Cover Photo by Yuvraj Yadav

Lonavala, a picturesque hideaway that offers a much-needed respite from the city's commotion, is one of Maharashtra's most popular tourist destinations. This hill town, also known as the "Jewel of Sahyadri" and the "City of Caves," has a breathtaking environment that includes luscious green valleys, magnificent waterfalls, tranquil lakes, and incredible caves. Hence, it is not really surprising to hear that visitors are often left impressed by the numerous places to visit in Lonavala, which include historical landmarks, natural beauties, religious attractions, and so on.

This beautiful and cosy hill station is situated near the city of Pune and because of its weather, it is known as the misty escape. To add to its repute, Lonavala is also regarded as one of the most popular honeymoon places in Maharashtra, ensuring that the time spent in the bosom of nature's grandeur is well spent. The atmosphere is always welcoming and hospitable, providing tourists with a unique sense of tranquility.

Take a glance at some of the must-see tourist attractions in Lonavala that should be on your must-visit list if you want to make the most of your trip when here.

Top Places to Visit in Lonavala

Tiger’s Leap

At 650 metres above sea level, Tiger's Leap is a popular tourist destination nestled amidst nature. This place gets its name because of its shape, which resembles a tiger leaping into the valley. It is mightily popular among adventure enthusiasts who come here to go hiking and trekking.

This lovely spot, complete with an echo point and a neighbouring stream, gives breathtaking views of the valley below that attracts a huge number of visitors. You can always bring a picnic lunch and enjoy some quality time here with your loved ones.

Location:  Near I.N.S. Shivaji Base, Lonavala

Timings:  24x7

Bhaja Caves 

Bhaja Caves is a national monument that consists of a series of beautiful rock-cut caves that are considered to be one of India's earliest caves. Dating back to the 2nd to 1st centuries BCE, these caves have fine Buddhist excavations which represent the Hinayana era of Buddhism.

You can take a soothing bath in the neighbouring waterfall and visit the verdant environs in addition to touring these caverns, which principally feature Chaityas and Viharas. To get to the caverns from Bhaja Village, you must follow a zig-zag pathway.

Location: Bhaja Village, Lonavala

Timings: 8 am to 6 pm

Bhushi Dam

If you are searching for the best place to have a picnic with your friends and family, head out to Bhushi Dam which forms the popular Bhushi Lake. This brick dam on the Indrayani River has steps leading up to it, where you may sit and soak in the sun while gazing at the breathtaking views of the surrounding area.

On weekends,  mostly during monsoon season, this renowned tourist destination can become packed, thus making it difficult to locate a good position to sit on the stairs. Because of the inconsistency of the water flow, swimming is forbidden here.

Location: I.N.S. Shivaji Road, Lonavala

Timings: 9 am to 5 pm

Duke’s Nose 

Lonavala is a hill station with various vantage points, including Duke's Nose, a spectacular vista named after the Duke of Wellington due to its shape-likeness. This location is also known as Nagphani because of its shape which resembles a snake's hood, and there is a Mahadev Temple devoted to Lord Shiva at the summit.

This region, with its extensive routes and rocky outcrops, not only impresses nature lovers with its scenic position, but also lures adventure seekers for trekking, rock climbing, rappelling, hiking, and other such activities. It is also a popular picnic spot where you can enjoy a great outing with your family members and friends.

Location: Via Main Bazar Road, Lonavala

Timings:  24X7

Tikona Fort 

A prominent historical landmark of the Maratha Empire, the triangular shape of the Tikona Fort,  gives it its name, and it is positioned at a height of 1066 metres above sea level. Shivaji Maharaj reclaimed possession of the fort in the 1670s after it had been taken by the Mughals, and it remained a prominent fort of the Marathas (who named it Vitandgad) until the reign of Sambhaji.

The entrance to the fort is via a small tunnel that leads to a sentry tower and a cluster of five caverns. A ruined temple and a giant stone wheel can be found within the fort, and you’ll also discover a few water tanks and a Buddhist cave at the summit.

Location:  Near Kamshet, Lonavala

Timings:  8 am to 8 pm

Pawna Lake 

Pawna Lake is a famous picnic and camping spot in Lonavala that is encircled by stunning scenery. The impounded water of the Pawna Dam forms this artificial lake, which provides a great retreat into nature's arms. The natural beauty of this location, combined with the distant views of Lohagad Fort, Tikona Fort, and Tunga Fort, provides a wonderful backdrop. You can enjoy the motor and row boats while picnicking here, which further adds to its appeal.

While the monsoon season is the finest season to explore this site with its spectacular scenery, you can also come here in the winter to enjoy barbecue by the lake.

Location:  Pawna Dam, Lonavala

Timings:  24X7

Rajmachi Fort

Rajmachi Fort, also referred to as Manoranjan Balekilla, is unquestionably at the top of the list of must-see attractions in Lonavala. The historical site consists of two strongholds – Shrivardhan and Manaranjan – that were built at a height of roughly 3000 feet on a rocky hill in the Sahyadri Range to keep an eye on the surroundings by the popular Maratha monarch Chhatrapati Shivaji. Several historical caves and temples, such as Kal Bhairava Mandir, can be found within the fort, with a few of them dating back to before the fort was erected. This location provides breathtaking views of the lush environs and is quite popular with tourists, particularly nature lovers and trekkers.

• Location: Rajmachi Village
• Timings: 9 am to 6 pm

Great Spots To Grab A Bite in Lonavala on a Rainy Day 

There are plenty of venues in Lonavala to fulfil hungry tummies in addition to the strange locations to rest and revitalise. On a rainy day, the extremely attractive and delectable street cuisine attracts a large number of tourists and locals alike to get a bite and take in the splendour of Lonavala!

Golden Vada Pav for The Marvellous Street Food

One of the oldest eateries in the area, Golden Vada Pav serves exquisite vada pav and moong dal bhajia. This restaurant's vada pao contains a delicious batata vada sandwiched between two buttered buns. Such is the craze that customers ask for more of the homemade chutney served as an accompaniment. 

Location: Gautam Park Society, Gawliwada, Rao Colony, Lonavla

Must Try: Garlic free vada pav, moong dal pakoda, samosa, and jalebi

Cost for Two: INR 150 approx

Rudra – Relish Multi-Cuisine Delicacies

Rudra delights the hearts of many foodies and is among the most touristy spots to dine. This multi-cuisine restaurant, located by the poolside of Kailash Parvat Hotel, offers a wide variety of Indian delicacies, Thai gourmet, and Chinese specialties. On a wet day, it's also one of the most attractive Lonavala spots for a candle-lit meal with your sweetheart.

Location: Kailash Parbat Hotel, Mumbai Pune Road, Lonavala

Must Try: Thai curry with steamed rice  and Chinese bhel

Cost for Two: INR 1200 approx

El Taj - the ideal place to visit on a rainy day

Locals recommend El Taj, a historic and traditional eatery. Traditions and flavours have been passed down through the years. Enjoy delicious cuisine during the best of Lonavala's monsoons.

Location: Kamath Hotel, Mumbai-Pune Road, Lonavala, Pune

Must Try:  Reshmi tikka, meat and junglee kebabs

Cost for Two: INR 700 approx 

This modest but stunning hill station is one of the most beautiful spots to visit near Mumbai. Visitors who want to enjoy the romance that rain brings with its calming winds can go to Lonavala during the monsoon season. Don’t miss the chance to bask it all in!