Lonavala and Khandala: The best weekend getaway
Twin hill stations nestled in Sahyadri ranges of Maharashtra
If you are living in the cities like Mumbai, Navi Mumbai or Pune, Lonavala-Khandala always remains the first choice to enjoy early Monsoon rain for many people. And why not, it attracts people from all the age groups for wide range of activities and breath-taking views it offers.
If I want to choose one among Lonavala and Khandala, I will go for Khandala over Lonavala as it’s comparatively less crowded and provides many more mesmerizing views of valleys and waterfalls. Lonavala will be just few points behind though.
We stayed in Khandala in our last trip and our resort was just one km away from Khandala lake and shooting point.
Do you know how the name “Lonavala” has been derived? Because it’s home to series of many different caves like Karla, Bhaja, Bedse. ‘Leni’ means caves and ‘Avali’ means ‘series of caves’, hence Lonavala.
What to see in Lonavala and Khandala?
Valley views, three tier waterfall, caves, lake, dam, fort, camping, adventure activities and many more…
Tiger Point:
Around 12 km away from main city center of Lonavala, Tiger point is famous for its beautiful valley view, especially in monsoon. Echo point is also another major attraction here.
Karla Caves:
Ancient rock-cut caves of Karla are one of the oldest caves of India. Karla is also famous for Ekvira Temple. Both are around 11 km from main city of Lonavala.
Bhaja Caves:
Bhaja caves are group of 22 rock-cut caves and a favorite tourist attraction for regular travelers and photography enthusiasts.
Lohagad fort:
Situated around 11 km from main city of Lonavala, Lohagad fort is famous for mesmerizing views. It is also known as Iron fort. You can see Pawna lake and rolling Sahyadri mountain ranges from Lohagad fort and it is a sight to behold in rainy weather!
Bhushi dam:
A popular destination during monsoon season amongst youngsters, Bhushi dam is the most picturesque spot in Lonavala. It is built on Indrayani river. You will find it crowded on weekends. Do be careful and enjoy rains here while not being too adventures.
Kune falls:
Kune falls is the 14th highest waterfall in India and is a three-tiered waterfall. One of the must visit places in monsoon if you are in Lonavala.
Apart from above tourist spots, Rajmachi fort, Visapur fort are famous among trekkers. Bedse caves, Tungarli lake, Valvan lake, Pawna lake, Khandala lake, Celebrity wax museum, Mapro garden can also be visited.
Don’t miss famous Chikki of Lonavala. There are many varieties available in Chikki like peanuts, cashews, mixed dryfruits, both whole and crushed. Most of the Chikki outlets will also have Fudge, another sweet specialty. There are many outlets of Maganlal Chikki across town.
Don’t forget to enhance the monsoon trip by trying kanda bhaji (onion fritters) or bhutta (roasted corn on cob) and hot tea on various tourist spots!
How to reach Khandala-Lonavala:
By Air: Mumbai and Pune both have domestic and international Airports from where you can easily hire cabs to reach.
By Train: If you are traveling by Rail, both hill stations have their own railway stations but most trains stops at Lonavala and very few stop at Khandala.
By Road: Khandala-Lonavala is reachable within 1-2 hours from Pune/Mumbai via Express Way.