Hill stations in Maharashtra to visit in December: Top winter getaways

Mumbai: Winter offers the perfect opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and unwind in the refreshing air of hill stations. To enjoy the crisp, cool weather and stunning landscapes, you may plan a winter vacation to scenic hill destinations in Maharashtra that provide a tranquil retreat.

Whether you’re an adventure enthusiast, nature lover, or someone just seeking a break, Maharashtra’s hill stations have something special to offer.

If you’re planning a winter getaway this December, here are six of the best hill stations in Maharashtra to visit. Each destination offers unique charm, whether it’s the breathtaking views, lush greenery, or the chance to explore picturesque landscapes that come alive during the colder months.

Hill stations in Maharashtra to visit in December

Explore the scenic hill stations of Maharashtra in December for a perfect winter getaway, offering cool weather, lush landscapes and peaceful retreats.

1. Matheran

Cutest and smallest hill station in India

Perched at 2,636 feet above sea level, Matheran is a charming hill station near Mumbai that captivates visitors with its unspoiled beauty and tranquil atmosphere. Known as the smallest hill station in India, Matheran is nestled in the lush Sahyadri range of the Western Ghats.

Located just 100 kilometres from Mumbai, it is an ideal weekend escape for those seeking peace amidst stunning natural surroundings. True to its name, which means ‘forest on top,’ Matheran is a picturesque retreat that blends serenity with breathtaking vistas.

Matheran (Unsplash)

One of Matheran’s unique aspects is its vehicle ban, which creates a peaceful, pollution-free environment. As you step into this quaint town, you’ll find yourself transported to a simpler time, where red-soiled pathways and lush greenery replace the hum of automobiles. The crisp, clean air and serene surroundings make it a year-round favourite among nature lovers.

Matheran boasts 36 scenic viewpoints, each offering mesmerising views of the Sahyadri mountains. These viewpoints, accessible through easy trekking trails, provide unforgettable sights of sunrises, sunsets, and panoramic landscapes. A haven for trekkers, Matheran’s true allure lies in exploring its scenic paths on foot, immersing oneself in the tranquillity and charm of this serene hill station.

How to reach Matheran from Mumbai

Reaching Matheran from Mumbai is straightforward, with multiple options for a seamless journey. Here’s how you can travel:

By train:

Local Train to Neral: Take a local train on the Mumbai-Karjat route of the Central Railway line to Neral Junction (approximately 2 hours). Neral is the nearest railway station to Matheran.

Toy Train from Neral: From Neral, you can hop on the Matheran Toy Train, which takes you through scenic landscapes to Matheran (approximately 2 hours). This train is a delightful way to enjoy the journey, though it operates seasonally and may halt during monsoons.

By road:

Drive to Dasturi Naka: You can drive from Mumbai to Dasturi Naka, the last motorable point near Matheran (about 85 km, 2-3 hours). Parking facilities are available at Dasturi Naka.

From Dasturi Naka to Matheran: From Dasturi Naka, vehicles are prohibited. You can either: Walk about 2 km or hire a horse ride or hand-pulled rickshaw for a more leisurely approach.

By bus:

Take a bus from Mumbai to Neral, then proceed via a shared taxi or the toy train.

By shared taxi:

From Neral, shared taxis are readily available to Dasturi Naka (about 20 minutes). From there, proceed on foot or by other non-motorised transport to reach Matheran.

Travel tip to Matheran from Neral:

The toy train offers the most scenic experience, but if time is a constraint, opting for a combination of road and walking is quicker.

2. Mahabaleshwar

The Land of Strawberries

Nestled in the Western Ghats within Maharashtra’s Satara district, Mahabaleshwar is a charming hill station celebrated for its lush strawberry farms. Beyond its delicious strawberries, the region is renowned for its scenic rivers, majestic waterfalls, and towering peaks. Conveniently located around 120 km southwest of Pune and 285 km from Mumbai, it is a popular weekend retreat for city dwellers.

Mahabaleshwar holds great spiritual significance for Hindus as the origin of the Krishna River. Once serving as the summer capital during British rule, this picturesque destination boasts ancient temples, renowned boarding schools, dense green forests, cascading waterfalls, and breathtaking valleys. It is also a gateway to the historic Pratapgad Fort, situated just an hour’s drive away.

The hill station comprises three key areas: Malcolm Peth, Old Kshetra Mahabaleshwar, and a part of Shindola village, each adding its unique charm to this serene getaway.

How to reach Mahabaleshwar from Mumbai?

Reaching Mahabaleshwar from Mumbai is convenient, with several transport options available. Here’s how you can plan your journey:

By road:

1. Self-drive/ Car

• Distance: Approximately 285 km
• Duration: 5-6 hours
• Route: Take the Mumbai-Pune Expressway and proceed via NH48 and Wai-Panchgani Road to Mahabaleshwar.
• Driving is a great option for those who want to enjoy the scenic route and stop at attractions like Lonavala or Panchgani along the way.

1. Bus services

• Numerous state-run MSRTC buses and private luxury buses operate from Mumbai to Mahabaleshwar.
• Options include AC, non-AC, and sleeper buses, with travel time around 6-7 hours.
• Buses often depart from major hubs like Dadar, Borivali, or Navi Mumbai.

By train:

Nearest railway station: Satara railway station (About 60 km from Mahabaleshwar).

• Board a train from Mumbai to Satara (available on the Mumbai-Pune-Satara line).
• From Satara, hire a taxi or shared cab to Mahabaleshwar (approximately 1.5-2 hours).

How to reach Mahabaleshwar from Pune?

Alternative train routes: You can also take a train to Pune Junction (120 km away) and then travel to Mahabaleshwar by road via bus or taxi.

By air:

The nearest airport is Pune Airport (120 km from Mahabaleshwar).

Flights are available from Mumbai to Pune. From Pune, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Mahabaleshwar (approximately 3-4 hours).

Travel tips:

• The best way to explore Mahabaleshwar and its surroundings is by road, as the journey offers stunning views of the Western Ghats.
• Make advance bookings for buses during weekends and peak travel seasons.

3. Chikhaldara

4. Igatpuri

Igatpuri, a serene hill station in Maharashtra’s Western Ghats, offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, adventure, and spirituality. Surrounded by lush green mountains, cascading waterfalls, and a refreshing climate, it’s an ideal getaway from Mumbai and Pune.

Adventure seekers can trek to Tringalwadi Fort or climb Kalsubai Peak, the highest point in Maharashtra. Sandhan Valley offers thrilling rappelling and rock climbing. Nature lovers can explore the picturesque Camel Valley, Bhatsa River Valley, Vihigaon Waterfalls, and Bhavali Dam, with options for camping, boating, and kayaking.

For spiritual tranquillity, visit the Vipassana International Academy, marked by the striking Myanmar Gate, or explore the ancient Trimbakeshwar and Amruteshwar Temples. Food enthusiasts can savour authentic Maharashtrian dishes alongside diverse culinary options.

Plan a trip during monsoons or winters for the best experience and immerse yourself in Igatpuri’s enchanting charm.

Igatpuri (Getty Images)

5. Toranmal

Toranmal, a serene hill town in Maharashtra, is a paradise for nature lovers. Surrounded by the lush greenery of the Satpura Hills, it boasts salubrious weather, tranquil lakes, cascading waterfalls, and rich biodiversity. The dense forests add to its charm, making it an ideal retreat from city life.

Toranmal holds cultural significance, deriving its name from the tribal Goddess Torana, whose temple is a revered site on the plateau. Beyond its natural beauty, the town features holy shrines that reflect its rich traditions and heritage. Perfect for those seeking peace and a deep connection with nature, Toranmal offers a rejuvenating escape into tranquillity. The best time to visit Toranmal is from October to May.

Toranmal (Pinterest)

How to reach Toranmal

By train: The nearest railway station is Nandurbar Railway Station, about 76 km away. It connects to major cities in Maharashtra and neighbouring states. From the station, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach Toranmal.

By road: Toranmal is well-connected by road to cities like Nandurbar (76 km), Dhule (140 km), and Shahada (55 km). State transport buses and private taxis are available from these locations.

For travellers from Mumbai (510 km) or Pune (450 km), a road trip offers scenic views along the way.

Enjoy a tranquil retreat amidst nature’s bounty in Toranmal!

6. Panchgani

Strawberry Garden of India

Panchgani, a charming hill station near Mahabaleshwar in Maharashtra, gets its name from the five hills that surround it, part of the Sahyadri mountain range. Known for its stunning sunrise and sunset points and panoramic valley views, Panchgani is situated at an altitude of 1,334 meters.

Its name, ‘Panchgani,’ reflects the five hills that form the natural backdrop of the region, offering a mesmerising view with hills on one side and coastal plains on the other.

Panchgani (Unsplash)

During the British era, Panchgani was developed as a summer retreat, and many colonial-era structures can still be found here. Often referred to as the twin city of Mahabaleshwar, Panchgani is also famous for its lush valleys, cool climate, and vibrant strawberry farms. It is also known as the ‘Strawberry Garden of India’ and the ideal time to visit Panchgani is from September to April, when the weather is pleasant and perfect for sightseeing.

Whether it’s the crisp winters, the onset of summer, or the vibrant monsoons, Panchgani offers an unforgettable experience.

How to reach Panchgani?

Each of these hill stations in Maharashtra is a treasure trove of natural beauty and serenity, making them ideal for a winter vacation. Whether you’re seeking adventure or simply want to relax in a peaceful setting, these hill stations promise an unforgettable experience. Pack your bags, embrace the cool weather, and enjoy a winter retreat that will leave you rejuvenated and refreshed.

So, don’t wait any longer! Plan your December getaway and explore the magical hill stations of Maharashtra for a vacation you’ll cherish forever.