Maharashtra, known for its bustling cities and coastal stretches, also conceals a treasure trove of misty hills, verdant valleys, waterfalls, and serene escapes.
From quick weekend getaways near Mumbai or Pune to offbeat trails deep in the Western Ghats or the Satpura range, the state boasts a rich variety of hill stations. In this post, we’ll explore the top hill stations in Maharashtra (2025 edition), share things to do in each, and provide practical bus-route guides to help you reach them with ease.
Whether you’re a nature lover, trekker, couple seeking a romantic break, or family planning a relaxing rendezvous, there’s something here for everyone. Let’s pack our bags and head to the hills! 🏞️
Top Hill Stations in Maharashtra:
1. Lonavala & Khandala – The classic weekend duo ⛰️
Why go: Lonavala and neighbouring Khandala are the closest and most popular hill escapes for Mumbai and Pune residents. Expect lakes, viewpoints (Lion’s Point, Tiger’s Leap), ancient caves, forts and famous chikki shops.
Top things to do:
- Drive or hike to Tiger’s Leap and Lion’s Point for sunrise/sunset views.
- Visit Bhushi Dam and Pawna Lake (boating, camping).
- Explore Karla and Bhaja caves for rock-cut Buddhist architecture.
- Taste the local chikki and fudge – a foodie highlight.
How to reach by bus: 🚍
Regular private and state-run buses ply from Mumbai and Pune to Lonavala; journey time from Mumbai is ~2.5-3.5 hours depending on traffic. Bookable on major bus platforms that list A/C and non-A/C options. For short weekend trips, buses are frequent and convenient.
Best Places to Visit in Lonavala
2. Mahabaleshwar – strawberries, viewpoints & waterfalls ⛰️
Why go: A larger hill town with sweeping viewpoints (Arthur’s Seat, Needle Hole Point), Venna Lake, and strawberry farms that lure visitors every season.
Top things to do:
- Boat at Venna Lake and stroll the promenade.
- Visit viewpoints: Arthur’s Seat, Wilson Point (sunrise), and Elphinstone Point.
- Sample fresh strawberries, jams and the local produce market.
- Trek to nearby Lingmala and Dhobi waterfalls (seasonal but spectacular during/after monsoon).
How to reach by bus: 🚍
Pune → Mahabaleshwar has many daily bus services (both MSRTC and private), with travel times typically around 3-4 hours depending on route and stops. Buses range from ordinary to deluxe coaches – bookable on large bus-aggregation sites.
3. Matheran – toy train, no-vehicle hill station 🚂
Why go: Matheran is one of India’s rare eco-sensitive towns – vehicles are not allowed inside the core area. It’s cherished for its quiet trails, panoramic points, and a charming toy train from Neral.
Top things to do:
- Take the Neral–Matheran toy train (a scenic, heritage ride) or drive to Dasturi for the short climb.
- Walk between viewpoints like Panorama Point, Echo Point, and Charlotte Lake.
- Enjoy easy nature trails and birdwatching; ideal for unplugging.
How to reach by bus: 🚍
Buses and private taxis run to Neral from Mumbai, Panvel and Pune; from Neral, you can take the toy train or a shared taxi/horse ride up to Matheran. MSRTC and local private buses serve Neral and nearby towns frequently.
4. Panchgani – tableland vistas & strawberry farms 🍓
Why go: Panchgani sits on a plateau with wide “tableland” plains and is close to Mahabaleshwar (but quieter). Excellent for paragliding, scenic walks, and farms.
Top things to do:
- Walk the Table Land (one of Asia’s largest plateaus) at sunrise or sunset.
- Visit Sydney Point and Devil’s Kitchen.
- Attend or book local adventure activities like paragliding in season.
How to reach by bus: 🚍
Regular buses connect Pune to Panchgani, often routed via Mahabaleshwar. Travel time from Pune is roughly 2–3 hours by road; plenty of state and private operators serve this corridor.
5. Igatpuri – monsoon clouds, forts & treks 💭
Why go: Nestled in the Nashik region, Igatpuri is famous for cloud-kissed peaks, scenic railway ghat sections, and waterfalls. It’s also a yoga and meditation hub (some retreats are located here).
Top things to do:
- Trek to Gaurishankar and other local peaks.
- Explore Vipassana meditation centre (Dhamma Giri) if you’re into silent retreats.
- Visit Bhatsa River Valley and the Kalsubai region for hikes.
How to reach by bus: 🚍
Igatpuri has good road and rail connectivity: regular buses ply from Nashik and Mumbai; express and local buses are available, and journey time varies (from Mumbai ~3-4 hours).
6. Bhandardara – lakes, dams & secluded campsites 🚣♂️
Why go: For lake-side camping, the serene Arthur Lake and the Randha Falls, Bhandardara is perfect for nature lovers wanting a quieter retreat.
Top things to do:
- Camp by Arthur Lake and enjoy stargazing.
- Hike up to Ratangad Fort and Amruteshwar Temple.
- Visit Wilson Dam and Randha Falls during/after the monsoon.
How to reach by bus: 🚍
Bhandardara is reachable by bus & taxi from Kasara/Kalyan and Igatpuri/Kasara; travellers often take trains to Kasara and join local buses or shared taxis for the last leg.
7. Amboli – for offbeat monsoon lovers (Sindhudurg) 🌲
Why go: Amboli is a misty, lesser-known hill station in the southern Konkan with dense forests, waterfalls and rich biodiversity – a treat during monsoon.
Top things to do:
- Visit Amboli Falls, Kavalshet Point and biodiversity viewpoints.
- Trek through rainforests and enjoy peaceful homestays.
- Birdwatching and rainforest walks.
How to reach by bus: 🚍
Amboli is further from Mumbai compared to the Western Ghats near Pune, but bus connections exist via Sawantwadi, Belagavi (Belgaum) or Kolhapur, depending on route. Intercity buses plus a short taxi or local bus leg usually complete the journey; check aggregators and regional ST services for schedules.
8. Malshej Ghat – dramatic passes & birding 🦜
Why go: Famous for its dramatic ghat roads, rugged outcrops, waterfalls and flamingo/bird watching during season – Malshej is a photographer’s dream in the monsoon.
Top things to do:
- Drive the ghat road in the rains for spectacular views.
- Visit Malshej Falls and Siddheshwar Dam.
- Spot migratory birds, including flamingos (seasonal).
How to reach by bus: 🚍
Malshej Ghat is accessible by state buses and private cabs from Mumbai and Pune; many visitors hire a car for the winding ghat drive, but buses to nearby towns (Kalyan, Bhiwandi) + local transport are common.
Practical tips for bus travel in Maharashtra’s hill regions: ✅
- Book early for long weekends and monsoon weekends. Hill stations see huge spikes during monsoon and festival weekends; state-run extra services are often announced.
- Choose boarding points wisely. For destinations like Matheran (toy train), you may need to reach a transfer town (Neral) by bus first. For Amboli and Bhandardara, expect last-mile taxis or shared jeeps on many routes.
- Check coach types. For longer journeys (e.g., Mumbai→Amboli), Volvo or sleeper coaches add comfort; for short hops (Mumbai→Lonavala), ordinary A/C or deluxe buses work well.
- Pack for the season. Monsoon = waterproof shoes, layers and insect repellent; winters (Dec–Feb) bring chilly nights at higher elevations (Mahabaleshwar, Panchgani).
- Safety & connectivity. Mobile networks may be patchy in remote areas (Bhandardara, Amboli). Share your itinerary and offline maps if you plan treks.
Suggested 3–day itinerary (Mumbai/Pune base): 📝
- Day 1: Depart early by bus to Lonavala – morning viewpoints, Bhushi Dam, overnight at Pawna (camp option).
- Day 2: Head to Mahabaleshwar/Panchgani (drive or bus) – visit Venna Lake, viewpoints, strawberry farms.
- Day 3: Return to Pune/Mumbai by afternoon bus; stop at scenic points en route.
Swap Lonavala for Igatpuri or Bhandardara if you prefer North Maharashtra scenery and quieter hikes.
Final words – which hill station should you pick? 🚍
- Want ultra-easy weekenders? Pick Lonavala/Khandala.
- Looking for colonial charm + quiet viewpoints? Try Matheran or Panchgani.
- Want lakes, camping and offbeat trails? Bhandardara is your spot.
- Craving monsoon forests and waterfalls? Amboli and Malshej Ghat will be delivered.
No matter which you pick, Maharashtra’s hill stations are a short bus ride away and make for hugely rewarding, affordable getaways. Book a bus, pack comfy shoes, and chase some misty viewpoints this weekend!
