Maharashtra offers a wide range of picnic spots that come alive during the winter season. Prefer the cool mountain air, serene lakes, or coastal breezes, there is a perfect picnic destination waiting for you. Winter adds a special charm to these spots, making them even more inviting and enjoyable for a day out with loved ones.
From the misty hills of Mahabaleshwar to the serene beaches of Alibaug, each spot offers a unique experience. So pack your picnic basket, grab your friends and family, and head out to explore the beauty of Maharashtra this winter!
1. Lonavala and Khandala
When it comes to winter picnics in Maharashtra, Lonavala and Khandala top the list. Located in the Sahyadri range, these twin hill stations are known for their misty mountains, lush greenery, and cool weather. Perfect weekend getaway, Lonavala and Khandala offer many activities that appeal to all age groups.
- Popular attractions: Tiger’s Leap, Bhushi Dam, Duke’s Nose, and Karla and Bhaja Caves.
- Activities: Hiking, trekking, visiting caves, and enjoying the view from scenic spots.
- Why visit in winter: Weather is cool and refreshing, making it perfect for outdoor activities and exploration. Winter fog adds a mystical charm to the mountains.
Enjoy a picnic at Bhushi Dam, which becomes a peaceful spot during the winter months, or take a trek to Tiger’s Leap for panoramic views. Don’t forget to indulge in some delicious Lonavala chikki, a traditional sweet treat that is perfect for the season.
2. Matheran
Matheran, a quaint hill station just a few hours away from Mumbai, is another ideal picnic spot for winter. What makes Matheran unique is that no motor vehicles are allowed, preserving the natural beauty and serenity of the place. Lush green hills and pleasant weather make it a perfect winter destination.
- Popular attractions: Charlotte Lake, Echo Point, Panorama Point, and One Tree Hill Point.
- Activities: Horse riding, hiking, toy train rides, and photography.
- Why visit in winter: The cooler temperatures during winter make trekking and exploring more comfortable, while the foggy mornings create an enchanting atmosphere.
Pack a picnic and head to Charlotte Lake, a serene spot where you can relax by the water, enjoy a meal, and take in the surrounding views. For a bit of adventure, you can explore the various viewpoints scattered around Matheran that offer stunning views of the valley.
3. Alibaug
For those who prefer beaches over hills, Alibaug is an excellent choice for a winter picnic. Known for its clean, scenic beaches, this coastal town is perfect for a laid-back picnic by the sea. Winter is the best time to visit, as the weather is pleasant and cool, making beachside picnics much more enjoyable.
- Popular attractions: Alibaug Beach, Nagaon Beach, Kolaba Fort, and Kihim Beach.
- Activities: Beach volleyball, water sports, and exploring historic forts.
- Why visit in winter: Winter provides the ideal weather for beach picnics, with cool breezes and clear skies making it a comfortable time to explore the coastline.
Set up your picnic at Kihim Beach, where you can enjoy the view of the calm Arabian Sea. If you’re interested in history, a visit to the nearby Kolaba Fort can add an educational twist to your outing.
4. Mahabaleshwar
Mahabaleshwar, one of the most famous hill stations in Maharashtra, is an excellent choice for a winter picnic. Located in the Western Ghats, this town is known for its strawberry farms, misty weather, and panoramic views. Winter makes Mahabaleshwar even more charming, with fog rolling over the hills and the cool temperatures making it perfect for long walks and picnics.
- Popular attractions: Arthur’s Seat, Venna Lake, Elephant’s Head Point, and Mapro Garden.
- Activities: Boating, trekking, strawberry picking, and sightseeing.
- Why visit in winter: The cool weather and mist-covered mountains create a dreamy atmosphere, perfect for a romantic or family picnic.
One of the best places for a picnic is Venna Lake, where you can enjoy a boat ride or simply relax by the water. Also visit Mapro Garden to indulge in some fresh strawberries and jams while soaking in the beautiful surroundings.
5. Bhandardara
If you’re looking for a less commercialized, more serene location for your winter picnic, Bhandardara is the perfect spot. Quiet hill station, located by the Pravara River, offers beautiful landscapes, including waterfalls, lakes, and mountains.
- Popular attractions: Arthur Lake, Randha Falls, and Wilson Dam.
- Activities: Camping, trekking, and boating.
- Why visit in winter: Winter enhances the natural beauty of Bhandardara, with cooler temperatures making it perfect for camping and outdoor picnics.
One of the best picnic spots in Bhandardara is Arthur Lake, where you can enjoy a peaceful picnic by the water. If you’re feeling adventurous, take a short hike to Randha Falls, which is particularly picturesque during the winter season.
6. Panchgani
Nestled among five hills of the Sahyadri mountain ranges, Panchgani is another great picnic spot in Maharashtra, especially in winter. The cool climate, coupled with lush green surroundings, makes it an ideal destination for a relaxing and enjoyable picnic. This hill station is also famous for its educational institutions, strawberry farms, and colonial-era buildings.
- Popular attractions: Table Land, Sydney Point, Parsi Point, and Devrai Art Village.
- Activities: Hiking, paragliding, sightseeing, and exploring strawberry farms.
- Why visit in winter: The cold weather and fresh air make it comfortable for outdoor activities, while the views from Table Land and other viewpoints are more mesmerizing in the winter mist.
Set up a picnic at Table Land, one of the largest volcanic plateaus in Asia. With sweeping views of the valley below, it’s a fantastic spot to relax, take in the scenery, and enjoy a meal with family or friends.
7. Karnala Bird Sanctuary
For nature lovers, the Karnala Bird Sanctuary is a fantastic destination for a winter picnic. Located near Panvel, this sanctuary is home to a variety of bird species, making it a bird-watcher’s paradise. The cool winter months are ideal for exploring the sanctuary and enjoying the outdoors.
- Popular attractions: Karnala Fort, birdwatching trails, and picnic spots within the sanctuary.
- Activities: Birdwatching, trekking, and photography.
- Why visit in winter: The winter months bring migratory birds to the sanctuary, making it an excellent time for birdwatching.
The sanctuary has several designated picnic spots where you can relax after a nature walk. If you’re up for a bit of adventure, a trek to Karnala Fort offers not only a bit of history but also beautiful views of the surrounding area.
8. Igatpuri
Another excellent winter picnic spot in Maharashtra is Igatpuri, a small hill station located in the Western Ghats. Known for its scenic beauty, Igatpuri is surrounded by towering peaks and dense forests. The cooler winter temperatures make it ideal for outdoor activities and exploration.
- Popular attractions: Bhatsa River Valley, Kalsubai Peak, and Vipassana International Academy.
- Activities: Trekking, meditation retreats, and photography.
- Why visit in winter: The weather is pleasant, making it comfortable to explore the natural beauty and take part in outdoor activities like trekking and camping.
Bhatsa River Valley is a popular picnic spot, offering a tranquil environment surrounded by lush greenery and flowing rivers. You can also explore nearby Kalsubai Peak, the highest peak in Maharashtra, if you’re in the mood for a challenging trek.
9. Tamhini Ghat
Tamhini Ghat, located near Pune, is known for its breathtaking beauty, especially in the monsoon season. However, winter also brings a unique charm to this region, with misty hills and cooler temperatures making it an ideal spot for a picnic.
- Popular attractions: Mulshi Lake, waterfalls, and Tamhini Ghat viewpoints.
- Activities: Nature walks, photography, and sightseeing.
- Why visit in winter: Mist and cooler temperatures enhance the beauty of the landscape, making it a serene spot for a winter picnic.
Pack your picnic basket and head to Mulshi Lake, where you can enjoy the serene views of the water and surrounding mountains. Tamhini Ghat is also known for its stunning waterfalls, which are particularly beautiful during the winter months.
10. Malshej Ghat
Last but certainly not least is Malshej Ghat, a scenic mountain pass in the Western Ghats. Known for its rugged beauty, Malshej Ghat is a popular destination for trekking, birdwatching, and picnics. Cool winter weather makes it a perfect time to visit, as the region is known for its pleasant climate and panoramic views.
- Popular attractions: Harishchandragad Fort, Pimpalgaon Joga Dam, and numerous waterfalls.
- Activities: Trekking, birdwatching, and photography.
- Why visit in winter: Cool weather and mist-covered mountains create an enchanting atmosphere, perfect for a peaceful picnic or an adventurous hike.
One of the best places for a picnic is near Pimpalgaon Joga Dam, where you can enjoy stunning views of the reservoir and surrounding hills. If you’re up for an adventure, a trek to Harishchandragad Fort offers breathtaking views and a sense of history.
Maharashtra, a diverse state known for its rich history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes, becomes an ideal destination for winter picnics. Temperatures drop, the cool climate adds charm to the lush green mountains, serene beaches, and quiet hill stations, making them perfect for a relaxing escape. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or even solo, Maharashtra offers numerous destinations for a memorable picnic in winter.
