Lonavala Khandala

Words are not enough to describe their scenic beauty.....Lonavala or Lonavla, and Khandala are the two popular hill stations in the western part of the state of Maharashtra. Lonavala is situated at a height of 625 mtrs above sea level and Khandala lies a bit lower, in the western ranges of Sahyadari mountains. These hills stations lie 5km apart on either side of the Mumbai Pune highway. 

Discovered in 1871 by Sir Elphinstone, the Governor of the Mumbai Presidency, Lonavala is absolutely mind-blowing and is blessed by nature in bounty with valleys, hills, waterfalls, greenery, lakes and a pleasant climate. And Khandala, though relatively small, is equally blessed with nature like Lonavala. As Khandala is small in area, you can explore the entire region in a couple of days. Both these are separated by a deep valley on one side and high hills on the other side. 

Popularly known as the Jewel of the Sahyadri Mountains, Lonavala's name is derived from the Sanskrit word 'Lonavli' meaning 'city surrounded by caves'. A popular gateway from Mumbai and Pune, Lonavala ( located 110kms southeast of Mumbai and 64kms from Pune), is simply the most convenient base for tourists to visit the well known ancient Buddhist rock cut caves of Bhaja and Karla, which are located nearby. It is a popular health resort and is also famous for jams and Chikkis, a sweet candy made locally. 

The origin of Lonavala -Khandala is unclear. The area was once under the rule of Chattrapati Shivaji, the founder of the first Maratha Empire and later the Peshwas (who founded the second Maratha Empire) and was finally taken over by the British when they overthrew the Peshwas. 

Both these are ideal places for adventure lovers. There is hardly any demarcation between the two hill stations. One can stay at Lonavala which has more hotels and a good market and visit Khandala from there. One can try trekking, paragliding, waterfall rappelling (during the monsoons), and hiking.  For this, tourists may get in touch with the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC).

The main tourist spots here are the Sunset point, Monkey point, Tiger leap, Lion point, Bushy dam and the several forts, caves and lakes but more than these, the water falls you get to see enroute to these places, are the most enjoyable ones. You should take note that after 6:00 pm when it gets dark, all caves and forts close down.

Rajmachi Point and Rock Garden

In Khandala, 8 Km from the Lonavala town center is the famous Rajmachi Point where there is a small Park which gives spectacular views of the places around. This place got its name because, the great Maratha ruler Chatrapati Sivaji's, Rajmachi Fort is situated opposite to this point. Here you can enjoy the beauty of valleys and waterfalls. It is particularly misty and  picturesque during the monsoon season. Rajmachi Park has a temple and a children's park. This is also a famous location for film makers. The famous Vaghjai Dari (Tigers leap) is also located here. Monkey point, Sunset Point, Lions Point are the few attractions near by. Sunset point, gives spectacular views of the sunset. You can see expressway, rail and national highway at one place.