khandala are known for their chikki and fudge. But they also have some beautiful views of the valley and hills, with tiny quaint towns snuggled into the folds. During the monsoon, the famed Bhushi Dam in Lonavala is a crucial draw. Nearby attractions include the Karla and Bhaja caves, as well as the Goddess Ekvira shrine. Also, make sure to visit Sunil Kandaloor’s famous wax museum, which is the first of its type in India and allows you to pose with your favorite celebs.
Top Things to Do: Hiking, exploring caves, visiting forts, and enjoying the monsoon landscapes.
Top Places to Visit: Tiger’s Leap, Bhaja Caves, Lonavala Lake, Rajmachi Fort, and Duke’s Nose.
Best Time to Visit: June to September for monsoon magic; October to May for pleasant weather.
How to Reach: Easily accessible by road and train; Pune is the nearest airport.
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7. Igatpuri
Another weekend vacation destination for Pune and Mumbai residents. It isn’t, however, your typical hill station. This location is well-known for relaxing vacations. People come here to unwind, relax, and recharge themselves with the power of nature. In this highland town, there is also a huge meditation academy.
The hill station lets the solitude cleanse your spirit and mind. Bhatsa River valley, Tringalwadi fort, camel valley, Kalsubai hill, and other places are among the best places to visit in this country. This location also serves as a starting point for visitors to the state’s many other hidden hill stations.
Top Things to Do: Meditation at the Vipassana center, trekking, and visiting forts and waterfalls.
Top Places to Visit: Tringalwadi Fort, Camel Valley, Bhatsa River Valley, and Vaitarna Dam.
Best Time to Visit: June to September for lush landscapes; November to March for cooler weather.
How to Reach: Well-connected by road and rail; Mumbai is the closest airport.
8. Sawantwadi
The location is known for its typical hill station appearance, including vistas, valleys, waterfalls, and other features. Hill stations have a tranquil charm, whereas coastal areas have a distinct attractiveness. And Sawantwadi lets you enjoy both. Sawantwadi is flanked on one side by the Sahyadri highlands and the other by the coastal region.
This land’s cuisine is a mash-up of old hill station fare and seafood-heavy coastal fare. During your visit, you should sample some of the local cuisines. Moti Talao Lake, Sawantwadi Palace, historic temples, and other attractions are best to see. If you want to acquire wooden toys, you should look into the local marketplaces.
Top Things to Do: Exploring royal palaces, boating in Moti Talao, and enjoying traditional wooden toys.
Top Places to Visit: Sawantwadi Palace, Moti Talao, and Raghunath Market.
Best Time to Visit: October to March for the best climate.
How to Reach: Accessible by road; nearest railway station is Sawantwadi Road, and Goa is the nearest airport.
9. Panchgani
The name Panchgani means ‘five hills’. If you are not a very adventure enthusiast and seek a quiet and scenic hill station, Panchgani has many options. This country entices visitors with its unspoiled natural splendor. The terrain is almost completely covered in dense forest, giving it a more vibrant appearance.
Bhilar waterfall, Table Land, Lingmala waterfall, Sydney Point, Rajpuri caves, Arthur Seat, and other attractions in this hill station are worth seeing. Here you can enjoy shopping, cycling, cave hiking, waterfall bathing, and other outdoor activities. Panchgani is more famous for sightseeing than for activities.
Top Things to Do: Paragliding, visiting strawberry farms, and exploring Table Land.
Top Places to Visit: Sydney Point, Table Land, Rajpuri Caves, and Mapro Garden.
Best Time to Visit: September to May for pleasant weather and strawberry season.
How to Reach: Easily reachable by road; nearest railway station is in Pune, and Pune also serves as the nearest airport.
More read information: Top Places to Visit in Panchgani
10. Rajmachi
Rajmachi is the perfect vacation place for those who enjoy hiking, mountaineering, and camping. The sole drawback is that it is a small site with few options for touring besides Rajmachi Fort. Pathways for hiking and wooded areas abound across the area.
You can select a vantage point to take in the city’s panorama. The country has a lonesome charm due to its few tourist activities. It is the perfect spot to go if you want to get away from the city, heat, and humidity.
Top Things to Do: Trekking to Rajmachi Fort, camping, and exploring ancient ruins.
Top Places to Visit: Rajmachi Fort and the surrounding trekking trails.
Best Time to Visit: June to September for trekking in the monsoon; October to May for clearer trails.
How to Reach: Accessible by trek from Lonavala or Khandala; these towns are well-connected by road, rail, and the nearest airport is Pune.
11. Karjat
Karjat charms its visitors with lush green landscapes and a vibrant atmosphere ideal for adventure enthusiasts. Nestled by the banks of the Ulhas River, it’s a hotspot for trekking, cave exploration, and white-water rafting. The serene beauty of the Kondana Caves and the majestic Peth Fort are highlights that capture the essence of Karjat’s rich history and natural splendor.
Top Things to Do: Engage in trekking to ancient forts, white-water rafting in the Ulhas River, and exploring caves.
Top Places to Visit: Kondana Caves, Peth Fort, Bhivpuri Waterfall, and Ulhas Valley.
Best Time to Visit: July to September for the monsoon season, which highlights the area’s natural beauty; November to February for cooler and pleasant weather.
How to Reach: Karjat is well-connected by road and rail. The nearest airport is in Mumbai.
12. Lavasa
Lavasa, India’s first planned hill city, mirrors the Italian town of Portofino with its colorful buildings and scenic landscapes. It’s a modern retreat offering a blend of nature and urban lifestyle, with a variety of activities from watersports to nature walks. The tranquil environment and picturesque views make Lavasa a perfect getaway for relaxation and adventure.
Top Things to Do: Enjoy watersports, nature walks, and adventure activities like rock climbing and rappelling.
Top Places to Visit: Lakeshore Watersports, Lavasa Nature Trail, Temghar Dam, and the vibrant town center.
Best Time to Visit: September to March is ideal to enjoy the pleasant weather and outdoor activities.
How to Reach: Accessible by road from Pune and Mumbai; Pune is the nearest airport.
13. Panhala
Panhala stands out with its historical Panhala Fort that whispers tales of Maratha prowess and offers breathtaking views of the Sahyadri Mountain range. This hill station is a blend of rich history and natural beauty, making it a unique spot for trekkers and history buffs alike. The cool climate and serene landscapes provide a peaceful retreat from the bustling city life.
Top Things to Do: Explore the Panhala Fort, trekking in the nearby hills, and enjoy panoramic views of the Sahyadri Mountain range.
Top Places to Visit: Panhala Fort, Sajja Kothi, Teen Darwaza, and Ambarkhana.
Best Time to Visit: July to February offers a cool and enjoyable climate, making it perfect for exploration and trekking.
How to Reach: Easily reachable by road from Kolhapur; the nearest railway station is in Kolhapur, and the closest airport is Kolhapur Airport.
14. Tapola
Often referred to as ‘Mini Kashmir’, Tapola is a tranquil hamlet famed for its rustic beauty and the Shivsagar Lake. It’s the go-to place for nature lovers and adventure seekers, offering activities like boating, kayaking, and exploring lush strawberry farms. Tapola’s untouched natural beauty makes it a perfect escape into the heart of nature.
Top Things to Do: Nicknamed ‘Mini Kashmir’, enjoy boating in Shivsagar Lake, kayaking, and visiting strawberry farms.
Top Places to Visit: Shivsagar Lake, Tapola Water Sports Center, and nearby forts for trekking.
Best Time to Visit: October to June is the best time to visit for water sports and to avoid the heavy monsoon rains.
How to Reach: Accessible by road from Mahabaleshwar; the nearest railway station is in Satara, and Pune is the nearest airport.
Conclusion
These are the top best hill stations of Maharashtra that you must visit. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get, set, Go!
