Lonavala & Khandala
Two charming little hill-stations, only 6 km apart, situated between Pune and Mumbai in the western ranges of the Sahyadris, Lonavala and Khandala are very popular with Mumbaikers as weekend getaways.
These twin hill-stations come to life during the monsoon season as the countryside turns lush green dotted with waterfalls and ponds and are hence best-visited during or right after monsoon.
Blessed with the nature in bounty with beautiful valleys, heavenly hills, milky waterfalls, lush greenery and pleasant weather throughout the year, Lonavala and Khandala have salubrious climate, popular health resorts and a plethora of tourist attraction.
Lonavala derives its name from a Marathi word ‘Lenya’ which means caves as there are a no. of ancient Buddhist caves and temples in the region.
Places to Visit
Karla and Bhaja caves (15 km)
These Buddhist rock-cut caves have well-preserved ancient Buddhist temples and beautiful interiors with lion-pillars, huge elephant forms, carved images of Buddha and dancing couples. Caves are maintained by Archaeological Survey of India and are worth a visit!
Lohagad Fort
A beautiful fort in a beautiful location with a long history! One of the many hill-forts of Chhatrapati Shivaji, Lohagad fort (Iron fort) was named so as it was considered impregnable.
While climbing up to the fort you come across various panoramic points and the view from the top is simply spectacular!
Things to Do
Paragliding
Bird watching
Trekking
Picnics
Must Try
‘Chikki’, a hard-candy sweet, Lonavala is famous for all-over India.
