Lonavale

Lonavla or Lonavale is a city and a hill station Municipal Council in Pune district in the Indian state of Maharashtra.

Population : 55,650 (2001)

Area          : 38 km2 (15 sq mi)

Lonavla and the adjacent Khandala are twin hill stations, 622 m. above sea level, in the Sahyadri ranges that demarcate the Deccan Plateau and the Konkan coast. The hill stations sprawl over an approximate area of 38 km² and are popular holiday destinations during the monsoons. People prefer visiting Lonavla and Khandala in the rainy season.Few of the trekking trails of Lonavla are not arduous, and are horded by adventure sports lovers. Trekking terrains like Kalri Hills and Duke’s Nose are two of the favourite trekking terrains, where one can enjoy hiking , rock-climbing and trekking. Many of the scenic lakes like Tungarli Lake, Valvan Lake, Lonavla Lake, Monsoon Lake, and Pawna Lake are favourite location to be hanged out mostly by picnic goers. Some of the lakes getting less footfalls are reclusive, and attract honeymooners to relish the tranquil moments together with their soul mate. The rich natural ambiance of popular locations like Ryewood Park and bushy dam are sought after for enjoying picnic.These lakes by giving tourist a very fine opportunity to enjoy excursion, also let them enjoy Eco activities like angling, swimming and nature viewing. Lakes like Tungarli Lake, Valvan Lake, Lonavla Lake, Monsoon Lake, and Pawna Lake are some of the favourite excursion spots at Lonavla. Not all but some of these lakes are fine treat for anglers.

 Eco places in Lonavale

Ryewood Park :

This large park similes a botanical garden, and is very spacious making favourite place for picnic goers. Close to the park there is an old Christian cemetery having some of the gravestones hundred years old.

Bushy Dam : 

Bushy Dam

This small dam is located 6 km from Lonavla, and is most famous picnic spot of Lonavla. During the monsoons on weekends, the dam is heavily crowded by picnic goers. Swimming is though restricted but bathing under the steps of dam that create a downfall is very pleasant experience.

Tungarli Lake and DamThis lake and Dam come to life during the Monsoon season, where youth climb the mountain top to the Dam. This dam was built during the British era and features a serene surrounding.

Duke’s Nose :

Duke’s Nose

Favourite among nature lovers, Duke’s Nose is also favouite spot for trekkers as its peculiar peak makes suitable trail for trekkers. The cliff owes its name to the Duke of Wellington, whose ample nose it resembles.

Karla Hills :

The Karla Hills are another joy for trekkers as its fine trekking terrain is worth to enjoy trekking, rock-climbing and hiking.

Karla and Bhaja caves :

Dating back to 2nd century BC, Karla and Bhaja caves lying just 15 km from Lonavla are the Karla and Bhaja caves. Believed to be one of the best preserved Buddhist rock-cut caves, these cave complexes are must visit while being at Lonavla. Even though the caves were constructed over a period of time and the oldest one is believed to date back to 160 BC.

Lakes of Lonavla :

Lonavla Lake

Considered to be the lake district of Western India, Lonavla has many of lakes which are tourist fascination. Though all these lakes are artificial but many of its like Tungarli Lake, Valvan Lake, Lonavla Lake, Monsoon Lake, and Pawna Lake are very pleasant for nature viewing and spending leisure.

Forts of Lonavla : 

Many of popular forts like Rajmachi Fort, Lohagad Fort, Tikona Fort, Tung Fort, Visapur Fort and Koregad Fort are located amidst the rich natural landscapes giving amazing exploration of historical insight of the province.

Reaching there

By Air : Mumbai International Airport (110 km) and Pune Domestic Airport (66 km) are very well connected to all major international and national airports, respectively. Reaching Khandala from these two location is quite comfortable by driving via Mumbai-Pune express highway.

By Rail : Lonavla lying on main rail line between Mumbai-Pune is the nearest railhead from Khandala. Catching Indrayani Express from Mumbai CST at 5:40 am is the best option.

By Road : From both Mumbai and Pune, Khandala is very well connected. Three hours of smooth drive on Mumbai-Pune highway lead you to Khandala. Driving after the evening 8 pm is not safe as the express way has been turning into robbers hub