The Hills Are Calling; 5 Hill Stations in Maharashtra for a Family Vacation in India
If your idea of a perfect family vacation includes stunning vistas, delightful weather and thrilling activities for everyone to enjoy, then the hill stations in Maharashtra never fail to disappoint. Adorned with lush landscapes, cool breezes and historical landmarks, Maharashtra’s hill stations create an ideal setting for a family getaway, with something for every age group. Think mist-covered hills in the mornings, sun-drenched afternoons that warm up your soul and cool evenings that nudge you to relish a hot cup of tea as you relax. Whether you want to indulge in some sightseeing or explore the neighbourhoods, here are the top five hill stations in Maharashtra you can’t resist for a family vacation in India.
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Escape to the Elevated
Lonavala & Khandala – The Twin Retreat
If you are looking for a destination near Mumbai and Pune, Lonavala and Khandala emerge as refreshing locations that are just a stone’s throw away from both cities. Apart from its proximity, these hill stations have a variety of experiences to offer for travellers from every walk of life. From outdoor excursions to the most famous spots in Maharashtra to culinary delights, Lonavala and Khandala have it all:
- One of the most iconic places to visit in Lonavala is the Bushi Dam, especially during the monsoon season. The views of the cascading waters create a mesmerising atmosphere for a family picnic.
- If your family is inclined towards the mysteries of the past, a visit to the Karla Caves is a must. As you wander through the caves, you get a glimpse into the history of the regions through intricate carvings.
- If you crave adventure, a trek to Tigers Leap is the perfect choice for every family member. This is also a great way to bond over exhilarating outdoor exercises.
- End your day in Lonavla by witnessing the horizon at Sunset Point which lets you enjoy and take in the beautiful terrains.
- No trip to Lonavala is complete without a stop at the markets. Shop for chikkis and fudges while trying other local delicacies. You can also find homegrown goods to take as souvenirs.
So if you want to plan a holiday here, consider staying at these homestays in Lonavala or Khandala with modern amenities.
Mahabaleshwar – The Strawberry Paradise
With verdant greenery as far as the eye can see, Mahabaleshwar provides a cooler climate compared to the other hill stations in Maharashtra. So if you truly want to escape the humidity and hustle of the city, this is the perfect place for you and your family. Cradled amidst the towering peaks and lush valleys, there is a plethora of activities in Mahabaleshwar that keeps you engaged:
- A boat ride on Venna Lake is not to be missed. Paddle across the river as the water mirrors the beauty of the surrounding ridges. You can also feed the ducks waddling on the river.
- Famous for its strawberry farms, you just can’t skip the Mapro Garden to get a taste of the fruity treat. While adults kick back in the cafe, kids will have a good time picking their strawberries.
- Presenting a blend of adrenaline and lore, a trek to the Pratabgarh Fort with your family is surely one for the albums. Once you reach the top, indulge in a fun picnic at Elphinstone Point with panoramic views of Mahabaleshwar.
- Home to many waterfalls, Mahabaleshwar boasts rapids in every corner, enhancing the beauty of the mesmerising getaway near Pune.
For an extra special experience, book a stay at these villas in Mahabaleshwar that provide the perfect balance between luxury and comfort.
Matheran – An Eco-friendly Haven
Looking for a getaway that showcases the best of nature with a pinch of nostalgia? Well, look no further than Matheran! This is the only hill station in India where motor vehicles are not allowed in the area, making it a pollution-free refuge. Only a short drive from Mumbai, this hill station in Maharashtra leaves you and your family with heartfelt experiences full of memories:
- Enjoy the toy train ride that takes you through the scenic hills of Matheran, offering an enchanting view of the adjacent valleys. It is an experience both kids and adults will cherish.
- Take a stroll along the banks of Charlotte Lake, a prominent tourist attraction in Matheran. You can even partake in some boating activities in pairs if you’re feeling spontaneous.
- Trek to the most beautiful viewpoints in Mathera like the Panorama Point and Echo Point to get a birds-eye view of the region. Furthermore, there are several other points to explore like Echo Point, Louisa Point and Sunset Point.
- The walking trails in Matheran entice families to go for a wander. Every route comes with a charming setting with flourishing landscapes accompanied by a pleasant climate.
When it comes to choosing a luxurious homestay near Matheran, you are spoiled for choice!
Panchgani – The Sublime Utopia
Resting in the western ghats in Maharashtra, Panchgani is a famous hill station near Pune with the perfect mix of historical allure and nature’s bounty. This is a dreamscape where kids can run wild and tune in with the great outdoors as the adults can truly relax. But the beauty of Panchagani goes beyond its topography. Let’s dive into all the recreational activities in Panchgani for you to try with your dear ones:
- Kick off your holiday in Panchgani with a picnic extravaganza at Table Land, a vast expanse of rich vegetation. If you’re lucky you can also embark on a pony ride here.
- For families who love a taste of ancient wonders, the primaeval caves of Krishna Valley are a must. These caves give you a peek into the Pandva’s time during their exile.
- Participate in the adventure activities in Panchagani like paragliding and trekking and take a step closer to the natural world.
- Take a trip to the most renowned viewpoint in Panchgani, the Parsi Point to capture some amazing snaps of the region. This is one of the main spots for photography in Panchgani.
You can find an array of homestays in Panchgani that are as diverse as the activities you want to pursue.
Igatpuri – The Heart of the Sahyadri
Ever wished to pause in life and take a moment to bask in serenity with your family? Igatpuri answers your wishes like a genie tucked away in the laps of the western ghats. Unlike the bustling hill stations around, Igatpuri offers a more tranquil atmosphere with its rain-fed meadows and waterfalls. The beauty of Igatpuri comes from its simplicity, allowing every family to treasure the outdoors. So, here are a couple of activities in Igatpuri that promote quality time with your kin:
- One of the biggest crowd-pleasers in Igatpuri happens to be the Vaitarna Dam which is encircled by towering peaks. Families can combine leisure as well as educate their kids on nature’s cycles.
- If your family is up for a challenge, you can journey to the Kalsubai Peak, the highest peak in Maharashtra. While the hike may be arduous, the final destination is worth the effort.
- Step back in time by exploring the Tringalwadi Fort which is located on top of a hill. This fort in Maharashtra is steeped in history offering an intriguing glimpse into the region’s bygone eras.
- Dive into spirituality and introspection by yielding to the meditation practices at the Dhammagiri Centre, one of the largest vipassana centres in the world. Here you can learn the basics of mindfulness, invigorating the family’s energies.
Here are a couple of family-friendly accommodations in Igatpuri that offer a true sense of hospitality.
So, now that you’ve daydreamed about the beautiful green trails present at the best hill stations in Maharashtra, isn’t it about time to actually live those dreams? Whether you’re longing for foggy mornings in Mahabaleshwar, the fun toy train ride in Matheran, or chill lakeside vibes in Lonavala, there’s something for everyone in your family!