Places to Visit in Lonavala (Lonavla), Pune, Maharashtra
Lonavala is a picturesque hill station in the Sahyadri range, perfect for nature lovers, adventure-seekers, and history buffs. Here are the top places worth visiting:
1. Tiger’s Leap (Tiger Point)
A dramatic cliff offering a breathtaking sweep over the valley—especially magical at sunrise or sunset. Also features a natural echo point and seasonal mini waterfall.
2. Lohagad Fort
An iconic 1,033 m hill fort, accessible via a scenic monsoon trek from Malavli, with well-preserved gateways like the Ganesh Darwaja and verdant plateau views.
3. Karla & Bhaja Caves
Explore ancient Buddhist rock-cut caves—Karla features a grand chaitya hall dating to ~50 CE, while Bhaja includes stupas and waterfalls nearby.
4. Kune Falls
A majestic three-tier waterfall (~200 m), among India’s highest, cascading through lush Western Ghats greenery—it’s a treat for rain-season visits.
5. Pawana (Pavana) Lake
A tranquil reservoir ideal for camping and boating, surrounded by hill-fort silhouettes like Lohagad and Tikona—it’s a calm escape just 25 km away.
6. Bhushi Dam & Lonavala Lake
Popular monsoon hangouts—Bhushi Dam overflows between rocky steps, while serene Lonavala Lake offers boating and tranquil lakeside views.
7. Tikona & Visapur Forts
Tikona Fort provides a moderate trek and panoramic backwaters vistas. Visapur Fort, larger and rugged, houses temples, caves, and historic water tanks .
8. Della Adventure Park
India’s largest adventure park with over 50 activities—think motocross, bungees, zip-lining, and glamping—for a thrilling day out.
9. Canyon Valley & Aundoli
Trek through Canyon Valley to a waterfall at the base of steep cliffs; nearby Aundoli offers camping, nature trails, and horse riding—ideal for offbeat adventures.
10. Rajmachi & Korigad Forts
Two historical gems—Rajmachi (Shrivardhan & Manaranjan forts) offers dense forest trekking, and Korigad provides easy hikes and panoramic lake views.
New Highlight: Lonavala Glass Skywalk
Plans are underway for Maharashtra’s longest glass skywalk connecting Tiger’s and Lion’s Points, complete with a rooftop café and sports zone—significant for future visits.
Ideal 2-Day Itinerary
Day | Morning | Afternoon | Evening |
---|---|---|---|
1 | Tiger’s Leap → Karla Caves | Bhushi Dam & Lonavala Lake | Lohagad Trek |
2 | Bhaja Caves → Della Adventure | Pawana Lake (camp) | Tikona or Korigad trek |
Optional add-ons: Kune Falls, Canyon Valley, Visapur Fort
Tips & Travel Info
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Best time: June–September (lush monsoon beauty) and Oct–Mar (clear hiking weather); monsoon visits offer safe, vibrant experiences.
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Transport: Accessible via NH4 and Mumbai–Pune Expressway; train gets you to Lonavala station. Hire local taxis, rent scooters, or use cabs for hill points.
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Essentials: Carry sturdy shoes, rain gear in monsoon, water, mosquito repellent, and small cash for entry fees (Della, parking, forts).
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Stay: Choose from lakeside camping at Pawana, resort-style stays at Della, or homely guesthouses near the station.