Nashik is famous for its various religious and serene tourist places. The beautiful hill stations surrounding Nashik also attract visitors worldwide.
If you plan to explore hill stations near Nashik, the monsoon and winter are the best seasons to visit. During monsoon season, these hills get covered with greenery and gushing waterfalls, while winters bring pleasant days and cool nights perfect for outdoor activities.
This guide will help you plan your trip. It will help you discover the 11 hill stations near Nashik, with approximate distances from Nashik. Budget travelers, families, friend groups, and couples can all enjoy these places.
11 Best Hill Stations Near Nashik to Visit in 2025
Igatpuri is the closest hill station to Nashik, and it is famous for its meditation center and waterfalls. Bhandardara offers stunning lake views and the beautiful Umbrella Falls. Saputara, Gujarat’s only hill station, delights visitors with its boating lake and tasty food.
Below is a table of the top 11 best hill stations near Nashik:
| Hill Station | Distance from Nashik | Special For |
|---|---|---|
| Igatpuri Hills | 56 km via. Mumbai Agra Highway | Vipassana International Academy, waterfalls, trekking |
| Bhandardara | 72 km | Wilson Dam, Umbrella Falls, and lakeside views |
| Jawhar | 80 km | Warli paintings, waterfalls, tribal culture |
| Saputara | 91.4 km | Gujarat’s only hill station, boating, and food culture |
| Suryamal | 85 km via. Mumbai Agra Highway | Highest peak in Thane district, sunset views |
| Malshej Ghat | 133 km via. Mumbai Agra Highway | Bird watching, waterfalls, trekking trails |
| Matheran | 170 km | No-vehicle zone, viewpoints, toy train |
| Lonavala | 220 km | Caves, forts, valleys, celebrity homes |
| Khandala | 215 km | Twin Hill Station to Lonavala, viewpoints |
| Panchgani | 320 km via. NH 60 and NH 48 | Tableland, strawberry farms, paragliding |
| Mahabaleshwar | 339 km via. NH60 | Strawberry farms, ancient temples, and viewpoints |
These hill stations offer a perfect escape from city life with their natural beauty and peaceful surroundings. You can reach all these destinations easily by road.
For a comfortable journey, you can take taxi services from Nashik that will make your travel hassle-free, especially if you’re not familiar with the mountain roads.
1. Igatpuri Hills
Address: Ghoti – Sinnar Rd, Igatpuri, Maharashtra 422403
Nashik is famous for its historical significance, wine, nature, and Misal. On the other hand, Igatpuri is best for spiritual retreats and nature activities.
Igatpuri houses the world-famous Vipassana International Academy, where visitors practice meditation. The hill station offers amazing views of the Western Ghats and several waterfalls that look most beautiful during monsoon.
Tringalwadi Fort and Camel Valley attract many adventure lovers who enjoy trekking. The cool climate makes Igatpuri perfect for a quick weekend escape from city life.
2. Bhandardara
Address: Bhandardara, Maharashtra 422604
Bhandardara sits peacefully at the foot of the Sahyadri ranges. This lesser-known hill station is home to Wilson Dam, which creates the stunning Umbrella Falls during monsoon.
Arthur Lake offers a serene spot for boating and relaxation with mountains in the background. Kalsubai Peak, the highest in Maharashtra, attracts trekkers looking for adventure.
The natural beauty of Bhandardara makes it ideal for nature photography, especially during sunrise and sunset. Visitors can explore Randha Falls and Agastya Rishi Ashram to complete their trip to this hidden gem.
3. Jawhar
Address: Darshan, Sunrise Nagar, Jawhar, Maharashtra 401603
Jawhar was once a princely state and keeps its royal charm through palaces and culture. This small hill station is known as the ‘city of waterfalls’ because of spots like Dabhosa and Kal Mandavi Falls.
The town showcases the rich tribal culture through its famous Warli paintings that depict daily life using simple shapes. Jai Vilas Palace and Shirpamal, built by the royal family, display amazing architecture from the past.
Sunset Point and Hanuman Point offer great views of the surrounding hills. Jawhar remains less crowded than other hill stations, making it perfect for those seeking peace.
4. Saputara
Address: Saputara, Ahwa, Gujarat 394720
Saputara is Gujarat’s only hill station, offering cool weather all year. The centerpiece is Saputara Lake, where visitors enjoy boating surrounded by green hills.
Besides the Saputara sunset point, there are multiple sunset points in Nashik, which you can enjoy after returning from Saputara or while passing through Nashik. Food lovers enjoy the tasty Gujarati dishes in local restaurants.
The Hatgadh Fort, built by Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, has historical value with a Lord Shiva statue on top. Nature fans can explore Vansda National Park with its wildlife, including pythons and crocodiles.
5. Suryamal
Address: Suryamal, Maharashtra – 421303
Suryamal is the highest peak in Thane district, giving visitors amazing views of the valleys below. The spot is perfect for nature photographers, especially during sunrise and sunset when the sky changes colors.
Unlike busy tourist spots, this place stays quiet and peaceful. Bikers love the winding roads that lead to the top. During the monsoon, the area shows off thick forests and streams.
The Upper Vaitarna Reservoir, with its blue waters, adds to the beauty. Bird watchers spot many forest birds here. With no shops or hotels, Suryamal offers a pure nature experience without crowds.
6. Malshej Ghat
Address: Malshej Ghat – 421401
Malshej Ghat turns bright green during the rainy season, with numerous small and big waterfalls appearing everywhere. It’s famous for pink flamingos and other migratory birds that visit between July and September.
Trekkers head to Harishchandragad Fort to see the Kedareshwar Cave with its massive Shiva Lingam surrounded by water. The Pimpalgaon Joga Dam creates a large lake, good for bird watching.
The area has several viewpoints offering wide views of the valleys. The drive itself is beautiful, with cloud-covered roads and misty mountains making it perfect for long drives and roadside picnics.
7. Matheran
Address: Kasturba Rd, Matheran, Maharashtra 410102
Matheran is a no-vehicle zone, keeping the air clean and peaceful. After parking at Dasturi Point, visitors must either walk or take horseback rides.
The famous toy train provides a delightful journey up the hills, passing through forests and along cliff edges. With 38 viewpoints, including Echo Point, Louisa Point, and One Tree Hill, it offers plenty of spots for photos.
The red soil paths winding through trees make walking here special. Waterfall lovers can also visit various falls in Nashik, as it becomes mesmerizing during the monsoon.
8. Lonavala
Address: Siddharth Nagar, Lonavala, Maharashtra 410401
Lonavala’s name comes from ‘Lonavli,’ which means “resting place surrounded by caves.” The hill station features deep valleys, calm lakes, and historic forts.
Bhushi Dam becomes lively during rainy days, with people enjoying the water flows over its steps. Rajmachi Point offers views of Rajmachi Fort, while Tiger’s Leap looks like a jumping tiger from certain angles.
The ancient Karla and Bhaja Caves show Buddhist rock-cut architecture from the 2nd century BC. Many Bollywood stars own homes here, making it a celebrity hotspot. Don’t leave without trying the famous hard Lonavala Chikki (sweet) and fudge.
9. Khandala
Address: Khandala Hills, Kune Village, Khandala, Lonavala, Kune N.M., Maharashtra 410302
Khandala is just 5 km from Lonavala, making them twin hill stations usually visited together. Duke’s Nose, a cliff looking like a nose from a distance, attracts trekkers who climb up for wide views.
Reversing Station shows the engineering marvel where trains change direction by reversing. With its three-tier drop, Kune Falls becomes amazing during the rainy season.
Amrutanjan Point gives views of both the Mumbai-Pune old highway and the expressway cutting through the mountains. The hills here served as the perfect backdrop for many famous Bollywood songs.
10. Panchgani
Address: Wai-Panchgani Rd, Bhim Nagar, Panchgani, Maharashtra 412805
Panchgani gets its name from the five (panch) hills surrounding it. Table Land, a large flat mountain top, is Asia’s second-longest mountain plateau where visitors fly kites and ride horses.
The British loved this place for its pleasant weather and planted silver oak and other trees, which are still seen today. Sydney Point, Parsi Point, and Devil’s Kitchen offer great views of Krishna Valley and Dhom Dam.
Mapro Garden attracts food lovers with fresh strawberry treats and other fruit products. The area has many old British-style boarding schools.
11. Mahabaleshwar
Address: Mahabaleshwar, Maharashtra 412806
Mahabaleshwar served as the summer capital during British rule and still keeps its charm with colonial buildings and garden paths. The old temple of Mahabaleshwar gives the town its name and holds religious value for Hindus.
Arthur’s Seat, Kate’s Point, and Elephant’s Head Point provide stunning views of deep valleys. Venna Lake offers boating with hills. The area grows 85% of India’s strawberries, with many farms letting visitors pick fresh berries.
Lingmala Falls drops water from 500 feet, creating rainbow effects on sunny days. The market area sells walking sticks, leather goods, and fresh berry products.
Best Time to Visit Hill Stations Near Nashik
The hills near Nashik show different beauty in each season. Knowing when to visit helps you enjoy their special features and plan activities better. Here’s when to plan your trips:
- Monsoon beauty (June-September): This time is perfect for photography and waterfall visits. However, some treks become slippery.
- Winter charm (October-February): Clear skies offer the best views of valleys and distant mountains. Sunrise views are spectacular.
- Summer escape benefits (March-May): The Hills offer relief from the hot plains with cooler temperatures. They are less crowded except during school holidays. Strawberries and other fruits are available in Mahabaleshwar and Panchgani.
- Festival periods to consider: Ganesh Chaturthi (August/September) brings cultural celebrations to many hill towns. Christmas and New Year see higher visitor numbers and special events.
How to Reach These Hill Stations
Most hill stations near Nashik are easily reached by road. State highways and national highways connect Nashik to all these destinations. There are the best hotels in Nashik to stay at if you are coming with family to rest before continuing your journey.
- By car/taxi from Nashik: Taxis can be hired for day trips or longer stays. Roads to nearby hills like Igatpuri are well-maintained.
- Public transportation options: State transport buses run regularly to popular destinations. Shared jeeps are available for closer hill stations.
- Car rental services in Nashik: Self-driving cars can be rented from agencies in Nashik. Some resorts offer pickup services from Nashik.
Travel Tips To Visit Hill Stations Near Nashik
Here are some helpful tips to make your hill station trip from Nashik more enjoyable and trouble-free:
- Check weather forecasts before leaving, as hill weather changes quickly.
- Carry light woolens even in summer as evenings get cool.
- Download offline maps since network coverage can be weak in the mountains.
- Start early to avoid traffic and get more time at destinations.
- Carry basic medicines, especially if you have a sickness on winding roads.
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Conclusion: Explore The 11 Hill Stations Near Nashik
The hills around Nashik offer perfect breaks from busy life with their fresh air and beautiful sights. From the meditation centers of Igatpuri to the strawberry farms of Mahabaleshwar, each place brings its own magic.
These 11 hill stations near Nashik fit every need. You can arrange quick day trips, family vacations, romantic weekends, or adventure outings.
Pack light woolens, check the weather, and start early to make the most of your trip. Plan your next hill station trip and create memories in these natural wonders.
FAQs
Igatpuri is just 56 km from Nashik via the Mumbai-Agra Highway. This peaceful retreat offers meditation centers, waterfalls, and trekking trails perfect for quick one-day trips from Nashik.
Bhandardara, Jawhar, and Saputara make perfect weekend trips from Nashik. These destinations offer scenic beauty, waterfalls, and cultural experiences within 2-3 hours’ driving distance.
Malshej Ghat and Bhandardara offer exciting trekking trails, while Matheran has nature walks. Panchgani provides paragliding opportunities, and Lonavala features rock climbing and waterfall rappelling adventures.
Igatpuri, Jawhar, and Bhandardara provide affordable options with reasonable transportation costs, budget accommodations, and free natural attractions like waterfalls and viewpoints to explore.
Light jackets, comfortable walking shoes, rain protection, basic medicines, and camera equipment. During winter months, add warm clothing layers, and during monsoon, waterproof gear becomes essential.
