When you’ve had your sweaty share of the 9-5 hustle, with the promise of a two-day respite on the horizon, and the call of the wild becomes impossible to ignore, what should you do?
The answer is simple.
Hop in the car and drive out of the city to a nearby hill station!
There’s nothing like driving away from Mumbai’s grind and into the serene, cool embrace of Western Ghats. Discover the magic of five such locations, each boasting a pleasant climate and a unique charm.
Lonavla: The Classic Retreat
An all-too-familiar option for those escaping the urban humdrum, this timeless retreat is nestled just a stone’s throw away from Mumbai city.
Easily accessible via train, bus, or a car, this hill station is all about lush greenery, cascading waterfalls, and the iconic Tiger’s Point for tourists. Situated at a height of 624 m (2047 ft), Lonavala has a host of activities to offer that one can enjoy with family and friends.
Engage in thrilling trekking adventures, go back in time with viewpoints like the Bhaja caves, Lohagad and Rajmachi forts that are every history buff’s dream, and indulge in local delicacies like the ever popular Maganlal Chikki!
Visit the iconic Karla Caves, ancient Buddhist rock-cut caves famous for their rich architecture and historical significance. Whether you seek luxury resorts or cozy homestays, Lonavala has something for everyone.
The best time to visit: is June to September.
Matheran: Asia’s Only Automobile-free Station
Experience the quaint charm of Matheran, the only automobile-free hill station in Asia.
Accessible by a scenic train ride, Matheran captivates with gorgeous views from Panorama Point and Echo Point. Engage in horseback riding, embark on rejuvenating hikes, and revel in the tranquility of this unique destination.
Matheran, as a quaint spot away from the city, is also home to ‘horse-drawn carriages’ that offer a nostalgic mode of transportation through the town. Whether you’re seeking a cozy cottage or a fancy villa retreat, our travel partner company ensures a seamless experience, letting you unwind and embrace the serenity of Matheran.
Best time to visit: March to June
Panchgani: A Plateau Of Pleasure
As we delve deeper into hill stations near Mumbai, Panchgani appears as a hidden gem on the plateau. Just a 4.5-hour drive away, Panchgani captivates with its breathtaking landscapes and its salubrious air.
Panchgani promises a complete journey of exploration through its quaint streets dotted with colonial-style architecture, vibrant markets, and scenic viewpoints like Sydney Point and Tableland, that further allow a panoramic view of the surrounding valleys.
Indulge in adrenaline-filled activities like paragliding, for an adventurous touch to your retreat. Don’t forget to visit the popular Mapro Garden, a fruit lover’s paradise, where you can savor delectable strawberry-based produce. Not to forget the Devrai Art village and Bhilar district for Art and Literature lovers who’d prefer to tread an off-beat path.
Best time to visit: July to September/ October to February.
Panchgani provides a range of accommodations, each promising a pleasant stay amidst nature’s quietude.
Igatpuri: Tranquil Retreat Amidst Western Ghats
Nestled amidst the Western Ghats, Igatpuri provides an idyllic retreat for those seeking serenity. Explore the renowned Vipassana International Academy and Tringalwadi Fort, surrounded by lush greenery and a pleasant climate.
Immerse yourself in nature-centric stays and serene resorts, promising a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle. While Igatpuri has its fair share of scenic trails to discover, it’s also home to popular trekking destinations such as Kalsubai Peak, the highest peak in Maharashtra, and Ratangad Fort, known for its panoramic vistas.
Waterfall Rappelling, another famous adventure sport in Igatpuri, lets tourists experience the thrill of descending down gushing waterfalls (Bhandardara) amidst lush greenery. Let our travel partner company curate your perfect getaway, ensuring an excellent experience as you indulge in the serenity of Igatpuri.
Best time to visit: June to September, as the cool and misty weather adds to the scenic charm of this hillside getaway!
Lavasa: Maharashtra’s Hillside Retreat
What makes Lavasa a standout amongst all hillside getaway destinations, is that it is Maharashtra’s first planned hill city nestled amidst the Sahyadri Mountains.
Lavasa offers a complete blend of nature’s beauty, tranquil surroundings, and modern-day amenities.
This hillside city boasts a perfectly pleasant climate and a diverse array of activities to choose from. Be it a visit to its charming promenades, scenic lakes, or culinary delights found in its local delicacies and international cuisines, Lavasa has the complete package for a breakaway from city chaos.
Thrill-seekers can find exhilarating water sports like jet skiing, kayaking, and pedal boating on the lake to adrenaline-pumping activities like zip-lining, rappelling, and trekking. For the cultural traveler, there’s a chance to visit the Lavasa Art Gallery as well as its exhibitions, theaters, and performance venues.
For those in search of a more secluded retreat, there’s the tranquil beauty of places like Dasve Lake, Temghar Dam, and Bamboosa, with breathtaking views and ample opportunities for relaxation and photography.
The best time to visit: is October to February.
Conclusion
In the lap of nature, these five hill stations near Mumbai provide the perfect escape.
From the common allure of Lonavala to the vehicle-free charm of Matheran, the picturesque landscapes of Panchgani, the idyllic retreat of Igatpuri, to the hillside city charm of Lavasa – each destination promises a unique experience. Plan your getaway now and let the hills work their magic, reinvigorating your spirit.
For tailored packages and seamless travel experiences, explore our offerings at Feriadoss – your leisure partner.
