Best hill stations to visit near Mumbai this summer
Best hill stations to visit near Mumbai this summer
Beat the summer heat by visiting hill stations near Mumbai like Lonavala, Khandala, and more. These destinations offer cooler temperatures, lush landscapes, and refreshing waterfalls, providing the perfect retreat to rejuvenate your senses.
1. Lonavala and Khandala: Located in the Sahyadri mountains, Lonavala and Khandala are twin hill stations known for their natural beauty. Lonavala, 96 km from Mumbai, boasts a pleasant climate year-round. Attractions include Tiger Point and Lion’s Point, offering panoramic views. Adjacent Khandala is famous for its scenic settings and adventurous activities. The Mumbai-Pune Expressway offers a picturesque drive between these towns. Notable attractions include Rajmachi Fort, Visapur Fort, Bhaja Caves, and Della Adventure Park. The local cuisine, especially chikkis, adds a flavorful touch to the visit.
2. Matheran: Matheran is a car-free hill station accessible by toy train or on foot, offering tranquility and nostalgia. Key viewpoints include Panorama Point, Echo Point, and Louisa Point, providing panoramic views of valleys and forests. The town retains its colonial-era charm with red-earth pathways and vintage train rides. Explore on foot, horseback, or by hand-pulled rickshaw. Matheran’s pedestrian-friendly environment encourages visitors to reconnect with nature away from city life.
3. Mahabaleshwar: Renowned as the “Queen of Hill Stations,” Mahabaleshwar offers stunning natural beauty and a pleasant climate. Scenic points like Arthur’s Seat, Kate’s Point, and Wilson Point offer breathtaking vistas. Waterfalls such as Lingmala Falls and Dhobi Waterfall enhance its charm. Mahabaleshwar is also famous for strawberry farms and historic sites like Pratapgarh Fort and Mahabaleshwar Temple, making it a perfect retreat for nature lovers.
4. Panchgani: Perched at 1,334 meters above sea level, Panchgani offers panoramic views of green valleys and misty hills. Notable points include Table Land, Parsi Point, and Sydney Point. Table Land, the second-largest plateau in Asia, is popular for picnics and outdoor activities. Panchgani’s colonial-era architecture adds nostalgic charm. Visitors can enjoy walks, local markets, and adventure activities like paragliding and trekking.
5. Igatpuri: Situated at 600 meters above sea level, Igatpuri is known for its lush greenery and waterfalls. Major attractions include the Bhatsa River Valley and meditation centers like the Vipassana International Academy. Igatpuri is also a gateway to Kalsubai Peak, Maharashtra’s highest peak. The town offers a tranquil atmosphere, making it ideal for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.
6. Bhandardara: Near Igatpuri, Bhandardara offers tranquility and stunning landscapes. Attractions include Arthur Lake and Randha Falls, especially mesmerizing during the monsoon. Historical and religious sites like Agasti Rishi Ashram and Amruteshwar Temple add cultural depth. Bhandardara is perfect for travelers seeking peace and natural beauty.
7. Jawhar: At 518 meters above sea level, Jawhar offers views of green valleys and waterfalls. Known for its tribal culture, visitors can explore Warli art. Key attractions include Jai Vilas Palace and Dabhosa Waterfall. Jawhar’s combination of natural beauty and cultural richness provides a unique retreat for nature lovers.
These hill stations near Mumbai provide diverse experiences, from adventure and culture to relaxation and natural beauty, making them ideal escapes from the city heat.
