Thane, a bustling city in Maharashtra, is surrounded by some of the most breathtaking yet underrated hill stations that promise a perfect escape from urban chaos. While popular destinations like Lonavala and Mahabaleshwar often steal the spotlight, there are several lesser-known hill stations near Thane that offer tranquility, stunning landscapes, and unique experiences without the tourist crowds. You amy Like Best Beaches in Maharashtra
From the car-free serenity of Matheran to the tribal charm of Jawhar, and from the misty valleys of Khandala to the adventurous trails of Malshej Ghat, each destination has its own allure. Whether you’re a nature lover, trekking enthusiast, or someone seeking a peaceful retreat, these hidden gems provide the perfect weekend getaway.
In this blog, we explore the best underrated hill stations near Thane, including Matheran, Bhandardara, Khandala, Igatpuri, Jawhar, Mahabaleshwar, Lonavala, and Malshej Ghat. Each destination is covered in detail with an overview, how to reach, best time to visit, things to do, best places to visit, and travel tips to help you plan a memorable trip.
So, pack your bags, hit the road, and discover these hidden paradises near Thane for an unforgettable experience!
1. Matheran one of the best Hill Stations Near Thane
Overview
Matheran, Asia’s only automobile-free hill station, is a serene escape with lush greenery, colonial-era architecture, and breathtaking viewpoints. You may read Matheran Travel Guide
How to Reach
- By Train: Nearest railway station is Neral (21 km), connected to Mumbai and Thane.
- By Road: Drive to Dasturi Naka (parking) and take a toy train or horse ride to Matheran.
Best Time to Visit
- October to May (pleasant weather, ideal for trekking and sightseeing).
Things to Do
- Enjoy a toy train ride.
- Trek to Panorama Point and Louisa Point.
- Explore Charlotte Lake.
Best Places to Visit
- Echo Point
- Porcupine Point
- Alexander Point
Travel Tips
- Carry cash (limited ATMs).
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking.
2. Bhandardara
Overview
A picturesque hill station known for its Arthur Lake, Randha Falls, and Mount Kalsubai (Maharashtra’s highest peak). You may Like to read Bhandardara Travel Guide
How to Reach
- By Road: 165 km from Thane (approx. 4-hour drive).
- By Train: Nearest station is Igatpuri (45 km).
Best Time to Visit
- Monsoon (July-September) for waterfalls.
- Winter (November-February) for clear skies.
Things to Do
- Visit Umbrella Falls.
- Trek to Kalsubai Peak.
- Camp near Arthur Lake.
Best Places to Visit
- Ratangad Fort
- Amruteshwar Temple
- Wilson Dam
Travel Tips
- Book homestays in advance.
- Carry warm clothes in winter.
3. Khandala
Overview
A scenic hill station near Lonavala, famous for its misty valleys, waterfalls, and colonial charm. You like to read Khandala Travel Guide.
How to Reach
- By Train: Khandala Railway Station (Mumbai-Pune route).
- By Road: 80 km from Thane (2-hour drive).
Best Time to Visit
- June-September (monsoon) for lush greenery.
- October-March for pleasant weather.
Things to Do
- Visit Tiger’s Leap.
- Explore Bhushi Dam.
- Trek to Rajmachi Fort.
Best Places to Visit
- Duke’s Nose
- Kune Falls
- Bedsa Caves
Travel Tips
- Avoid weekends to escape crowds.
- Carry rain gear in monsoon.
4. Igatpuri
Overview
A quiet hill station known for Vipassana meditation centers, Tringalwadi Fort, and scenic landscapes. Read to Igatpuri Travel Guide
How to Reach
- By Train: Igatpuri Railway Station (on Mumbai-Nashik route).
- By Road: 120 km from Thane (2.5-hour drive).
Best Time to Visit
- Monsoon and Winter (July-February).
Things to Do
- Meditate at Dhamma Giri.
- Trek to Kalsubai Peak.
- Visit Camel Valley.
Best Places to Visit
- Tringalwadi Fort
- Bhatsa River Valley
- Vaitarna Dam
- More 6 Places to visit in Igatpuri……
Travel Tips
- Book meditation courses in advance.
- Carry trekking gear.
5. Jawhar
Overview
A tribal hill station with waterfalls, palaces, and Warli art culture. You like to read Jawhar Travel Guide
How to Reach
- By Road: 150 km from Thane (4-hour drive).
Best Time to Visit
- Monsoon and Winter (July-March).
Things to Do
- Explore Jai Vilas Palace.
- Visit Dabhosa Waterfall.
- Experience Warli art.
Best Places to Visit
- Sunset Point
- Shirpamal
- Khodkari Dam
Travel Tips
- Hire a local guide for tribal tours.
- Carry snacks (limited food options).
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6. Mahabaleshwar
Overview
A popular yet underrated gem with strawberries, viewpoints, and ancient temples. Mahabaleshwar Travel Guide
How to Reach
- By Road: 240 km from Thane (5-hour drive).
Best Time to Visit
- October-June (avoid monsoon landslides).
Things to Do
- Visit Venna Lake.
- Explore Pratapgad Fort.
- Enjoy strawberry farming.
Best Places to Visit
- Arthur’s Seat
- Lingmala Waterfall
- Mapro Garden
Travel Tips
- Book hotels early in peak season.
- Try local strawberry products.
7. Lonavala & Khandala
Overview
Twin hill stations famous for chikki, waterfalls, and forts. you may like Lonavala Travel Guide.
How to Reach
- By Train: Lonavala Railway Station.
- By Road: 80 km from Thane.
Best Time to Visit
- Monsoon (June-September) for waterfalls.
Things to Do
- Visit Bhushi Dam.
- Trek to Lohagad Fort.
- Enjoy local snacks.
Best Places to Visit
- Karla Caves
- Lion’s Point
- Ryewood Park
Travel Tips
- Avoid holiday crowds.
- Carry an umbrella in monsoon.
8. Malshej Ghat
Overview
A paradise for trekkers and bird watchers with waterfalls and forts. Malshej Ghat Travel Guide
How to Reach
- By Road: 130 km from Thane (3-hour drive).
Best Time to Visit
- Monsoon (July-September) for misty views.
Things to Do
- Trek to Harishchandragad.
- Spot flamingos at Pimpalgaon Joga Dam.
Best Places to Visit
- Ajoba Hill
- Shivneri Fort
- Malshej Falls
Travel Tips
- Drive carefully on ghat roads.
- Carry binoculars for birdwatching.
FAQs About Hill Stations Near Thane
1. Which is the closest hill station to Thane?
- Matheran (approx. 80 km) and Khandala (approx. 85 km) are among the closest hill stations to Thane.
2. Which hill station near Thane is best for trekking?
- Bhandardara (Kalsubai Peak) and Igatpuri (Tringalwadi Fort) are great for trekking.
3. Are these hill stations suitable for a one-day trip?
- Yes, Matheran, Khandala, and Lonavala can be explored in a day trip from Thane.
4. Which hill station is best for monsoon visits?
- Malshej Ghat, Bhandardara, and Khandala are stunning during monsoons with lush greenery and waterfalls.
5. Which underrated hill station is best for a peaceful getaway?
- Jawhar and Bhandardara are less crowded and perfect for a serene retreat.
6. Is public transport available to these hill stations?
- Yes, most are accessible via trains (e.g., Neral for Matheran, Igatpuri station) and buses.
7. What should I carry for a hill station trip near Thane?
- Comfortable shoes, light woolens (in winter), rain gear (monsoon), water, and snacks.
Final Thoughts
These underrated hill stations near Thane offer a perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and scenic beauty. Whether you prefer trekking in Igatpuri, meditating in Jawhar, or enjoying waterfalls in Malshej Ghat, each destination has something unique.
Plan your trip wisely, check weather conditions, and explore these hidden gems for an unforgettable experience!
