Lonavala
Among the most celebrated hill stations near Mumbai and Pune, Lonavala hill station is a trekker’s paradise. With many waterfalls, caves, trekking and hiking points, it has become a favourite destination of adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers. And being a part of Sahyadri mountains, it offers some magnificent vistas and
How to reach: Lohegaon Airport in Pune is the nearest airport and Lonavala has its own railhead. People also prefer to drive from Mumbai and Pune.
Ideal duration: 1-2 days
Things to do: Explore Rajmachi Wildlife Sanctuary, Amrutanjan Point and Bhaja Caves. Trek up to Koregad Fort, Tiger’s Leap, Duke’s Nose, and Kondane Caves. You can also go for boating in Lonavala Lake.
Matheran
With the backdrop of plush green Sahyadri hills, Matheran hill station is one of the most scenic and serene hill stations near Mumbai. It overjoys travellers with unpolluted and refreshing environment. This is the only eco-friendly hill station in Maharashtra, certified by Ministry of Environment and Forests and the only automobile-free hill station in India.
How to reach: The closest airport is at Mumbai, whereas Neral, 20 kms from Matheran is the nearest railway station. Buses ply from Mumbai and Pune up to Neral, and from there one can reach the destination by the toy train.
Things to do: Visit One Tree Hill Point, Echo Point, Alexander Point, and Prabal Fort. Go for trekking, valley crossing, and nature walking.
Igatpuri
Famous as a weekend getaway from Mumbai and Pune, Igatpuri has the largest Vipassana meditation academy and offers immense natural beauty and solitude to your mind and soul. The pleasant climate, breathtaking valleys, sparkling waterfalls, and vintage forts have made Igatpuri one of the best hill stations in Maharashtra.
How to reach: Igatpuri has its own railway station and there are local trains from Mumbai. The nearest airport is in Mumbai.
Things to do: Hiking, trekking up to Kalsubai peak and Tringalwadi fort, exploring camel valley and Bhatsa River valley.
Mahabaleshwar
Mahabaleshwar is counted as the best hill stations in Maharashtra. The intoxicating aromas of strawberries and misty mornings allure tourists from Pune, Mumbai, and other nearby cities. It’s among the most gorgeous hill stations near Pune, for those who want to experience the romantic monsoon and winter of Mahabaleshwar.
The spectacular viewpoints like Kate’s Point and Elephant Point, Venna Lake, Chinaman waterfalls and Connaught peak are some of the major attractions here. One can also see the origin point of River Krishna at Mahadev Temple, located in old Mahabaleshwar.
How to reach: Pune is the nearest airport, located 120 kms away and Wathar, which is 60 kms away is the closest railway station. The drive from Mumbai and Pune to Mahabaleshwar is scenic, taking you through the breathtaking Western Ghats.
Things to do: Mountain biking, rock climbing, nature trails, horse riding, and relishing sunrise from Wilson Point.
Khandala
Located very close to Lonavala is Khandala, known for lush green forests, misty mountains, sparkling waterfalls and wonderful views. The picturesque Khandala is one of the cleanest and romantic hill stations near Kolhapur. With majestic hill forts and hill caves, enchanting view points, and trekking paths, it is a perfect abode for adventure enthusiasts as well as lovebirds.
How to reach: 66 kms from Khandala is Pune, the nearest airport. Lonavala city is the nearest rail connection to Khandala.
Things to do: Biking, trekking, bathing under the waterfall, and exploring Bedsa caves and Visapur fort. Viewing sunset from Shooting Point is also an element of charm.
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