Lonavala Hill Station

Lonavala Hill Station

Lonavala is a Hill station in Maharashtra. Also known as the jewel of the Sahyadri Mountains. This Hill Station is also a popular Health Resort in the western ranges on the sahyadri,It Is situated on a hieght of 625 mtrs. above sea level and is a popular gateway from Mumbai and Pune. It also serves as a starting point for tourists interested in visiting the famous, ancient Buddhist rock cut caves of Bhaja and Karla, which are located near this hill station.

Location

Lonavala is located in the western part of the state of Maharashtra, in India. It is situated 106 km southeast of Mumbai at an altitude of 625 m above sea level.

Weather

The weather in Lonavala is pleasant. Summers (April-June) are mild, while winters are cool (November-February). It experiences heavy southwestern monsoon rains between June and September.

Visiting Time

The best time to visit Lonavala is between the months of October and May. It is advised not to visit Lonavala in the monsoon season between the months of June and September, as it experiences heavy rainfall during this time.

Places to See

Lonavala provides a panoramic view of the lush green surroundings of the Sahyadri ranges. The peaceful environs of the town, which provides a great escape from the hustle and bustle of Mumbai city, attract tourists to this place. Travelers can take a walk along the waterfalls, the grassy abundance and hills in and around Lonavala. The mountainous terrain of Lonavala is ideal for trekking and hiking.

Excursion

There are numerous lakes around Lonavala. Tugauli, Lonavala and Bhushi lakes are worth visiting; so is the Walvan Dam. The small hill station of Khandala is just 5 km away. Travelers coming from Mumbai pass through Khandala before reaching Lonavala. Kaivalyadhama Yoga Hospital is 2 km from Lonavala on the road to Karla and Bhaja caves. This center attracts both local and foreign tourists seeking yogic healing. This center was founded in 1924 and conducts various courses in Yoga along with a research center and a training college. Karla and Bhaja Caves, located in the hills at a distance of 11 km from Lonavala, are important places to visit. These rock-cut cave temples dating back to 2nd century BC and are amongst the oldest and finest examples of Buddhist rock cut temple art in India, belonging to the Hinayana sect of Buddhism. Adventure seekers can try their hand at rock climbing at the Duke. s Nose peak and other locations in the Karla hills, near Lonavala.

Travel Information

Air:
The nearest airport from Lonalvala is Pune, which is 64 km from Lonavala.

Train:
Lonavala is on the main railway line between Mumbai and Pune , all express trains plying between the two cities stop here.

Road:
The bus service between Lonavala and Pune is good (2 hours). However, the ride is rough and it takes 4 hours to reach Mumbai from Lonavala. Buses shuttle between Lonavala and Khandala (5 km from Lonavala; 15 minutes trip).

Where to Stay

The Proximity between Lonavala & Khandala give tourists many options to stay. There are many hotels & Govt.guest houses that gives accommodation to every type of budget travellers.

Population : 50,000
Languages : Marathi, Hindi and English
Best Time to Visit : October. May
Std : 02114