Lonavala and Khandala are twin hill stations in Maharashtra, in between Mumbai and Pune. It tops the list of majorly all Mumbaikars and Puneites as the ideal weekend getaway spot. A student from Pune may often say 'Let's hop in a train to Lonavala for the sunset and sheesha' or a lad from Mumbai would say 'Let's drive down to Lonavala'. Here are a few things to do and place to visit in Lonavala and Khandala.
1. Lakeside camping at Pavana
A lakeside bonfire with BBQ, A serene sunset, A dip in the lake, A starry sky above. Dreamy enough? Grab your backpacks, and LEAVE NOW! Pavana Lake is 20km from Lonavala and the best time to visit is from June to November. You can easily visit Lohgad, Tikona and Tungi Forts from Pavana. Do carry sunsets and hats for protection from the sun. And, don't venture out in the night.
2. Adventures at Della
Seeking thrill and adventure? Della is the answer! It will surely leave the Adrenalin gushing through your veins. It has to offer something for everyone! A 24/7 spa will surely prep you up for more adventures the next day! Della Adventure Park is open year around from 11am to 9pm with last entry allowed at 8pm. A Day Pass (adults ₹1750, kids ₹1250) gives you access to 50+ adventure activities while a Jumbo Pass (₹4999) gives you unlimited access to each and every activity in the park. The best time to visit Della Adventure Park is from September to February.
3. Tiger's point and Shooting point
Trip to the twin hills is incomplete without saying hello to the most touristy places of the town. Tiger's point and Shooting point are a must-visit! Watch the sunset while sipping the masala tea, and biting on the roasted corn or hot cup of maggi. The best time to visit Tiger's Point and Shooting Point is from July to February. There is no entrance fee and you can visit at any time.
4. Lonavala Wax Museum
Why not see India's version of the Wax Museum? The extraordinarily curated sculptures await your presence at Lonavala Wax Museum, one of the best places to visit in Lonavala. The museum is open year ar0und from 9am to 9pm. The entrance fee is ₹100 for adults and ₹70 for children.
5. Kune Waterfalls
With the breathtaking backdrop of Shayadri Hills, lies the Kune Falls in between Lonavala and Khandala. This three -tiered cascade flows gushingly in monsoons. The best time to visit Kune Waterfalls is from July to September. The waterfalls can be visited from 8am to 6pm and there is no entrance fee. Keep aside two hours to visit the waterfalls.
6. Cooper's Fudge and Chikki
What's a holiday without a souvenir? While a pack of chikki is the most ideal gift from Lonavala, Choco Walnut Fudge from Cooper's is something to die for. Hurry! Que up as they are open only till the daily stocks last. Bet you would thank me later :). Cooper's Fudge and Chikki is open from 11am to 1pm and 3pm to 8pm. It is closed on Wednesdays. A kilo of fudge costs ₹1,200 approximately.
Images: Google
Hotels in Lonavala
The Ritz Heritage (₹1,400 for double), Treebo Indralok Inn (₹2,640 for double), Seven Sands Ville (₹8,000 for villa for four). For more options, check here.