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History

Situated about 60 km from Pune (110 km from Mumbai on the Mumbai-Pune Highway), Lonavla and Khandala are beautiful twin hill stations, 622 m. above sea level, in the Sahyadri ranges that demarcate the Deccan Plateau with the Konkan coast. The hill stations sprawl over an approximate area of 38 sq km

These popular holiday destinations are lush and beautiful during the monsoons. People prefer visiting Lonavla and Khandala in the rainy season. Lonavla and Khandala were discovered in 1871 by Sir Elphinstone, the Governor of the Bombay Presidency. The name Lonavla is derived from the Sanskrit lonavli, which refers to the many caves like Karla, Bhaja and Bedsa that are close to Lonavla. A trip to Lonavla and Khandala can be combined with sight-seeing visits of Karla, Bhaja and Bedsa caves and also the two fortresses, Lohagad and Visapur.

Lohagad Fort

Lohagad Fort - BindaasTravel.com

Lohagad Fort means iron fort. This fort is 2000 year old and at an elevation of 3,450 feet. It’s one of the most famous forts of Lonavala. It was used for keeping prisoners in the year 1564 during the period of Chattrapati Shivaji's reign.

The entrance of this fort is called as the Delhi Gate. There are three gates one after the other, of which the third gate is quite beautiful. On entering the third gate is the guard's post, which has a provision to position guns. The unique design on the walls of the fort is known as Vindhukata (fangs of a scorpion).

Karla Caves

Karla Caves - BindaasTravel.com

Karla Caves
Karla Caves are the largest cave temple (chaitya) in India and is located in Lonavala. These rock cut caves are assumed to be built around 100 AD by Buddhist nuns. The marvelous ancient Karla Caves are presently a popular tourist destination to have a close look at the ancient Buddhist architecture and culture. These caves exhibit Buddhist ideologies through inscriptions and stupas.

The Chaitya hall is spectacular with 37 octagonal pillars with a base structure of a water jar and it has a special feature of the façade screen made out of teak wood. The entrance of the Chaitya hall is adorned with an arch in the shape of a horse shoe.

Karla caves encloses Buddha viharas, where by the monks were stayed during their meditation period in the caves. The cave encloses sculptures of elephants adorned with metal jewelries and ivory tusks.

Bhushi Dam

Bhushi Dam - BindaasTravel.com

A fabulous Waterfall near the dam is one of the most exciting spots of Lonavla. It's a beautiful water fall between Lonavla and I.N.S.Shivaji. Buses running on the I.N.S. Shivaji Road stop here. 5 km from Lonavla.

Surface

If one prefers to opt for bus service to reach Lonavala though the ride is rough and it takes approximately four hours to reach Lonavala. Travelers can hire bicycles on hourly basis to explore Lonavala or to go to Khandala.

Train

As Lonavala is on the main railway line between Mumbai and Pune one can get express trains from the Lonavala railway station. The travel time from Lonavala to Mumbai in express train is three hours while it takes an hour from Lonavala to Pune.

Air

The nearest airport from Lonavala is Pune, which is 64 km from Lonavala. From here transportations are available to reach the hill station in Maharashtra.

Dukes Retreat

Dukes Retreat  - BindaasTravel.com

The Dukes Retreat in Khandala is a premier 3 star resort offers a breathtaking view of the landscape. Situated at 1850 ft above sea level, it spreads across 11 acres and is blessed with the beauty of nature.

Address:
Pune-Mumbai Road,
Khandala ,Maharastra,
410301

Lake View

Lake View - BindaasTravel.com

Lake View Resort is a two star resort, offering a comfortable stay to travellers visiting the hill station of Lonavala. Set on the bank of Lonvala Lake, the resort is an ideal choice for a relaxing vacation along with family members and friends.

Address:
Plot No. 4, Ryewood,
Lonavala , Maharasthra,
4 10401

The Star Regency

The Star Regency - BindaasTravel.com

The Star Regency is an economy hotel, offering peaceful accommodation to tourists as well as corporate travellers alike. Set in a secluded picturesque location, the hotel abounds with unspoilt environs and breathtaking scenery around. Besides, the warm hospitality and services offered by the hotel staff add more to your vacationing experience. 

Address:
Justice Telang Road, Behind Telephone Exchange,
Lonavala ,Lonavala,
Maharastra,
410401

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