Lonavala & Khandala are twin hill stations located in the Sahyadri hills of Maharashtra. Just a few kilometers away from Mumbai and Pune, Lonavala & Khandala are the best escapes when you are looking to remove yourself from the bustle of city life. Known for their lush green valleys, misty mountains, peaceful lakes, and stunning waterfalls, these hill stations are especially magical during the monsoon months. First-time visitors will be blown away by the ancient caves and the treks through forested trails. However, this comprehensive travel guide will help you identify the best things to do in Lonavala and Khandala, along with the best places to visit, and travel tips to make the most of your trip.
Where are Lonavala and Khandala?
Lonavala and Khandala are two wonderful hill stations that are situated in the Pune district of Maharashtra. They lie just a few kilometers apart, around 3 km, and are often visited together.
- Lonavala Height: Approximately 622 metres (2041 feet)
- Khandala Height: Approximately 550 metres (1800 feet)
- Distance between them: About 3 km
These places are famous mostly for their naturally alluring beauty and locations like Bhushi Dam, Rajmachi Fort, Karla Caves, and Tiger’s Leap. And they are also famous for a snack called chikki, which is made of jaggery and nuts.
How to Reach Lonavala and Khandala?
Lonavala & Khandala are well connected with nearby cities, and they are easy to reach. The best way to travel here is by train, although there are alternate options available to reach these hill stations.
1. By Air
The closest airport is in Pune, which connects to many major Indian cities and also has international flights to destinations such as Dubai, Frankfurt, Sharjah, and Abu Dhabi. From Pune, you can hire a cab or take an airport bus to Lonavala or Khandala.
2. By Train
Several trains pass through Lonavala on the way to Mumbai or Pune. So, you can just get off at either Lonavala or Khandala train station, and then take a taxi or an auto rickshaw to your hotel or destination.
3. By Road
You can drive to these hill stations via the Mumbai-Pune Expressway, which is a beautiful and quick way to travel. Additionally, buses regularly operate from major cities to Lonavala and Khandala.
4. Getting Around Locally
Once you arrive, transportation around the site is either through cabs or auto rickshaws. Many tourists from Mumbai or Pune also have their own car. This makes it convenient to travel from town to town on your own schedule.
Weather and Best Time to Visit Lonavala & Khandala
Lonavala and Khandala experience pleasant weather for most of the year. All times are good to visit, but the ideal months are from October to June.
1. Summer (March to June)
Summer is warm and slightly humid, but much cooler than the hot plains. These hill stations are perfectly suited for summer vacation.
2. Monsoon (July to September)
Expect to see rain during the Monsoon, which makes travel a little challenging. But the views of this hill station come alive in rich and dense greens, with lovely waterfalls and streams. Lots of visitors love coming during this season to take in the beauty of the monsoons, along with hot tea and bhajiyas.
3. Winter (October to February)
The hills are pleasantly cool and breezy, which makes it best for capturing photographs, trekking, and adventure sports. The winter is not too cold, so you will just need some light woollen clothing. Moreover, the cool air creates a pristine experience of visiting the hills.
Top Things to Explore in Lonavala
One can get a range of experiences in Lonavala & Khandala. Here is an overview:
1. Lohagad Fort
Lohagad Fort served as a prison and later became a treasury set up under the Shivaji rule. Located 1,050 meters above sea level, the fort has a shape similar to the fangs of a scorpion. In addition to being an important historical site, it is also able to provide visitors with majestic views, including Karle and Bhaja Caves.
| Attraction | Lohagad Fort |
| Type | Fort / Heritage |
| Historical Significance | Used as a prison and treasury under Shivaji’s rule |
| Key Highlights | 1,050 m elevation, shaped like a scorpion’s fangs, scenic views |
| Activities | Trekking, sightseeing |
2. Bhaja Caves
The Bhaja Caves, an outstanding example of ancient rock-cut architecture, were cut in about 200 BC by a sect of Buddhist monks. These 22 caves are intricately decorated with carefully adorned sculptures of elephants, tigers, and chariots of royalty.
| Attraction | Bhaja Caves |
| Type | Ancient Caves |
| Historical Significance | Buddhist caves dating back to 200 BC |
| Key Highlights | 22 rock-cut caves, carvings of elephants, tigers, and royal chariots |
| Activities | Exploring historical art, photography |
3. Tiger’s Leap
Tiger’s Leap is famous because of the resemblance of a cliff to a tiger leaping into the air. It’s a stop in Lonavala that everyone should see. It is simply magic during the monsoon when a small waterfall flows into a nearby stream. The area also sees swimming, rafting, and trekking activities on the scenic route.
| Attraction | Tiger’s Leap |
| Type | Viewpoint/Nature |
| Key Highlights | Cliff shaped like a leaping tiger, waterfalls in monsoon |
| Activities | Trekking, rafting, swimming, photography |
4. Nagphani (Duke’s Nose)
Also referred to as Duke’s Nose due to its resemblance to a snake’s hood, Nagphani is a good trekking and hiking area. It has steep climbs and naturally beautiful forest trails, which can be really thrilling for trekkers. Trekkers can also see nearby attractions, which are hidden in the forests.
| Attraction | Nagphani (Duke’s Nose) |
| Type | Trekking Spot |
| Key Highlights | Snake hood-like shape, steep climbs, forest trails |
| Activities | Trekking, hiking, nature walks |
5. Lonavala Lake
Lonavala Lake was established in 1876 as a water resource for the Valvan and Shirota areas. The lake has since become a peaceful space for tourists. It is good for bird watching, reading, or just relaxing. You may swim or fish in the lake as well. Like other lakes in Auli, Uttarakhand, it too has a kind of beauty.
| Attraction | Lonavala Lake |
| Type | Lake/Nature |
| Historical Significance | Built in 1876 for water supply to Valvan and Shirota |
| Key Highlights | Calm surroundings, good for relaxation |
| Activities | Bird watching, fishing, swimming, reading |
6. Ryewood Park
Ryewood Park will satisfy all nature lovers, with sprawling green lawns and dozens of plant species. The park was originally developed as a botanical garden and is now open to the public as a tranquil piece of nature.
| Attraction | Ryewood Park |
| Type | Park/Garden |
| Historical Significance | Originally developed as a botanical garden |
| Key Highlights | Lush green lawns, diverse plant species |
| Activities | Leisure walk, relaxing, family picnic |
7. Rajmachi Point
Rajmachi Point, on the way from Mumbai to Pune, is the gateway to Rajmachi fort, one of the important structures from Shivaji’s time. It also has an outstanding view of the deep valleys and forests. The hills of Shrivardhan and Manoranjan have a lot of trekking possibilities once the visitor gets there.
| Attraction | Rajmachi Point |
| Type | Viewpoint/Fort Base |
| Historical Significance | Entry point to Rajmachi Fort, built during Shivaji’s reign |
| Key Highlights | Panoramic views of valley and forests, access to Shrivardhan & Manoranjan Hills |
| Activities | Trekking, sightseeing, photography |
Fun Activities To Do in Lonavala & Khandala
Below is a list of the most fun and interesting things you can do when visiting Lonavala & Khandala.
- Go Hiking: Pick hiking trails based on your capacity for fitness and enthusiasm. There are easy trails, suitable even for children, and there are also more advanced trails for those looking to challenge their fitness level.
- Go Camping: Sleep in a tent on the peaceful banks of a tranquil lake and let all the gentle sounds of nature calm you into a deep sleep. You will be awake to a peaceful morning filled with mist and fresh air over the calm surface of the water below you.
- Go Paragliding: Jump off hillside cliffs with a professional paraglider. Glide through the expansive valley of lush tree tops. This is one of the most interesting and adventurous activities to do in Lonavala and Khandala.
Conclusion
Lonavala & Khandala provide a perfect blend of nature, history, and adventure. Beautiful views, historic heritage sites, and exciting activities like trekking and paragliding are sure to leave a first-time visitor with memories to last a lifetime. The delight of these twin towns in Maharashtra is in their simplicity, natural beauty, and timelessness.
If you’re ready to get lost in the refreshing hill stations of Lonavala and Khandala, Luxury Trails of India, a leading provider of travel services, specializes in bringing you the highest quality travel experiences. Wherever you need to travel from, we handle your travel arrangements and create your dream itinerary. Book with Luxury Trails of India today to enjoy your hill station experience in the lap of luxury, comfort, and ease.
Also Read – Top 10 Best Hiking Trails in India