I had heard about Lonavala alot. When I saw the movie Ghulam and the song- Aati Kya Khandala, my desire to visit Lonavala grew stronger. Chikki from Lonavala is very famous and the same is mentioned in the song as well. So, I was determined to visit this beautiful place. There are so many weekend getaways near Mumbai worth visiting, but Lonavala has a charm of its own. Lonavala and the nearby places are also fantastic for spending a weekend away from chaotic urban life. Since Lonavala is a part of the vast Sahyadri hills, the adjacent places have myriads of tourist spots and natural attractions. From serene waterfalls to lush forests- you will get spoilt for choice. Some of these can be covered in a day trip while for the rest you need a couple of days or two trips. Even to road to Lonavala is beautiful and gripping. The highway was amazing. It was very comfortable and smooth. And, this is the best time to visit Lonavala.
I am listing some of the destinations not far from Lonavala that I enjoyed exploring. Check these out for a rejuvenating and refreshing experience!
Lions Point
Lions Point is one of the best tourist places to visit near Lonavala. I was totally charmed by the serenity, and enchanting beauty of Lions point-which is about 12 km from the Lonavala rail station. It is located between Aamby valley and Bhushi Dam. The view is amazing, and I could see plenty of small waterfalls from the point. The lush greenery is soothing on the eyes. One can take amazing snaps, and watching sunset or sunrise at the place can be an amazing experience. The last I went there it was nearing sunset and the view was mind-blowing. Be careful about the gushing winds though. There were many monkeys, and they seemed quite bold in nature!
Lohagad Fort
Lohagad Fort is a must visit to know about the lifestyle of kings. It is about 15 km from Lonavala. The fort is now a UNESCO world heritage site. The 18th-century fort was a bastion of ChhatrapatiShivaji. I didn’t have much hardship in trekking to the fort and found the landscape soothing on eyes. It is also linked to adjacent Visapur Fort. The fort has four main gates in good shape, which amazed me. A few hours are needed to explore the fort and the time spent is worth it.
Pawna Lake
A nice weekend trip to a quiet place not far from Lonavala is a good option to get away from the hustle bustle of the city. I had explored the ruins and hilltops mostly and so heading to the Pawna Lake seemed a viable option. It is almost 15 km from Lonavala station, and the route is scenic. Set up with the construction of Pawna Dam, the lake is a hotspot for locals and tourists alike. I visited it with a friend but later want to enjoy a picnic on the shore! The greenery will soothe your eyes, and you can enjoy boating too. However, sometimes boating is not available.
Kune falls
Lonavala is known for the nearby pretty waterfalls, and Kune falls is a major crowd puller. Its refreshing and revitalizing to experience the falls. It is only 3.5 km from Lonavala Railway Station, located in the Kune village. The waterfall is 660 feet high and has three tiers. I kept on gazing at the stunning beauty before taking numerous snaps. The backdrop of the Sahyadri Mountains makes the view more scenic. The lush greenery around is soothing on the eyes, and the nearby Church is worth a visit too. I loved the place so much that I just did not feel like returning to the clutter of the city! On the way back, we munched on snacks at the Triose Plaza.
Kune Falls – Image Credits- Pixabay
Lonavala Lake
When you are in the mood to escape the city traffic but do not want to get too far from Lonavala, head to the sprawling Lonavala Lake! Fed by the Indrayani River, this lake has a charm you will fall in love with. I personally feel I don’t need anything or anyone to bust stress when I’m by the lakeside! I have been there so many times and the best time to visit it is during the monsoon months! I am sure you will enjoy the beauty while munching on yummy snacks like smoked corn and vadapav. Bird lovers can have a gala time here as well. The best thing is there is no entry fee.
Lonavala Lake Image Credits- Pixabay
Karnala Bird Sanctuary
Before visiting the amazing Karnala Bird Sanctuary, I had no idea how fulfilling the experience would be. I was told about it by a colleague who had visited it before. On Saturday, I set out for the Sanctuary, which is located close to the Mumbai-Pune Expressway. This forest setting is way more preferable than the urban jungle as I experienced. I saw plenty of bird species like Malabar Parakeet, Vigor’s Sunbird, Malabar Lark, Grey-fronted Green Pigeon, and Three-toed Kingfisher. I also saw a few migratory birds I could not identify, but those were stunning-to say the least. It is better you carry water and options for picnics are also available. It is also a haven for butterfly lovers.
Rajmachi Fort
If exploring historical ruins in pristine natural beauty makes your day, I will suggest a trip to the Rajmachi Fort. The fort may not be stunning in terms of architecture, but the amazing natural beauty and serenity of the location will sweep you off the feet. I did not feel like returning from the spot when I visited it for the first time! If you travel to the fort in monsoon, trekking is better as roads will be muddy. From the Udhewadi village, you will need an hour to reach the hilltop. I enjoyed tea and snacks along the way at the food stalls en route. The view of Western Ghats that you get from the hilltops is breathtaking. The fort has a couple of fortified peaks- Manaranjan and Shrivardhan. I also enjoyed exploring the caves and temples in the region. You can also opt for night stay at the base village as some villagers are offering home stays these.
I have never visited Lonavala but your lovely and informative post has fuelled the desire in me to visit it soon.
All the places are so beautiful and amazing. I’m definitely going to go these places where ever I go to Lonavala. All the pictures are amazing.
Wow! I didn’t know there was so much to see in Lonavala! These are some really amazing places… I would love to visit the lions point!
Lonavla never looses it’s charm. If you stay in Mumbai you will be tempted to go to this place atleast once during monsoons the beauty of this place in Monsoons can be visualised and described. You have mentioned some great spots.
We have visited Lonavala and must say its a beautiful place. thanks for this list will check these places for sure on our next visit.
Lonavala is one of our family’s fav weekend destination, especially in this rainy season..I love to visit at least twice in a year!!
The name of the blog intrigued me much. I love the take on detoxification here. Also I had heard about Lohagad and Pawna lake the other locations come as a bonus.
I didn’t know that there are so many places around lonavala to look around. Most of the people show premium resorts around that place. They avoid this natural spots which are worth visiting.
Lonavala is not only a beautiful getaway from the hustle and bustle of Mumbai but also a great destination in its own right. We love Lonavala and especially during the rains when it becomes even more enchanting. These are some lovely spots in and around Lonavala that guaranteed a rejuvenating experience.
Lonavala is a great vacation spot! It’s on my solo-trip list. Thanks for sharing all the bight spots there, will definitely visit them when I’m there!
Lonavala has beautiful places around to visit and relax with family or friends. Marking the suggestions for my next vacation.
Having grown up in Mumbai , I’ve explored a lot of Lonavala . It’s really beautiful and monsoon just adds to the overall charm
Apart from the song, didn’t know about this place. There are so many options and the photos look really nice. Would love to go on a weekend holiday here.
Lonavala is quite popular but I have never visite. Will definitely explore the place during my next visit to Mumbai. The Lion point is really looks beautiful.