Lonavala is a beautiful hill station located 106 km away from Mumbai, known for its green valleys. Bhaja Caves and Karla Caves are popular Buddhist shrines that feature intricate sculptures and are visited by thousands of tourists every year. These caves are considered to be the next best to those at Ajanta and Elora. Bhushi Dam is another attraction that you should not miss during your trip to Lonavala. It often overflows during the monsoon season, providing a unique experience.
10 Things To Do In Lonavala
Lonavala is an ideal weekend getaway spot for people residing in Mumbai and Pune to unwind amidst lush greenery. There is no shortage of places to visit or exciting things to do in Lonavala. If you are on a vacation in Lonavala, you can make your holiday more exciting with these experiences. You can explore the natural beauty of Lonavala by visiting places like Bhaja Caves, Karla Caves, and Bhushi Dam. You can also indulge in adventurous activities like trekking, camping, and rock climbing. For a relaxing time, you can visit the many spas and wellness centers in Lonavala. Overall, Lonavala offers a perfect escape to nature’s best.
1. Duke’s Nose
If you’re seeking for the best things to do in Lonavala, Duke’s Nose should be at the top of your list. This landmark, located around 7 kilometers from Lonavala, provides a spectacular view of the Sahyadri Ranges and allows you to revive yourself. You will be captivated by the sylvan grandeur of the lush woodlands and will also have the opportunity to go trekking here. Trekking through the forest’s extensive pathways is a fascinating experience that you should not pass up. Overall, seeing Duke’s Nose is a must-do adventure in Lonavala that will leave you with amazing memories.
2. Bhushi Dam: Renew Yourself, Bhushi Dam
One of the best things to do in Lonavala during the monsoon season is to visit the Bhushi Dam on the Indrayani River. The gushing water and rough terrain are what you’ll really like here. This dam, which is popular with tourists during monsoon weekends, is the most scenic place in the quaint hill station of Lonavala. One of the best things to do in Lonavala in May is to spend time by the dam.
3. Enjoy Your Weekend Gateway in Aamby Valley
Aamby Valley, around 24 kilometers from Lonavala, is recognized for its breathtaking scenery. This township, developed by Sahara India Parivar, is sprawled across 10,000 acres of rugged terrain. This landscape has been created to be environmentally friendly, with infrastructure that meets international standards. One of the best things to do in Lonavala for couples is to explore the splendor of Aamby Valley. Aamby Valley will not disappoint you whether you come for a weekend or a picnic.
4. Pose With Celebrities at the Wax Museum
If you’re searching for something different to do in Lonavala, the Wax Museum should be at the top of your list. There are wax statues of many personalities such as Michael Jackson, Kapin Dev, A R Rahman, Rajib Gandhi, and others. The wax statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji is often regarded as the best in the museum. One of the best things to do in Lonavala for kids is to visit the museum.
5. Karla Caves: Go Back in Time
One of the best things to do in Lonavala for couples is to visit the Karla Caves. This cave, located on the Pune-Mumbai highway, is thought to be one of the few caves discovered in the Sahyadri Hills. This cave, adorned with halls and monasteries, is thought to have been erected between the 2nd and 5th centuries BC. You can witness the caves narrating some of the most incredible stories here.
6. Lohagad Fort: Explore the Relics
Lohagad Fort, about 52 kilometers from Pune, is one of the best locations to visit near Lonavala. This fort, one of the best things to do in Lonavala in the summer, is adorned with Maharashtrian architecture. From the summit, you will be able to take in the scenic grandeur of the surroundings. During Shivaji’s reign, this Iron Fort served as a prison. It was then utilized to store wealth taken from various sections of the kingdom.
7. Soak In The Views At Lonavala Lake
Image Credit One of the best things to do in Lonavala is to visit Lonavala Lake and enjoy the beauty of this wonderful body of water. Lonavala Lake is a well-known tourist destination that will take your breath away with its ethereal beauty. This place’s allure is enhanced during the monsoon, when it is surrounded by fifty colors of green, making it one of the top spots to visit in Lonavala during the rainy season. Anyone visiting Lonavala makes a point of stopping here initially before moving on to other significant attractions.
8. Take A Walk Through Ryewood Park
Ryewood Park is a municipality park near Lonavala market where folks go for a stroll or a brief break. Playing catch ball in the evening is one of the top activities to do in Lonavala for youngsters. It was once a botanical garden, yet people still come to enjoy the peace of the place. The chirping of birds and the lush green surroundings add to the tranquillity of the scene.
9. The Ancient Trail of Bhaja Caves
Image Credit Aside from the Karla Caves, Lonavala is also known for the ancient Bhaja Caves. The archeological complex, which consists of 22 caverns, is said to be as old as the second century and attracts a large number of tourists. Visiting the caverns is one of the most popular activities in Lonavala. Many photographers come here for picture shoots. It’s also a popular location for pre-wedding and modeling photo shoots. The cave, which is located immediately above the Bhaja Village, contains major inscriptions and stupas that provide valuable historical evidence of human evolution.
10. Fort Visapur
Visapur Fort is one of the more unusual activities to do in Lonavala. Adventure seekers and environment lovers flock to one of the most popular resorts near Lonavala for the thrills. The lush flora along the trail is very appealing. Because the walk is not challenging, even novices and amateurs can complete it. However, it becomes slick during the monsoons. The fort was built by the first Peshwa of the Maratha Empire. The massive fortifications reveal the Marathat monarchs’ power.
Adventure Activities in Lonavala
If you are an adventure enthusiast, Lonavala has a wide range of activities to get your adrenaline pumping. Trekking is a popular activity, with several trails leading to forts and peaks in the nearby hills. The Rajmachi Fort trek, known for its scenic beauty and historical significance, is a favorite among trekkers. For a thrilling experience, indulge in paragliding at Kamshet, a nearby town known as the “Paraglider’s Paradise.” You can also try your hand at rock climbing, rappelling, and zip-lining at various adventure parks in Lonavala.
Shopping and Food in Lonavala
No trip is complete without exploring the local markets and savoring the local cuisine. Lonavala is famous for its chikki, a sweet snack made from jaggery and nuts, which is a must-try when visiting the town. The local markets are filled with shops selling a variety of chikki flavors, making it a perfect souvenir to take back home. Apart from chikki, Lonavala is also known for its fudges, jams, and locally produced honey. Don’t forget to indulge in the delicious Maharashtrian cuisine, with popular dishes like vada pav, pav bhaji, and Puran Poli.
Best Accommodation Options in Lonavala
Lonavala offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. From luxury resorts to budget-friendly hotels, you will find plenty of choices to ensure a comfortable stay. Some popular options include the Fariyas Resort, known for its world-class amenities and stunning views, and the Della Adventure Resorts, offering a unique blend of adventure and luxury. For budget travelers, some numerous guesthouses and homestays provide a cozy and homely atmosphere.
How to Reach Lonavala from Aurangabad
There are several ways to reach Lonavala from Aurangabad, depending on your preference and budget. The most convenient way is to hire a taxi from Aurangabad. Various cab services in Aurangabad offer reliable and comfortable transportation to Lonavala. One such reputable service is JB Cabs, known for its excellent customer service and well-maintained vehicles. Booking a taxi in Aurangabad Maharashtra is a hassle-free option that allows you to sit back and enjoy the scenic drive to Lonavala.
Final Thought
A trip from Aurangabad to Lonavala is a perfect blend of history, adventure, and natural beauty. Whether you are a history buff, adventure enthusiast, or nature lover, Lonavala has something for everyone. From exploring historical sites in Aurangabad to enjoying the scenic beauty of Lonavala, this journey promises to be a memorable one. So, pack your bags, book a taxi in Aurangabad, and get ready to embark on a journey through history and hills in Lonavala.
Note: For reliable and comfortable transportation from Aurangabad to Lonavala, consider booking a taxi with JB Cabs, a leading cab service in Aurangabad, Maharashtra.
