Maharashtra has several holiday destinations, especially near Mumbai and Pune. The two most popular holiday destinations are Lonavala and Matheran. They are considered to be the best hill stations near Mumbai and Pune. Both these hill stations have lush greenery and great weather.
However, since it's a question of Lonavala vs Matheran, many travellers get confused. Which one is a better holiday destination? They ask. Don’t worry, we are here to help you out!
Lonavala Vs Matheran - Introduction
Lonavala is located in the Pune District of Maharashtra. It is located in the Western Ghats. It is located around 64 kilometres from Pune and around 96 kilometres from Mumbai. It is famous for its lush greenery, waterfalls, valleys and chikki, a famous Indian confectionary, which originated in Lonavala itself.
Matheran is located in the Raigad District of Maharashtra. It is one of the smallest hill stations located in the Western Ghats. It is around 90 kilometres away from Mumbai and 120 kilometres away from Pune. It is Asia’s only automobile free hill station. It is famous for its toy train and viewpoints
Since we have introduced both these hill stations, now let us decide between Lonavala Vs Matheran.
Lonavala Vs Matheran - Proximity
Lonavala is nearer to Pune compared to Mumbai. Lonavala is located around 64 kilometres from Pune while it is located 96 kilometres from Mumbai. On the other hand, Matheran is nearer to Mumbai compared to Pune. Matheran is located 90 kilometres from Mumbai while 120 kilometres from Pune.
Hence, if you want a weekend getaway near Mumbai and Pune, choose Matheran and Lonavala respectively. However, both these getaways are quite close to both cities. So, you can visit both.
Lonavala Vs Matheran - Weather
Since both are located around 600 - 800 metres above sea level, both the hill stations have comparatively cooler weather. The weather is the coldest during the winters, with temperatures dropping to 8 - 12 degrees at night. Weather throughout the year is comparatively pleasant compared to Mumbai and Pune.
Lonavala Vs Matheran - Things To Do
There are many things to do in Lonavala, such as Forts, Treks, Caves, Lakes and Waterfalls. One of the popular things to do is to try Chikkis since Lonavala is the birthplace of this delicious dessert. The famous things to do in Lonavala are:
Lohagad Fort
Visapur Fort
Tikona Fort
Tung Fort
Rajmachi Fort
Karla Caves
Bhaja Caves
Lion Point
Bhushi Dam
Pawna Lake
And more!
With so many diverse places to explore in Lonavala, you will surely have a great weekend getaway.
Matheran on the other hand has fewer places to explore. Some of the things to do in Matheran are:
Louisa Point
Charlotte Lake
Neral - Matheran Toy Train
Dodhani Falls
Porcupine Point
However, these points are not inferior in any manner. If you live in Mumbai and Pune, you should check out these places. However, Lonavala is better compared to Matheran is the variety of places that can be explored.
Lonavala Vs Matheran - Days Required
Since Lonavala has a lot to offer, you can spend 3 - 4 days if you want to explore all the places to visit in Alibaug. However, you can choose to spend 1 - 2 days too, if you are looking for a staycation. Since there are lesser things to do in Matheran, 1 - 2 days are sufficient.
Lonavala Vs Matheran - Conclusion
Both the hill stations are wonderful in their own right. It really depends on what you want from the getaway. If you want an adventurous getaway with forts, treks and caves, then Lonavala is the place for you. If you want to experience a toy train ride - then Matheran is the one for you.
Bigfoot Stay is here to offer you great stays at the best weekend getaways near Mumbai and Pune. Read our blogs to know more!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Neral - Matheran Toy Train stops at which stations?
The Neral - Matheran Toy Train starts from Neral and stops at Jumapatti, Water Pipe, and Aman Lodge. It finally terminates at Matheran station.
Which are the famous forts in Lonavala?
The famous forts in Lonavala are Tikona Fort, Lohagad Fort, Visapur Fort, Rajmachi Fort ad Tung Fort.
Are cars and bikes allowed in Matheran?
No, cars and bikes are not allowed in Matheran since it's an automobile-free hill station.
How to reach Lonavala from Pune?
There are many ways to reach Lonavala from Pune. You can reach Lonavala from Pune by road and rail.
When is the best time to visit Matheran?
The best time to visit Matheran is between October to May, during the monsoon season.
When is the best time to visit Lonavala? Lonavala can be visited throughout the year. The best time to visit is during the monsoons and winters, between June to March.
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