The Western Ghats, also known as the Sahyadri, is a mountain range that stretches 1,600 km (990 mi) along the western coast of the Indian peninsula. Covering an area of 160,000 km2 (62,000 sq mi), it traverses the states of Gujarat, Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu. The range forms an almost continuous chain of mountains along the western edge of the Deccan Plateau, from the Tapti River to Swamithoppe in Kanyakumari district at the southern tip of the Indian peninsula. The Western Ghats meet with the Eastern Ghats at Nilgiris before continuing south.
1. Saputara
Saputara is a hill town in the west Indian state of Gujarat. The Artist Village cultural center displays, and sells, tribal arts and crafts. Artifacts, including ritual objects, trace the heritage of the local Dang tribe at Saputara Tribal Museum. Green spaces with picnic spots include the Step Garden and the Lake Garden, set on Lake Saputara. Governor’s Hill Trail offers views of the surrounding rivers and valleys.
2 – Lonavala
Lonavala is a hill station surrounded by green valleys in western India near Mumbai. The Karla Caves and the Bhaja Caves are ancient Buddhist shrines carved out of the rock. They feature massive pillars and intricate relief sculptures. South of the Bhaja Caves sits the imposing Lohagad Fort, with its 4 gates. West of here is Bhushi Dam, where water overflows onto a set of steps during rainy season.
Photo by Ganesh Mhetre on Unsplash
3 – Igatpuri
igatpuri is a town and hill station in the Western Ghat mountains of Maharashtra, western India. The huge Dhamma Giri academy is dedicated to the teaching of Vipassana meditation. At its entrance stands Myanmar Gate, a golden pagoda. North, hilltop Tringalwadi Fort has a small temple. Southeast, trails lead up to Kalsubai Peak. The surrounding Kalsubai Harishchandragad Wildlife Sanctuary is home to leopards and deer.
4 – Matheran
Matheran is a hill station, near Mumbai, in the west Indian state of Maharashtra. It’s known for its mild climate and well-preserved colonial architecture. Motor vehicles are banned and many visitors arrive by narrow-gauge railway on the 1907 Neral–Matheran Toy Train. The Panorama Point lookout offers views across the mountains of the Western Ghats. Louisa Point has views of waterfalls and the ancient Prabal Fort
