Surat, one of the most populated cities in Gujarat, is a bustling industrial hub. The city, known for its diamond and textile industries, is a melting pot of cultures and traditions. However, for those looking to escape the heat and noise of the city, Surat also boasts some of the most beautiful hill stations in the region.
Surat’s proximity to the Western Ghats makes it an ideal destination for those looking to explore the region’s stunning hill stations. From the lush green forests of Saputara to the scenic views of Wilson Hills, there is something for everyone. Whether you are a nature lover, adventure seeker, or just looking for a peaceful retreat, the hill stations near Surat offer a variety of experiences. In this article, we will explore some of the most popular hill stations near Surat and what makes them unique.
Key Takeaways
- Surat is a major industrial hub in Gujarat, but it also boasts some of the most beautiful hill stations in the region.
- The hill stations near Surat offer a variety of experiences, from nature walks to adventure activities.
- Some of the most popular hill stations near Surat include Saputara, Wilson Hills, and Don Hill Station.
Overview of Hill Stations Near Surat
Surat is a bustling city in the state of Gujarat, India. While it has its own charm, sometimes one needs a break from the city’s hustle and bustle. Luckily, there are many hill stations near Surat that offer a great escape from the city life. These hill stations have something to offer for everyone, whether you are an adventure enthusiast or just looking for a peaceful getaway.
One of the most popular hill stations near Surat is Saputara. Located in the Dang district of Gujarat, Saputara is a picturesque hill station that is known for its scenic beauty and pleasant climate. It is situated at an altitude of 1000 meters above sea level and is surrounded by lush green forests. There are many activities to do in Saputara, such as trekking, boating, and visiting the tribal museum.
Another popular hill station near Surat is Wilson Hills. Located in the Valsad district of Gujarat, Wilson Hills is a small hill station that is known for its serene environment and beautiful waterfalls. It is situated at an altitude of 750 meters above sea level and is surrounded by dense forests. There are many trekking trails in Wilson Hills that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Mount Abu is another popular hill station near Surat. Located in the Sirohi district of Rajasthan, Mount Abu is the only hill station in Rajasthan. It is situated at an altitude of 1220 meters above sea level and is known for its pleasant climate and scenic beauty. There are many activities to do in Mount Abu, such as visiting the Dilwara Jain temples, trekking, and boating in Nakki Lake.
Other hill stations near Surat include Matheran, Lonavala, Igatpuri, Mahabaleshwar, Suryamal, Pavagadh, and Don Hill Station. Each of these hill stations has its own unique charm and offers a great escape from the city life. Whether you are looking for adventure or just a peaceful getaway, there is a hill station near Surat that will suit your needs.
Saputara: The Jewel of Dang District
Saputara is a picturesque hill station located in the Dang district of Gujarat, nestled in the Sahyadri range. It is a popular tourist destination, known for its misty landscapes, scenic roads, and enchanting views from the hilltop. The hill station is situated at an altitude of 1000 meters above sea level and is surrounded by lush green forests, waterfalls, and lakes.
One of the major attractions of Saputara is the Saputara Lake, a serene water body surrounded by hills. Visitors can enjoy boat rides and soak in the peaceful ambiance of the lake. Another popular spot is the Sunrise Point, which offers breathtaking views of the sunrise over the hills. The Sunset Point is equally mesmerizing, with its panoramic views of the valley and the setting sun.
For history buffs, the Hatgadh Fort is a must-visit. The fort was built in the 17th century and offers a glimpse into the region’s rich history. Nature lovers can explore the Vansda National Park, which is home to a variety of flora and fauna. The park is spread over an area of 24 square kilometers and is known for its scenic beauty.
Saputara is also home to the Adivasis, the indigenous people of the region. Visitors can learn about their culture and traditions by visiting the local villages and interacting with the locals. The Purna Sanctuary, located near Saputara, is another popular attraction. The sanctuary is home to a variety of wildlife, including tigers, leopards, and deer.
In conclusion, Saputara is a jewel in the Dang district of Gujarat. It offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, history, and culture, making it an ideal destination for tourists.
Wilson Hills: A Retreat in the Valsad District
Wilson Hills, located in the Valsad district of Gujarat, is a serene hill station that offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. It is situated at a height of 750 meters above sea level and is surrounded by dense forests, which makes it an ideal destination for nature lovers.
The landscape of Wilson Hills is picturesque with steep valleys, lush green forests, and beautiful mountains. The climate is pleasant throughout the year, making it a perfect destination for a weekend getaway. The sunset point at Wilson Hills offers a breathtaking view of the sun setting behind the mountains, which is a must-see for all visitors.
Apart from the scenic beauty, Wilson Hills also has some popular tourist spots. The Barumal Temple, located atop a hill, is a significant religious site and attracts a lot of devotees. The Marble Chatri is another popular tourist spot, which is a beautiful structure made of white marble.
The Shankar Waterfalls, located near Wilson Hills, is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts. The waterfall cascades down from a height of 50 meters and is surrounded by lush green forests. The Monkey Point, located on the other side of the waterfall, is another popular spot where visitors can spot several monkeys.
In conclusion, Wilson Hills is an excellent destination for those looking for a peaceful retreat amidst nature. The serene landscape, pleasant climate, and popular tourist spots make it an ideal weekend getaway from Surat.
Don Hill Station: Nature’s Canvas
Don Hill Station is a picturesque hill station located in the Dang district of Gujarat, at an altitude of 1000 meters. It is the second hill station in the state after Saputara and is higher in elevation than the former. Don Hill Station is a perfect destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.
The hill station is surrounded by lush green forests, which are home to a variety of flora and fauna. The Waghambe and Salota Fort are nearby and offer an opportunity to explore the history of the region. Don Mahautsav, a festival celebrated in the month of January, is a major attraction for tourists.
Don Hill Station offers a range of activities for adventure enthusiasts. Paragliding is a popular activity, which provides a bird’s eye view of the natural beauty of the region. Camping trips are also organized for those who want to spend a night under the stars.
Don Hill Station is a perfect destination for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy the tranquility of nature. The hill station is a nature’s canvas, which offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding landscape.
Exploring Hill Stations in Maharashtra
Maharashtra is home to some of the most picturesque hill stations in India. These hill stations are nestled in the Sahyadri Ranges of the Western Ghats and offer a respite from the tropical climate of the surrounding areas. Here are a few of the most popular hill stations in Maharashtra that are worth exploring:
Matheran
Matheran is a small hill station located in the Raigad district of Maharashtra. It is known for its serene beauty and is a popular weekend getaway from Mumbai and Pune. The hill station is a vehicle-free zone, making it an ideal destination for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Visitors can explore the lush green forests, scenic viewpoints, and historical sites such as the Louisa Point and the Charlotte Lake.
Lonavala
Lonavala is a popular hill station located in the Pune district of Maharashtra. It is known for its scenic beauty, pleasant climate, and adventure activities. Visitors can trek to the Duke’s Nose and Lohagad, explore the Tikona Fort and Rajmachi Fort, and enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding hills and valleys. Lonavala is also famous for its chikki, a sweet made of jaggery and nuts.
Mahabaleshwar
Mahabaleshwar is a hill station located in the Satara district of Maharashtra. It is known for its breathtaking views, lush green forests, and strawberry farms. Visitors can explore the scenic viewpoints such as Arthur’s Seat and Wilson Point, take a dip in the Venna Lake, and visit the Mahabaleshwar Temple. The hill station is also famous for its fresh strawberries and cream.
Suryamal
Suryamal is a lesser-known hill station located in the Nashik district of Maharashtra. It is known for its scenic beauty and is a popular destination for trekking and camping. Visitors can explore the dense forests, scenic waterfalls, and historical sites such as the Artist Village. Suryamal is also known for its picturesque views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
Igatpuri
Igatpuri is a hill station located in the Nashik district of Maharashtra. It is known for its scenic beauty and is a popular destination for trekking and camping. Visitors can explore the dense forests, scenic waterfalls, and historical sites such as the Tringalwadi Fort. Igatpuri is also known for its picturesque views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
Chikhaldara
Chikhaldara is a hill station located in the Amravati district of Maharashtra. It is known for its scenic beauty and is a popular destination for nature lovers. Visitors can explore the lush green forests, scenic viewpoints, and historical sites such as the Gawilgadh Fort. Chikhaldara is also known for its picturesque views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
Durshet
Durshet is a hill station located in the Raigad district of Maharashtra. It is known for its scenic beauty and is a popular destination for adventure activities. Visitors can explore the dense forests, scenic waterfalls, and historical sites such as the Kondana Caves. Durshet is also known for its picturesque views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
Other Noteworthy Hill Stations
Apart from the popular hill stations near Surat, there are several other hidden gems that are worth exploring. Here are some of the noteworthy ones:
Mount Abu, Rajasthan
Located in Rajasthan, Mount Abu is a popular hill station known for its scenic beauty and cool climate. It is situated at an altitude of 1,220 meters above sea level and offers breathtaking views of the Aravalli Range. Some of the popular attractions here include the Dilwara Jain Temples, Nakki Lake, and Guru Shikhar.
Pune, Maharashtra
Pune is a popular weekend getaway destination from Surat and is known for its pleasant weather and scenic beauty. It is situated at an altitude of 560 meters above sea level and offers several trekking and adventure opportunities. Some of the popular attractions here include the Sinhagad Fort, Rajgad Fort, and Panshet Dam.
Girnar, Gujarat
Girnar is a popular pilgrimage site and a hill station located in Gujarat. It is situated at an altitude of 1,031 meters above sea level and is known for its scenic beauty and religious significance. The Girnar Hill is home to several temples and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Khandala, Maharashtra
Khandala is a popular hill station located in the Western Ghats of Maharashtra. It is situated at an altitude of 625 meters above sea level and is known for its cool climate and scenic beauty. Some of the popular attractions here include the Bhushi Dam, Rajmachi Fort, and Tiger’s Leap.
Jawhar, Maharashtra
Jawhar is a picturesque hill station located in Maharashtra and is known for its lush greenery and serene surroundings. It is situated at an altitude of 518 meters above sea level and offers several trekking and adventure opportunities. Some of the popular attractions here include the Jai Vilas Palace, Hanuman Point, and Sunset Point.
Toranmal, Maharashtra
Toranmal is a lesser-known hill station located in Maharashtra and is known for its scenic beauty and tranquility. It is situated at an altitude of 1,150 meters above sea level and offers several trekking and adventure opportunities. Some of the popular attractions here include the Yashwant Lake, Lotus Lake, and Sita Khai.
Satpura, Madhya Pradesh
Satpura is a popular hill station located in Madhya Pradesh and is known for its natural beauty and wildlife. It is situated at an altitude of 1,350 meters above sea level and offers several trekking and adventure opportunities. Some of the popular attractions here include the Satpura Tiger Reserve, Pachmarhi Hill Station, and Dhupgarh Peak.
Champaner-Pavagadh, Gujarat
Champaner-Pavagadh is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Gujarat and is known for its historical and architectural significance. It is situated at an altitude of 822 meters above sea level and offers several trekking and adventure opportunities. Some of the popular attractions here include the Champaner Fort, Kalika Mata Temple, and Kevadia Colony.
Overall, these hill stations offer a perfect getaway for backpackers and nature lovers seeking adventure and tranquility. Whether it’s rappelling, trekking, or simply enjoying the scenic beauty, these hill stations have something for everyone.
Travel and Accommodation
When planning a trip to the hill stations near Surat, travelers have a variety of options for transportation and accommodation.
Travel
The most common mode of transportation to the hill stations near Surat is by road. There are several options for renting a car or hiring a taxi service from Surat. Some popular hill stations like Saputara and Mount Abu can also be reached by bus or train. The nearest airport to Surat is in Nashik, which is about 170 km away. Ahmedabad airport is another option, which is about 260 km away.
Accommodation
There are a variety of accommodation options available near the hill stations, ranging from budget hotels to luxury villas. Many of the hill stations themselves have government-run guesthouses or resorts that offer basic amenities. Some of the popular hill stations like Saputara and Lonavala have a range of hotels and resorts to choose from.
Travelers looking for a more luxurious experience can opt for private villas or boutique hotels. These accommodations often come with additional amenities like private pools, spas, and personalized service.
It is recommended to book accommodation in advance, especially during peak tourist season, to ensure availability and preferred choice of accommodation.
Local Cuisine and Street Food
Surat is famous for its street food and local cuisine that will leave any foodie craving for more. Some of the must-try street foods in Surat include:
- Locho: A popular snack made from gram flour and spices, served with chutney and sev.
- Undhiyu: A traditional Gujarati dish made with a mix of vegetables and spices, served with puri.
- Khaman: A steamed snack made from gram flour and served with chutney and sev.
- Ghari: A sweet dish made with milk, ghee, and dry fruits, commonly consumed during festivals.
- Ponk: A seasonal snack made from roasted tender sorghum grains, served with spices and chutney.
Apart from these, Surat is also known for its delicious chaats, pav bhaji, dabeli, and other street foods that are sold in various food stalls across the city.
One of the most famous food streets in Surat is the Khau Galli, located near the railway station, which offers a variety of street foods and snacks. Another popular food street is the Rander Road, which is known for its chaats and pav bhaji.
Surat is also famous for its diamond industry and textile mills, which have influenced the local cuisine. The city’s cuisine is a blend of Gujarati, Rajasthani, and Maharashtrian cuisines, which makes it unique and diverse.
In conclusion, Surat’s local cuisine and street food scene is a must-try for any food lover. With its diverse flavors and unique dishes, Surat is sure to satisfy any craving.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Surat is a great starting point for exploring the beautiful hill stations nearby. From the lush greenery of Saputara to the stunning views of Wilson Hills, there is something for everyone.
For those seeking adventure, Igatpuri offers the best trails for hiking and camping, while Mahabaleshwar offers a variety of outdoor activities such as boating, horse riding, and trekking. Don Hill Station, on the other hand, offers a more secluded and peaceful experience, perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
Travelling to these hill stations is easy and convenient, with many options available for transportation and accommodation. Whether you are looking for a short weekend getaway or a longer vacation, the hill stations near Surat offer a perfect escape from the noisy city life.
Overall, Surat and its surrounding areas are a great destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and anyone looking for a break from the monotony of everyday life. With so much to see and do, it’s no wonder that these hill stations are becoming increasingly popular among tourists and locals alike.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some popular hill stations within 300 km of Surat?
There are several popular hill stations within 300 km of Surat. Some of the most popular ones include Lonavala, Igatpuri, Mount Abu, Mahabaleshwar, Wilson Hills, and Don Hill Station.
Which hill stations near Surat are best to visit during monsoon season?
The best hill stations near Surat to visit during monsoon season are Wilson Hills and Saputara. These hill stations are known for their lush greenery and scenic beauty during the rainy season.
What is the distance between Surat and Don Hill Station?
The distance between Surat and Don Hill Station is approximately 300 km.
Can you recommend a 2-day trip to a hill station near Surat?
Yes, a 2-day trip to Saputara is highly recommended. This hill station is located approximately 170 km from Surat and offers a range of activities such as boating, trekking, and sightseeing.
Which hill stations are located near Ahmedabad?
Some of the hill stations located near Ahmedabad include Mount Abu, Saputara, Wilson Hills, and Pavagadh.
What are the top 10 hill stations in Gujarat?
The top 10 hill stations in Gujarat are Saputara, Wilson Hills, Don Hill Station, Pavagadh, Girnar, Mount Abu, Polo Forest, Dang Forest, Jessore Sloth Bear Sanctuary, and Barda Hills Wildlife Sanctuary.
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