Both Lonavala and Khandala were built by British in 1811. Surrounded by thick forests and dense canopied trees, Khandala and Lonavala both offer some spectacular views of gushing waterfalls. With a cool and pleasing climate, and great natural beauty Lonavala and Khandala are filled with utmost romantic locations.
Lonavala:
About 64 km away from Pune, and 94 km away from Mumbai Lonavala is a hill station in Maharashtra offering magnificent views of the lush green countryside and innumerous waterfalls during monsoon.
Khandala:
Khandala is about 3 km from Lonavala. The Mumbai-Pune Expressway passes through Khandala making it a very important location. Also being located near Bhor Ghat, which connects Deccan plateau and Konkan, Khandala is a very important destination in terms of transportation.
Karla:
Karla is located near Lonavala. Karla is famous for its Buddhist caves which are believed to have been built in the 2nd century BC. There are beautifully carved Chaityas and Viharas. Compared to other caves in Maharashtra, the Karla caves are less crowded, which makes it even more fantastic. Every rock cut sculptures and curves, narrate stories of the past.
Tourists Attractions:
There could be innumerous caves, forts, lakes, waterfalls and natural beauty in your kitty once you are in Lonavala and Khandala. Rajmachi fort is of huge attractions which can only be reached on foot. The fort creates a panoramic view with deep valleys on three sides and dense forest on the other. The other nearby forts that could also be visited is Manoranjan Fort, Shrivardhan Fort, Visapur Fort, Lohagad Fort, and the Tunga Fort.
Besides the very famous Karla Caves the other two caves that demand a visit are Bhaja Caves and the Bedsa Caves. Like the Karla caves, Bhaja Caves are also Buddhist caverns. With huge pillars, lions, human figures and a large hall, the Bedsa Caves are situated close to the Mumbai-Pune highway.
Khandala and Lonavala also offer some wondrous scenic beauty. With meandering waterfalls and placid lakes, Lonavala and Khandala will always help you connect yourself with the nature. The main lakes are Pavna, Lonavala, Tungarli and Valvan lakes. But the most enigmatic view of the Kune falls, where silvery water gushes down to a pool 100 m below is bound to steal your heart away. This lovely cascade of water can be seen from Khandala Ghat. Tigers leap gives a fascinating view of the entire valley. It looks like a tiger leaping from a distance and thus got its name.
Getting There:
Due to its location the Mumbai Pune highway, every car going towards South India via Pune pass through Lonavala and Khandala. The Mumbai Bangalore national highway all pass through Lonavala and Khandala. State buses, private buses, taxis, and package tour agencies offer regular services to Lonavala and Khandala. It is also well connected by rail. Connecting trains are available from Mumbai and Pune. The train journey to Lonavala and Khandala is awesome. The train passes through about 20 tunnels.
