Flee the turmoil of Mumbai and uncover the peaceful charm of the Ghats, merely a brief drive away. Within a 2-hour distance, there are many hill stations that provide breathtaking views, hiking paths, and a peaceful environment. Here are 8 hill stations close to Mumbai that are ideal for a short escape or a day outing.
1. Nan Khatai Hills
Nankhatai Hills is a secret treasure situated close to Karjat, providing stunning vistas of the Western Ghats. To get to Nankhatai Hills, drive for 2 hours from Mumbai using NH48. Trekking and hiking are favored activities in this area, featuring paths appropriate for both novices and skilled trekkers. The ideal time to go is in the monsoon season (June-September). Nankhatai Hills is renowned for its beautiful landscapes, vibrant green woodlands, and charming valleys.
2. Durshet Village Hill
Durshet Village Hill is a peaceful retreat situated close to Khopoli, providing breathtaking views of the Sahyadri mountains. To get to Durshet Village Hill, drive for 2 hours from Mumbai using NH66. Guests can partake in trekking, observe birds, and take village tours. The ideal time to go is in the winter months (December-February). Durshet Village Hill is renowned for its tranquil ambiance, picturesque landscapes, and the adjacent Amba River.
3. Jawahar Hill Station
Jawahar Hill Station is a picturesque spot situated in the Thane district, providing stunning vistas of the Western Ghats. To get to Jawahar Hill Station, drive for 2 hours from Mumbai using NH48. Guests can engage in trekking, hiking, and discovering tribal villages. The ideal period for a visit is throughout the monsoon season (June-September). Jawahar Hill Station is renowned for its breathtaking scenery, verdant forests, and indigenous culture.
4. Madap Hills
Madap Hills is a picturesque spot situated close to Khopoli, providing breathtaking vistas of the Sahyadri mountains. To get to Madap Hills, drive for 2 hours from Mumbai via NH48. Tourists can partake in trekking, hiking, and discovering nearby villages. The ideal time to go is in the monsoon season (June-September). Madap Hills is well-known for its beautiful landscapes, verdant woodlands, and charming valleys.
5. Dasturi Point
Dasturi Point is a picturesque viewpoint found in Matheran, providing stunning vistas of the Western Ghats. To get to Dasturi Point, drive for 2 hours from Mumbai along NH48, then continue with a trek. Guests can partake in hiking, photography, and nature strolls. The ideal period for a visit is in the winter months (December-February). Dasturi Point is well-known for its sweeping vistas, distinct rock structures, and sunset scenery.
6. Dighi Hills
Dighi Hill is a picturesque spot situated close to Alibaug, providing breathtaking vistas of the Arabian Sea. To get to Dighi Hill, drive for 2 hours from Mumbai along NH66. Tourists can partake in trekking, hiking, and discovering nearby shores. The ideal time to visit is in the winter months (December-February). Dighi Hill is renowned for its picturesque landscapes, vibrant green woodlands, and surrounding shores.
7. Kondeshwar Hills
Kondeshwar Hills is a picturesque location situated near Badlapur, providing breathtaking vistas of the Western Ghats. To get to Kondeshwar Hills, drive for 2 hours from Mumbai using NH48. Tourists can partake in trekking, hiking, and discovering nearby waterfalls. The ideal time to go is in the monsoon season (June-September). Kondeshwar Hills is renowned for its beautiful landscapes, vibrant green woodlands, and adjacent waterfalls.
8. Malshet Ghat
Malshej Ghat is a scenic mountain pass in the Western Ghats of Maharashtra, known for its beautiful views and diverse birdlife, including flamingos. It's approximately 111 km from Mumbai. It is one of the most beautiful spots to visit during monsoons.
9. Mulshi Dam
Mulshi Dam, located in Mulshi taluka of Pune district, Maharashtra, was inaugurated in 1927. Standing 48.8 meters tall, it plays a crucial role in irrigation and hydroelectricity generation, supplying power to Mumbai through the Bhira power plant. The region, known for its scenic beauty amidst the Western Ghats, attracts tourists for activities like boating, trekking, bird watching, and camping. The ideal during the monsoon season for vibrant landscapes.
10. Lohagad Fort
Lohagad Fort, or "Iron Fort," is a historic hill fort in Maharashtra, famous for its strong architecture and strategic relevance. Located near Lonavala, about 52 km northwest of Pune, it stands at an elevation of 1,033 meters (3,389 feet). The fort has seen various rulers, notably the Marathas under Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, serving as a treasury storage site. Lohagad features four impressive gates—Ganesh, Narayan, Hanuman, and Maha Darwaja—and a unique fortified spur called 'Vinchukada.' The trek to the fort is easy to moderate, with a popular route starting from Malavli Railway Station, featuring around 300 steps. Best visiting months are October to March, and nearby are the Bhaja Caves.
