Only a few hours from Mumbai, there are some exciting weekend getaways that are perfect if you want to unwind yourself from the hustle and bustle of the city, be in nature, or go for a short trek. From Asia's only vehicle-free hill station, Matheran, to the evergreen favourite Lonavala, each hill station from Mumbai has its own charm.
Hill Stations Near Mumbai Compared
We compared the five best hill stations near Mumbai based on distance, travel time, budget, and things to do, which will help you choose your perfect escape.
1. Matheran
Just 2.5 hours away from Mumbai, Matheran is a beautiful destination if you are looking for a quick getaway. It is also Asia's only vehicle-free hill station, aimed at keeping the air clean and quiet. From misty fog to red soil paths and heavy rain, Matheran is straight out of a fairy tale. You can also take the toy train to witness the beauty of Matheran.
2. Karjat
Karjat is located approximately 65 to 70 km from Mumbai, with the drive taking 2 to 2.5 hours and the local train taking almost the same time. Like Matheran, Karjat is also known for its beautiful lush green hills, waterfalls, and ancient forts. You can visit Kondana Caves, Peth Fort, Bhivpuri Waterfall, Sondai Fort, among others.
3. Jawhar
Jawhar is a little far from Mumbai, taking around 3-4 hours from road. By local train, you can arrive at Dahanu Road or Virar on the Western Railway Line and then take a cab to the hill station. Visit Jai Vilas Palace, Dabhosa Waterfall, Hanuman Point, and Khad Khad Dam for a fun day trip.
4. Lonavala & Khandala
Lonavala and Khandala are twin hill stations, also the most popular weekend getaway destination from Mumbai. They are about 83 to 96 km from Mumbai in the Sahyadri mountain range, taking approximately 2.5 to 3 hours by road. Take a train from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) or Dadar Central in Mumbai and get off at Lonavala Railway Station (LNL). Visit Bhushi Dam, Tiger's Leap & Lion Point, Kune Falls and Duke's Nose for a fun filled trip.
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5. Malshej Ghat
Malshej Ghat is also a beautiful mountain pass in the Western Ghats, located about 3-4 hours from Mumbai, around 130 kms. Take a train to Kalyan Junction, then hire a local taxi or state transport bus toward the ghat. You can visit Pimpalgaon Joga Dam, roadside waterfalls, Harishchandragad Trek and Malshej Ghat Pass Viewpoints at Malshej.
Comparison and Details of Top 5 Hill Stations from Mumbai:
| Hill Stations | Distance From Mumbai | Nearest Local Train Stations | Best Time To Visit | Budget Per Person | Top Attractions |
| Matheran | 80 km/2.5 hours | Neral | June to September (Monsoon) & October to February | Rs 1500-2k | Toy Train, Louisa Point, Charlotte Lake, Panorama Point, Red Soil Paths |
| Karjat | 65-70 km / 2-2.5 hours | Karjat | June to September | Rs 1k-2k | Kondana Caves, Peth Fort, Bhivpuri Waterfall, Sondai Fort, ND Studio |
| Jawhar | 130-150 km / 3-4 hours | Dahanu Road / Virar (Western Line) | June to October | Rs 2k-3k | Jai Vilas Palace, Dabhosa Waterfall, Hanuman Point, Khad Khad Dam |
| Lonavala & Khandala | 83-96 km / 2.5-3 hours | Lonavala (LNL) | June to September & October to February | Rs 1500-2500 | Bhushi Dam, Tiger's Leap, Lion's Point, Kune Falls, Duke's Nose |
| Malshej Ghat | 130 km / 3-4 hours | Kalyan Junction | June to September | Rs 2k-3k | Malshej Ghat Viewpoint, Pimpalgaon Joga Dam, Roadside Waterfalls, Harishchandragad Trek |
Conclusion:
So, which one is best? Pick as per your mood, pack light, and leave early to beat the Mumbai traffic. If you want the easiest and most romantic getaway, go to Matheran. No vehicles, red mud paths and the toy train make it feel like a different world. If it's your first hill station trip or a family trip, you can never go wrong with Lonavala & Khandala. Easy to reach, lots of famous viewpoints and great food.
(Image Credits: Pinterest)
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