Located along the Mumbai-Pune Expressway, Lonavala is one of the most popular weekend getaway destinations from both cities. Lonavala’s scenic landscape consisting of lush mountains, hills, forests, valleys, waterfalls, and lakes invites holidaymakers to enjoy a refreshing break from the hustle and bustle of metropolitan cities. Other famous attractions of this hill station include ancient forts, caves, and temples. For adventure enthusiasts, Lonavala offers many trekking, hiking, and camping opportunities. If you are planning your trip to Lonavala, then here are some of the best places you can visit during your holiday in this beautiful hill station.
Karla & Bhaja Caves
Said to belong to the first or second century, Karla and Bhaja Caves are some of the beautiful examples of the early rock-cut architecture in the country. These ancient caves are among the popular tourist places near Lonavala. Karla Caves are a group of 16 rock-cut caves and the 8th cave, called ‘Grand Chaitya’ is the largest chaitya griha (temple/prayer hall) in India. It features vaulted ceilings and beautifully carved pillars. Most of the Karla Caves date back to the early Hinayana phase of Buddhism. Just about 5 to 7 km from Karla Caves lies another popular set of 22 caves called Bhaja Caves. They are known for their impressive chaitya grihas, viharas, monasteries, and stunning architecture.
Pawna Lake
One of the best places for camping, Pawna Lake is the perfect place to spend a peaceful evening in the lap of nature. Go camping at Pawna during your trip to Lonavala and you will not regret it. You can soak up the serenity of the place sitting by the sparkling lake or enjoy a pleasing boat ride on the lake. Delight in the magical sunset views in the evening and as darkness sets in, stare in awe at the starry skies and wake up to a beautiful sunset and melodious chirping of birds. Pawna Lake can be visited throughout the year, but the place is especially beautiful during the monsoon seasons when the surroundings turn vibrant green and the lake brims with life. book cheap flights to Mumbai from SFO at Indian Eagle. You can take a taxi or cab from Mumbai to Lonavala.
Tiger’s Leap
There are many viewpoints across Lonavala, from where you can witness the natural beauty of the place. Tiger’s Leap is one such famous vantage point located at a height of about 650 m from the sea level. This viewpoint loosely resembles a tiger ready to leap at the valley, and hence is named Tiger’s Leap. It offers breathtaking views of the valley and the green mountains surrounding it. You can take up the trek to Tiger’s Leap during the sunset hours to enjoy the breathtaking vistas of the sun setting behind the lush mountain ranges. This place is located at a distance of around 8 km from Lonalava.
Rajmachi Fort
If you are planning a trekking expedition during your trip to Lonavala, then Rajmachi Fort is one of the best places for trekking. Snuggled in the Sahyadri Ranges, this historical fort (consisting of two fortresses – Shrivardhan Fort and Manaranjan Fort) was built by the Maratha warrior Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. The trekking trail is slightly steep and is filled with various attractions including ancient ruins, temples, caves, waterfalls, streams, etc. And from the top, you can enjoy sweeping views of the wide plateau surrounding the fort and the gorgeous Western Ghats beyond. The backwaters of Shirota Dam are also visible from here.
Lohagad Fort
Lohagad Fort is another famous trekking destination in Lonavala. This historical fort is perched on a hill, at an altitude of 3,389 feet above sea level. This fort separates the Indrayani basin from the Pawna basin.
Considered an easy trek, it is perfect for beginners. While the beautiful views it offers to draw nature lovers, its historical and architectural importance makes it popular with history and architectural enthusiasts. The fort has four gates and it is most popular for Vinchukata, the section of the hill that looks like a ‘Scorpion’s tail.’ Apart from the above, other popular tourist destinations in and around Lonavala include Tikona Fort, Duke’s Nose, Bhushi Dam, Ryewood Park, Lonavala Lake, Kune Falls, Canyon Valley, Della Adventure Park, etc. If you are planning a long trip to Lonavala, you can also consider visiting the hill station Khandala. So, plan your itinerary and book cheap flights to India from USA at Indian Eagle. You can take a taxi or cab from Mumbai to Lonavala.
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