Lonavala

Overview:

A mere 150 kilometres from the sprawling city of Mumbai, is Lonavala. A popular hill station situated at height of 625 meters above the sea level, Lonavala is a romantic weekend getaway and a highly touristed destination by the residents of Mumbai and Pune. People love to escape from the rush and worries of city life, by enjoying a comfortable ride from Mumbai to Lonavala in a booked cab, and then spending a few days in tranquility amidst nature. Tourists in Mumbai and Pune also like to visit this serene hill station. The journey to Lonavala from Mumbai takes a little over two hours by car. Due to its unpolluted environment, Lonavala is also famous as a health resort. Lonavala derives its name from the Sanskrit word ‘Lonavli’ which means caves, due to its reserve of caves like Bedsa caves, Karla caves and Bhaja caves. Being a part of the majestic Sahyadri hills, it functions as an ideal location for trekking and hiking enthusiasts. Picturesque landscapes, placid pools, ancient caves and historical forts all in the foreground of pulchritudinous panoramic views of the Konkan coast and the Deccan plateau. This exquisite hill station expanding over an area of 38 square kilometers was located by Sir Elphinstone (the then Governor of Bombay Presidency in 1871). Although a pleasant climate prevails throughout the year, monsoon breaths fresh life into Lonavala, and is also considered the best time to visit Lonavala. Tourists who want to be enthralled by the myriad historical forts, ancient caves and wonderful serene lakes; savor the hard candy sweet known as ‘chikki’; should travel to this grandeur spot for holiday vacations. Lonavala is stationed at a distance of just 70 kilometers from Pune and 156 away from Mumbai. Budget and luxury cabs from Pune and Mumbai airports, as well as from within the respective cities can be availed at cheap rates. Car rentals or cab from Pune to Lonavala accomplish the best level of convenience to travel in and around the place, at the most economical rates. Some of the tourist attractions in Lonavala are considerably far from the main township, and from each other as well, the economical hire rates, factors in as an imperative for visitors to book cabs or taxis. The neighboring hill station famous for enticing its visitors with its captive verdant beauty and myriads of waterfalls, Khandala at a distance of 18 kilometers should also be visited.

Places to Visit:

Among the most touristy spots in Lonavala is the Bhaja Caves. Dating back to the second century BC, it is a group of 18 caves cut out of rocks by Buddhist monks. The caves enshrine sculptural reliefs of a prince on a chariot, a dancing couple, a prince seated on an elephant, and three armed warriors. The Karla caves form the largest cave temple in the country. These date back to the first century BC, and are a specimen of ancient Buddhist culture architecture and philosophy, exhibiting their ideologies through stupas and inscriptions.

Lohargarh Fort was used by Chhatrapati Shivaji and many other dynasties that ruled the kingdoms of Maratha and Vidharbha. Due to which the Lohargarh Fort has a rich history. Situated atop the Sahyadri ranges, at a height of 1050 metres above the sea Level, it divides the Indryani and Pavna basins. The Visapur Fort is a definite feature on the itinerary of any adventure seeker. It is situated at an altitude of about 4000 feet above the sea level, and the way to the fort makes for a great trekking expedition.

Built during the British era The Tungarli Lake and Dam comes to life during the Monsoon season, tourists and trekking enthusiasts climb the mountain top to experience the serene surrounding of the Dam.

Things To Do:

Trekking and camping are among a few on the list of outdoor activities for adventure enthusiasts that are proffered at Lonavala. Surrounded by placid lakes like the Tungarli Lake, Pavna Lake and Lonaval Lake - the beautiful natural settings are popular camping and trekking spots.

The hills of Lonavala are ideal for trekking. Most of the treks are quite tough with the most popular ones being to Duke's Nose and Kalra Hills. An early start is recommended.

The ten-day festival of Ganesh Chaturthi is one of the most important festival in Lonavala. The birth of Lord Ganesha is celebrated as Ganesh Chaturthi between the months of August and September. On the tenth day, street processions are organised before the clay idol is immersed in the water.

Navaratri is celebrated with much fervour in October. This is a ten day festival. On the tenth day, welcoming the season of harvest Vijayadashami is celebrated. Various rituals are performed to honor and seek the blessings of the Goddess Durga.