🌄 Wonderful Weekend Trip to Lonavala Near Mumbai
Looking for a refreshing break from Mumbai’s chaos? A weekend trip to Lonavala is the perfect escape. Just a couple of hours away, Lonavala welcomes you with misty hills, waterfalls, and delicious chikki. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a solo unwind, or a family road trip — this guide covers it all.
📍 Where is Lonavala?
Lonavala is a popular hill station located in the Sahyadri range of Maharashtra. It’s roughly 83 km from Mumbai and 65 km from Pune, making it a top choice for weekend travelers.
- Best Time to Visit: Monsoon (June–September) and winter (October–February)
- Travel Time: 2–2.5 hours by road or train
🌦️ Why Visit Lonavala?
- 🌧️ Lush green hills and waterfalls in monsoon
- 🧳 Quick weekend getaway with scenic drives
- 🏞️ Ideal for trekking, nature walks, and photography
- 🍫 Famous for its crunchy chikki and street-side snacks
🏞️ Top Places to Visit in Lonavala
1. Tiger’s Leap
A cliff-top with panoramic valley views and a sheer drop. Best visited at sunrise or sunset.
2. Bhushi Dam
Great for relaxing and soaking your feet in the cool water. Gets crowded on weekends!
3. Rajmachi Fort
A perfect trek for history and adventure lovers. Offers stunning views after a good climb.
4. Lonavala Lake
Peaceful and scenic, especially during the rainy season when it fills up completely.
5. Karla & Bhaja Caves
Ancient Buddhist rock-cut caves with intricate carvings and historical importance.
🍱 What to Eat in Lonavala
- 🥜 Chikki: Must-buy peanut and jaggery snack from Maganlal or A1 Chikki
- ☕ Street-side corn, hot chai, and vada pav
- 🍛 Local Maharashtrian thali at home-style restaurants
🛏️ Where to Stay
- 🏨 Budget stays: Hotel Gautam, Hill Forest Resort
- 🌿 Nature resorts: Della Resorts, The Machan (eco-luxury)
- 🏕️ Camping options also available at Pawna Lake nearby
🚗 How to Reach Lonavala
- By Road: Smooth drive via Mumbai-Pune Expressway
- By Train: Regular trains from Mumbai and Pune to Lonavala station
- By Bus: MSRTC and private buses available
📸 Travel Tips
- ☔ Carry rain gear during monsoon
- 🧥 Pack light jackets in winter
- 🚫 Avoid Bhushi Dam on weekends to skip crowds
- 🧴 Keep sunscreen and mosquito repellent handy
📌 Final Thoughts
A weekend trip to Lonavala promises scenic beauty, local flavors, and total relaxation — just a short drive from the city. It’s a go-to destination for every Mumbaikar and Punekar, and for good reason.
So this weekend, let the hills call you. Pack your bags and escape to the green serenity of Lonavala!