Best Places to Visit in Lonavala

All you need to know about the popular tourist places to visit in Lonavala.
Insta Personal Loan for travel
3 min
03-Oct-2024
Lonavala is a beautiful hill station in the Sahyadri ranges. It is a favourite spot for weekend trips from Mumbai and Pune. The town is famous for its green valleys, old forts, and calm lakes. Lonavala offers a great mix of nature, history, and adventure. Whether you love history or nature, there is something for everyone here. In this article, we will talk about the best places to visit in Lonavala. An Insta Personal Loan can help cover your travel expenses, making your trip easier. Let us help you plan a fun and memorable trip by exploring the top spots.

A brief history of Lonavala

The name Lonavala comes from the Sanskrit word ‘Lonavli,’ meaning a group of caves. This town was once part of the Yadava dynasty. Later, it came under Mughal and Maratha rule. Today, Lonavala is known for its caves and natural beauty. The British developed it as a hill station in 1871. They wanted a place to escape the heat. Now, Lonavala is a perfect mix of nature and history, attracting many visitors.

1. Tiger’s Leap, Lonavala

Tiger's Leap is a must-see spot in Lonavala. The cliff looks like a tiger jumping, which is how it got its name. It offers stunning views of the Western Ghats. Sunrise and sunset here are especially beautiful, making it a favourite for nature lovers and photographers.

Location:

Tiger’s Leap is about 8 km from Lonavala town. You can reach it easily by car or public transport.

Entry fee:

There is no entry fee for Tiger’s Leap. It is a budget-friendly spot to enjoy.

Timing:

Tiger’s Leap is open all day. It is best to visit early in the morning or late in the evening for great views.

2. Bhaja Caves, Lonavala

Bhaja Caves are ancient Buddhist caves that date back to the 2nd century BC. These rock-cut caves are rich in history and culture. The caves have beautiful carvings and sculptures. It is a great place for history lovers and explorers.

Location:

The Bhaja Caves are around 12 km from Lonavala. You can get there by car or take local transport.

Entry fee:

The entry fee for Bhaja Caves is Rs. 15 for Indians and Rs. 200 for foreigners.

Timing:

The caves are open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM every day.

3. Karla Caves, Lonavala

Karla Caves are another set of ancient Buddhist caves in Lonavala. These caves are known for their grand Chaitya hall and detailed carvings. They are among the oldest Buddhist caves in India.

Location:

Karla Caves are about 10 km from Lonavala. You can reach them easily by car or local transport.

Entry fee:

The entry fee for Karla Caves is Rs. 15 for Indians and Rs. 200 for foreigners.

Timing:

The caves are open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily.

4. Bhushi Dam, Lonavala

Bhushi Dam is a popular picnic spot in Lonavala. During the monsoon, the dam overflows, creating beautiful waterfalls. It is a great place to relax and enjoy nature.

Location:

Bhushi Dam is around 6 km from Lonavala. It is easily accessible by car or local transport.

Entry fee:

There is no entry fee to visit Bhushi Dam.

Timing:

The dam is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit is during the monsoon season.

5. Tikona Fort, Lonavala

Tikona Fort is a triangular-shaped fort that offers a mix of history and adventure. The fort provides panoramic views of the surrounding areas, making it a great spot for trekking.

Location:

Tikona Fort is about 20 km from Lonavala. You can drive or take local transport to reach it.

Entry fee:

There is no entry fee to visit Tikona Fort.

Timing:

The fort is open all day, but trekking is best done early in the morning.

6. Pawna Lake, Lonavala

Pawna Lake is a serene spot for camping and relaxation. Surrounded by lush greenery, it is a perfect place to unwind and connect with nature.

Location:

Pawna Lake is about 15 km from Lonavala. You can reach it by car or local transport.

Entry fee:

There is no entry fee to visit Pawna Lake. However, you may need to pay for camping.

Timing:

The lake is open all day. Many visitors prefer camping overnight by the lake.

7. Lohagad Fort, Lonavala

Lohagad Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The fort is known for its rich history and scenic views. It is a great place for trekking and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Location:

Lohagad Fort is around 11 km from Lonavala. You can get there by car or local transport.

Entry fee:

There is no entry fee for Lohagad Fort.

Timing:

The fort is open all day, but trekking is best done in the early morning.

8. Rajmachi Fort, Lonavala

Rajmachi Fort is a favourite among trekkers and adventure lovers. The fort has two main structures, Shrivardhan and Manaranjan forts. It offers scenic views and a glimpse into the past.

Location:

Rajmachi Fort is about 15 km from Lonavala. You can reach it by car or local transport.

Entry fee:

There is no entry fee to visit Rajmachi Fort.

Timing:

The fort is open all day. Trekking is best done in the early morning or evening.

9. Visapur Fort, Lonavala

Visapur Fort is a twin fort to Lohagad Fort. It offers amazing views of the Sahyadri ranges. The fort is ideal for a day of trekking and exploring nature.

Location:

Visapur Fort is around 11 km from Lonavala. You can reach it by car or local transport.

Entry fee:

There is no entry fee for Visapur Fort.

Timing:

The fort is open all day. Trekking is best done in the morning.

10. Bhairavnath Temple, Lonavala

Bhairavnath Temple is a peaceful place of worship located near the Rajmachi Fort. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is a popular spot for devotees and tourists alike.

Location:

Bhairavnath Temple is located close to Rajmachi Fort. It is easy to visit while trekking.

Entry fee:

There is no entry fee to visit Bhairavnath Temple.

Timing:

The temple is open from 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM daily.

Things to do in Lonavala

Lonavala is not just about sightseeing. You can also enjoy trekking, camping by the lakes, and exploring historical forts. Do not forget to try local food like chikki and vada pav.

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Best time to visit Lonavala

The best time to visit Lonavala is during the monsoon season, from June to September. The weather is cool, and the greenery is at its peak.

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Conclusion

Lonavala is a perfect mix of history, nature, and adventure. From Tiger’s Leap to Rajmachi Fort, each place has something unique to offer. If you are planning a trip, now is the time to explore these beautiful spots and make memories. Do not let travel costs hold you back—Bajaj Finserv Insta Personal Loan can help you travel worry-free.

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Frequently asked questions

Which point is famous in Lonavala?
Tiger's Leap is one of the most famous points in Lonavala. Known for its breathtaking views of the Western Ghats, the cliff resembles a tiger in mid-leap, offering visitors stunning panoramas, especially during sunrise and sunset.

What is special about Lonavala?
Lonavala is special for its lush greenery, serene lakes, and ancient caves. It's a popular hill station, providing a peaceful escape from city life. Monsoon season transforms Lonavala into a picturesque paradise with waterfalls and misty hills.

Which food items is Lonavala famous for?
Lonavala is famous for its delicious chikki, a traditional Indian sweet made of jaggery and nuts. Apart from chikki, visitors also enjoy street food like vada pav, bhajiyas, and hot masala chai, especially during the cool monsoon season.

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