Lonavala and Khandala
The twin hill stations on the way to Mumbai, with viewpoints, waterfalls, caves, forts and the famous chikki.
Quick facts
- Location:
- Maval taluka
- Distance:
- About 65 km from Pune
- Best time:
- June to February
- Known for:
- Chikki, Tiger Point, Bhushi dam
About
Lonavala and Khandala sit on the crest of the Sahyadri, on the old route between Pune and Mumbai. They have been hill stations since British times and are the most popular weekend escape for people from both cities.
What to see
- Viewpoints: Tiger Point (Tiger's Leap), Lion's Point and the Duke's Nose rock.
- Bhushi dam, where water flows over the steps in the monsoon.
- Karla and Bhaja caves, Buddhist rock-cut caves about two thousand years old.
- Forts: Lohagad, Visapur and Rajmachi.
- Lonavala chikki and fudge shops.
How to reach
By the Pune Mumbai Expressway or old highway, or by local train from Pune to Lonavala.
Tips
- Monsoon weekends bring long traffic jams. Leave very early or go on a weekday.
- Fog can be thick on the ghat roads in the monsoon. Drive slowly.
More in Picnic Spots and Forts
- Mulshi and Tamhini Ghat A big lake surrounded by hills, and a ghat road full of waterfalls in the monsoon. A favourite long drive from Pune.
- Pawna Lake A quiet lake near Lonavala with lakeside camping, surrounded by the forts of Tikona, Tung, Lohagad and Visapur.
- Bhimashankar A Jyotirlinga temple deep in the forest, and a wildlife sanctuary where the giant Shekru squirrel lives.
- Khadakwasla and Panshet Pune's own lakes: Khadakwasla for an evening snack by the water, and Panshet for a quieter day out.
- Bhigwan The backwaters of Ujani dam, where flamingos and hundreds of other birds spend the winter. A birdwatcher's favourite.
- Mahabaleshwar and Panchgani The best-known hill stations of Maharashtra, with viewpoints, Venna lake and strawberries. An easy weekend trip from Pune.
Sources: Written by PuneDiary. Facts checked 10 October 2026.