Exploring the Best Things to Do in Lonavala: A Comprehensive Guide

Mystical, scenic, and striking are the perfect words to describe the beautiful hill station of Lonavala, Maharashtra, India. A string of waterfalls, rivulets, wild valleys, and streams are explored by travellers, especially during the monsoon season. Lonavala is a perfect destination for those seeking a break from the city's hustle and bustle. The place offers lodging in all price categories, from homestays and villas to hotels and resorts. In this blog, we will explore the best things to do in Lonavala, India from family-friendly activities to unique adventures and unforgettable experiences, as well as some tips on finding the best Lonavala tour packages.

Top Things to Do in Lonavala

• Trekking
• Paragliding
• Waterfall
• Rappelling
• Zip Lining
• Karla Caves
• Pawna Lake
• Bushi Dam
• Lonavala Wax Museum
• Shooting Point
• Rajmachi Wildlife Sanctuary
• The Chocolate Factory
• Stargazing
• Late-Night Drives
• Visit Tiger's Point

Adventure Activities in Lonavala

For adventure enthusiasts, Lonavala is a paradise waiting to be explored. Here are some thrilling activities that will get your adrenaline pumping:

1. Trekking

Lonavala is famous for its trekking expeditions. The most popular trek is to Lohagad Fort, which offers a mix of history and adventure. You can also trek to the Visapur Fort for breathtaking valley views. Trekkers can visit the Rajmachi Fort, Tikona Fort, and Lohagad Fort, surrounded by lush green forests, waterfalls, camping areas, and meadows. It's like a trek to heaven.

2. Paragliding

If you've ever dreamt of soaring like a bird, Lonavala offers paragliding opportunities. Kamshet, a nearby town, is known for its paragliding sites, and you can experience the thrill of flying while enjoying panoramic views. The place is considered to be a paraglider's paradise, with a bird's-eye view of the Pawna Lake, Bhandara Dongar, Shinde Wadi Hills, Bhairi Caves and much more. Similarly, Panchgani is another spot where you can check out the 360-degree view of Panchgani from the skies. From classic and Acro tandem paragliding to instructional tandem paragliding, gliders can enjoy everything. Nobody would want to miss this adventure activity in Lonavala.

3. Waterfall Rappelling

During the monsoon season, Lonavala's numerous waterfalls offer a unique opportunity for waterfall rappelling. The thrill of a descending waterfall is an experience like no other. For instance, by visiting the Dudhiware waterfall at the height of 135. ft., a traveller can enjoy waterfall rappelling from the sky. How cool is that!

4. Zip Lining

Some adventure parks in Lonavala offer zip-lining adventures, allowing you to zip across the valley and admire the stunning landscapes from a different perspective. One can visit the Dukes Nose which is shaped like a nose or thumb. Zip-lining tourers can see the vast valley and the prolific Mumbai-Pune Express Highway passing through the ghats.

Things to Do in Lonavala with Family

If you're searching for the best things to do in Lonavala with family, then here are some family-friendly activities to keep everyone entertained:

1. Karla Caves

Explore the ancient Buddhist rock-cut caves at Karla. It's a fascinating historical and cultural experience for all ages. The place has a gigantic 15-metre-long pillar with a temple dedicated to Goddess Ekvira. Karla Caves are mainly known for the Ekvira Temple located inside. The thrilling part is that one has to climb at least 150 stairs to reach the cave.

2. Pawna Lake

Enjoy a leisurely day by the beautiful Pawna Lake. You can have a picnic, go boating, or just relax by the water. For travel junkies, visit the Shine Wadi Hills, Bedsa Caves, or go camping near the Pawna Lake reservoir.

3. Bushi Dam

Visit the Bushi Dam during the monsoon season to witness the overflowing water and enjoy the scenic surroundings. Although swimming is not allowed in the dam, a walk through rocky terrain is a hit among the locals.

 4. Lonavala Wax Museum

To indulge in the best things to do in Lonavala, India, take your family to the Lonavala Wax Museum, where lifelike wax statues of famous personalities are on display. Being an incredibly unique tourist spot, Sunil's Wax Museum is an attraction with an immersive, interactive experience that transports you via the remarkable, realistic wax figures that are on display. Sachin Tendulkar, Superstar Rajinikanth, Michael Jackson, A. R Rahman and Jacqueline Fernandez are some of the names you could take pictures with.

Unique Things to Do in Lonavala

Lonavala has a few unique things to do that are worth exploring:

1. Shooting Point

Visit the Shooting Point, a famous location near Lonavala known for its appearances in Bollywood films. The place, with its panoramic views of the valley and nearby waterfalls, makes it a unique spot for photography. The entire region is covered by rocks and lush greenery, making it the best place for rock climbing activities. What’s more! The blockbuster Bollywood movie “Sholay” was filmed here.

2. Rajmachi Wildlife Sanctuary

For nature enthusiasts, the Rajmachi Wildlife Sanctuary offers a unique opportunity to spot various wildlife species and immerse yourself in the beauty of the Western Ghats. Its location is a nature's reward, as it is close to the Sahyadri Hills, a base for flora and fauna that attracts peacocks, woodpeckers, chinkara, and mammoth squirrels.

3. The Chocolate Factory

Indulge your sweet tooth at the Maganlal Chikki and Chocolate Factory. Try their famous chikkis, fudges, and chocolates. This is the best thing to do in Lonavala where one can taste the authentic sweets of the region.

Things to Do in Lonavala at Night with Friends

While Lonavala is generally known for its serene ambience, there are still some exciting things to do at night:

1. Stargazing

The clear skies at the hill station are perfect for stargazing. You can bring your telescope or join a stargazing event. Some tents are available on top of Tungarli Lake. Also, around a 3-hour drive from the city, Naneghat is a great destination for avid stargazers, situated kilometres away from the heavy light pollution of Maharashtra and Pune.

2. Late-Night Drives

One of the best things to do in Lonavala with friends would be to take a late-night drive along the winding roads and enjoy the tranquillity of the hill station. The night ride frequently shadows the scenery, making the trip more mysterious. The sights are even more spectacular as you rise higher, and the mesmerising sight of the lit Duke's Nose peak culminates.

3. Visit Tiger's Point

While it's primarily a daytime attraction, visiting Tiger's Point at night can provide a unique perspective of the town's lights below. Be sure to exercise caution and prioritise safety. The distance from Lonavala city to Tiger Point is around 7 km. As you are climbing a hill, the path to Tiger Point is curvy. Riding on curvy paths at night in complete darkness has its thrills and adventures. Not only young people, but families come here to light a bonfire, capture the dense fog, camp and spend the night at this mystical place.

Resorts in Lonavala

Plunge into the best places to stay in Lonavala.  A place that offers a wide range of resorts that cater to all types of travellers, from budget to luxury. These resorts not only offer comfortable accommodations but also stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. Choosing the best resorts in Lonavala can enhance your experience, ensuring a memorable stay.

1. Fariyas Resort Lonavala

The resort is situated on the hilltop of Lonavala, Maharashtra, and is well-appointed with luxurious rooms, and premium suites, a place where guests can relax with modern features. That’s not all! The restaurant is decorated with the fine dining restaurants “Fusion,” “Tavern” and “Mango Grove” which serve Indian and Chinese delicacies. The place has a spa and wellness centre where guests can enjoy various massages and therapies to rejuvenate and relax.

2. The Dukes Retreat

The resort sits atop the hill in Lonavala with a stunning panoramic view of the green valleys and the western ghats. The Dukes Retreat has several dining places like the “Cafe 24” which is a 24-hour coffee shop that serves a range of beverages and light snacks. Also, check out “Pergola” an open-air restaurant offering multi-cuisine dining with beautiful views. Delicious options for small nibbles and other culinary treats to accompany your drinks are available on the menu. Being a renowned site and close to the highway, this resort provides exceptional decor and unparallelled service.

3. The Hilton Shillim Estate Retreat & Spa

The resort situated near the secluded hills of Shillim near Lonavala, includes villas and chalets. Located approximately a 2-hour drive from Mumbai and Pune, this place is designed for a comfortable and relaxing stay. The Hilton Shillim Estate also offers adventure activities like rock climbing and birdwatching. The best part of this resort is its commitment to environmental sustainability and has undertaken various ecological initiatives, including a focus on responsible farming and forest conservation. Fitness enthusiasts can enjoy special wellness cuisines that focus on nutrition and balance.

Lonavala Tour Packages

To make your trip planning easier, consider booking Lonavala tour packages offered by a travel agency. These packages often comprise the best things to do in Lonavala, India including accommodation, transportation, and guided tours to the most popular attractions, ensuring a hassle-free and enjoyable visit. Consider chalking out your budget, group size, researching the places to visit in Lonavala, availability of transportation, and reading reviews before booking a tour package. This would help you choose the right tour package that meets every requirement.

Lonavala is a hill station that offers something for everyone, whether you're seeking adventure, lush greenery, quality family time, or a unique experience. With its range of activities, beautiful landscapes, and comfortable accommodations, Lonavala undoubtedly has the best things to do worth exploring. The best part is that Lonavala has two completely different climates – spring and autumn, making us feel like visiting two different places each time. So pack your bags, embark on your Lonavala adventure, and create memories that will last a lifetime.