Best 05 hill stations in Maharashtra
Maharashtra, which is renowned for its busy metropolis, additionally provides solace in the shape of charming hill towns. Away from the bustle of city life, these tranquil getaways are the ideal havens. Here, we’ll examine the top 5 hill stations in Maharashtra, which not only offer breathtaking scenery but also opportunities for relaxation.
1. Matheran
The charming hill town of Matheran in Maharashtra, India, is well-known for its natural splendour and distinction as Asia’s only automobile-free hill station. Matheran, located at an elevation of 2,625 feet in the Western Ghats, offers breathtaking views of the valleys and mountains in the area.
Numerous activities are available for visitors to Matheran, including as horseback riding, trekking, and seeing the area’s many vistas. Charlotte Lake, Louisa Point, and Echo Point are a few of the well-liked tourist destinations in Matheran.
Given that Matheran is home to a diversity of avian species, it is also a well-liked location for birding. Delicious strawberries, which are widely grown in the area, are another speciality of the hill town.
Activities to enjoy in Matheran :-
- Visit the Wilson Point viewpoint, the highest point in Matheran, for panoramic views.
- Go for a hike on one of the many hiking trails, ranging from easy to challenging.
- Explore the scenic viewpoints, such as Charlotte Lake, Louisa Point, and Panorama Point.
- Take a toy train ride on the Matheran Hill Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Take a ride on the Sukali Ropeway to the top of the Sukali Peak for stunning views.
2. Mahabaleshwar
India’s Maharashtra state is home to the charming hill town of Mahabaleshwar, which is tucked away in the Western Ghats’ Sahyadri range. Mahabaleshwar is the ideal vacation for both nature lovers and adventure seekers because to its verdant woods, gushing waterfalls, and beautiful vistas.
In Mahabaleshwar, some of the well-known tourist destinations are Venna Lake, Wilson Point, Arthur’s Seat, Pratapgad Fort, and Lingmala Falls. Along with these activities, visitors can go boating, hiking, horseback riding, and souvenir shopping.
Mahabaleshwar is renowned for its delectable strawberries, which are widely grown in the area. The popular Strawberry Festival is held annually in the spring at the hill station.
Activities to enjoy in Mahabaleshwar :-
- Go for a boat ride on the Savitri River to admire the scenic beauty of the surrounding area.
- Visit the strawberry farms to enjoy fresh strawberries and strawberry-based products.
- Visit the Pratapgad Fort, a historical fort with a strategic location.
- Visit the Arthur Seat viewpoint for stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
- Visit the Venna Lake for boating, swimming, and picnicking.
3. Lonavala
India’s Lonavala is a well-liked hill station that is close to Mumbai and Pune and is renowned for its scenic beauty and comfortable environment. Lonavala, which is tucked away in the Sahyadri highlands, offers breathtaking vistas of verdant valleys, gushing rivers, and soaring mountains.
Trekking, boating, touring old forts and caverns, as well as souvenir shopping, are just a few of the activities available to visitors to Lonavala. Karla Caves, Bhaja Caves, Duke’s Nose, and Lohagad Fort are a some of the well-known tourist destinations in Lonavala.
The wonderful chikki, a hard candy prepared in Lonavala from peanuts and jaggery, is another local specialty. Every winter, the hill station also plays host to the well-known Chikki Festival.
Activities to enjoy in Lonavala :-
- Go for a trek to Rajmachi, a hill fort with stunning views.
- Visit the Bushi Dam for boating and fishing.
- Visit the Tungareshwar Wildlife Sanctuary to see a variety of animals, including leopards, tigers, and elephants.
- Visit the Karla Caves, a group of Buddhist caves with intricate carvings and sculptures.
- Visit the Bhaja Caves, another group of Buddhist caves with well-preserved frescoes.
4. Panchgani
The picturesque hill town of Panchgani in Maharashtra, India, is well-known for its stunning views, pleasant weather, and strawberries. Panchgani, which is tucked away in the Sahyadri highlands at an elevation of 4,242 feet, offers breathtaking views of the valleys, peaks, and Krishna River.
Delicious strawberries, which are widely grown in the area, are another speciality of Panchgani. In the many cafes and restaurants in Panchgani, visitors can taste strawberries straight from the field or in a variety of delectable sweets.
Panchgani is the ideal holiday destination for tourists of all ages because to its scenic beauty, agreeable climate, and variety of attractions.
Activities to enjoy in Panchgani :-
- Visit the Table Land, a plateau with stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
- Visit the Theosophical Society, a spiritual organization with a beautiful campus.
- Visit the fruit orchards to enjoy fresh fruits and fruit-based products.
- Visit the Bhushi Dam for boating and fishing.
- Go for a walk or hike on one of the many trails in the area.
5. Amboli
Amboli, a less well-known hill station in Maharashtra, India, is a hidden gem. Amboli, which is located at an elevation of 690 metres in the Sahyadri highlands, is renowned for its verdant woods, tumbling waterfalls, and mist-shrouded valleys.
Amboli visitors can engage in a number of activities, including as trekking, birdwatching, and touring the area’s numerous overlooks. Amboli Falls, Hiranyakeshi Temple, and Shirgaonkar Point are a few of the well-known tourist destinations in Amboli.
Amboli is a fantastic location for nature-based rejuvenation and relaxation. Visitors can enjoy the clean air and peace of the hill station while lodging in cosy cottages or homestays.
Activities to enjoy in Amboli :-
- Visit the Dudhsagar Waterfall, one of the highest waterfalls in India.
- Visit the Amboli Fort for stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
- Go for a trek on one of the many trekking trails, ranging from easy to challenging.
- Visit the Amboli Ghat, a mountain pass with breathtaking views.
- Visit the Ambazari Lake for boating and fishing.
Maharashtra is home to a number of beautiful hill stations that offer visitors a variety of activities to enjoy. Whether you are looking for a relaxing getaway, an adventurous vacation, or a chance to explore the natural beauty of India, you are sure to find the perfect hill station in Maharashtra.
Tips for planning your trip:
The best time to visit the hill stations in Maharashtra is during the winter months (October to March), when the weather is pleasant.
It is important to book your accommodation in advance, especially if you are traveling during peak season.
Be sure to pack for all types of weather, as the weather in the hill stations can change quickly.
