Looking for the best hill stations in Maharashtra to visit this monsoon?
From lush green slopes to misty valleys, Maharashtra’s hill stations come alive during the rainy season. Nestled in the Western Ghats, these scenic getaways offer a welcome break from city chaos, with cool weather, stunning views, and that irresistible scent of wet earth.
Whether you want a quiet escape or a quick weekend trip, these monsoon hill stations are easy to reach and packed with charm. Think mist-covered treks, waterfalls in full flow, bustling local markets, and boutique stays with a view.
Here are 10 of the top hill stations in Maharashtra including Mahabaleshwar, Matheran, Lonavala, and a few hidden gems that deliver unforgettable rainy season experiences.
Elevation: 622 m (2041 feet)
No list of hill stations in Maharashtra is complete without Lonavala. It’s one of the most popular weekend getaways for travellers from Mumbai and Pune, and for good reason. I’ve been visiting Lonavala since childhood, and in many ways, it feels like a second home.
Come monsoon, the entire region transforms into a lush green wonderland, with misty hills, dramatic waterfalls, and fresh mountain air. While it was once a sleepy hill town, today it blends the charm of nature with the convenience of city-like comforts. There’s no shortage of accommodations, restaurants, cafés, food stalls, and shops to explore.
If you’re planning a trip, don’t miss the top places to visit in Lonavala like Bhushi Dam, Lonavala Lake, Tiger Point, Pawna Lake, Mapro Garden, and the popular Della Adventure Park. For history and hiking lovers, the Bhaja Caves and Lohagad Fort trek combo offers a rewarding trail especially stunning during monsoon. Karla Caves and Visapur Fort are also within easy reach.
And yes, Lonavala’s famous chikki and fudges are a must-buy before heading home. If you’re in the mood for something more indulgent, enjoy a cuppa at Starbucks or try fine dining at some of the region’s upscale restaurants.
Where to Stay:
Lonavala offers a wide range of accommodations from hillside resorts to heritage stays. For recommendations, check out our curated list of the best hotels in Lonavala for a lovely weekend getaway experience.
🌧️Mahabaleshwar
Elevation: 1,353 m (4,439 feet)
Known as the Strawberry Capital of India, Mahabaleshwar is a perennial favourite for its misty hills, forest trails, and colonial charm. A top pick for a quick 2-day trip near Pune, this hill station offers everything from dramatic viewpoints to lakes, waterfalls, and old temples, ideal for those craving nature with a side of nostalgia.
During the monsoon, Mahabaleshwar transforms into a lush wonderland with thick fog and cascading streams around every bend. Unlike Lonavala’s buzzy atmosphere, Mahabaleshwar offers a slower, more immersive experience. But here’s the thing, you’ll need a car or cab to get around comfortably, especially when the rain hits hard.
If you’re visiting in winter (November to February), expect crisp air and chilly evenings perfect for a bonfire night. Couples will find this hill town particularly inviting, especially with Panchgani just 20 km downhill offering even more scenic escapes.
Where to Stay:
Looking for that perfect hillside escape? Check out our curated list of the best hotels in Mahabaleshwar for a lovely weekend getaway.
If you’re unsure whether to choose Lonavala or Mahabaleshwar for your monsoon escape, check out our detailed Lonavala vs Mahabaleshwar guide to make an informed decision.
🌧️Matheran
Elevation: 800 m (2,625 feet)
If hiking and peaceful escapes are your jam, Matheran should be top of your list for monsoon holidays in Maharashtra. Nestled in the Sahyadri Hills, it’s one of the closest hill stations to Mumbai, making it a perfect quick getaway from the city hustle.
What truly sets Matheran apart? It’s the only automobile-free hill station in Maharashtra, offering pure tranquility and fresh mountain air without the buzz of vehicles. Plus, being one of the smallest hill stations in India, it’s ideal for short family trips or weekend adventures with friends.
Getting there is half the fun. If you’re coming from Mumbai or Pune by train, hop off at Neral railway station and take the charming Matheran Hill Railway, a narrow-gauge toy train ride that winds through scenic landscapes and takes about three hours to reach Matheran.
Alternatively, taxis and buses can drop you at the town’s edge, beyond which no automobiles are allowed.
Once in Matheran, embrace the slow pace, explore on foot or hitch a ride on horses or hand-pulled rickshaws. Wander through viewpoints like Alexander Point, Echo Point, and Rambaug Point, plus over a dozen more scenic spots that reveal breathtaking monsoon vistas.
Monsoon visitors shouldn’t miss Lake Charlotte, a serene jewel surrounded by lush greenery. Adventure seekers can dive into hiking trails through misty forests and muddy paths, rewarded with panoramic views that truly capture the magic of monsoon hill stations in Maharashtra.
🌧️Igatpuri
Elevation: 600 m (2000 feet)
Tucked away in the lush Sahyadri mountain ranges, Igatpuri is just 120 km (75 miles) from Mumbai and 243 km (151 miles) from Pune, making it an ideal hill station in Maharashtra for a quick monsoon weekend getaway. Known for its emerald valleys and stunning waterfalls, Igatpuri comes alive during the rainy season, offering a refreshing retreat for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike.
Whether you’re seeking serene hikes or adrenaline-packed thrills, Igatpuri delivers. Choose from a variety of hiking trails tailored to all skill levels, and get your heart pumping with popular activities like camping, zip-lining, and rock climbing amidst the verdant hills.
Beyond adventure, Igatpuri is also a spiritual haven, home to ancient temples such as the Ghatandevi Temple and peaceful Buddhist meditation centers. Its excellent accessibility and conveniences make Igatpuri a smart choice for your monsoon trip in Maharashtra, combining natural beauty with ease of travel.
🌧️Amboli
Elevation: 690 m (2,260 feet)
Known as the ‘Mahabaleshwar of Konkan,’ Amboli perches high in the Western Ghats, offering some of the most breathtaking monsoon landscapes in Maharashtra. If you’re chasing misty hills, rolling clouds, and emerald forests, Amboli won’t disappoint.
This hidden gem is Konkan’s best-kept secret during the rainy season, dense clouds drift over lush greenery, waterfalls gush with full force, and the air is thick with refreshing cool humidity.
Amboli is the perfect escape for those craving cinematic monsoon magic paired with panoramic views, making it one of the top monsoon destinations in Konkan and the final hill station before the coastal plains of Goa.
With its pristine, pollution-free environment, Amboli rejuvenates your mind, body, and soul. Whether you’re gazing out at rain-draped landscapes or exploring the famed Amboli Waterfall, the vibe here is wild, tranquil, and totally immersive.
That said, Amboli demands some travel patience, it’s quite a drive from Mumbai and Pune, so it’s best suited for travelers planning at least a five-day stay in Konkan rather than a quick monsoon weekend getaway. Otherwise, you might find yourself spending more time on the road than soaking in the serene beauty.
🌧️Panchgani
Elevation: 1293 m (4242 feet)
With its lush green forests and stunning valley views, Panchgani is one of the best hill stations for couples in Maharashtra, perfect for a romantic monsoon getaway close to Pune and Mumbai. Known as Table Land, this tranquil spot offers a laidback rainy season escape to recharge and break free from city chaos.
Nestled among five hills, hence the name, with Panch meaning five and Gani meaning hill, Panchgani sits near Mahabaleshwar, making it one of the best paired destinations in India for many travelers.
When you visit this serene hill station in Maharashtra, don’t miss Sydney Point and Parsi Point. These popular viewpoints offer breathtaking panoramas of the Dhom Dam Lake and are a treat for nature lovers and photographers alike.
During monsoon, Panchgani transforms into a misty wonderland. The cool breeze and cozy local eateries serving delicious hot meals make it a perfect spot to unwind. Plus, sitting at a slightly lower elevation means the rains here are gentler compared to Mahabaleshwar, ideal for those who want monsoon magic without the heavy downpour.
🌧️Khandala
Elevation: 624 m (2047 feet)
Khandala has always been one of the most loved hill stations in Maharashtra, but Aati Kya Khandala song catapulted it into pop culture stardom. Nestled in the Western Ghats and paired with its popular twin town Lonavala, Khandala is a classic monsoon destination for weekenders from Mumbai and Pune.
While Lonavala offers a vibrant and commercialized hill station vibe, Khandala offers misty mountain views, cool weather and quiet hill station charm to block the urban chaos.
This quaint town is perfect for a short and scenic rainy trip in Maharashtra. Whether you’re after a luxurious villa, a cozy Airbnb, or a budget hotel with a view, Khandala has options to match every travel style. The vibe here is relaxed, peaceful, and just right for watching the rain roll in from your balcony.
Thanks to its proximity to Lonavala, you can easily hop between the two and enjoy the best of both worlds, Khandala’s serenity and Lonavala’s cafes, markets, and bustling monsoon scenes.
🌧️Jawhar
Elevation: 447 m (1467 feet)
Craving a peaceful monsoon weekend away from the crowds? Jawhar is one of the best hidden hill stations near Mumbai for a laidback rainy escape. Tucked northeast of the city, this lesser-known gem wraps you in rolling green hills, mist-laced valleys, and monsoon waterfalls that seem straight out of a painting.
Jawhar’s charm lies in its simplicity. It isn’t packed with fancy resorts or bustling markets, but that’s the whole point. You come here to unplug, breathe fresh forest air, and watch fog drift lazily over the treetops. Visit places like Dabhosa Waterfall and Hanuman Point, or just relax by the lakeside.
A few cozy resorts and homestays cater to travellers seeking an offbeat stay. So if you’re searching for a quiet hill town with scenic beauty and soul-soothing rains, Jawhar deserves a spot on your monsoon map.
🌧️Bhandardara
Elevation: 740 m (2430 feet)
Bhandardara is where Maharashtra’s monsoon magic hits full power. Just an hour from Igatpuri, this serene hill town is one of the most underrated monsoon destinations near Mumbai and Pune.
Think of rain-drenched valleys, misty forests, wildflower-filled meadows, and waterfalls pouring down like silver threads, Bhandardara in the rainy season feels like a private slice of paradise.
If you’re after an offbeat weekend escape, this place delivers both peace and thrill. You can sit by Arthur Lake with a hot chai or take on the trek to Mount Kalsubai, Maharashtra’s highest peak. Don’t miss Umbrella Falls, Wilson Dam, and the dramatic Sandhan Valley, all in full monsoon bloom.
From lakeside homestays to budget resorts, Bhandardara is perfect for a monsoon trip with family, friends, or just yourself. It’s a lazy, leafy, soul-refreshing break from city chaos.
🌧️Chikhaldara
Elevation: 1188 m (3898 feet)
Looking for an offbeat hill station in Maharashtra far from the usual weekend circuit of Mumbai and Pune? Head to Chikhaldara, the only hill station in the Vidarbha region.
Nestled in the scenic Satpura ranges, it’s a monsoon paradise of rolling green hills, misty valleys, and fragrant coffee plantations, the only coffee-growing area in the state. There’s nothing like sipping a hot cup while watching the rains sweep across the hills.
Chikhaldara is dotted with viewpoints offering panoramic vistas of lakes and forests. Devi Point, Mozari Point, Sunset Point, Panchbol Point, and Hurricane Point are must-visits when the weather clears. History buffs can explore Gawilgarh Fort, a major attraction surrounded by lush greenery.
This tranquil town is about 691 km from Mumbai and 612 km from Pune, with Nagpur (221 km) being the closest major city. Thanks to a decent range of hotels and resorts, you can enjoy a comfortable stay, but be sure to book in advance during the rainy season. Chikhaldara’s charm lies in its untouched beauty, making it a perfect long-stay monsoon getaway.
Final Thoughts on Hill Stations in Maharashtra
Maharashtra’s varied terrain serves up a generous mix of monsoon getaways, from lush green valleys to fog-draped hills. Whether you’re after a quick weekend trip from Mumbai or Pune or planning a longer break in the lap of nature, these hill stations in Maharashtra are tailor-made for the season.
Many spots are just a short drive from major cities, making them some of the best places to visit in Maharashtra during the rainy season. Each one offers its own blend of cozy stays, homely food, misty walks, and markets to explore.
With a little planning, you can slow down, soak in the rain-soaked landscapes, and make the most of what these monsoon weekend getaways in Maharashtra have to offer. So pack your bags and let the clouds guide your next escape.
FAQs About Hill Stations in Maharashtra
Mahabaleshwar, Matheran, and Lonavala are among the top choices. They offer lush greenery, misty trails, waterfalls, and plenty of stay options, perfect for a monsoon escape.
The most popular ones are Lonavala, Mahabaleshwar, Matheran, and Panchgani. All are easily accessible from Mumbai and Pune and offer great views, weather, and activities.
August is monsoon peak in Maharashtra. Head to hill stations like Amboli, Igatpuri, or Bhandardara for waterfalls, cool weather, and fewer crowds.
Mahabaleshwar is often the coldest, especially during and after the monsoon season, thanks to its elevation of 1353 m (4439 feet) and dense forest cover.
Again, that’s Mahabaleshwar, sitting at 1353 m (4439 feet), making it the highest and among the most scenic hill retreats in the state.
Lonavala tops the list. It’s just about 83 km from Mumbai and 65 km from Pune, with excellent road and rail connectivity.
Mahabaleshwar, Panchgani, and Lonavala are all family-friendly with good resorts, kid-friendly attractions, and safe environments.
Mahabaleshwar offers the widest range from budget guesthouses and boutique hotels to luxury resorts with valley views.
Mahabaleshwar is one of the best places for honeymoon in Maharashtra. You can plan your honeymoon in Mahabaleshwar whether you are on a budget or
16 comments
Nice post. Hill Stations are the main attraction of tourist. Green Valley in hill stations fresh our mind. Matheran is famous eco-friendly hill station and perfect weekend destination that refresh your mood.
You have such a gift for writing travel posts! I love this and the photos are amazing.
Thanks Dan for your kind words. I think I just do an average job. You guys keep inspiring me to push further and to improve at many levels.
There is nothing average about these posts, they are wonderful.
Thank you once again for your love, support, encouragement and for being there with me even when you’re on the other side of the planet. 🙂
All beautiful spots. A question. So, do residents there go up to these areas to get away from the monsoon conditions?
No, not really. The monsoon covers the entire state, in fact the entire country, so its raining everywhere. The difference is people in the urban areas don’t get to see the mountains, streams, lakes and landscapes, so to take a break they head to these places on a weekend or whenever they find a spare time.
Oh okay so just like our Summer vacations here to the beach or mountains.
Yes.
Thanks Sharukh.
Wow! Matheran looks a great idea and the fact that they don’t let any cars or automobiles…even better. Must make it there.
Yes, it certainly is one of the best places to visit
Sharukh, this is a lovely and comprehensive post. Thanks for getting all the photos too. All of these places look wonderfully relaxing. I should look farther into Mahabaleshwar for an “armchair adventure” since I love strawberries. 🙂 Hugs.
Thanks Teagan for visiting the post and commenting. Mahabaleshwar is a great hill station for couples who prefer to spend quality time together. We went for our honeymoon here back in March 2012 and it was a good experience. I did write about our experience in one of the posts but I think I will rewrite that afresh. Oh! if you love strawberries you should visit this place in January and February during the winter months. Although, we went in the month of March we ate so many strawberries that we lost count. Plus, not to mention they sell strawberry milkshakes, syrups, jams, jellies and whatnot. And guess what, you can buy it directly from the factory so the rates are dirt cheap. I’ve seen people stock up their car trunks with those products probably to give it to their relatives and family friends. Hugs.
The scenes in the photos are stunning. I can see why this area would be an excellent place for a brief (or extended) getaway.
Thanks for visiting and commenting, Dan. Which one would you choose to visit personally and why?