Green hills meet misty skies. Lush forest becomes a popular hill resort.

A hill resort, perfect getaway from the city’s hustle and bustle and ideal travel destination for self-rejuvenation. Lonavala, located in the state of Maharastra, south India is popular with nearby city dwellers for weekend getaways. The blankets of green terraces are refreshing sights while the mountain air certainly adds an energetic boost to any weary soul. 

History Of Lonavala

The beautiful city of Lonavala has a significant history starting from the ancient dynasties’ rule such as the Yadav Dynasty, a long reign by the Mughals and subsequently the Maratha warriors. Several other kingdoms had fought over this hilly terrain where the silent fortresses and other historic sights bore the brave battles centuries ago. 

Its modern discovery in 1811 AD, reportedly by the Governor General of Bombay marked another chapter under colonial rule while remaining a forest area offering serene holiday tours.

Tourism in Lonavala

It is a galore of waterfalls, caves, forts, woods and vistas at Lonavala. These are popular tour destinations within and around Lonavala. Karla and Bhaja Caves present the rock cut temples of the Hinayana sect of Buddhism. These cave temples cut from rock origin from 2nd century BC and remain as finest and oldest specimens of Buddhist temples cut from rock. A cave for the adventurous trekker and filled with suspense and mystery is the Gambhirnath Caves.

Other historic travel sites which also provide great trek trails are the forts found in and around Lonavala. Visapur Fort standing tall at nearly 4000 ft above sea level can be reached after a proper trekking expedition. This centuries old fort was active during the Maratha rule as a watch point for the warrior hero Shivaji, to track activities along the plains. Though the great fort is now mostly in ruins, the majestic views still remain and attract avid trekkers. Koregard Fort is another fort which requires trekking and rewards trekkers with picturesque views of the hilly terrains. Solitary and grand, the fort structure has suffered much damage and walls are not clearly visible anymore.

Travels to this scenic hill resort are not complete without visiting at least couple of view points to enjoy the magnificent hill top views of the surrounding lands. The view points include Tiger’s Leap also called as Vagdari, Echo Point, Lion’s Point present spectacular views of the valley especially during monsoon season. Travel to Lonavala is popular during monsoon season as the cool temperature and dazzling scenes of nature all around are sights to behold.

Bhushi Dam is wildly popular for picnics and to enjoy the powerful waterfall torrents from the overflowing dam. Kune Falls, located midway between Lonavala and its popular cousin Khandala, is another favourite tour spot to enjoy swimming in the falls and enjoy the welcoming nature all around. Ryewood Park is popular for family picnics and relaxing stroll among the flora. A Mahadeo temple from ancient times can be found within the park grounds.