Maharashtra · West India

Lonavala travel guide

Monsoon getaway in the Sahyadris

Lonavala
Cppfront · CC0
Best time
Jun–Feb
How long
1–2 days
Stay a night
₹1,200–9,000
Food a day
₹400–1,600
Nearest railhead
0 km away
Nearest airport
70 km away

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About Lonavala

Mumbai and Pune’s weekend escape — waterfalls, forts, Karla caves and chikki.

Things to do in Lonavala

  1. Tiger's Point

    1 h · Free

    Tiger's Point is a popular viewpoint in Lonavala featuring a dramatic cliff that drops steeply into the valley below. During the monsoon season, numerous waterfalls cascade down the surrounding hills and cliffs.

    Tip: Hold on firmly to your belongings and watch out for monkeys near the edge

  2. Bhushi Dam

    1 h · Free

    Bhushi Dam is a masonry dam on the Indrayani River in Lonavala, Maharashtra. During the monsoon season, water flows directly over the steps, creating a popular spot for visitors.

  3. Karla Caves

    2 h · ₹25 entry

    Karla Caves is a complex of ancient rock-cut Buddhist shrines dating from the 2nd century BCE to the 5th century CE. Located near Lonavala, it features the Grand Chaitya, which is the largest and most completely preserved chaitya hall of the period with fine large-scale sculptures.

    Tip: Wear comfortable footwear suitable for climbing the rock-cut steps to the caves.

  4. Lohagad Fort

    3 h · Free

    Lohagad is a historic hill fort in Lonavala near Pune that rises to a peak of 1,033 metres. Connected to Visapur fort by a small range, it was ruled by several empires including the Marathas and Mughals.

    Tip: Wear good grip shoes as the trek can be physically demanding.

  5. Della Adventure Park

    4 h · ₹2,500 entry

    An amusement park spread across 36 acres in Lonavala, featuring ziplines, swings, and ATVs. It offers over fifty recreational activities including adventure sports and glamping.

    Tip: Wear comfortable sports shoes and active clothing suitable for outdoor adventure sports.

  6. Pawna Lake

    3 h · Free

    Pawna Lake is an artificial reservoir formed by the Pavana Dam across the Pavana River. Located near Lonavala, it has become a popular weekend picnic and camping spot for visitors coming from Mumbai and Pune.

Where to stay in Lonavala

  • Lonavala town

    ₹1,500–4,000

    Close to the station and market.

  • Khandala

    ₹4,000–12,000

    Valley-view resorts.

  • Pawna Lake camps

    ₹1,500–3,000 incl. meals

    Lakeside tents with BBQ.

What to eat

  • Maganlal Chikki

    sweets · veg

    The original Lonavala chikki.

  • Vada pav & bhutta

    street food · veg

    Monsoon must-have at the viewpoints.

  • Kinara Village Dhaba

    restaurant

    Dhaba food in a themed village.

How to reach Lonavala by bus

Mumbai to Lonavala bus

Board at: Dadar, Borivali, Sion

Run by: MSRTC, private AC sleeper, private Volvo

When: Through the day and overnight

Traffic at the highway exits can cause delays during weekends.

Ready-made Lonavala itineraries

Good to know

  • Avoid monsoon weekends if you hate traffic on the expressway.

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Lonavala travel guide: best time, things to do, how to reach · JrnyLoop Blog