They say travelling opens your mind to different perspectives and to energize my soul, I decided to make a Lonavala trip and embrace its beauty. Nestled in the state of Maharashtra, the beautiful hill station of Lonavala is all about celebrating life with lush green hills, trekking expeditions, adventure sports and so much more. So, are you ready to embrace my Lonavala tour? Let’s go and check out everything that you need to know about this absolutely stunning destination. 

How to reach the location?

By Airways:

You can take a flight to Pune and land at Lohegaon Airport, the nearest to Lonavala. It is 64 Km from here which you can either cover by car, bus or train.

By Railways:

Lonavala is reachable from the major cities of Mumbai, Pune, Nashik and others. It is always a great idea to take a train early in the morning so that you can manage your check-in to the hotel.

By Roadways:

Lonavala is well connected through roadways, and you can either take a bus which takes around 4 hours or opt for a road trip with your friends or family. 

For my Lonavala trip, I took Deccan Express from Dadar at 7:13 AM and thoroughly enjoyed the journey. While I didn’t opt for AC due to favourable weather, you may choose the AC coach for a more comfortable journey. Do not forget to try tempting hot Vada Pav from the hardworking vendors at the Kalyan Station.

I reached Lonavala by 10:10 AM to mark an exciting journey this time!

Day 1 of Lonavala Trip

Some Leisure before the Day Begins!

I absolutely didn’t want to start the Lonavala trip as a hassle. Some holidays are not about running but rejuvenating. With such an amazing room that I found on hotels website, I was all set to enjoy my breakfast. As I entered the room, I took a nice nap because I just could not stop finding comfort in linen beds topped with the cleanliness of the room.

You know, the smell of hotel rooms hits the brain and you never really smell it elsewhere. It’s literally an emotion!

Satisfying Taste Buds at Buvanchi Misal

My Lonavala trip would have been incomplete if I did not live and eat like a local. It’s quite intriguing to know about the culture, practices and cuisines of any place so I didn’t hesitate to grab the moment by visiting a local cafe or an eatery. So, that’s what I did!

I got to know about Buvanchi Misal from the hotel staff and immediately called the auto driver. As I reached the place, I could see how it was filled with locals, tourists, families and people all around. To my discovery, the place was pretty famous and had been serving authentic misal pav for ages! I ordered it and oh! It was mouth-watering.

You might have eaten the spicy misal but trust me, this one was a soothing balance of crunch, smooth texture and fusion of spices. It is a must-try here! Apart from this, I tried their famous buttermilk, and it was mind-blowing to witness the pureness in preparation. The place also had other food items including Vada Pav, Sol Kadhi, Kanda Bhaji and more.

Time for Tips

• Sundays are super busy here, and you might feel rushed during the busy hours. Avoid them!

What a palatable Maharashtrian lunch with beautiful people preparing it! I headed to my hotel for some rest and to get ready for the next adventure. 

Also, check out 15 Best Things to Do in Lonavala for an Enthralling Time

Saying Hi to Mapro Garden

If you have ever stayed in one of the hotels in Mahabaleshwar, you cannot leave without experiencing deliciousness at the famous Mapro Garden. To give a wholesome experience to travellers, the brand has created yet another Mapro Garden in Lonavala. My visit here was worthy enough with so many things to do at one location.

Let’s say the Lonavala trip did all the justification here as Mapro Garden is located near a long-stretched road where I could easily catch a glimpse of lush green mountains. The sprawling area is huge enough to experience solace, do some shopping and dive into a world of tranquillity.

To begin with, Mapro Garden has an enclosed dedicated shopping area where I could find loads of varieties of Mapro syrups, slushes and special Mojito mixtures. To my surprise, they had live counters all around that let you try the drink before buying it. Who doesn’t love free stuff? I literally enjoyed every drink, chocolate and cookie from here.

Time for Tips!

• Backpacks are easier to carry as the place does not have any dedicated area to keep your shopping bags while you roam around.
• It is best to first explore the garden because you wouldn’t want to carry your shopping bags all around!

What Can You Buy?

You can buy from a range of Mapro’s Falero jellies, candies, Mapro Syrups and the brand’s stuffed toys. You can also find products from other brands that include dark chocolate, white chocolate, a variety of cookies, nacho chips and a lot more.

My favourite ones are Mazzana Almond Dark Chocolate, Kiwi Syrup and a cute strawberry plush toy.

Moving Ahead..

Oh, the story doesn’t end here! After a great shopping experience, I moved ahead to find a stunning view of a man-made waterfall with some colourful fishes swimming in the pond. If you are here, make sure to explore all the green surroundings and take a picture with the waterfall too!

The Lonavala trip simply got better with a huge space dedicated to delicious food. The food area is quite hyped due to the famous Strawberry cream. It was all flooded with cream and juicy strawberries, so I obviously could not resist. The cafeteria also has some great varieties of pizzas and sandwiches to choose from! You need to buy coupons first and might have to wait longer in queues during the peak season.

Food and drinks take time for preparation so it is best to visit the cafe when your hunger levels are not at peak.

Additionally, Mapro Garden also has a clothing shop where you can collect souvenirs or buy unique women’s wear for yourself. I did check it out, however, I found it a bit pricey. At last, I said goodbye to this beautiful place and headed for a comfortable rest at the hotel.

Time for Tips!

• You can easily find auto rickshaws from the gate itself so you needn’t worry about transportation.
• It is ideal to pay a fixed amount to and fro to avoid getting looted. 

Enjoying a Relaxing Stroll

Day 1 of my Lonavala Trip was crazy enough with shopping, photography and scrumptious food. After a hearty meal at a local eatery, I went around the hotel for a walk. It was surprisingly amazing to find the hotel staff being responsible for my safety while I was out. 

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Day 2 of Lonavala Trip

Witnessing Serenity at Tungarli Lake

Tungarli Lake is a popular serene point in Lonavala, and since I didn’t go trekking, I really wanted to explore this place. It was a long walk from my hotel and so I opted for an auto-rickshaw early in the morning. What a beautiful lake it was! 

After sitting here for a while, I tried some corn bhajjis and chai from the local stalls with really sweet vendors. It is recommended to visit this place in groups as it gets crowded with locals and the way to get here is also quite. I soaked in nature here and headed back to the hotel. 

With all my hunger, I went to local restaurants and enjoyed a delicious meal compromising authentic Maharashtrian varieties. A heavy meal only inspired me to rest for a while in my oh-so comfy bed for a power-packed evening. 

Baar Baar Dhaba

Old Mumbai – Pune Hwy, near manshakti kendra, Varsoli, Lonavala, Maharashtra 410401

JP’s Pizzeria Lonavala 

Pune Near Jai Mataji hotel, Varsoli, Lonavala – 410401, Maharashtra 410405

Seeking Blessings at Narayani Dham

The Lonavala tour is specifically highlighted in my memories because of the Shree Narayani Dham. After the evening tea, I straightaway headed here. It is a divine temple with a beautiful statue of Goddess Narayani studded with glorious diamond-like shining jewels. 

The temple is spread across a huge area where my eyes simply could not stop witnessing the open skies and abundantly sprawling gardens. The 4.5-acre land was decorated for a grand wedding in the presence of Gods and Goddesses here during my visit. My Lonavala trip was elevated as I stepped inside to ring the giant bell which is considered quite auspicious.

Time for Tips!

• It is believed that you should stand in the centre of the bell and just after you ring it, you can feel all the vibrations within you. 
• I tried, and it worked, I felt different. It’s your turn now!

The temple has basic stay options. However, you can look for budget-friendly hotels in Lonavala for a comfortable stay. There’s a huge area to sit and immerse yourself in nature, and that’s what I did. Also, it is one of the best spots for photography on your Lonavala tour.

It was a fusion of mesmerising fountains, divine prasad and spirituality in the air. The experience was topped with helpful locals and calmness here. I then moved towards the right to find a cowshed where I fed grass to cows at a minimal amount of INR 50. You can do it too!

As I moved out, I could not stop myself from enjoying the hot Vada Pav and Chai from a local stall right opposite the temple. Also, it is the best spot to witness the Rajasthani architecture of the temple from a faraway angle.

I was done for the day and headed to the hotel for a scrumptious dinner and rest.

10 Thrilling Places to Visit in Lonavala That You Shouldn’t Miss This Season

Day 3

Exploring the Local Market for Shopping

It was time to say goodbye to this awe-inspiring hill station. However, I was taking home memories of an amazing travel experience. I checked out from the hotel and headed for a crazy shopping time during the last day of my Lonavala trip. I took an auto and headed to the main market near the station.

Your eyes are sure to be startled by the amount of chikki shops you will find here. Maganlal Chikki is the brand which set Lonavala to be the hub for chikkis; however, it is now difficult to identify the real legacy store.

Every store offers you a huge variety of chikkis, fudges and other snacks. However, my personal favourite is the scrumptious Chocolate Walnut Fudge, Mix Chikki and Sweet Jellies. I also tried the Rose Fudge and Mango Fudge and absolutely fell in love with them! Here are some of the best shops to start your shopping.

Navratna Chikki

1/2, Markar Manzil, MG Rd, near Mavla Statue, Lonavala, Maharashtra 410401

Cooper’s Fudge And Chikkis 

Coopers, opposite Viner Resort, near Laal Taki Ryewoods, Lonavala

Purohit’s Chikki & Sweets

Shop No.A1 To A4, Kumar Resorts, Old Mumbai – Pune Hwy, Takve Kurth, Rao Colony, Lonavala, Maharashtra 410401

Time for Tips!

• The auto drivers might try to take you to manufacturing units where you can get a discount; however, the taste is not upto the mark.
• Do not fall for discount traps without knowing the quality of fudges sold at these units. 

Heading Back to Home

I literally wish I had a huge bank balance to literally buy so many nostalgic and international chocolate bars from here. However, I controlled my impulses and headed straightaway to the station. I took the train – Deccan Express at 4:25 PM for yet another scenic journey to home.

As I bid goodbye to my Lonavala tour, I promised myself to keep coming back for the thrilling adventures, soothing greenery and many unexplored destinations to visit!

Things to know before travelling to Lonavala 

• Auto-rickshaws are available for local travelling in Lonavala but fares are not decided by meter; you need to negotiate with the driver before heading to any location
• The basic cost starts with INR 100 and can go up to INR 350 – 400 if you travel to the market in between your journey
• You can explore places via walking however, it is difficult to navigate through maps and you might lose your way

Do’s and Don’ts in Lonavala 

Do’s

• Always know if your hotel is near the East or West as the auto fare changes to a great extent if you step on the wrong side 
• Always ask the auto driver to leave you near the market area for the station as you need to climb a lot from the other side
• Take the contact details of the auto driver and fix a good price for travelling throughout your Lonavala trip; it avoids too much negotiation with different drivers
• It is good to buy Mapro products from the original store for genuine quality 
• Always ask the hotel if they offer a private cab facility to roam around in the city
• Always keep your maps on while travelling to be on track

Don’ts

• Don’t take any auto-rickshaw right outside the station; they are sure to charge higher than others. Get out of the station premises to find a reasonable price
• Auto drivers might offer to be your tour guide for a Lonavala tour covering different points but don’t fall for it before checking reviews and availability of the place
• Don’t roam alone after 8 PM as some parts of the hill station become quiet without locals on the road; it is all safe if you are in a group

Where did I Stay?

If I had to do a Lonavala trip, I was pretty sure of opting for a hygienic property. My second priority was to enjoy an outdoor swimming pool. So, I booked the hotel through the website. I also got an amazing discount upto 5% and that literally made the day!

I took a standard room which was quite spacious for 2 people. Felt like I instantly dived into a world of tranquility and luxury, all away from everyday hustling life. The staff was courteous enough to help me with laundry and iron board service. 

Let’s not forget the huge swimming pool which was all clean. I really didn’t expect that sort of cleanliness considering the number of guests the hotel had! The hotel simply exceeded my expectations and bang on, I am always booking this one. If you are planning for a Lonavala tour, this hotel serves delicious complimentary breakfast which you cannot miss.

I found it a bit lazy to go out and eat however, it was yet another way to explore like tourists so yeah, that’s a win-win deal.

Now that you have all the routes, hotel details and places to explore, go and enrich your holidays with a great Lonavala trip. Sometimes, all you need is a little time away from your occupied self.

Travel.Explore.Reconnect. 

The post My Lonavala Trip: Suggestions, Recommendations and Tips appeared first on Treebo Blog.

Known for its tourist attraction sights, Lonavala is home to many high points, trekkers’ delight and a paradise for witnessing high waterfalls and valleys. Showcasing a carpet of pristine natural beauty, the destination has the best things to do in Lonavala for couples. It is simply a gateway to a memorable escape from city life.

15 Best Things to Do in Lonavala are

1. Lonavala Lake

Taking a serene stroll beside the lake is one of the top things to do in Lonavala and soak in the charm of this enchanting water body. It is an iconic attraction that will sway you away with its ethereal beauty and the charm of this place.

Lonavala Lake is at its peak during the monsoon when it is surrounded by fifty shades of green making it one of the best places. There are many things to do in Lonavala for couples such as boating, kayaking, and paddle boating. Additionally, you can try corn bhajjis and tea in the vicinity.

Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Location: Lonavala Lake, Khondagewadi, Lonavala

2. Kune Falls

One of the fun things to do in Lonavala is to take a day trip with your friends to the Kune falls. Located very close to the Bushi dam, Kune falls is one of the most popular spots for youngsters, one can find food stalls selling piping maggi and coffee.

The gushing waterfall and the virgin greeneries surround the falls adding more value to the scenery. Witnessing the natural wonder is indeed one of the romantic things to do in Lonavala for couples.

Timings: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Location: Kune Village, Khandala, Lonavala

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3. Rajmachi Viewpoint

Rajmachi Viewpoint is one of the most prominent places to visit during your trip. Visiting the viewpoint is one of the amazing things to do in Lonavala. The fort rejuvenates your senses as you get to witness beautiful landscapes.

The fort complex consists of two peaks, Sri Vardhan peak and Manaranjan peak. The trek to the top is quite simple for beginners as it is well-marked throughout the way.

Timings: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Location: Rajmachi fort, NH 48, Khandala

4. Tikona Fort

Tikona fort is one of the prestigious forts dating back to the Maratha Rule. Situated at a height of 3633 feet, it is a popular sight for day trekking. Trekking to the fort with your travel buddies is one of the top things to do in Lonavala.

There are a few Buddhist and Satavahana caves present inside the fortifications apart from the wells, large doorways and a small but prominent Tribakeshwar Mahadev Temple inside the fort’s premises. 

Timings: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Location: Gavhandhe village, Tikona Peth, Near Pavana River, Lonavala

5. Lions Point

Situated at a distance of 12 kilometers, Lions point is located between the Bhushi Dam and Aamby Valley. There is a plethora of scenic views that can be seen from the vantage point. Reaching this point will also provide a majestic view of Shivling peak. One of the adventurous and fun things to do in Lonavala includes driving from the point to the Shivling peak.

Timings: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Location: Lonavala – Aamby Valley Road, Dattawadi Road, Lonavala

6. Duke’s Nose 

If you are looking for things to do in Lonavala, visiting this high point should top your list. It is located approximately 7 kilometers away from the city center. This is a popular landmark, known especially for allowing visitors to rejuvenate themselves with the magnificent view of the Sahyadri range. It is an excellent opportunity to be completely engrossed in the serene beauty of the dense forest. Additionally, various trekking expeditions are available at this point. 

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Timings: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Location: Kurwande Gaon Holi maal, near Z.P school, Lonavala

7. Karla Caves

Exploring Karla caves is one of the best things to do in Lonavala for couples. These are situated on the Pune-Mumbai highway. This cave is believed to be one of the few caves that have been unearthed in Sahyadri hills adorning the halls and monasteries.

Some sections of the caves are believed to be built between the 2nd-century B.C and the 5th century B.C. Interestingly, the deep dive into history takes you to archeological sites and architectural beauty of rock-cut caves. It also has a temple dedicated to Goddess Durga. 

Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Entry Fee: INR 25

Location: Karla, Ekvira Devi Road, Lonavala

8. Visapur Killa

This fort is located near the Visapur village and serves as an integral part of the Lohagad-Visapur fortifications. The greenery and the adventurous trek path adds more thrill to the journey. Visiting the killa is one of the top things to do in Lonavala for couples.

The best time to visit the fort is during the monsoon when the clouds and mist cover the top of the fort. The trek is sure to get an adrenaline rush thereby elevating your spirit!

Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Location: Visapur Village, Malavi

9. Shree Narayani Dham Temple

Dedicated to Goddess Narayani, this beautiful temple is made with marble. Idol of Goddess Narayani is studded with diamonds and the illuminating jewellery. The temple hosts many divine idols of Lord Ganesh, Hanuman, and other deities.

Visiting the temple during festivals and occasions such as Navratri and other Mahotsavs are amongst the best things to do in Lonavala. Additionally, there’s a cowshed wherein you can feed cows or even take a stroll around the large area of the temple. 

Also check a quick weekend guide: 7 best weekend getaways near Pune of 2022

Timings: 7:00 AM – 12:00 PM | 3:15 PM – 9:00 PM

Location: Yoga Center, Plot No 28/199, Near Kaivalyadhama, Tungarli Rd, Tungarli, Lonavala

10. Bhaja Caves

Considered to be the oldest of the many cave complexes in the area, Bhaja Caves dates to about the 2nd century BCE. These caves are a cluster of 21 caves that were occupied for centuries. One of the best things to do in Lonavala involves taking a stroll down the memory lane of ancient Indian History.

Admiring the workmanship and the finesse of the architecture along with taking many picturesque pictures are the few things to do in Lonavala for couples. You are sure to find a plethora of spots to historic sculptures and artistry here.

Timings: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Entry Fee: INR 5

Location: Bhaje Caves Road, District, near Bhaja Village, Maval, Lonavala

11. Tiger Point

Also known as Tiger’s Leap, it is located at a distance of 8 kilometers from Lonavala. It is one of the most visited places in Lonavala. Visiting this tourist attraction site easily tops the list of things to do in Lonavala. The clifftop lets you enjoy the breathtaking view of the surrounding hills of western ghats.

Once you have reached this vantage point, you get an amazing opportunity to witness an uncanny resemblance of a tiger leaping into the mountains. Photographing memories here is one of the popular things to do in Lonavala for couples. 

Timings: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Entry Fee: No Entry Fees

Location: Kurvande, Lonavala

12. Bhushi Dam

Visiting the Bhushi Dam located on the Indrayani river is one of the best things to do in Lonavala during the monsoon. You get to see the mesmerising view of water flowing and making its way through rocky terrains. This dam is the most picturesque spot you will ever find in the hill station of Lonavala. To feed your empty stomach, you can try Maggi, tea and egg-made dishes in the vicinity. Photographers are also available near the dam to capture your happy moments.

Timings: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM

Location: Bhushi dam road, Lonavala

13. Wax Museum

If you are looking forward to some unique things to do in Lonavala, visiting the wax museum should be on your list. You can spot wax statues of different celebrities including Michael Jackson, Kapil Dev, A.R. Rahman, Rajeev Gandhi and so on. Many consider the wax statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji to be the best at this museum. It also happens to be one of the best tourist attractions in Lonavala.

Timings: 9:00 AM – 9:30 PM

Entry Fee: INR 200

Location: Lonavala Junction, Lonavala Square Mall, Takve Kurth, Pune

14. Lohagad Fort

Lohagad fort located approximately 52 kilometers away from Pune. Being one of the top things to do in Lonavala, this fort adorns itself with Maharashtrian architecture. You get to enjoy the scenic beauty of the surroundings from the top as well.

The trekking expedition is simpler than other treks of Lonavala. The fort has around 300 steps towards the top. If you are visiting in monsoon, make sure to book hotels in Lonavala as you sure deserve a peaceful stay after. 

Timings: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Location: Lohagad Trek Rd, Pune

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15. Della Adventure Park

Fun meets adventure is the motto of this adventure park. There is a wide range of activities that visitors can do such as tandem cycling, flying fox, swoop swing, paintball, sky cycling and virtual games. Visiting Della Adventure Park is one of the thrilling things to do in Lonavala. Multiple activities are segregated as per their thrill factor.

Guess what? There is something for everyone so you can visit with your friends, colleagues and family members too. The food court and the gift shop are also an added factor which increases the fun element. Spending time at this adventure park is one of the exhilarating things to do in Lonavala for couples.

Timings: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM

Entry Fee: INR 2065 (Adults)
INR 1475 – Kids (above 2.6 meters of height and more than 5 years) 

INR 1475 – Senior Citizens
Location: Plot No. 130-1, Lonavala, Kunegaon

It is your chance to spend time in one of the most picturesque tourist destinations in Maharashtra. Favorite amongst mountain lovers and trekkers, it has the right amount of adventure, serene weather and fun activities. With the best things to do in Lonavala, take pleasure to satisfy your craving for adventure and thrill!

The post 15 Best Things to Do in Lonavala for an Enthralling Time appeared first on Treebo Blog.

It is a paradise for thrill-seekers and travellers looking for a heavenly weekend getaway. As the location is filled with various natural waterfalls, dams and mountains, you can relax in your hotel or go out to seek activities for an adrenaline rush!

Lonavala is the hub for delicious Chikkis (a sweet delight) available in various flavours. The Lonavala market is where travellers can explore multiple items as souvenirs for loved ones. You can browse a plethora of fudges available in chocolate, coconut, strawberry and mango flavours. 

Since the hill station is home to the Mapro Garden, a variety of Mapro juices, milkshakes, chocolates and jellies are available at the market. You can find mouth-watering vada pav stalls, small shops selling wooden artefacts and hand-worked items. Traditional wear, jutti and glass vessels are also found at the main market.

To make your trip more exciting, we’re all set to host you at the best of our hotels in Lonavala.

Places to Visit in Lonavala are-

1. Tiger’s Leap

Also known as the Tiger Point, it is one of the breath-taking places to visit in Lonavala. The cliff top resembles the shape of a tiger leaping into the vast valley; hence, the name is derived from this reference. The Tiger’s leap is located at 8 Kms distance from the main hill station.

This major tourist attraction is a cliff top that offers views of huge mountains wrapped in a blanket of lush greenery. Most travellers visit the destination to witness the glowing sunrise and sunset. You can spot calming colours creating a gorgeous combination in the sky. Echo Point is also another location in proximity to the Tiger’s Leap.

2. Bhaja Caves

Do you wish to dive into the world of history and ancient architecture? If yes, you must consider one of the historical places to visit in Lonavala. Bhaja Caves is a group of 22 rock-cut caves dating back to ancient history. You need to climb uphill to reach the main caves of Bhaja.

These caves depict architectural beauty through sculptures and stupas. You can also explore the cascading Bhaja fall located inside the caves. You can spot approximately 14 stupas dating back to the first century BC. 

3. Lonavala Lake

You cannot miss the beautiful Lonavala lake on the outskirts of the hill station. It is also called the monsoon lake as it quickly fills during the season. Travellers get an opportunity to enjoy the refreshing air while sipping on Chai available at small stalls.

It is also a beautiful picnic spot for swimming and observing nature. While you enjoy the peaceful views, you can also enjoy hot vada pav and bhutta (Corn) at the destination. 

4. Karla Caves

Karla caves is a great destination to understand ancient Buddhism and its practices. It is located 14.9 km from Lonavala. This famous attraction in Lonavala also happens to be one of the oldest cave shrines of Buddhism.

It is one of the heavenly places to visit in Lonavala and houses Ekvira Temple in the interiors. You can spot a Buddhist monastery built in the ancient era around the 2nd century BC. Travellers need to climb upward to reach the main destination. 

5. Visapur Fort

The first Peshwa of the Maratha Empire, Balaji Vishwanath, constructed Visapur Fort between 1713 and 1720 CE. Visapur Fort, standing atop a verdant plateau, is a popular excursion site for both nature lovers and explorers.

It is an ideal place to trek in the rainy season with your group of people. The trek takes around 2 hours to reach the top. During monsoon, you might get a chance to experience water flowing through the path of the trek. You can savour maggi and tea at the top of the hill. 

6. Tikona Fort

This fort is 3633 feet above sea level and is located on top of the Tikona peak. It is 36 Kms from the main hill station of Lonavala. Even the gateway of Tikona Fort exudes rich culture and heritage. This fort offers one of the simpler hikes in Maharashtra.

The path is wide and extremely safe for travellers seeking adventure for the first time. You can witness the breath-taking views of the Pawna Dam and other forts from the top.

If you’re a history buff then you should surely check Top 10 breathtaking palaces and forts of India that you should not miss

7. Bhushi Dam

Bhushi Dam is a masonry dam on the Indrayani River. It was constructed in the late 1860s as the primary water source for the Great Indian Peninsular Railway’s steam engines. When at this hill station, this is one of the top places to visit in Lonavala.

During monsoon, the water overflows the steps of Bhushi Dam, making it ideal for travellers to sit and experience lush greenery. Small stalls near the steps have maggi, egg, corn and other snacks to munch on.

8. Pawna Lake

Pawna Lake is a reservoir turned artificial lake often referred to as Pavana Dam Reservoir. Pawna lake is home to beautiful campsites and you cannot miss the camping experience here. This beautiful campground is surrounded by foggy Western Ghat valleys and is set in a thick green setting.

As the site is present in  the lake area, you can enjoy free kayaking and boating. Campsites also offer barbecue, food options, and safe tents for a relaxed stay. 

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9. Lohagad Fort

One of the Maratha Empire’s best-built forts is 68 kilometres from Pune and 89 kilometres from Mumbai. This fort is situated at an altitude of 3,388 feet. Lohagad is one of the greenest forts in the state of Maharashtra.

During the monsoon, everything is lush and green at the hilltop. Most adventure seekers choose Lohagad fort due to its perfect geographical setting. It is ideal for a one-day trek where you can watch the splendour of nature. 

10. Rajmachi Fort

One of the beautiful places to visit in Lonavala is the thrilling Rajmachi Fort. This is a popular location for trekking expeditions to seek adventure and explore the historical charm. The fort is home to two stronghold forts – Shrivardhan and Manaranjan.

This is a popular location for trekking expeditions to seek adventure and explore the historical charm. The fort is home to two stronghold forts – Shrivardhan and Manaranjan.

You can easily reach this destination by travelling 16 Kms from the Lonavala hill station. The fort also offers amazing camping experiences during the winter and summer seasons.

At the top, travellers get an opportunity to witness the exotic Kataldhar waterfall paving its way to your hearts. As you now have the list of the best places to visit in Lonavala, you can truly enjoy the hill station with relevant information in hand.

Take rides through the chilly weather, shop from the locals and witness the beauty of the destination. So if you’re planning a relaxing getaway, Lonavala is indeed a great destination.

It offers comfortable stays, mouth-watering food, lakes, greenery, forts and caves. What awaits you? Go and get a soothing experience at Lonavala.

The post 10 Thrilling Places to Visit in Lonavala That You Shouldn’t Miss This Season appeared first on Treebo Blog.

The highlight of the Devkund Waterfalls is that it is one of the few falls in  Maharashtra that falls under the category of a plunge fall. This means that the waterfall pours down with a strong gush on the rocky surface right into the pool. This makes your experience in Devkund, a majestic one.

If you are planning a trip to the Devkund Waterfalls, you would first want to get enough information about the place. To help you, we have put together this concise guide to the Devkund Waterfalls. Read on to know more.

Why You Should Visit

Due to its proximity to Mumbai, the Devkund Waterfalls is the perfect getaway for a short trip away from the city life. It is also a cool place to be, away from crowds at hill stations. Another good reason to visit is that it gives you the chance to enjoy hiking. If you love the outdoors, you’ll enjoy the experience of trekking up to the peak of the waterfall.

Best Time to Visit Devkund Waterfalls

It is best to go during the monsoon. Temperature is on the lower side and the atmosphere is perfect for a trek or a day out. The Waterfall is at its striking best between the months of July and August when the rainfall is at its peak.

In the monsoon, you should take precautions while hiking up the mountain, we have mentioned a few safety measures to take (further ahead in the article).

Getting to Devkund Waterfalls From Mumbai

By Road

You can get to Devkund Waterfalls from Mumbai by road. This is probably the easiest way to reach. To get to Devkund, you need to drive to Karjat, from there to Pali, and from there to Bhira. Parking is a bit of a problem in Bhira. So, it is best to drive to Pali, park your car there and then head to Bhira by bus.

If you want to travel by bus, you need to board one from Karjat Station, go up to Pali and change buses to get to Bhira.

By Train

Catch a CST local to Karjat and from there a bus to Pali, then onto Bhira. Check local listings for bus timing.

Getting to Devkund Waterfalls From Pune

By Road

The drive from Pune to Devkund is about an hour and a half. Follow map instructions, if you are using GPS or ask for directions along the way. The drive is fairly comfortable, but we recommend booking a cab from Pune to the waterfalls as there aren’t adequate parking facilities available near the falls.

Buses to Devkund ply from Khopoli to Pali and from Pali to Bhira.

By Train

There are no direct trains to Bhira from Pune. To get to the falls, you will have to take a train from Pune to Khopoli and from there take a bus.

Devkund Trail

The Devkund trail begins from the Bhira village. The trek will take you two hours to complete, at a normal pace. To know where to start, look out for the Tata Power Plant or the Bhira Dam. Take a left from the power plant and then head into the village where you’ll come across a food stall. You could have a few snacks, get proper directions and then make the climb up.

Please note that it is safer to take a guide with you to the falls. Local guides are available near the starting point in Bhira. They charge around Rs.100 per head. They know the routes well and can also tell you a few fun facts about the falls.

Things To Do At Devkund Waterfalls

1. Click Stunning Pictures Of The Falls

As soon as you reach the top, soak in the stunning views of the Devkund Hills. You will be surprised at how gorgeous the waterfall looks, especially in the monsoon. While checking out the waterfalls, do not forget to catch a glimpse of the Tamhini Ghat that is nearby.

2. Enjoy A Picnic At The Waterfalls

At the waterfalls, there are a few open places that are ideal for picnics. In fact, many families from Pune and Mumbai, often drop by on the weekend for a picnic. You will have to carry food and other picnic essentials, as there is nothing available near the waterfall.

3. Enjoy Rafting At The Kundalika River

Just a few kilometres away from the Devkund Waterfalls is a stretch of the Kundalika river that is famous for river rafting. Since you are already making the trip to Devkund, why not try your hand at rafting? It is a fabulous experience to ride the rapids of the Kundalika.

Accommodation Near Devkund Waterfalls

There are homestays and mid-sized resorts located about 10 miles away from the falls. These accommodations have the basic comfort facilities and good options for food.

For those willing to stay outdoors, there are some awesome camping sites available near the Devkund Waterfalls.

Things To Carry On  Devkund Waterfalls Trek

• Carry mosquito repellents.

• Make sure you have a torch.

• A good pair of running shoes.

• A bottle of water for the way

• A jacket, if you are going in the monsoon.

Things To Remember

• Swimming is not allowed at the falls, so do not attempt it.
  

• If you are in a group, always stick together, the path can get confusing.
  

• Do not venture deep into the forest area.

• It is highly recommended that you do not carry any edibles to the sanctuary or near the waterfalls to avoid littering and unwarranted curiosity from animals.
  

That was a short guide to the Devkund Waterfalls. You now know how to get there, things to keep in mind during your trip and a little about the trail.

Although we have listed most of the details you need to know about a trek to Devkund Waterfalls, if there is any more information you need, ask us in the comments below. We would be glad to answer all your questions.

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