Lonavla Travel Guide

Planning a trip to Lonavla? Our guide covers the best things to do, see, eat, and more in this scenic destination in South Maharashtra. Learn about local culture, safety and health, transportation options, and nearby excursions.


A Comprehensive Travel Guide to Lonavla

Located in South Maharashtra, Lonavla is a picturesque town known for its scenic hills, lush greenery, serene lakes, and pleasant weather. A popular weekend destination for city dwellers from Mumbai and Pune, Lonavla offers a range of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages and interests. Whether you are a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, a foodie, or a culture vulture, Lonavla has something for everyone. In this travel guide, we will cover the best things to do, see, eat, and buy in Lonavla, as well as its local culture, customs, safety and health, transportation options, and nearby excursions. Let’s get started!

List of Places to Visit in Lonavla

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Lonavla has a rich cultural and historical heritage, which is evident in its many museums and historical places. Some of the must-see cultural attractions in Lonavla include:

  • Karla Caves: These ancient rock-cut Buddhist caves date back to the 2nd century BC and are renowned for their intricate carvings and sculptures.
  • Bhaja Caves: Similar to Karla Caves, Bhaja Caves are another popular Buddhist site located near Lonavla.
  • Rajmachi Fort: This historical fort is popular among hikers and offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
  • Lohagad Fort: One of the oldest forts in Maharashtra, Lohagad Fort is perched atop a hill and offers stunning views of the Sahyadri mountains.
  • Ryewood Park: This scenic park is a great spot for picnics and walks, and is located in the heart of Lonavla.

Natural Attractions of Lonavla: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Lonavla is known for its stunning natural beauty, which includes waterfalls, lakes, hills, and valleys. If you are an outdoor enthusiast, be sure to check out these top natural attractions in Lonavla:

  • Lonavla Lake: A serene lake surrounded by verdant hills, Lonavla Lake is a popular spot for boating, picnics, and photography.
  • Bhushi Dam: This picturesque dam is located in the midst of rocky terrain and offers breathtaking views of the overflowing waterfall.
  • Tiger’s Leap: As the name suggests, this spot offers spectacular views of the valley below, and is popular among tourists for its unique rock formations.
  • Korigad Fort: A popular trekking destination, Korigad Fort offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Lonavla

Lonavla is a paradise for hikers and bikers, with its many scenic routes and trails that offer stunning views of the hills, valleys, and forests. Some of the best hiking/biking routes in Lonavla include:

  • Tikona Fort Trek: A moderate level trek that offers breathtaking views of Pawna Lake and the surrounding landscape.
  • Duke’s Nose Trek: This challenging trek is popular among adventure seekers for its steep climb and panoramic views of the Sahyadri range.
  • Rajmachi Trek: A scenic trek that starts from Lonavla and takes you through lush forests, hills, and valleys before reaching Rajmachi Fort.
  • Pavana Lake Trail: A popular trail for cycling, this route takes you through the scenic countryside of Lonavla and offers stunning views of Pavana Lake.

Best Things to Do in Lonavla: Activities and Tours

Whether you are traveling solo, with friends, or with family, Lonavla is a great destination for adventure activities and cultural tours. Some of the best things to do in Lonavla include:

  • Camping: From lakeside camping to hilltop camping, Lonavla offers a range of camping options for those who love the great outdoors.
  • Hot air balloon ride: Experience the beauty of Lonavla by taking a bird’s eye view of the scenic landscape via hot air balloon.
  • Lonavla to Bhimashankar trek: This is a popular trek that takes you from Lonavla to Bhimashankar, a pilgrimage center known for its ancient Shiva temple.
  • Lonavla food tour: Explore the local food scene of Lonavla by joining a food crawl that takes you to the best eateries in town.
  • Lonavla sightseeing tour: Discover the hidden gems of Lonavla by taking a guided tour that covers the town’s top attractions and landmarks.

Week-Long Itinerary for Lonavla

If you are planning a week-long trip to Lonavla, here is a sample itinerary that covers the best of what the town has to offer:

  • Day 1: Arrive in Lonavla and check into your hotel. Spend the evening exploring the local markets and trying out local food.
  • Day 2: Visit Karla Caves and Bhaja Caves in the morning, and spend the afternoon at Ryewood Park.
  • Day 3: Take a trek to Lohagad Fort in the morning, and spend the afternoon at Lonavla Lake.
  • Day 4: Enjoy a hot air balloon ride in the morning, and take a Bhimashankar trek in the afternoon.
  • Day 5: Take a sightseeing tour of Lonavla in the morning, and spend the afternoon at Bhushi Dam.
  • Day 6: Visit Rajmachi Fort in the morning, and spend the afternoon hiking the Duke’s Nose trek.
  • Day 7: Depart from Lonavla.

Food and Drink Scene of Lonavla

Food is an important aspect of the local culture of Lonavla, with its rich and diverse culinary heritage. Some of the must-try dishes and local beverages in Lonavla include:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Vada Pav: A popular street food in Lonavla, Vada Pav is a flavorful and spicy potato dumpling sandwiched between bread.
  • Misal Pav: A savory and spicy curry made with sprouted beans, accompanied by bread.
  • Chikki: A traditional sweet made from jaggery and roasted peanuts or sesame seeds, and is a popular souvenir item.

Local Beverages

  • Masala chai: A spiced tea that is a staple beverage in Lonavla, and is available at most of the local tea stalls along the highway.
  • Kokum Sharbat: A refreshing drink made from kokum, a tropical fruit endemic to the Western Ghats in Maharashtra.

Where to Stay in Lonavla: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Lonavla offers a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences, from luxury hotels to affordable guesthouses and hostels. Some of the top-rated hotels in Lonavla include:

  • Hilton Shillim Estate Retreat and Spa
  • Fariyas Resort Lonavla
  • The Dukes Retreat
  • Novotel Imagica Khopoli

What to Buy in Lonavla: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Lonavla is famous for its locally made products and souvenirs, which include:

  • Chikki: A popular sweet that is available in various flavors, including peanut, sesame, and coconut.
  • Lonavla fudge: A delectable dessert that is similar to chocolate fudge, made with condensed milk and flavored with nuts and fruits.
  • Kolhapuri chappals: Handcrafted leather sandals that are made in nearby Kolhapur, and are a popular souvenir item.
  • Sarees and fabric: The local markets in Lonavla offer a range of handloom sarees and fabric that are perfect for gifting or personal use.

Local Culture and Customs of Lonavla

Lonavla has a rich cultural heritage and a unique blend of Marathi and Konkani cultures. The locals are friendly and hospitable, and it is advisable to respect their customs and traditions. Some of the local customs and traditions of Lonavla include:

  • Ganesh Chaturthi: A popular Hindu festival that is celebrated with great pomp and show in Lonavla, and is marked by colorful processions and cultural programs.
  • Dindi: A traditional Marathi dance form that is performed during festivals and social events.
  • Modak: A sweet made from rice flour and filled with jaggery and grated coconut, which is a popular offering to Lord Ganesha during Ganesh Chaturthi.

Best Time to Visit Lonavla

Lonavla boasts of pleasant weather throughout the year, making it an ideal destination for a weekend getaway or a week-long vacation. However, the best time to visit Lonavla is between October to May, when the weather is cool and pleasant. The monsoon season (June to September) is also a great time to visit Lonavla, as the town comes alive with lush greenery and spectacular waterfalls.

Do’s and Don’ts of Lonavla

To make your visit to Lonavla a memorable and hassle-free experience, here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

  • Carry a sunscreen lotion and a hat, as the sun can be intense during the day.
  • Follow the local customs and traditions, and respect the local culture.
  • Carry a mosquito repellent, especially during the monsoon season.

Don’t:

  • Litter or pollute the environment, and maintain the ecological balance.
  • Disturb the wildlife, and keep a safe distance from animals and birds.
  • Wear revealing clothes or indulge in public displays of affection.

Safety and Health

Lonavla is a safe and welcoming destination for tourists, and the locals are friendly and helpful. However, like any other place, it is advisable to take some precautions to ensure your safety and health. Here are some tips:

Safety in Lonavla

  • Avoid traveling alone at night, especially in secluded areas.
  • Do not engage with touts, and always use authorized transport services.
  • Keep your valuables safe and secure, and do not leave them unattended.

Health in Lonavla

  • Carry a first-aid kit, and take necessary precautions to prevent mosquito-borne diseases.
  • Drink bottled water or boiled water to avoid stomach infections.
  • The emergency numbers in Lonavla are 108 (ambulance), 100 (police), and 101 (fire).

Getting to Lonavla: Transportation Options and Logistics

Lonavla is easily accessible from Mumbai and Pune, which are both major cities in Maharashtra. Here are some transportation options and logistics:

  • By air: The nearest airport to Lonavla is Pune International Airport, which is about 70 km away. Mumbai International Airport is also an option, which is about 90 km away.
  • By train: Lonavla has a railway station that is well-connected to Mumbai and Pune. Several trains ply between Mumbai and Lonavla, and the journey takes about 90 minutes.
  • By road: Lonavla is well-connected by a network of state highways and national highways. The Mumbai-Pune Expressway is the fastest and most convenient way to reach Lonavla by road.
  • Local transport: Taxis, auto-rickshaws, and buses are the most common modes of local transport in Lonavla.

How to Get Around in Lonavla

Lonavla is a small town that can be easily explored on foot or by local transport options such as taxis, auto-rickshaws, and buses. Renting a bike or a car is also a good option for those who want to explore the town at their own pace.

Where to Go Next from Lonavla: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Lonavla is located in the Sahyadri range of the Western Ghats, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its biodiversity and natural beauty. Some of the nearby destinations and excursions from Lonavla include:

  • Khandala: A scenic hill station located just 5 km from Lonavla, known for its lush greenery, misty hills, and serene lakes.
  • Matheran: A beautiful hill station located about 40 km from Lonavla, known for its toy train ride, scenic views, and verdant forests.
  • Pune: A vibrant city located about 70 km from Lonavla, famous for its rich culture, heritage, and academic institutions.
  • Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary: A popular wildlife sanctuary located about 75 km from Lonavla, known for its diverse flora and fauna, and the ancient Bhimashankar temple.

Conclusion

Lonavla is a charming town that has something for everyone. Whether you are an adventure seeker, a history buff, or a foodie, Lonavla offers a range of activities, attractions, and experiences that will leave you enchanted. From its scenic natural beauty to its rich cultural heritage, Lonavla is a hidden gem that is waiting to be explored!

Western Ghats near Lonavla Western Ghats near Lonavla Bhushi Dam Bhushi Dam Karla Caves Karla Caves The mountain that appears like shivlinga just before hiding behind the dark clouds The mountain that appears like shivlinga just before hiding behind the dark clouds Tiger Point Tiger Point Tiger point view Tiger point view Chikki store, main street Lonavla Chikki store, main street Lonavla