Lonavala
Introduction
Lonavala is a Hill station in Maharashtra. Also known as the jewel of the
Sahyadri Mountains. This Hill Station is also a popular Health Resort in
the western ranges on the sahyadri,It Is situated on a hieght of 625 mtrs.
above sea level and is a popular gateway from Mumbai and Pune. It also serves
as a starting point for tourists interested in visiting the famous, ancient
Buddhist rock cut caves of Bhaja and Karla, which are located near this
hill station.
Location
Lonavala is located in the western part of the state of Maharashtra, in
India. It is situated 106 km southeast of Mumbai at an altitude of 625 m
above sea level.
Visiting Time
The best time to visit Lonavala is between the months of October and May.
It is advised not to visit Lonavala in the monsoon season between the months
of June and September, as it experiences heavy rainfall during this time.
Places to See
Lonavala provides a panoramic view of the lush green surroundings of the
Sahyadri ranges. The peaceful environs of the town, which provides a great
escape from the hustle and bustle of Mumbai city, attract tourists to this
place. Travelers can take a walk along the waterfalls, the grassy abundance
and hills in and around Lonavala. The mountainous terrain of Lonavala is
ideal for trekking and hiking.
Excursion
There are numerous lakes around Lonavala. Tugauli, Lonavalaand Bhushi lakes
are worth visiting; so is the Walvan Dam. The small hill station of Khandala
is just 5 km away. Travelers coming from Mumbai pass through Khandala before
reaching Lonavala. Kaivalyadhama Yoga Hospital is 2 km from Lonavala on
the road to Karla and Bhaja caves. This center attracts both local and foreign
tourists seeking yogic healing.
This center was founded in 1924 and conducts various courses in Yoga along
with a research center and a training college. Karla and Bhaja Caves, located
in the hills at a distance of 11 km from Lonavala, are important places
to visit. These rock-cut cave temples dating back to 2nd century BC and
are amongst the oldestand finest examples of Buddhist rock cut temple art
in India, belonging to the Hinayana sect of Buddhism. Adventure seekers
can try their hand at rock climbing at the Duke. s Nose peak and other locations
in the Karla hills, near Lonavala.
Travel Information
Air: The nearest airport from Lonalvala is Pune, which is 64 km from
Lonavala.
Train: Lonavala is on the main railway line between Mumbai and Pune , all
express trains plying between the two cities stop here.
Road:The bus service between Lonavala and Pune is good (2 hours). However,
the ride is rough and it takes 4 hours to reach Mumbai from Lonavala. Buses
shuttle between Lonavala and Khandala (5 km from Lonavala; 15 minutes trip).
Lonavala, Hill Stations in India
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