Escape The Summer Blues: Hill Stations Near Mumbai For A Mini Vacation

One of the oldest hill stations in the world, Panchgani sure makes it to the top of this list. A short distance from Mahabaleshwar, this hill station is known for a lot of fan-favourite points including the Kaas Plateau (with an altitude of 1,200 meters, it is a biodiversity hot spot with many varieties of flowers and butterflies) and the Rajpuri caves. The Mapro Garden in Panchgani is another famous tourist attraction, with a restaurant, a chocolate and cheese factory, a children’s play area and a retail outlet that sells its products.

Best Time To Visit: September to May

Best Things To Do: Sydney Point, Table Land, Harrisons Folly, Kaas Plateau, Rajpuri caves, Mapro garden, Pratapgad Fort

Distance From Mumbai: 250 to 300 km

How To Reach: Book a train from Mumbai to Chiplun, Khed, or Satara, then take a cab to Panchgani. You can also take a bus to Panchgani from the Bandra Housing Board Office.

One of the lesser-known, scenic destinations near Mumbai, Bhandardara is surrounded by lush greenery and hills all around, and is home to a number of indigenous flora and fauna in the region. With many natural and man-made dams, waterfalls and lakes, you are sure to enjoy its scenic beauty in the winter.

Best Time To Visit: January to February, August to December

Best Things To Do: Bhandardara Lake, Mt. Kalsubai, Randha and Umbrella Falls, Wilson Dam

Distance From Mumbai: 165 kms approx

How To Reach: Book a train to Igatpuri from Mumbai, then reach Bhandardara by bus or taxi or just take a direct bus to the destination.

A hill station that’s close to home and pretty clean, Matheran is sure to spread some holiday cheer around, with its fresh air and scenic beauty. The best time to visit is in winter and you have a plethora of options to choose from, from thickly wooded paths to the countless lookout points, spending some time at the lake or even horseback riding.

Best Time To Visit: December to February

Best Things To Do: Alexander Point, Charlotte Lake, One Tree Hill, Malet Spring, Mount Berry, Toy Train

Distance From Mumbai: 110 km approx

How To Reach: Take a train from Mumbai to Neral Railway Station and book a shared jeep to Matheran’s Dasturi Car Park or take a direct air-conditioned bus to the destination.

Situated at a height of 3,177 feet, Panhala commands a breathtaking view of the valley and is full of Maratha history. It is also the place where Shivaji spent a lot of his time and it also was the Maratha State capital for many years. It is said that the Panhala Fort guarded the principal route to the western ghats, a long time ago. If you’re a history buff, don’t skip this!

Best Time To Visit: November to January

Best Things To Do: Sajja Kothi, Sambhaji Temple, Panhala Tank, Nayakini Sajja, Panhala Fort

Distance From Mumbai: 380 kms approx

How To Reach: Take a train from Mumbai to Kolhapur railway station and then take a bus or a taxi to Panhala.

Located in Nashik district with some of the highest peaks in the Sahyadri Range, Igatpuri is also a big railway station that connects cities across the state. Hidden amidst the greenery of the Western Ghats, this hill station attracts a lot of hikers and trekkers. It is also home to the Vipassana Academy, said to be one of the world’s largest meditation centres. If you’re into rock climbing, rappelling, trekking and camping, this is the place for you.

Best Time To Visit: November to March

Best Things To Do: Tringalwadi Fort, Ghantadevi Temple,  Myanmar Gate, Thal Ghat, Dhamma Giri Vipassana Academy

Distance From Mumbai: 130 to 150 km approx

How To Reach: Consider taking trains, which operate every three hours from Dadar in Mumbai to Igatpuri. You can also take a direct bus from Dadar West to reach Igatpuri.

A popular temple town located in Bhorgiri village, Bhimashankar is one of the twelve Jyotirlinga shrines of Lord Shiva in the country. For that reason, it is considered one of the holiest places to visit. Many people from across the state also come here to hike and trek. It also houses the Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary, spread over 120 square kilometres over the Western Ghats. One of the primary species it is home to is the Indian Giant Squirrel and several sacred groves. Trekking in the forest will bring you closer to nature and help you forget all your city troubles.

Best Time To Visit: November to March

Best Things To Do: Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary, Bhimashankar Temple, Hanuman Lake.

Distance From Mumbai: 223 kms approx

How To Reach: Book a train to Shelu from Mumbai and hire a cab to reach Bhimashankar. A bus is also available from Mumbai to Kalamboli, and then you can take a taxi to Bhimashankar.

A beautiful getaway near the Konkan coast, Ganapatiphule is kind of underestimated when it comes to getaways in Mumbai. A great alternative to Alibaug, this beach town is known for its serene beauty and clean sands. A lot of travellers come here to visit the Ganesha temple which is 400 years old and to enjoy the unique Konkani cuisine that’s offered. The MTDC resort is right on the beach if you’re looking to enjoy spending some time in the sun and sand.

Best Time To Visit: While this town is pleasant almost all year round, it's at its best after monsoons. So anytime between say October to February. 

Best Things To Do: Jaigad Fort, Arevare Beach, Gaywadi Beach, Swayambhu Ganesh Temple

Distance From Mumbai: 345 km approx

How To Reach: Book a train from Sewri to reach Ganpatipule through Panvel and Ratnagiri. You can also take a bus from Malad East Pushpa Park to Ratnagiri Mahalaxmi Mandir and hire a taxi to Ganpatipule.

Known for having strong roots in Portuguese history, architecture and rule, Silvassa is an ideal hill station and getaway for history and nature buffs. And if you're looking for an adventurous trip, this little town's got a lot. From lakes and wildlife sanctuaries to great architectural buildings and breathtaking nature views — Silvassa won't disappoint you. 

Best Time To Visit: October to March

Best Things To Do: Lion Safari Wildlife Park, Island Garden, Vanganga Lake. 

Distance From Mumbai: 172 km approx

How To Reach: Opt for the Bandra to Vapi train and then book a cab from Vapi to Silvassa. You can also board a bus from Chembur, Borivali, Sion, Andheri, or Vashi to travel directly to Silvassa.

Nestled in the lap of the Sahyadri mountains, Karjat offers a dream-like atmosphere. This quaint city makes a rejuvenating escapade with its picturesque landscapes, waterfalls, valleys, water rafting, and trekking adventures. From relaxing in the Ulhas Valley to taking a refreshing dip in the waters of Bhivpuri Waterfall — there is no shortage of tranquil experiences. If you are interested in exploring places with a rich history, Karjat will leave you spoilt for choices. There are many campsites as well in the city offering stargazing experiences you will cherish for a lifetime.

Best Time To Visit: June to September 

Best Things To Do: Peth Fort, Kondana Caves, Kothligad Trek, Bhivgad Trek, Ulhas Valley and Bhivpuri Waterfall

Distance from Mumbai: 60 to 80 km approx

How To Reach: Take a train from Dadar to Bhigwan or opt for a taxi or cab to reach through Atal Setu or Sion Panvel Expressway.

Located in Maharashtra’s Western Ghats, Malshej is home to mountains, waterfalls, lakes, and hill forts with greenery in abundance. You can take a short break from the hectic city life and uplift your spirit at this mountain pass. It attracts photographers, nature lovers, hikers, and trekkers for its scenic hilltops. If you visit during the monsoon season, you might spot pink flamingos there. Malshej also comprises structured dams, ancient forts, sunset spots, and hills surrounded by dense vegetation. There is no shortage of sightseeing and temples to discover in Malshej Ghat, which are architectural marvels in themselves.

Best Time To Visit: July to March

Best Things To Do: Malshej Falls, Pimpalgaon Joga Dam, Ajoba Hill Fort, Harishchandragad Fort, and Konkan Kada

Distance from Mumbai: 125 km approx

How To Reach: Take a train from Dadar to Bhigwan or opt for a taxi or cab to reach through Atal Setu or Sion Panvel Expressway.

One of the most popular getaways near the city, Khandala is nestled on top of the foothills of the Sahyadri range in the Western Ghats. It is a great place to plan a short weekend getaway and rejuvenate in its valleys, hills, lakes, and waterfalls. You can visit Lohagad Fort, which overlooks the Sahyadri range. For adventure enthusiasts, Tiger’s Leap is a much-hyped spot. You can capture a panoramic hill view and also trek your way down to a small waterfall, which stuns visitors during the monsoon season. Khandala is also renowned for its amazing rock formations, such as the Shiv Linga Rock, also known as “Swayambhu,” offering views from the top.

Best Time To Visit: July to September

Best Things To Do: Rajmachi Fort, Visapur Fort, Bedsa Caves, Lohagad Fort, Duke’s Nose, Tiger’s Leap, Lion’s Point, and Kune Waterfalls

Distance from Mumbai: 80 km approx

How To Reach: Take Deccan, Koyna, or Sahyadri Express train from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Junction Terminal (CSMT).

This entry is an honourable mention because even though most of you already know about this, it would not have been fair to not have it on the list! Most of us know Mahabaleshwar for its strawberries and cream. Well, apart from that, it’s the perfect hill station for a quick getaway, even if it’s only about lazing around in an Airbnb home or even hiking around to check out the various points. 

LBB Tip: Read more on Things To Do In Mahabaleshwar here.