Best Beaches in India

There are en-number of beautiful beaches in India and here are the best one's-

1) Gujarat

   a) Diu beach
   b) Umbergam beach
   c) Tithal beach
   d) Daman beach
   e) Veraval or Somnath beach
   f) Udvada beach

2) Maharashtra

   a) Kelwa beach
   b) Arnala beach
   c) Marve beach
   d) Madh beach
   e) Aksa beach
   f) Versova beach
   g) Juhu beach
   h) Band Stand
   i) Girgaum beach
   j) Ganpatiphule beach

3) Goa
   a) Anjuna beach                                            
   b) Baga beach                                                        c) Calangute beach
   d) Colva beach                                                                               
4) Kerala
   a) Alappuzha beach
   b) Cherai beach
   c) Fort Kochin
   d) Kovalam beach
   e) Kollam beach
   f) Varkala beach
   g) Poovar beach

THE BEST HILL STATIONS OF INDIA

My motherland has every thing in her, from Snowy mountains to Golden dessert and dense forest. But her sky touching mountains provides us with an heavenly experience. There were en-number of hill towns in Indian but unknown, during British raj (British rule) they used these towns to beat heat and slowly those places gain attention and now turned as major tourist spot. These hill station gives us a picturesque image of nature and show-cases creators creativity.
I list down some of the best hill station of India as per their respective state and union territory:

1) Gujarat:-
   a) Saputara

2) Himachal Pradesh:-
   a) Chail
   b) Dalhousie
   c) Dharamshala
   d) Kasauli
   e) Kullu
   f) Manali
  g) Shimla

3) Jammu and Kashmir:-
   a) Gulmarg
   b) Pahalgam
   c) Sonmarg
   d) Srinagar

4) Kerala:-
   a) Munnar
   b) Thekkady

5) Maharashtra:-
  a) Igatpuri
  b) Chikhaldara
  c) Lonavala
  d) Khandala
  e) Mahabaleshwar
  f) Matheran
 g) Panchgani  
 h) Bhandardara                                                         
                                                                                                                                        Town of Jammu in Night
 6) Rajasthan:-
  a) Mount Abu

Srinagar

Srinagar is located in the heart of the Kashmir valley at an altitude of 1730 m above sea level, spread on both sides of the river Jhelum. The Dal and Nagin lakes enhance its picturesque setting, while the changing play of the seasons and the salubrious climate ensures that the city is equally attractive to visitors around the year. Today Srinagar is a resort for the tourist who can experience, at first hand, the peculiar beauty of the valley that has attracted the Chinese, the Mughals and the British to it. Its waterways with their own quaint lifestyle, the unique Houseboat, the blossoming gardens, water sports activities, shopping for lovingly hand-crafted souvenirs and the nearby resorts make it a cherished spot among those looking for a memorable holiday.

If one is longing for the delights of a houseboat holiday, then check out lakes of Srinagar to try one. Srinagar is a unique city because of its lakes - the Dal , Nagin and Anchar. The River Jhelum also flows through a part of the city. Most houseboats on the Nagin and the Jhelum are situated on the banks of the lake, and can be accessed directly from land without the help of a Shikara. While all those on the Dal require a Shikara to get to and from them. Most houseboats on the Dal are situated in long straggling rows; some face the boulevard, Srinagar's exciting address, while others are situated singly or in groups of two and three.

Srinagar's lakes are the reason why the city receives so many tourists. Not just expanse of water, the lakes are filled with houseboats, villages, narrow water canals, lotus and vegetable gardens and houses and shops. Life on the lakes, as witnessed from the confines of a Shikara, is unique. It is possible to book a Shikara for the whole day and sightsee Nishat Garden, Nasim Bagh, Hazratbal Mosque, Pathar Masjid and Shah Hamdan's Shrine, having a picnic lunch in the boat. While Nagin is quieter, the Dal is full of local colour, with tourists being rowed in Shikara to shops selling every conceivable handicraft - all within the lake. A Shikara ride is one of the most soothing, relaxing aspects of a holiday in Kashmir. It can be an hour-long ride to see the sights of the Dal; a shopping by Shikara expedition to visit handicraft shops within the periphery of the lake; or a whole day trip to visit important city landmarks. Because the Dal is so central to the landscape of Srinagar, many places of tourist interest have, over the ages, been built in its vicinity.  

The art of designing formal gardens which the Mughal emperors expended such time and energy upon, reached its zenith in Kashmir. The Mughal gardens in Agra or Lahore may be very fine but only in Kashmir is the formal beauty of the gardens matched by the natural beauty of the surrounding countryside. The gardens follow a standard pattern with a central channel carrying water through the descending terraces in a delightful series of cascades, falls and pools.

Sonamarg

The drive to Sonamarg is through the Sindh Valley which presents yet another spectacular facet of countryside in Kashmir. Situated at an altitude of 2730 m, Sonamarg (‘The meadow of gold’) has, as its backdrop, snowy mountains against a cerulean sky. The Sindh River that meanders through the valley abounds with trout and mahaseer. Ponies can be hired for the trip up to Thajiwas glacier, which is a major local attraction during the summer months.

Sonamarg is the base of a major trek that passes along several mountain lakes –Vishansar, Kishansar, Gadsar, Satsar and Gangabal. Sonamarg is also the take off station for the drive to Ladakh across the Zojila, a major pass in the Great Himalayan Range, through which the Srinagar-Leh Road passes.

At a height of 2740 m, Sonamarg is the last major point in the Kashmir valley before the Zoji La pass into Ladakh . At the pass the green, lush Kashmiri landscape abruptly switches to the barren, dry landscape of Ladakh. Sonamarg is thus not only a good base for treks but also a jumping off point for trips into Ladakh.
The name means 'Meadow of Gold' and although this could be due to the profusion of flowers that carpet the meadow in the spring it is also possible that the name derives from Sonamarg's strategic trading position in the days when this was a major route into central Asia. The Sindh River meanders along here and abounds with Trout and Mahseer.

 One of the most popular short walks from Sonamarg and a major attraction during the summer months is the 4 km route to Thajiwas, a small valley at the foot of the Sonamarg glacier. A path leads up to the Shakhdar hill, overlooking the glacier from the northeast. It is dangerous to climb the steep slope leading up to the glacier. Ponies can be hired for the trip up to Thajiwas glacier. Often in early summer one will meet groups of Gujar passing through Sonamarg on their way to the alpine meadows for the summer.

Places of Attraction:-

1) Nilagrad

2) Krishnasar Lake

Nearest airport is Badgam and nearest rail head is Jammu. Sonagam is 81 km from Srinagar.

Pahalgam

At an altitude of 2130 m and about 95-km from Srinagar , Pahalgam is probably the most popular hill resort in the Kashmir valley. Since it is rather lower than Gulmarg the nighttime temperatures do not drop so low and it has the further advantage of the beautiful Lidder River running right through the town. 
Pahalgam is situated at the junction of the Aru and Sheshnag Rivers and surrounded by soaring, fir-covered mountains with bare, snow-capped peaks rising behind them. The Aru flows down from the Kolahoi glacier beyond Lidderwat while the Sheshnag from glaciers along the great Himalayan. 
At the confluence of the streams flowing from the river Lidder and Sheshnag Lake, Pahalgam was once a humble shepherd's village with breathtaking views. Now it Kashmir's premier resort, cool even during the height of summer.
There are many short walks available from Pahalgam and in addition it is an excellent base for longer treks such as those to the Kolahoi glacier or to the Amarnath cave. Pahalgam can also be used as a starting point for treks out of the region. Pahalgam is particularly famed for its many shepherds and they're a common sight, driving their flocks of sheep along the paths all around the town.

Places of Attraction:-
1) Mamaleshwara
2) Baisaran
3) Tulian Lake
4) Aru
5) Hajan

Nearest airport is Badgam and the nearest rail head is Jammu. Srinagar is 95 km from Pahalgam.

Gulmarg

A huge cup shaped meadow, lush and green with slopes where the silence is broken only by the tinkle of cowbells, Gulmarg looks like a fantasy set in a film and not surprisingly have been the venue of several films. 
The valley of Gulmarg, a large meadow about 3-sq-km in area, stands at 2730 meters, 56-km south west of Srinagar . The name means 'Meadow Of Flowers' and in the spring it's just that, a rolling meadow dotted with countless colorful Bluebells, Daisies, Forget Me Not's and Buttercups. The valley itself is about 3-km long and up to a km wide.
All around are snow-capped mountains, and on a clear day one can see all the way to Nanga Parbat is one direction and Srinagar is another. It's a popular day trip from Srinagar to Gulmarg, although many people extend their stay or use it as a base for trekking. The road from Srinagar rises gently towards the lower slopes of the range, passing through rice and maize fields. From Tangmarg, at the foot of the range, there are two paths to Gulmarg - a steep footpath or a winding sealed road. There is also a pony track from Gulmarg that leads upwards to Khilanmarg, Kongdori and seven springs.
In winter, Gulmarg acquires a new persona - that of the country's premier skiing resorts. Skiing, to many who watch it on TV, seems like a very elitist sport, requiring a high level of training and expensive equipment. They are surprised, when they visit Gulmarg for a day's expedition to "see the snow", that others with the same level of physical fitness and training are skiing down slopes. Gulmarg is the ultimate beginner's skiing resort. One doesn't requite a heavy woolen wardrobe - slacks or a Salwar Kameez will do fine. In Gulmarg one will also be able to drift to one of the many Ski shops and hire skis, sticks and goggles. Just find yourself a ski instructor and set off down a slope. 
Neither does one need to exert oneself climbing up slopes. The gentlest slope of 200m is linked with a ski lift, which helps one to go up. When one graduates to intermediate level - which will happen after the first few days of practice, there are other slopes, longer and steeper, which are connected by chair lift. The longest ski run in Gulmarg is provided by the Gondola cable car, which allows a ski run of 2213 m.

Places of Attraction:-
1) Khilanmarg
2) Alpather Lake
3) The Ningli Nallah
4) Ferozpore Nallah

Nearest airport is Badgam district and nearest railway station is Jammu.

Mount Abu

Mount Abu is a unique destination for adventure and Eco tourism. During the period of the Maharaja's, it was used as a place of leisure by the royalties semi-royalties. The place presents an interesting contrast of British style bungalows and holiday lodges of the royals with various tribal communities residing amidst the thick lush forest on the hills surrounding the region. The flora and fauna enjoys the adulation of the tourist to the fullest. The highest point of the Aravali is the Guru Shikhar with a vast sanctuary that shelters a number of species like Langur, wild boars, Sambar, leopards and many more along with a number of flowering plants and trees, which enhance the beauty of the whole scenery. A rich collection of monuments of different religious sects like the famous shrines of Jainism are also found here. The tribal community of this area still maintains its pristine ways of living despite progress of the modern times.
The Delwara temple is famous for its architectural splendour. The intricate carving on the marble stone is simply mesmerizing. A cluster of Hindu temples also marks the land with their historical past.
Summer temperatures can go as high as 33°C. Minimum summer temperatures remain at a pleasant 23°C. Winters in Mount Abu are mild with maximum temperature at 28°C and the minimum at 11°C.

Places to Visit:-
1) Dilwara Temple
2) Gurushikhar
3) Toad Rock
4) Sunset Point
5) Nakki Lake
6) Gomukh Temple
7) Achalgarh

The nearest airport is Udaipur. Mount Abu is easily accessible from major cities of Rajasthan and Gujrat.

Thekkady

Thakkady is situated in the Idukki district of Kerala state of India. Thekkady is the location of Periyar National Park, which is famous forits dense evergreen, moist deciduous forest and savanna grass land. Its is home to Elephants, Sambar Deer, Tigers, Gaur, Lion tailed Macaques and Nilgiri Langurs.
The wild life Sanctuary was declared a Tiger Reserve in 1978. The Splendid artificial lake formed by the Mullaperiyar Dam across the Periyar river adds to the charm of the park. Sanctuary can be accessed through a trekking, boating or jeep safari. Thekkady is considered a heaven for natural spices such as black pepper, cardamom, cinnamon and clove.

Places of Attraction:-
1) Periyar National Park-
 a) Boat ride at Periyar Lake
 b) Jeep Safari, bamboo rafting and a night stay inside the forest.
 c) Trekking in the forest and a night stay.
2) Mangala Devi Temple

Thekkady is located about 257 km from Trivandrum, 114 km from Madurai, 185 km from Cochin and 114 km from Kottayam.

Munnar

Munnar, the charm of high range region has distilled to create one of the finest hill station of India. The scenic ride that takes one here only gets better in the following few days of cozy cool living at 1700 meters altitude. One of the best hill station of India lies in Kerala overlooked by rolling hills, comforted by tea gardens. 

Munnar means three rivers. Munnar town is also the meeting point of three mountain streams. The main aim of a visit to Munnar may be to settle at the comforts of a hill station. Slow down the pace  and to tune to the vibes of beauty. Simply to let birds, river and hills temporarily take over other priorities. From waterfalls to water filled dams, there is enough for fun filled holidays. Wildlife sanctuary, lakes, reserve forests and park lands in and around of the tea garden town take care of added intentions of nature lovers, adventure tourists and honeymoon couples.
Located in Idukki district, Munnar is 140 km from Kochi. More than a century ago, thick forest of the region were cut don to create tea estates. Then Munnar became the summer resort of the ruling British, a bit of homely cool weather while scorching heat bites the low lands.

Places of Attraction:-
1) Pallivasal dam
2) Mattupetti dam
3) Eravikulam National Park
4) Anamudi, Devikulam
5) Top station
6) Echo point

Shimla

This summer capital of the British is situated at an altitude of 2159 meters above the sea level. Shimla is a popular tourist destination in India for a splendid summer vacation. A heaven for adventure seekers who wish to indulge in adventure sports like river rafting, angling. For trout trekking and rock climbing and those looking for a quieter holiday with friends and families may settle for camping and golfing, take a stroll on the Shimla mall, hang around the ridge and take nearby excursions to temples, chail, kufri. Beat the heat this summer with a splendid holiday at Shimla.

Place to visit:-
1) Shimla city
2) Gaiety Theater
3) Viceregal Lodge (Rashtrapati Niwas) - Was a summer residence for British viceroys.
4) Kufri - Highest point, 19 km from Shimla.
5) Tatta Pani (Hot water) - A kilometer away from Satluj river with natural boiling hot sulpur water spring.
6) Naldehra - A nine hole golf course on a hill top.

The nearest airport is Jubbarhatti (23 km) and There is broad gauge railway line up to Kalka and then a narrow gauge line up to Shimla (90 km).

   

Manali

Manali which lies in the lap of the Kullu valley is one of the most visited tourist spot.It is located at an altitude of 2050 meters above sea level and is spread along the banks of the river Beas.
Manali derived its name from Manavalaya meaning "Home of Manu" and here, the temples are treated as pilgrimages. Its cool atmosphere provides a perfect haven for the ones afflicted by the hot Indian summers. Manali is also famous for adventure sports like skiing, hiking, mountaineering, para gliding, rafting, trekking, kayaking, and mountain biking. Manali is quite famous for its lush green forests of deodar and snow capped mountains.

Places of Attraction:-

1) Manu Temple : Manali is named after the sage Manu who was the creator of human race on the earth and it is believed that he meditated here. This is supposed to be the only temple of Manu in India.

2) Arjun Gufa : On the left bank of the river Beas, near Prini village, is the "Arjun Gufa" or the cave of Arjuna. It is believed that Arjuna practiced austerities to get Pashupata Ashtra or weapon from Lord Indra.

3) Handima Temple : Built in 1553 and with a superbly crafted four tiered pagoda roof. It is located in the middle of a forest called the Dhungiri Van Vihar. It is famous for its exquisitely carved doorway.
Hadimba Temple enshrines the footprints of the goddess Hadimba. Hadimba was the wife of Bhima, one of the five great Pandava brothers of the Mahabharata, and later became the patron goddess of the Kulu royal family.

4) Vashist Hot Water Springs and Temple : Across the Beas river is Vashist, a small village with natural sulphur springs. Modern bathhouses, with Turkish-style showers, have the hot water piped into them for the convenience of the visitors who come here to benefit from the medicinal properties. There is a pyramidal stone temple dedicated to Vashist Muni and another Temple of Lord Ram.

5) Jagatsuhk : About 6 kms. from Manali is the famous Shiva Temple in "shikara" style. It houses temples dedicated to Lord Shiva and Sandhya Gayatri.

6) Monasteries : Manali is known for its shiny gompas or Buddhist monasteries. There are three recently built Tibetan monasteries.

7) Rahala waterfalls : About 16 km from Manali at the start of the climb to the Rohtang Pass, are the beautiful Rahalla Falls at an altitude of 2,501 m.

8) Solang Valley : Solang valley offers the view of glaciers and snow capped mountains and peaks. In a picturesque setting, this has good ski slopes end picnic spots.

9) Keylong : Lying about 120 km from Manali, Keylong is the headquarters of Lahaul and spiti district Monasteries of Kardung and Shashus are important attractions.

10) Kothi : A place with charming natural beauty, just 10-12 km from Manali. It offers a magnificent view of the snow-capped peaks and glaciers.

11) Udaypur : An important pilgrimage place in the Pattan Valley.

12) Rahala waterfalls : About 16 km from Manali at the start of the climb to the Rohtang Pass, are the beautiful Rahalla Falls at an altitude of 2,501 m.

13) Rohtang Pass : Rohtang Pass is the highest point on the Manali-Keylong road. It provides a wide panoramic view of mountains rising far above clouds, which is truly a breath taking sight.

Nearest airport is Bhuntar (52 km) and nearest railway station is Jogindernagar (135 km).

KULLU

Kullu also known as 'Valley of Gods' has numerous temples. Kullu valley offers a scenic charm of peaceful wooded glades and rivers through the rocks. The Dashehra of Kullu us world famous. The ancient Hindus regarded Kullu as the fastest limit of human habitation 'Kulantapitha' and its original name finds mention in the epics, The Ramayana and Mahabharata as well as the Vishnu Purana.
Kullu lies on the bank of river Beas. A major tributary Sarvari leads to the less explored and steeper Lug-valley on the west.

Places of Attraction:-
1) Bijli Mahadev Temple
2) Bajeshwar Mahadev Temple
3) Jagan Nath Temple
4) Malana
5) Manikaran
6) Kasol
7) Katrain
8) Kaishdhar

The best time to visit Kullu is between March to June. However adventure enthusiasts might prefer visiting the towns between September to November for Trekking, climbing and river rafting. December to February offers a favorable climate for snow skiing.

Nearest airport is Jubbarhatti (23 km) and nearest railway station is Chandigarh (320 km).

Kasauli

Kasauli is a small, beautifull hill station of Himachal Pradesh located at a distance of 77 km from Shimla, situated at a height of 1927 mt from sea level. Built in 19th century by Britishers, the city has its own charm and beauty. Covered by the beautiful pine forests, orchards and high hills, Kasauli is described as the picturesque hill station of North India.
Kasauli provide a charming view of Chandigarh, Shimla and the Himalayas covered with snow. Kasauli is clean and attractive place, which provides you with great relaxation and pleasure.

Places to visit:-
1) Monkey point
2) The Christ Church
3) Dagshai
4) Bilaspur
5) Barog
6) Mandi
7) Kufri

Chandigarh is the nearest airport and Kalka in Haryana is closest railway station about 40 km from Kasauli.

Dalhousie

Dalhousie is a beautiful hill station in Himachal Pradesh. Dalhousie is built on around five hills. Established in 1854 by the British Empire in India as a summer retreat for its troops and bureaucrats, the town was named after Lord Dalhousie who was the British Viceroy in India at that time.

Dalhousie is situated at 6000-9000 feet above sea level. It has charming architecture, including beautiful churches. This hill region is a repository of ancient Hindu culture, art, temples, and handicrafts preserved under the longest running single dynasty since the mid-6th century. Tall Oak and pine trees, serene atmosphere, cool weather, less populated is one of the most fascinating hill stations of India.

Places of Attraction:-

1) St. Andrew's Church : St. Andrew's Church commonly known as the Church of Scotland was built in the year 1903 at Bahloon by Protestant Christians.

2) Panjpulla : Just 2 km away from the town lies the 'five bridges' memorial, built in memory of Sardar Ajit Singh, one of India's well-loved freedom fighters. A natural tank and creams give the spot a fitting serenity.

3) Subhash Baoli : Named after Subhash Chandra Bose, a famous freedom fighter, Subhash Baoli is located at a mere distance of 1 km from Dalhousie. An enthralling spot, Subhash Baoli is surrounded by majestic trees that attracts huge number of tourists from India as well as abroad.

4) BaraPathar : This is a famous temple of Bhulwani Mata at the middle of the thick forest in the village of Ahla, on the way to Kalatope.

5) Satdhara : Located on the way to Panchpula at an altitude of 2,036m, Satdhara is a famous picnic spot nearby Dalhousie. The place is known for the seven hot water springs, that has great therapeutic value in it.

6) Kalatop : It is a wild life sanctuary located at a distance of 10 km from Dalhousie. 'Ghoral' and Himalayan black bear can be found here.

7) LaxmiI Narayan Temple : This temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and was built more than 150 years ago. The temple enshrines a beautiful image of Lord Vishnu.

8) Banikhet : Seven kms short of Dalhousie is Banikhet - the gateway to Dalhousie. At Banikhet the road bifurcates for Chamba and Dalhousie. This small place has gained importance with the setting-up of residential colony of Chamera Hydro-electric Project. A Nag temple in Padhar Maidan now called mini stadium is a place of worship for the people of Banikhet and villages around. This temple is approximately 150 years old.

8) Bakrota Hills : Located at a distance of 5 km from Dalhousie, Bakrota hills give breathtaking view of the snow covered city.

Amritsar is the nearest airport, nearest railway station is Pathankot and Dalhousie is connected to all major cities of Himachal Pradesh.

Chail

Chail is a beautiful hill station and a popular resort. 43-km from Shimla, Chail is an enticing hill stations of Himachal Pradesh. This idyllic resort, set amidst scented forests of pine and deodar, was once the summer resort of the maharajas of Patiala. Chail (2,150 m) overlooks the Sutlej Valley. Shimla and Kasauli are also visible and at night their twinkling lights seem part of the starlit sky. Chail is just the summer destination for those, who want to take a break from the traffic and pollution of the city. Encompassing the world's highest cricket pitch and a polo ground, the old palace, located on a spur, Chail offers a magnificent and splendid view of the valley.

Chail is built on three hills – the palace on Rajgarh Hill, the British Residency on Pandhewa Hill and Sadh Tiba is the third hill. Sadh Tiba was originally the site of the palace but the Maharaja halted construction there and built a temple, Sidh Baba ka Mandir. The drive to Chail is scenic, winding around the gorgeous valleys of Kandaghat, past forests thick with foliage and fruit laden orchards. During winters, skiing is possible at Narkanda. The Giri river at Gaura, 29 km away, is ideal for fishing. Visitors can enjoy the beauty of the hill station by exploring it on foot. You can enjoy the fresh air, the greenery and the tranquility, one rarely finds in the cities. People who love nature Chail has lonely walks and trails that meander through the dense pine forests - the home of barking deer, wild boar, pheasant and a variety of birds.

Place to Visit:-

1) Chail Sanctuary

2) The cricket ground

3) Sadhupul

4) Kandaghat

5) Maharaja's Palace

From Khandghat it takes 29 km to reach Chail and the only way.

Saputara

Saputara is situated in the Dang district in Gujarat state of India. This picturesque hill station is perched on a plateau in the Dang forest area of the Sahyadri range at an altitude of about 1000 m. The highest temperature in summer does not exceed 28°C.
Saputara means 'The Abode of Serpents' and a snake image on the bank of the river Sarpagana is worshiped by the Adivasis on Holi.
From Saputara you may move ahead to the wildlife sanctuary in the Mahal Bardipura forest. At a distance of 60 km from Saputara the Mahal Bardipura forest is bestowed with rivers and bamboo glades thus offering excellent walking and trekking options
The hill resort of Saputara promises to refresh the tourists throughout the year with its cool weather. Saputara does not experience any extreme temperature variations and is an ideal getaway for the sun-scorched souls of the plains. The monsoon rains add to the magic of Saputara. Thus you may plan your trip to the Saputara hills any time of the year. the best time is from middle of March to middle of November.

Place to visit:-
1) Vansda National Park
2) Purna Sanctuary
3) Boating - At Saputara Lake
4) Sunrise Point
5) Sunset Point
6) The Ropeway ride
7) Gira fall

Saputara is 172 km from Surat, 80 km from Nashik, 280 km from Mumbai, 300 km from Vadodara and 420 km from Ahmedabad. Surat is the nearest airport and Bilimora is the nearest railway station.

Panchgani

Panchgani is in Satara district of Maharashtra. One can see the Krishna River on one side and the coastal plain on the other. This hill station lies at an altitude of 1334m above the sea level. Panchgani is far from the noise and hustle-bustle of cities. One can reach the hill station from Mahabaleshwar on Pune road.

Tourists can plan for nature walks through jungle, thickly covered with lush trees and vegetation. Krishna River flows through tiny hamlets, farms and ravines. Table Land is an important site at Panchgani, which is a flat mountain peak giving a miniature view of the coastal plains.

There is also an enjoyable water sports centre called Tapola. Sydney Point, Rajapuri Caves, Kartikswamin Temple, Parsi Point, Pandav-Ghat, Mandharodeo Kanga point and Kachhabavdi point are other attractions at Panchgani.

Nearest airport is Pune at 160 km from Panchagani, while Pune is the most convenient railway station. Panchgani is only 18 km from Mahabaleshwar. It can also be easily reach by road from Mumbai and Pune.

Matheran

Matheran is an important hill station of Maharashtra as it is the closest one to Mumbai and Pune. This 800m high hill station is located in Raigad district of Maharashtra. It is appealing to have a view of the valley from this green and calm hill station. One can also see Mumbai from Hart point.
The exhausted tourist from nearby Mumbai and Pune cities take a break here to breathe fresh air. Vehicles are banned in Matheran hence, the journey turns out to be adventurous. It also makes the place so quiet, serene and peaceful. The journey includes an adventurous two hour joyride in a toy train.

Place to visit:-
1) Louisa point
2) Panorama point - Good place for adventure trekkers
3) Little Chouk point
4) Charlotte Lake
5) Parsi and Hindu cemeteries
6) Byron Garbutt point - Good place for adventure trekkers

Nearest airport is Mumbai (100 km) and nearest railway station is Neral (21 km).

Mahabaleshwar

Mahabaleshwar is known as the Queen of all hill stations. This hill station is situated at an altitude of 1372 m in the heart of Sahyadri hills in Satara district. Its name is derived from a Lord Mahadev temple and three Sanskrit words, Maha (great), Bal (power), Ishwar (God). Some people also relate the name with mythological past as the Mahabaleshwar means mighty god.
British developed this place as their pastime destination to beat the heat. Looking down from Mahabaleshwar is regarded to be the best holiday spot in Maharashtra in terms of climate, excursions, sports, and other activities.

Places of Attraction:-
1) Lingmala waterfall - is one of the most enthralling sight in Mahabaleshwar.
2) Wilson point - is the highest point and the beautiful place to watch morning sunrise.
3) Bombay point - Here one can see the best sunset of Mahabaleshwar.
4) Dhobi waterfall point
5) Hunter point
6) Venna Lake
7) Savitri points
8) Arthur point
9) Arthur's seat
10) Krishna temple
11) Pratapgad fort
12) Tapola fort
13) Elephant point

Lonavala And Khandala

Locating at an altitude of 625 m, Lonavala and Khandala are famous for its beautiful hills, deep green valleys, huge lakes, historic forts and waterfalls etc. These two hill stations are at the Sahyadris Mountains of Maharashtra. Lonavala and Khandala have magnificent waterfalls that gives a heart catching view during monsoon. Tourists can plan their trip together with Karla, Bhaja and Bedsa caves, which are near from Lonavala. These hill station are also called as 'Jewel of Sahyadri' because of it's nature's gifted valley, hills, milky waterfalls, lush greenery, and pleasant cool winds.
Kandala is smaller than Lonavala and relatively calmer. These station are also known to be pride of Sahyadri mountains. Beautiful waterfalls and amidst green environment is really splendid to see.

Place to visit:-
1) Karla caves
2) Bhaja caves
3) Bedsa caves
4) Bhushi dam and lake
5) Tiger point
6) Valva lake

Nearest airport is Pune (64 km). Lonavala itself is a railway station. 104 km from Mumbai and 64 km from Pune by road.

Chikhaldhara

Chikhaldara is in Amravati district of Vidarbha region of Maharashtra, India. It is believed that its name is derived from Keechaka. This hill station is the only hill station, which offers the tourists lots of wildlife, viewpoints, lakes and waterfalls in the Vidarbha region.
Chikhaldara is situated at an altitude of 1118 m. This place is the only coffee growing area in Maharashtra. Chikhaldara is full of deep valleys, and these valleys are full of velvet mist and majestic trees. Abundance of natural scenery, exciting wildlife, breathtaking waterfalls and placid lake make the hill station a perfect site for summer retreat.

Place to visit:-
1) Dhakana Kolkaz National park
2) Hurricane point
3) Prospect point
4) Devi point
5) Gawilgad fort
6) Narnala fort
7) Pandit Nehru Botanical Gardens
8) Tribal Museum
9) Semadoh Lake

Nearest airport is Akola (150 km), nearest railway station is Badnera (110 km) and nearest bus depot is Amravathi (100 km)

Bhandardara

Looking for a small and quiet gateway spot? Nestling amidst the hills, Bhandardara is easily among the most beautiful holiday resorts. A perfect stopover on the way to or from Shirdi, it is a charming little picnic spot. Amidst the dense green forest, lies the most splendid lake of the country - Arthur lake. It is formed by the dammed water of the Pravara river. Legend has it that Shri Agasti Rishi meditated for a years, living only on water and air. Pleased with his tremendous devotion the Lord came to Earth, blessed him and left leaving behind a stream of Ganga - now known as Pravara river.

Place of Interest:-
1) Wilson dam
2) Radha falls
3) Arthur lake
4) Mount Kalsubai - The highest peak in the Sahyadri range (1646 meters)
5) Ratangadh Fort
5) Amriteshwar temple - Built around 1100 AD.

Where to stay:-
The MTDC holiday resort. the rooms have spectacular views of valleys and Wilson dam.

Nearest airport is Mumbai. Nearest railway station is Igatpuri.  By road from Mumbai 185 km and from Pune 191 km.