Located in the western side of Maharashtra is the lovely hill-station of Lonavala, a popular stop-over destination for those traveling between Mumbai and Pune. Famous for its surrounding beautiful vegetation and many other man-made and natural attractions, like the Lion Point, you’ll find it easy to admire this quaint little hill-station. Below are just some of the many exciting things to do in Lonavala.
Maharashtra is blessed with an abundance of natural wonders, and one attraction in particular stands out, the beautiful Kune falls in Lonavala. This waterfall is worth a visit during the rainy season where its waters are strong and ranging. Here, you can have a short stopover and have a picnic with friends and family while being surrounded by scenic views of the Sahyadri mountain ranges.
The Della Adventure Park is one of India’s largest adventure parks, as well as the best places in Lonavala to visit. With an area covering 5 acres, you can find all the exciting adventure sports in this one park, including ATV rides, zorbing, rappelling, archery and more! The park has over 70 activities to choose from so it’s the perfect place to feed your adrenaline rush in.
Being the first and largest wax museum in India, Sunli’s Celebrity Wax Museum boasts more than 100 wax figures of prominent local and international celebrities and politicians. Located in Lonavala Square Mall, visitors often flock to this family-friendly museum to see lifelike wax replicas of their favorite celebrities, including Bollywood megastars! Make sure you stop by whenever you’re passing through the Mumbai-Pune highway.
Along the outskirts of Lonavala lies the beautiful Lonavala Lake. Popularly known as Monsoon Lake, it is filled with water during the rainy seasons, creating this picturesque view of the wide landscape. The scenery is the perfect setting for a quick stop to relax and breathe before heading to your destination. Get a glimpse of the Lonavala Lake Waterfall while you’re there.
The Shree Narayani Dham Temple is one of the most visited places in Lonavala and provides space for a relaxing retreat for visitors. The temple complex extends over 4.5 acres and offers not only a place for consolation and worship, but also other facilities for various occasions. Marvel at the beautiful marbled floors of the temple, the spacious halls and the vibrant rose garden. The temple, too, welcomes visitors for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Not as large as Lonavala Lake, but the Tungarli Lake is equally beautiful. It’s the perfect place to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city life and just enjoy the picturesque scenery of nature. You can have a peaceful and relaxing picnic and perhaps stay until dusk to watch the sunset. Visit during the rainy season where the lake is filled up with water for a breathtaking view of the lake.
The Karla Buddha Caves, located near the Goddess Ekvira temple in Lonavala, is a complex of Buddhist shrines that’s prominent for its intricately carved rock walls. Built in the 1st century BC, you can marvel at the artistic and brilliant hands of the Indians as you look at the centuries-old Indian rock-cut architecture. Inside you’ll find tall pillars with intricate sculptures of animals and people, monasteries, as well as some beautifully preserved prayer halls.
With its lush green hills, deep cinematic valleys and stunning views of the Western Ghats, Lion Point is one of the best places to visit in Lonavala. Locals recommend a visit during the monsoon season to enjoy spectacular views of the mountainous landscape. There are stalls and vendors selling souvenirs and food. Make sure you enjoy some corn or cheese pakoda with hot tea or coffee to compliment the breezy weather!
For a fun weekend escape into nature, make sure to visit beautiful Rajmachi Fort in Lonavala. Surrounded by cinematic valleys and the lush green hues of Sahyadri range, the Rajmachi Point is a favorite spot for visitors who want to take an easy short trek to catch the sunrise or sunset. Locals advise you to visit the point during the rainy season where the surrounding landscape gives off a mystic charm due to the rain, and when the waterfall is at its strongest current.
Valvan Dam has become more than just a source of hydroelectric power for nearby towns and cities, and has also become a major tourist attraction in Lonavala. Built across the River Kundali, visitors can check out the dam that offers a beautiful view of the garden and the lake that is perfect for a family picnic. The scenic surroundings, the quaint sound of chattering water, and the lush greenery makes for a wonderful spot for visitors looking for some solace.
Lonavala, a quaint hill station between Mumbai and Pune, is best known for its magnificence and cool atmosphere. Home to a myriad of natural and man-made attractions including beautiful viewing points of lush green valleys and waterfalls, serene lakes, historical temples, and an abundance of theme parks.
Most of the natural attractions are best seen and experienced during the rainy season between June to September, however, the winter season is also good. Tourists, however, flock to the city during key annual events and holidays such as the Holi Spring Festival (Feb or Mar) and the Hindu Festival of Lights (Nov).
Being a small hill town, it’s main attractions are fairly near each other. You can opt to stay in hotels or hostels at the town center. For adventure seekers, you can head a little to the outskirts and find accommodations that are closer to nature.