In the vast country that India is, there is hardly any place that can so much as hold a candle to the sheer geographical diversity and multitude that Maharashtra alone brings. Though on the one hand, the state remains renowned for its bustling cities and coastal charm, it is also home to several hill stations, some thoroughly explored while others hardly ever noticed. Untouched by mass tourism, these lesser-known hill stations offer an experience that is naturally free of predefined routes, activities and pleasures. Bringing to the table salubrious temperatures, dense landscapes, various natural settings and a secure respite from the crowds, these spots leave no reason for nature lovers or families seeking a calm outing to look elsewhere. Let us dive in and find out the top picks from the list of uncharted hill stations that present the most solid cases for a visit.
Ensconced in the Amravati district, Chikhaldara stands as Vidarbha's sole hill station. It is delicately perched at an elevation of 1,118 m and is uniquely the only region in Maharashtra cultivating coffee, a legacy left behind by the British colonial era. The area is largely enveloped by the Melghat Tiger Reserve, home to diverse wildlife including tigers, panthers, sloth bears and wild boars.
In Chikhaldara, monsoon acts as a transformative catalyst turning the place into a lush haven with mist-laden valleys and boisterous waterfalls. Here, attractions abound in the form of the Gawilgadh and Narnala forts, Bhimkund as well as the panoramic Hurricane and Devi Points. The region also offers trekking opportunities to the more adventurous and a botanical garden for serenity seekers. Accessibility is facilitated via Amravati (85 km) and Nagpur (230 km).
Sitting atop at an elevation of 1,150 metres, Toranmal is tranquillity incarnate in the Satpura ranges of the Nandurbar district. Its pristine environs and cool climes make it an ideal monsoon retreat.
In Toranmal, the Goraknath Temple, a formidable pilgrimage site, attracts throngs of visitors during the time of Mahashivratri. Natural attractions like the scenic Yashwant Lake, the lotus-dotted Kamal Talao and viewpoints like Khadki Point and Sita Khai turn it into an irresistible vacation spot. The hill station is accessible through the Nandurbar Railway Station (76 km) as well as Nashik (about 305 km).
Rich biodiversity is what first springs to mind when one thinks of Malshej Ghat, followed by inviting images of misty mountains and innumerable waterfalls. As soon as the monsoon arrives, the region takes on several shades of green and waterfalls come together with fog to create a mystical ambience that looks like something pulled out of a fairy tale and brought to life.
Here, bird enthusiasts can experience the time of their life from July to September as the place stages the most exciting sights of migratory flamingos. The place also offers treks to sites like Harishchandragad Fort and the ancient Buddhist caves. Malshej Ghat is situated approximately 126 km from Mumbai and 118 km from Pune, making it a supremely accessible getaway.
One hardly envisions to avail the pleasures of both natural beauty as well as cultural heritage in the same place. Jawhar comes in as just the response to such yearning. Situated in the Palghar district, Jawhar is a hill station perched at 518 metres and is renowned as much for its pristine surroundings as cultural heritage and history. In the deck of the lesser-explored hill stations, it offers unique experiences with its tribal traditions and unsoiled waterfalls.
The town is home to the Jai Vilas Palace which showcases the region's royal past. In addition, it also exhibits Warli art, a traditional tribal art style which is constitutive of the region's identity. Once these are covered, a traveller can always look forward to the serenity of Dabhosa Waterfall and the Hanuman Point. The hill station is approximately 180 km from Mumbai which makes it conveniently suited for an easy outing.
Perched at about 690 metres in the lush Sahyadris, Amboli is Maharashtra's wettest hill station, receiving an average annual rainfall of 7,500 mm. The monsoon takes the area by the ear and transforms it into a landscape, rendered with numerous waterfalls and expansive valleys, suited just for a piping hot tea alongside a good book in the comfort of the hearth.
Here, attractions range from the Hiranyakeshi Temple, the origin points of the Hiranyakeshi River, and various viewpoints that offer unforgettable vistas. The hill station is accessible via Sawantwadi Railway Station (approximately 30 km away) and is also well-connected by road to cities like Belgaum and Kolhapur.
Perched at 845 metres and overlooking Kolhapur, Panhala (variously Panhalgad, Panhalla or Panalla) is a formidable fort and a living sentiment of Maratha history. Built by Bhoja II of the Shilahara dynasty and expanded by subsequent rulers, it played a pivotal role during Shivaji’s reign, especially in the legendary escape to Vishalgad covered by Baji Prabhu Deshpande. Spanning 14 km, its massive fortifications, secret tunnels and strategic architecture once controlled key trade routes within the Konkan
Visitors can explore landmarks like the Andhar Bavadi (hidden well), Teen Darwaza (grand gateway), Sajja Kothi (viewpoint), Ambarkhana granaries and Tarabai’s Palace. Surrounded by lush Sahyadri landscapes, Panhala is a treasure trove of history, scenic beauty and trekking trails, easily accessible via Kolhapur just 20 km away.
Dwarfing things around itself with an elevation of around 1,067 metres, Mhaismal stands near Aurangabad offering a tranquil retreat amidst the Sahyadri ranges. Often referred to as the Mahabaleshwar of Marathwada, this hill station comes alive during the monsoon, when its rolling meadows, dense greenery and distant valleys create a vibrant canvas. The perpetually cool climate coupled with scenic lakes make spots like Sunset View Point and Valley View the perfect draw for visitors seeking serenity to go with vistas.
Alongside its natural spectacle, Mhaismal houses temples like the Girija Devi Mandir and Balaji Temple that add a spiritual dimension in the fold. Additionally, its proximity to Ellora Caves, Grishneshwar Temple and Daulatabad Fort makes it an ideal and irresistible detour for those interested in the Aurangabad heritage circuits. The hill station is easily accessible by road, just 40 kilometres from Aurangabad.
Igatpuri, resting at about 600 metres in the Sahyadri range, saves in store the perfect amalgamation of scenic beauty and peaceful retreat. Just a couple of hours from the dream factory of Mumbai, it transforms into a lush paradise during the monsoon, with waterfalls, misty hills and serene lakes coming together to tickle a traveller’s senses. The town is globally known for the Vipassana International Academy, drawing meditation practitioners from all over the world.
For the more adventurous, Igatpuri offers treks such as the one to Tringalwadi Fort, rock climbing and river-rafting on the nearby Vaitarna River. Temples such as Ghatandevi and Amruteshwar add a spiritual touch to the already comforting spread, while nearby destinations like Trimbakeshwar further enhance its appeal. With excellent rail and road connectivity, Igatpuri is a year-round getaway for nature lovers, trekkers and spiritual seekers alike.
