Hill StationHill station

Lonavala and Khandala

Twin Sahyadri hill stations near the Mumbai-Pune Expressway, at their greenest in the monsoon

Photo: Cppfront · CC0 · Wikimedia Commons

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01 — The story

Lonavala and Khandala are a pair of small hill stations in the Western Ghats, set about 5 km apart in the Sahyadri hills, in Pune district. Lying on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway, they are among the most popular weekend breaks for people from both cities. Forested hills, waterfalls and nearby forts such as Lohagad and Visapur, linked to Maratha and Mughal history, surround the towns.

The area is at its best during the monsoon, when the slopes turn green and waterfalls run down the hillsides, and morning mist often hangs over the valleys. Viewpoints such as Tiger's Leap and Duke's Nose look out over the Ghats. Visitors trek up to forts like Rajmachi, explore the old Buddhist caves at Karla and Bhaja, picnic at Tungarli Lake, or try the activities at Della Adventure Park.

Unmapia

02 — About

Coming soon

We’re still writing about Lonavala and Khandala: its history, what’s there and why it’s worth the trip.

03 — Plan your visit

When to go

Time of day: Open Sunrise – Sunset

On the ground

Access: Nearest airport: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (BOM), Mumbai.; Nearest railway station: Mumbai Central Railway Station (MMCT).