Here’s what’s open in Lonavala after Covid-19 Lonavala and Khandala are easily two of the most visited hill stations in Maharashtra especially thanks to the easy accessibility and proximity that they share with Mumbai and Pune. Both Lonavala and its nearby neighbor Khandala offer the world weary traveller plenty of options across the spectrum of interest and budget. The list of things to see in Lonavala includes temples, trails, clubs, Lonavala resorts, nature resorts near Mumbai, treehouses in Lonavala and more. There are numerous tourist attractions in Lonavala. Today we take you through some of the coolest and most popular things to do in Lonavala which are now largely unaffected after the last year when Covid 19 struck and derailed the tourism economy of the region.
Kune Falls Visiting the 14th highest waterfall in India isn’t a bad way to start this list, is it? With a total height of close to 200 meters, Kune Falls is conveniently located in the center of the Lonavala-Khandala valley. Kune Falls is located against the mesmerizing backdrop of the Sahyadris and is a great spot for a one-day picnic. Though this place is best visited during the monsoon when Kune Falls is gushing in all its glory, the flow continues for a number of months after the monsoon, thus making it one of the must-visit places in Lonavala.
Pawna Lake Pawna Lake is one of the most popular artificial lakes in Maharashtra. Thanks to its easy accessibility and serene location, the Pawna Lake is a nature lover’s favorite and throngs of visitor flock to this shimmering lake to camp out along its banks. The Pawna Lake is surrounded by lush green hills and is also blessed with a pleasant climate all year round. What’s more, historic forts such as the Tikona Fort and Lohagad Fort are located within a reasonable distance of the lake, so you’re never short on sightseeing activities while camping around Pawna Lake.
Bushi Dam One of the most frequented spots resorts in Lonavala, Bushi Dam makes for a spectacular view when the dam overflows as the water rushes over an array of steps, almost like an artificial waterfall. Bushi Dam is easily the first name that pops up when you think about going sightseeing in Lonavala. During
weekends and holidays, Bushi Dam is packed with visitors. Swimming is not allowed at Bushi Dam, but nevertheless, this is a favorite spot for picnic-goers as the Bushi Dam is a fun place to visit all year round.
Karla & Bhaja Caves Built around the 2nd century BC, these caves are among the finest examples of ancient rock-cut caves existing today. The Karla cave complex comprises of 16 rock-cut cave shrines while the Bhaja caves complex comprises of 22 rock-cut caves. A throwback to a time when mountains were cut into caves, a visit to the Karla & Bhaja Caves is like taking a stroll down history’s memory lane. It is said that the Buddhist monks who lived in these caves would often extend their hospitality to wear travelers making their way from the Deccan. Though reaching this cave complex is somewhat of a climb, a trip to these caves is highly recommended for those who are fond of history and architecture.
Lohagad Fort A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Lohagad Fort effortlessly combines ancient architecture with natural beauty. Literally meaning ‘iron fort’ in Marathi, Lohagad rises to an elevation of 1,033 meters or 3,389 feet above sea level. Perched atop a hillock, the trek to Lohagad fort is one which requires a medium level of effort, but once scaled, it offers a jaw-dropping view of its lush green surroundings. What’s more, the fort also overlooks the Pawna reservoir, so you’re never short of a view from this historic fort. Fun fact – the steps on this fort were built way back during the 16th century but are still intact today.
Ryewood Park A botanical garden turned park, Ryewood Park makes for a peaceful environment to relax in, thanks to its vast green expanse. Located half a kilometer away from the Lonavala railway station, Ryewood Park is spread over 25 acres of land. With a variety of flora all around the park, this serene park is also equipped with swings for the kids and adults, if you’re of the adventurous sort and also charming wooden benches to while away your time bang in the middle of a vast green expanse.
Tiger’s Point Tiger’s Point or Tiger’s Leap is located at a distance of around 12kms from the Lonavala railway station. This point is basically a cliff-drop that offers a stunning view of the hills surrounding the point. Tiger’s Point gets its name from the impression it gives – that of a tiger trying to leap across the valley. The monsoon brings with it a number of waterfalls around the area. Tiger’s Point is generally more popular among the tourists due to the number of eating joints, the view and the ample parking space it offers.
Lion’s Point Lion’s Point is one of the most popular viewpoints in Lonavala. It is a vantage point located midway between Bushi Dam and Aamby Valley and offers breathtaking views of expanses of lush green landscapes. The 12km drive from the Lonavala railway station right up to Lion’s Point is a scenic one,
which is apt, considering the scenic views that Lion’s Point has to offer. Quite similar to Tiger’s Point, the Lion’s Point offers majestic views of countless little waterfalls and visitors are sure to glimpse a monkey or two while visiting this viewpoint.
Rajmachi Point Rajmachi Point is another of Lonavala’s frequently visited viewpoints and is located right opposite the historic Rajmachi Fort. Nestled in the rugged hills of the Sahyadri ranges, Rajmachi Point is one of the more popular attractions for nature-lovers and trekking enthusiasts. Located on the way from Mumbai to Pune, the monsoons are the best time to visit Rajmachi as the area is bustling with greenery during the rains. A short trek from this point leads to the historic Rajmachi Fort, another popular destination with trekkers. Though the fort lies in ruins today, the old-world charm of Rajmachi Fort stands strong with the fort showcasing a unique blend of architectural style thanks to the several kingdoms that reigned over it at different periods of time.
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