Hill Stations Near Mumbai Within 100 Kms — My Favorite Escapes for a Quick Cool Getaway!

Published: 12 Oct 2025

Whenever Mumbai’s heat starts to melt my weekend plans, I find myself craving the smell of rain-soaked hills and the sound of rustling trees. Luckily, I don’t have to travel far for that. There are so many beautiful hill stations near Mumbai within 100 kms, each offering its own little slice of peace, adventure or romance.

Visit Hill Stations Near Chennai Within 100 Kms

Over the years, I’ve explored most of these spots — sometimes alone, sometimes with friends — and every visit gave me a new story to tell. If you have been thinking about a short, refreshing escape from the city, let me take you through my top 10 favorite hill stations near Mumbai that never fail to steal my heart.

Quick Overview of Hill Stations Near Mumbai

Here’s a little guide to help you plan better:

Hill Station	Distance from Mumbai	Travel Time	Best Season	What I Love Most
Matheran	83 km	2.5 hrs	Oct–May	Vehicle-free paths & misty trails
Lonavala	83 km	2 hrs	Jun–Feb	Waterfalls & monsoon magic
Khandala	80 km	2 hrs	Jun–Feb	Calm valley views & serenity
Karjat	62 km	1.5 hrs	Jul–Feb	Caves, treks & riverside picnics
Durshet	76 km	2 hrs	Jul–Feb	Forests & adventure camps
Karnala	60 km	1.5 hrs	Nov–Feb	Bird sanctuary & fort trek
Malshej Ghat	100 km	3 hrs	Jul–Oct	Waterfalls & dreamy fog
Igatpuri	90 km	2.5 hrs	Jun–Feb	Calm retreats & scenic drives
Lavasa	98 km	3 hrs	Oct–Feb	Lakeside cafés & European charm
Tungareshwar	55 km	1.5 hrs	Jul–Feb	Waterfall treks & forest peace

1:⇒ Matheran — The Little Eco Paradise 🌿

I still remember my first visit to Matheran — walking through its red mud trails while the fog slowly rolled in. It’s India’s only vehicle-free hill station which means you will only hear the clip-clop of horses and the chirping of birds. The air feels so clean and refreshing, it’s like stepping into another world.

What to See

Charlotte Lake – peaceful and surrounded by green hills.
Louisa Point – the best spot for sunset views.
Panorama Point – gives a full 360° view of the valleys below.

My Tip:

Take the toy train from Neral — it’s slow, yes, but the ride through the forested slopes is pure nostalgia. And if you visit right after the monsoon, everything turns lush and magical!

2:⇒ Lonavala — The Classic Monsoon Favorite 💦

Whenever I think of a quick hill trip from Mumbai, Lonavala is the first name that comes to mind. It’s just two hours away, yet it feels like a completely different world with misty roads, countless waterfalls and the scent of wet soil everywhere.

Must-See Spots

Bushi Dam – perfect for monsoon splashes.
Tiger’s Leap – breathtaking valley views.
Rajmachi Fort – ideal for short treks.

Food & Fun

Don’t leave without trying Lonavala’s famous chikki or hot maggi by the roadside stalls. I always stop by a tiny tea stall near Tiger’s Leap — the combination of chai, fog and view is unbeatable.

My Tip:

Visit on a weekday if you can. Weekends can get crowded, especially during monsoon.

3:⇒ Khandala — Calm, Cozy and Less Crowded 🌸

Just next to Lonavala lies Khandala, a quieter cousin with postcard-perfect views. It’s great for those who prefer peaceful walks over noisy tourist spots.

What to See

Duke’s Nose – a popular trek with an incredible view of the valley.
Amrutanjan Point – an easy-to-reach viewpoint.

My Experience

I once stayed at a homestay overlooking the valley — waking up to birdsong and mist swirling below was one of those moments that stay with you forever.

4:⇒ Karjat — Where Hills Meet History 🏭

If you love adventure, Karjat is your spot! Located around 62 km from Mumbai, this little town offers a mix of trekking trails, old caves and riverside picnic spots.

Top Attractions

Kondana Caves – ancient Buddhist caves surrounded by dense forest.
Bhivpuri Waterfall – fun for rappelling or just cooling off.
ND Studios – a Bollywood fan’s delight.

My Tip:

Monsoon is the best time to visit. I once trekked to Kondana during light rain — waterfalls gushed down from cliffs and the whole forest smelled like fresh earth. Unforgettable!

5:⇒ Durshet — The Hidden Forest Escape 🌲

If you crave greenery and quiet, Durshet is a true hidden gem. It’s perfect for nature lovers, families or solo travelers who enjoy peaceful forest stays.

What to Do

Try ziplining and kayaking at Durshet Forest Lodge.
Go on nature trails — early mornings are full of bird sounds.
Camp under the stars if the sky is clear.

My Tip:

Pack mosquito repellent and light jackets — evenings can get surprisingly chilly. I love sitting by a campfire here, watching fireflies flicker in the dark.

6:⇒ Karnala — Perfect for a One-Day Trek 🥾

Just 60 km from Mumbai, Karnala is where I often go when I need a quick nature fix. The Karnala Bird Sanctuary is small but teeming with life. You’ll spot colorful birds, butterflies and maybe even a squirrel or two chasing each other through the trees.

Highlights

Karnala Fort Trek – moderate climb, about 2 hours.
Birdwatching Trails – best early in the morning.

My Tip

Carry binoculars and plenty of water. The trek is short but steep in parts. And trust me, the fort view at the top is totally worth it!

7:⇒ Malshej Ghat — Misty Roads & Waterfall Heaven 🌫️

If you have never driven through Malshej Ghat during monsoon, you’re missing out on one of Maharashtra’s most scenic experiences. The entire road feels like a fairytale with fog rolling in, waterfalls gushing from every cliff and the sound of rain all around.

Things to Do

Stop at Pimpalgaon Joga Dam for birdwatching.
Visit Harishchandragad Fort if you love long treks.
Enjoy endless waterfall photography — every turn has a new surprise!

My Tip:

Drive early in the morning to avoid foggy traffic. Carry an extra pair of clothes — you will get wet, and you’ll love it!

8:⇒ Igatpuri — Calm Hills & Meditation Retreats 🌤️

Nestled along the Mumbai–Nashik highway, Igatpuri is one of those places that instantly calm your soul. It’s famous for its Vipassana Meditation Center but I love it more for its quiet lakes and fresh air.

Top Attractions

Bhatsa River Valley – dramatic views of deep valleys.
Camel Valley – best during monsoon when waterfalls appear.
Tringalwadi Fort – offers a panoramic sunrise view.

My Tip

Stay overnight if you can. Early mornings here feel divine — mist rising from the valley and sunlight painting the hills golden.

9:⇒ Lavasa — Lakeside Luxury with a European Touch 🌍

Although technically man-made, Lavasa still feels like a hill retreat. Built around a beautiful lake, it’s known for colorful architecture, cafés and water activities.

What to Do

Boating or kayaking in the lake.
Café-hopping — the food scene is surprisingly good!
Evening walks by the waterfront promenade.

My Tip

Lavasa is great for couples or photographers. Go on weekdays for a quieter vibe — weekends get busy with tourists.

10:⇒ Tungareshwar Hills — The Offbeat Monsoon Trek 🌦️

For a short yet refreshing escape, Tungareshwar Hills are just 55 km away but offer that wild, green magic we all crave. The forest here hides a waterfall, a small temple and many shady walking trails.

What to Expect

Gentle trek through thick forest.
Natural pools to dip your feet in.
Calm surroundings, especially early mornings.

My Tip

Carry light snacks, water and spare clothes because you will probably get drenched and that’s half the fun!

How to Plan Your Hill Station Getaway

Planning a trip is the most interesting part of adventure and sometimes we only plan. If there are 7 friends planning for a trip, I am sure there will be only 2 ready to go and 2-3 will hardly stand till the departure. 😁 But we care about you, no matter if you go or not but let’s make it clear.

🗓️ Best Time to Visit

Monsoon (June–Sept): Everything turns green and misty. Best for waterfall lovers.
Winter (Oct–Feb): Crisp air, great for hiking or camping.
Summer (Mar–May): Cooler than Mumbai, perfect for a short break.

I personally love July–August — the hills are at their most beautiful and every drive feels like a movie scene.

🚗 Getting There

By Car: Most of these places are easily reachable via the Mumbai–Pune Expressway or NH48.
By Train: Lonavala, Karjat and Matheran have convenient rail connections.
By Cab: Apps like Ola Outstation or local cab operators are great for quick trips.

🏠 Where to Stay

Luxury: Della Resorts (Lonavala), Radisson Blu (Karjat), Machan (Lonavala).
Budget: MTDC resorts, Zostel Matheran, small homestays.
My Tip: Book early during long weekends — prices can spike fast!

Which Season Brings Out the Best of Each Hill

Season	Best Hill Stations	Why Visit
Monsoon	Lonavala, Karjat, Malshej	Waterfalls, lush greenery
Winter	Matheran, Igatpuri, Lavasa	Clear skies & cozy weather
Summer	Karnala, Durshet	Less crowded & pleasant mornings

I’ve visited these hills in every season and each time they feel different with new colors, new sounds and new moods.

Suggested Itineraries — How I Plan My Weekend Hill Escapes from Mumbai 🗺️

Sometimes I just need to escape the city buzz and breathe in some mountain air! Whether it’s a short break or an extended weekend, I always keep a few go-to plans ready. Here’s how I plan my quick hill getaways from Mumbai — tried, tested and loved. 💛

2-Day Weekend Plan

Day 1: Mumbai → Lonavala → Khandala → Stay Overnight
I usually start early in the morning to skip the city traffic and catch the mist rising over the Western Ghats. The expressway drive feels like therapy — smooth roads, endless views and those tempting roadside stalls selling hot vada pav and chai.

Once I reach Lonavala, I spend the first half exploring the viewpoints in which Tiger’s Leap and Bhushi Dam are my forever favorites! Later, I head to Khandala, just a short drive away, where the hills look greener and quieter. I check into a cozy stay here for the night — usually a small homestay with a view and local food.

Day 2: Matheran → Return to Mumbai
Next morning, I head to Matheran, the famous car-free hill station. The toy train ride is pure nostalgia and the viewpoints here — like Panorama Point and Charlotte Lake — are perfect for morning hikes. I love how peaceful it feels without honking or engines, just the sound of nature and horse hooves. By evening, I’m back in Mumbai with a camera full of pictures and a heart full of calm.

Travel Tip: Carry light, especially for Matheran. You will walk a lot and trust me, luggage slows you down on those lovely red mud trails.

What I Did: I spent my evening sipping chai at Panorama Point, watching clouds drift below me. It was one of those moments where you just stand still and breathe in everything — peace, silence and the smell of wet earth.

3-Day Long Weekend Plan

Day 1: Mumbai → Karjat → Stay at Local Homestay
For a longer weekend, I always begin with Karjat. It’s close enough to drive easily but far enough to feel like a true break. I love its green valleys, small waterfalls and the friendly locals. I usually stay in a rustic homestay surrounded by farms — simple food, fresh air and stars at night.

Day 2: Igatpuri + Malshej Ghat Adventure
The next day, I head toward Igatpuri and then Malshej Ghat — two of the most scenic hill stretches within 100 km of Mumbai. The drive is mesmerizing during monsoon; waterfalls pour down every cliff! I stop often, take photos and just listen to the sound of rain hitting leaves. If you love long drives, this route is magic.

Day 3: Durshet → Back to Mumbai
On my last day, I take a relaxed route back through Durshet — a calm forest area known for its camps and treks. I usually take a short morning walk before heading home. It’s the perfect way to end the trip — slow, green and full of nature’s whispers.

Route Story: The stretch from Igatpuri to Malshej Ghat is one of my favorite drives in Maharashtra. It’s not just about distance — it’s about mood! Every curve shows a new waterfall, every cloud hides a new hill.

Where I Stopped for Chai: There’s a little tea stall on the way to Durshet — no name, just a blue shed beside the road. I always stop there to cut chai and pakoras. The owner knows me now; that’s how often I visit!

Final Thoughts

Mumbai never runs out of energy but sometimes, I just need to trade the city buzz for birdsong and mountain air. These hill stations near Mumbai within 100 kms are my favorite mini-escapes. Each one has given me laughter, stillness and memories that linger long after the trip ends.

So, next time you are craving a cool breeze and a change of view, just pick a direction and drive. Who knows your perfect weekend escape is waiting beyond the city lights.

FAQs — Hills Near Mumbai

Here is the frequently asked questions:

Which is the nearest hill station to Mumbai?

The nearest hill stations to Mumbai are Lonavala and Khandala, both around 80–85 km away. They are perfect for quick weekend trips — easy to reach by road or train, surrounded by waterfalls and packed with charming viewpoints. I often drive there early in the morning to catch the mist before the crowds arrive.

What are the best hill stations near Mumbai within 100 km for a weekend trip?

My top picks are Lonavala, Khandala, Matheran, Karjat and Igatpuri. Each one offers something different from toy train rides in Matheran to monsoon treks in Karjat. Most of them are just a 2–3 hour drive which makes them ideal for quick escapes from city life.

Can I visit these hill stations near Mumbai during the monsoon season?

Absolutely! The monsoon is actually the best time to visit many hill stations near Mumbai. Lonavala, Malshej Ghat and Igatpuri come alive with waterfalls and misty valleys. Just drive carefully because the roads can get slippery. The views are worth every drop of rain.

Which hill stations near Mumbai are best for families and couples?

For families, Lonavala, Khandala and Matheran are top choices with safe stays, easy walks and plenty of fun activities. Couples often love Igatpuri and Karjat for their quiet resorts and peaceful views. I’ve stayed in a few hillside cottages — perfect for morning chai with a view!

Are there budget-friendly hill stations near Mumbai?

Yes! You don’t need a luxury budget to enjoy the hills. Matheran and Karjat are great for budget travelers where you will find affordable homestays, local food stalls and scenic spots without heavy entry fees. I usually spend more on snacks than on staying here!

How can I reach these hill stations from Mumbai?

You can travel by car, train or local taxi depending on your plan. I often take the Mumbai–Pune Expressway for Lonavala and Khandala or the Mumbai–Karjat route for the others. Most trains from CST or Dadar also stop near these hill towns, making travel super easy even without your own vehicle.

What’s the best time to visit hill stations near Mumbai?

The best time to visit is between June and February. Monsoons (June–September) bring lush greenery and waterfalls while winter (October–February) offers cool, pleasant weather for sightseeing. I personally love the post-monsoon season with clear skies, fresh air and no crowds!