Lonavla Travel Guide

Discovering the Charms of Lonavla: A Travel Guide to this Hill Station in Maharashtra

Lonavla is a popular hill station in the western Indian state of Maharashtra. Located about 64 kilometers from Pune and 96 kilometers from Mumbai, Lonavla is a popular weekend getaway for residents of these cities and a popular tourist destination in its own right. The town is known for its picturesque location, with beautiful hills, valleys, and waterfalls, and its pleasant climate, which makes it a popular destination all year round.

There are a number of tourist attractions in Lonavla, including the Lonavla Lake, the Ryewood Park and Shivaji Udyaan, the Karla Caves, and the Bhushi Dam. The Lonavla Lake is a popular spot for boating and picnics, while the Ryewood Park and Shivaji Udyaan are popular with families, with their beautiful gardens, playgrounds, and children's rides. The Karla Caves are ancient Buddhist rock-cut temples, and the Bhushi Dam is a popular spot for picnics and swimming.

In addition to these attractions, Lonavla is also known for its shopping, with a number of markets and bazaars selling handicrafts, textiles, and other souvenirs. The town is also known for its food, with a number of restaurants and cafes serving local specialties such as vada pav, pav bhaji, and chikki, a type of hard, sweetened peanut brittle.

Lonavla can be easily reached by road or by train, with regular buses and trains running from both Pune and Mumbai. There are also a number of hotels and resorts in the town, ranging from budget to luxury, making it an easy and convenient destination for travelers.

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Best Places To Visit In Lonavla

From historical cities to natural wonders, come see the best of Lonavla.

Bhaja Buddhist Caves

If you are looking for some historical yet exciting places to visit in India - Bhaja Caves are for you. The Bhaja Caves, located in Lonavala, Maharashtra, date back to 160 BC. These 22 groups of rock-cut caves are believed to have existed from the 2nd to the 1st centuries BC. The caves were developed during the rule of the Satavahanas and are the largest Hinayana Buddhist temple in India. Adorned with the classic Indian rock-cut architecture of the era, the architecture of these caves narrates the true culture and tradition of India and the ancient Indian period. The top attraction of these caves are the stupas, in which the caves are deeply carved both outside and inside.

Ekvira Devi Temple

Snuggled in the proximity of Karla caves, the Ekvira Devi temple is a spectacular spiritual retreat for the visitors. The goddess is believed to be an incarnation of the Goddess Renuka who is believed to be the mother of Parshurama. For the Koli fishermen and the local tribe, the goddess the supreme power and they visit the temple on a daily basis seeking her blessings. At this temple, you can know about the learning of the Buddhist culture as it serves as a great cultural & spiritual center for that. On festive occasions namely Navratri and Chaitra the aura of the temple transforms completely and becomes even more lively.

Karla Caves

Karla Caves are ancient Buddhist rock-cut caves and a famous tourist attraction located near Lonavala. Also known as Karli Caves, Karle Caves or Karla Cells, it is one of the oldest Buddhist cave shrines in India. These caves houses one of the largest Chaityas (prayer hall with a stupa) in India. Karla Caves is mainly known for the Ekvira Temple located inside.

Lion Point

The list of adjectives falls short to define the beauty of Lionâ€™s point which is one of the best sightseeing places in Khandala. Located 12 km away from the heart of the town, Lionâ€™s point is a popular touristâ€™s viewpoints and exhibits the sheer bliss of nature. The panoramic landscapes that it showcases are a combination of green thickets and scenic waterfalls. At the time of monsoons, the lure of the atmosphere is at its peak and the entire valley turns up lively. From the notch, you can take a look at the Shivling peak that is on the left and a road trip to this point is just like a cherry on top.

Lohagad Fort

Situated at the height of 3400 feet, Lohagad Fort is a UNESCO world heritage site and formidable fort about 52 kilometres away from Pune. Perched atop an impressive hill near Malavali, this destination is the perfect amalgam of ancient architecture and natural beauty. Lohagad Fort was built in the 18th century and is an ideal destination for trekking and nature lovers, especially from Pune and Mumbai. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj used to keep his treasury in this fort.

Lonavala Lake

Lonavala Lake is located on the outskirts of Lonavala and is sourced by the Indrayani River. The lake fills up during the monsoons and dries up during the winter leading it to be popularly known as the monsoon lake. It is a popular picnic spot offering activities like bird watching, swimming, and angling.

Rajmachi Fort

Rajmachi Fort is one of the many historical forts in the rugged hills of Sahyadri mountains (Western Ghats). Rajmachi Fort has two forts that were built by Emperor Shivaji Mahara in the 17th century. Surrounded by lush green mountains, beautiful flora and fauna, waterfalls, and green valleys, this fort is a perfect place for trekking.

Rajmachi Point

Rajmachi Point is located within walking distance from the Dukes Retreat. This spot got its name because Rajmachi Fort of the incredible Maratha ruler Chatrapati Sivaji is situated opposite this point. The point offers spectacular views of Rajmachi Fort, the surrounding valley, and waterfalls, Rajmachi Point has a temple and a children's park. This is also a famous area for movie producers. Monkey Point, Sunset Point, Lions Point are the few attractions close by. Sunset point gives spectacular views of the sunset.