A short drive away from Mumbai and Pune, the twin hill towns of Lonavala and Khandala are the ideal getaway for a weekend of tranquility, nature, and adventure. From waterfalls to forts to a simple peaceful view with a cup of chai, this guide will assist you in optimizing your time.

Best Time to Visit

- Monsoon (June to September): Greenery all around, cascading waterfalls, and misty surroundings.

- Winter (October to February): Good weather for sightseeing and trekking.

- Summer (March to May): Hot but still tolerable; perfect for short getaways from the city heat.

How to Reach Lonavala & Khandala

- By Road: Approximately 2 hours from Mumbai and 1.5 hours from Pune via the Mumbai-Pune Expressway.

- By Train: Lonavala is linked to important cities of Maharashtra by railway station.

- By Bus: Regular MSRTC and private buses ply from Mumbai and Pune.

Where to Stay

- Luxury Resorts: Della Resorts, Fariyas Resort, The Machan (eco-luxury in the woods)

- Budget Hotels: Hotel Grand Visava, Highland Resort, Treebo Trend Indralok Inn

- Couples' Retreats: Rhythm Lonavala, Avion Holiday Resort

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Day 1: Explore Lonavala

Morning

- Arrive in Lonavala by 10 AM

- Breakfast at Golden Vadapav or Rama Krishna Restaurant

- Bhushi Dam: Perfect for a monsoon splash and a sit-by-the-water kind of relaxation.

- Lion's Point & Tiger's Point: Stunning valley view and perfect spot for photography.

Afternoon

- Lunch at German Bakery or Mapro Garden Café

- Visit Karla & Bhaja Caves: Historic Buddhist rock-cut caves with gorgeous carvings.

- Lonavala Lake: Peaceful, picturesque place perfect for photography or relaxation.

Evening

- Sunset at Rajmachi Point: Valley and Rajmachi Fort view.

- Shopping at Lonavala Market: Best known for chikki, fudge, and spices.

- Dinner at Sheetal Da Dhaba or PNF Restaurant

Day 2: Explore Khandala

Morning

- Leave early and drive to Khandala (only 5 km away from Lonavala)

- Breakfast at a local café

- Duke's Nose Trek (optional): A moderate trek with panoramic views.

- Kune Falls: Maharashtra's highest waterfalls, very scenic in monsoon.

Afternoon

- Visit Shooting Point: Popular Bollywood spot with breathtaking views.

- Explore Amrutanjan Point: Less crowded, peaceful, and with a lot of greenery around.

- Lunch at The Dukes Retreat or Kamats

Evening

- Relax at your resort or take a final walk around the hills

- Leave your return trip latest by 5-6 PM to save traffic

Food to Have

- Local Street Food: Corn on cob, hot vada pav, and chikki stalls.

- Fine Dining: Visit local fusion dishes available at resort restuarants.

- Sweet Tooth Must-Have: Maganlal Chikki, Cooper's Fudge, and jelly chocolates.

Tips for the Weekend Packing

- Wearing: Comfi walking shoes, light jacket, and rain cap if travelling in monsoon.

- Must-Haves: Power bank, water bottle, camera, and first-aid medicines.

- Travel Light: A backpack is perfect for a 2-day journey.

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