When Mumbai overpowers and Pune offers no refuge, when beaches fail to beckon and the heart yearns for greener pastures, head for the evergreen hill station of Lonavala. Lonavala commands an exalted position on the western slopes of the Sahyadris, at a height of 625 metres. A perennial favourite with hill station-lovers in Maharashtra, Lonavala truly caters to the weekenders.
How to Reach Lonavala?
By Air : Lonavala does not have airport so one has to fly to Bombay or to Pune. The nearest international airport is Bombay (110 km) and domestic airport is Pune (66km). The take a taxi or bus to Lonavala.The journey should take a little over two hours from Mumbai and less from Pune.
By Rail : The railways bring Lonavala to life; connecting trains are available from Mumbai Central Station and Pune Junction. All the trains halt at Khandala before travelling onto to Lonavala.
By Road : The Mumbai-Bangalore National Highway connecting southern and western India passes through Lonavala. The drive winds its way up tiers of ghats including the arduous Khopoli - Khandala Ghat. Within a short distance of 8 km the road ascends to a height of 369 m but the picturesque countryside makes it worth it all. State roadways buses, private buses, taxis and tour operators have regular services to the hill resorts of Lonavala.
Best Time to Visit Lonavala
The best time to visit Lonavala is from September to March. During the summer months, from March to May, the climate is hot with the mercury shooting up to 40°C. May being the warmest month, is not ideal for visiting.
During the monsoon season, from June to September, this place receives heavy rainfall and the views become spectacular with lush green meadows, the cascading waterfalls and the natural beauty of the place.
In the winter season, from November to February, temperature varies between 12°C and 36°C, and is excellent for outdoor activities.
Things to do in Lonavala
Lonavala is blessed with enormous scenic beauty. This hill station is best visited in the monsoon season when hundreds of waterfalls and low floating clouds give a unique holiday experience. Lonavala’s things to do list include almost everything from sightseeing to shopping and adventure activities. Visit Tiger’s Leap and get a wide-ranging view of lovely landscape around or enjoy the gushing cool water by sitting on the steps around Bushy Dam. If you want a peaceful place then lie under trees, relax and read a book in Ryewood garden.
Adventure enthusiast can try some trekking or camp and picnic at the camping spots surrounded by Pavna Lake, Tungarli Lake or Lonaval Lake that have striking nature beauty. Buying a variety of fresh chikkis is a part of travelling to Lonavala. Treat yourself on Vada Paos or fresh corn and don’t forget to buy some excellent chikki packets for your friends.
Places Near Lonavala
If you are interested in adventure sports and are looking for places near Lonavala then visit Kamshet that is only 11 kms from Lonavala. This is a must visit destination for those with even the slightest inclination towards adventure and this picturesque hill station is popular for paragliding.
You can also visit Khandala that is just 5 kms away and is as lovely as Lonavala.
Hotels in Lonavala – Choice is Yours
There are numerous hotels in Lonavala ranging from 3-star, 4-star and 5-star deluxe to budget hotels.