Top 15 Hill Stations Near Goa

Idyllic itself, Goa can be called an underrated place when it comes to comparing its unmatchable seashore, pleasant weather and immaculate cost line. However, while there is no way to miss the beaches of this city, Goa’s hill station is a paradise for couples, families and friends to explore. Although there are no hill stations in Goa, they are located only a few distances and are easily accessible.

These destinations are famous for their surrealistic beauty, picturesque landscapes and thick greenery. So, if you are finding an escape from the burdening life and stress, here is a list of the top 15 hill stations near Goa.

Goa is surrounded by hilly landscapes only a few kilometres away from the beaches, which gives you enough opportunity to unwind and enjoy the drop in temperature. So, if you are visiting the little town, taking a small detour to these destinations is highly recommended. Keep reading to know more about the places, cost of a vacation, things to do and other details:

1. Chorla Ghats | Approx. 66.9 kms

Chorla Ghats is a less explored hill station located only 66 km away from Goa, so it is best if you want to experience the untamed beauty of nature. The place is famous for its waterfalls and lush greenery. However, you will also find abundant types of endangered fauna like wolf snakes. Apart from this, there are also enough adventure activities to try, like trekking and jungle walking.

• Best Time to Visit: June to September
• Top Things to Do: Trekking, Jungle Walking, Wildlife Safari
• Top Places to Visit: Lasni Tomb Peak, The Twin Vajra Falls, Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 350 per person for travel (Hotel cost not available)
• How to Reach: By road

2. Dandeli | Approx. 105.1 kms

If you are an adventure seeker, you must visit Dandeli, tucked away on the banks of River Kali in Uttar Kannada District. It is a well-connected hill station 122 km away from Goa and a home for daring sports. Moreover, the town is surrounded by a green environment and natural trail incorporating a staggering range of flora and fauna. In addition, you will also find nature reserves, colossal mountains and fascinating wildlife here.

• Best Time to Visit: October to May
• Top Things to Do: River Rafting, Waterway Boating, Dandeli Wildlife Safari, Trekking, Camping, etc.
• Top Places to Visit: Sathodi Falls, Disney Park, River Kali, Magod Falls
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 6,000 to ₹ 7,000 per person overall (2 Nights/3 Days)
• How to Reach: By road, by rail, by air

3. Amboli | Approx. 118 kms

Amboli, the eco hotspot of Sahyadri hills, attracts people from around the globe with its serenity and picturesque spot. It is home to several falls, including Nangarta, Amboli, etc. Moreover, the charming climate of this town makes people forget all their worries. It is located at a distance of 118 km from Goa and will be a perfect spot for taking your friend, family or partner out.

• Best Time to Visit: June to August
• Top Things to Do: Sightseeing, Wildlife Safari, trekking
• Top Places to Visit: Shigaonkar point, Hiranya Keshi, Madhavgad Fort, Nangarta Fall, Amboli Fall
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 7,000 to ₹ 8,000 per person overall (1 Nights/2 Days)
• How to Reach: By road, by rail, by air

4. Rajmachi | Approx. 294.5 kms

Snuggled in the Sahyadri ranges, Rajmachi is one of the top offbeat places for campers and backpackers and is only 290 km away from Goa. It has a raw old-world demeanour vibe soaked in the views of natural landscapes. Furthermore, this quaint town has its surroundings drenched with a pristine setting, cascading waterfall and gushing streams. Not to forget, you will find a variety of flora and fauna abound here.

• Best Time to Visit: August to September
• Top Things to Do: Trekking, Hiking, Sightseeing, Camping, Wildlife Safari
• Top Places to Visit: Sagareshwar Wildlife Sanctuary and Temple, Kondhane Caves, Forts of Rajmachi, Kataldhar Waterfall, Krishnamai Mandir
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 1,500 to ₹ 2,000 per person for trekking (1 Nights/2 Days)
• How to Reach: By road, by rail, by road

5. Agumbe | Approx. 314.9 kms

Agumbe is famous as Cherrapunji of the South because of the amount of rainfall it receives throughout the year and its gifted, abundant greenery. It is only 314 km away from Goa and one of the best hill stations near Goa. This place adorns itself with a dusk point, Krishna Sanctuary, and Barkana Falls. Also, this quaint little town is a hotspot for wildlife lovers as it houses tons of it, especially reptiles. In fact, it is the breeding ground of King Cobra.

• Best Time to Visit: November to January
• Top Things to Do: Wildlife Safari, Sightseeing, Trekking
• Top Places to Visit: Sunset View Point, Sri Venugopala Krishna Swamy Temple, Onake Abbi, Bakarna and Jogi Gundi Falls, Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 26,000 to ₹ 27,000 per person overall (3 Nights/4 Days)
• How to Reach: By road, by rail, by air

6. Kudremukh | Approx. 314.9 kms

Lying in the Chikkamagaluru district of Karnataka, Kudremukh is a picturesque hill station located 261 km away from Goa. What attracts tourists to this place is its vast meadows and dense forest. Moreover, the sight of hill ranges of the Western Ghats covered with greenery gives a postcard picture-perfect view. Apart from this, it is a paradise for trekkers and birdwatchers, offering the required thrill and adventure people desire.

• Best Time to Visit: October to January
• Top Things to Do: Trekking, Pilgrimage, Birdwatching, Wildlife Safari, Sightseeing
• Top Places to Visit: Kudremukh Peak, Hanuman Gundi Falls, Kudremukh National Park, Kalasa
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 3,000 to ₹ 4,000 per person for trekking (2 Nights/3 Days)
• How to Reach: By road, by rail, by road

7. Dapoli | Approx. 387 kms

Dapoli is a small town of Ratnagiri tucked far away from the chaos of the city. It is located at a distance of 292 km from Goa and is a great spot to spend quality time with your friends, family and partner. It has several things to explore, like ancient temples, sea forts, and archaeological sites. In addition, there are coconut farms, verdant greenery and natural landscapes to admire. Lastly, numerous scenic beaches surround the place, so you can even beach hop.

• Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year
• Top Things to Do: Beach Hopping, Sightseeing, Hiking, Trekking, Water Sports
• Top Places to Visit: Harnai Sea Fort, Kanaka Durga Fort or Land Fort, Suvarnadunga or Water Fort, Panhalekaji Caves
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 10,000 to ₹ 11,000 per person overall (2 Nights/3 Days)
• How to Reach: By road, by rail, by air

8. Chikmagalur | Approx. 387 kms

Chikmagalur, meaning ‘Young Daughter’s Town’, is named after it was associated with the time when it was presented as dowry to the young daughter of the Chief of Sakrepatna, Rukmangada. This little town is drenched in the aroma of tranquillizing coffee and beautiful sceneries. Moreover, the backdrop of Mullayanagiri ranges surrounded by lush green trees makes it spellbinding with scenic beauty.

• Best Time to Visit: September to March
• Top Things to Do: Jeep Safari, Trekking, Camping, Tea Plantation Walk, Jet Ski, Spiritual Tour
• Top Places to Visit: Hebbe Falls, Mullayanagiri, Jhari Waterfalls, Hirekolale Lake, Kudremukh National Park, Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 9,000 to ₹ 10,000 per person overall (2 Nights/3 Days)
• How to Reach: By road, by rail, by air

9. Panchgani| Approx. 383.8 kms

Perched at an elevation of 1,334 m above sea level, Panchgani is a famous spot swarmed with tourists all year round. This hilltop is blessed with serene valleys, towering mountains, dense forests, and cascading waterfalls. It is located at a distance of 379 km from Goa, so whenever planning to visit the city, also stopover at Panchgani. It has many scenic sites and attractions to offer.

• Best Time to Visit: September to May
• Top Things to Do: Explore the Village, Taste the Mapro Garden, Boating in Venna Lake, Paragliding, Go Sightseeing, Safari
• Top Places to Visit: Sydney Point, Rajpuri Caves, Mapro Garden, Parsi Point, Venna Lake, Dhom Dam
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 14,000 to ₹ 15,000 per person overall (2 Nights/3 Days)
• How to Reach: By road, by rail, by air

10. Mahabaleshwar | Approx. 393.6 kms

Located 399 km from Goa, Mahabaleshwar is the smallest hill station famous for its majestic peaks, strawberries, and ancient temples. Also, once you visit this quaint town, you are sure to record a refreshing and invigorating experience. Thanks to its scenic landscapes, glorious mountain views and pleasant weather. Apart from this, there are several fun activities to try.

• Best Time to Visit: December to June
• Top Things to Do: Birdwatching, Jungle Trekking, Sightseeing
• Top Places to Visit: Connaught Peak, Venna Lake, Lodwick Point, Babington Point
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 11,000 to ₹ 12,000 per person overall (2 Nights/3 Days)
• How to Reach: By road

11. Madikeri | Approx. 478.4 kms

Nestled in the lap of divine nature, Madikeri is considered the ‘Scotland of India’ and one of the top hill stations near Goa. It is 478 km away from the city and gives you enough opportunity to escape the chaos of city life. This quaint town encapsulates several scenic landscapes, monasteries, temples, and dazzling waterfalls. Moreover, the vast natural delight topped with a soothing environment makes it the perfect go-to place.

• Best Time to Visit: July to September and November to February
• Top Things to Do: Rock Climbing, Trekking, Camping, Birdwatching, Quad Biking, Trying Different Cuisine
• Top Places to Visit: Kote Betta, Raja’s Seat, Talacauvery, Abbey Falls, Tibetan Monastery, Omkareshwara Temple
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 7,000 to ₹ 8,000 per person overall (2 Nights/3 Days)
• How to Reach: By road, by rail, by air

12. Coorg | Approx. 478.4 kms

Waking up to the smell of aromatic coffee and the sound of the gushing waterfall is what all desire. Coorg, the Scotland of India, allows you to experience the same. This misty land of streams and hills never fails to allure tourists from around the world with its rich history, mouth-watering cuisine and adventure spots. Not to forget, it is only 478 km away from Goa. So, you can easily visit it anytime with your family, friends, or partner.

• Best Time to Visit: October to April
• Top Things to Do: Quad Biking, Fishing, Sightseeing
• Top Places to Visit: Raja’s Seat, Iruppu Falls, Tadiandamol Peak, Dubare Elephant Camp, Abbey Falls, etc.
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 17,000 to ₹ 18,000 per person overall (2 Nights/3 Days)
• How to Reach: By road, by rail, by air

13. Lonavala | Approx. 500 kms

When searching for hill stations in Goa, Lonavala may be the first location that will show up as it is only 392 km away from Goa and a popular spot that attracts the crowd of the city. It lets you escape from the hustle and bustle of the city with its unbeatable collection of waterfalls and postcard-perfect landscape of Aamby Valley. In addition, this little town is also blessed with religious attractions, natural wonders and historical sites.

• Best Time to Visit: October to February and June to September
• Top Things to Do: Hiking, Trekking, Sightseeing
• Top Places to Visit: Pawna Dam, Bhushi Dam, Lion’s Point, Tiger’s Leap, Tungarli Lake
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 13,000 to ₹ 14,000 per person overall (2 Nights/3 Days)
• How to Reach: By road, by rail, by air

14. Khandala | Approx. 509.2 kms

To witness the breathtaking view of the Sahyadri Hills from up close, make sure to visit Khandala. It is just 394 km away from Goa and is a perfect weekend spot. Moreover, besides the natural scenery, there are many other things to explore like waterfalls, rock formations, and caves.

• Best Time to Visit: November to February
• Top Things to Do: Trekking, Sightseeing, Exploring Caves, Camping at Pawna Lake, Night Gazing
• Top Places to Visit: Pavana Lake, Lohagad Fort, Bhaja Caves, Kune Waterfalls, Tiger’s Leap, Shooting Point, Duke’s Nose
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 8,000 to ₹ 9,000 per person overall (1 Nights/2 Days)
• How to Reach: By road, by rail, by air

15. Matheran | Approx. 560.1 kms

Matheran meaning ‘Forest on the forehead’, is another cute little hill station near Goa that you can visit with your family or friend. It is 393 km away from Goa and one of the best places if you want to enjoy the scenic view of the sun soaring up the sky. Moreover, the pleasant weather maintained throughout the year is just the cherry on top. This beauty gets added up during monsoon when the surroundings get greener and topped with thunderstorms.

• Best Time to Visit: October to May
• Top Things to Do: Trekking, Rock Climbing, Water Rappelling
• Top Places to Visit: One Tree Hill, Charlotte Lake, Louisa Point, Por
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 14,000 to ₹ 15,000 per person overall (2 Nights/3 Days)
• How to Reach: By road, by rail, by air

There are many things to try in the city of Goa itself. However, if you are looking for places with a backdrop of mountain ranges, lush greenery, and pleasantly cool weather, consider the list above mentioning top hill stations near Goa. There is even information regarding cost, places to visit, things to try, and the best time to visit for smart planning. So, use it to embark on the best travelling experience you have ever received.